The University of Worcester
Biodiversity Strategic Plan 2013
Michelle Mansell
B.Sc (Hons), PGCert, AIEMA
in Partnership With
(First published 2008, revised 2011 and 2013)
Notes and acknowledgements
This document was produced with the assistance of University of Worcester
Ground’s Management Team who supplied information relating to the pre-existing
management procedures. The information was used alongside Phase 1 habitat
and arboricultural surveys to ascertain an accurate baseline position.
This document may not be copied, published, modified or distributed in whole or
part without the permission of the author. All opinions and views expressed in this
report are those of the author. Wherever possible, this document has been
informed and produced with reference to the current understanding of biodiversity
management principles and interventions, as expressed in academic literature,
and it does not necessarily guarantee legal compliance. It should also be noted
that biodiversity management can be a subjective and unpredictable endeavour
and neither the author, nor the University, can accept responsibility for any
actions taken as a result of this document.
Foreword
Biodiversity loss and management: A broad overview
Biodiversity is a term used to describe the variety of all life forms on earth. It
includes differences amongst ecosystem types, the diversity between different
species and the genetic variation within each species. The overall diversity of life
plays an essential role in regulating life on earth. It is an essential component of
future human life as it provides food, medicines and other marketable commodities
and materials.
Although the diversity of life is always changing, there have been unprecedented
levels of species extinctions and loss of biodiversity since the dawn of the industrial
age. For the first time in history, human population increases, and perhaps more
importantly, increased consumption patterns are irreversibly altering biological
diversity. Some scientists are now referring to this situation as the sixth major
extinction event. The 2004 International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Red List of Threatened Species states that almost sixteen thousand species are
currently threatened with extinction globally. This figure may be much higher as not
all species have yet been discovered, and it does not reflect widespread and local
species extinctions.
People are now realising that we may be irreversibly damage life support systems
on which we depend. Over recent years, this has led to a number of policy
developments that aim to protect and enhance biodiversity. The 1992 Convention
on Biological Diversity (CBD) now forms the centrepiece of global biodiversity
management initiatives. The main objectives of the CBD include the conservation
and sustainable use of biological diversity. Each of the participant countries of the
Convention is required to implement national strategies, programmes and action
plans to conserve, protect and enhance biodiversity. These initiatives have now
started to filter down to local level and all sectors of society are now being
implicated and drawn into taking action to protect biodiversity.
The introduction of the Natural England and Rural Communities Act (2006) directs
all UK public bodies to have regard for the conservation of biodiversity; this
includes institutions of higher education. Educational establishments collectively
form a significant part of the fabric of the United Kingdom. This sector therefore
has a key opportunity to drive positive change, in terms of biodiversity, at national,
regional and local scales.
The University of Worcester is committed to demonstrating effective and
sustainable biodiversity management on their diverse range of university sites.
Initially written to cover St Johns Campus, this plan has now been updated to
incorporate other University sites. It is intended to be a working document and
future updates will be issued as new information becomes available and to
incorporate developments within the University.
Contents
1. Introduction: The University of Worcester
1.1
St Johns Campus
1.1.1
Site Map
1.1.2
Overview: Site and ecology
1.1.3
Legally protected species
1.1.4
Nationally and locally important species and habitat
1.1.5
Trees
1.2
City Campus
1.2.1
Site map
1.2.2
Site overview
1.2.3
Site ecology
1.2.4
Trees
1.3
Battenhall Playing Fields
1.3.1
Site map.
1.3.2
Overview: Site and ecology
1.3.3
Legally protected species and species of note
1.3.4
Trees
1.4
University Park
1.4.1
Draft site map
1.4.2
Overview: Site and ecology (under development)
1.5
The Moors Playing Field
1.5.1
Site map
1.5.2
Overview: Site and ecology
1.6
The Garage and Riverside Building
1.6.1
Site map
1.6.2
Overview: sites and ecology
1.7
The Arena
1.7.1
Site map
1.7.2
Overview: Site and ecology.
2. Biodiversity management strategy
2.1
Biodiversity aspirations: Targets and objectives
2.2
Priority action areas
3. Constraints and Factors Affecting Site Biodiversity
3.1
Development
3.2
General land-use and management
3.3
Biodiversity and climate change
4. Actions for biodiversity benefit
4.1
Planning
4.2
Data Collection
4.3
Training and Development
4.4
Campus Habitat: improvement and creation
4.4.1
Trees and hedgerows
4.4.2
Grassland
4.4.3
Shrubberies
4.4.4
Water bodies / ponds
4.4.5
Designated conservation areas
4.4.6
Artificial Habitat
4.4.7
Other habitat
4.4.8
Invasive species
4.5
Biodiversity education, communication and awareness
5. Action Plan
6. University of Worcester grounds management team: management schedules
1. Introduction: The University of Worcester
As the only higher education institution in Hereford and Worcester, University of
Worcester is at the forefront of progressive developments in higher education,
scholarship and research. During its first sixty years, the University occupied a
single site at St John’s campus. Since being awarded full university status in 2005
the University has undergone a period of significant growth.
Over recent years, University of Worcester has more than doubled its student
numbers. At the same time it has invested significantly to increase and improve
its infrastructure and facilities, acquiring a number of major development sites.
The main wave of development work has now been completed and the University
has emerged to offer a number of new and improved first-class facilities.
Work on St John’s Campus, including the addition of the Sheila Scott Building, is
now complete. The new City Campus, which is located on the site of the former
Royal Infirmary, is now a functioning teaching and learning site with student
accommodation. The newly renovated ‘Garage’ site has become a valuable
resource for art students and The Riverside Building provides additional space for
sport, performance and dance activities.
Work continues and the current focus is to ensure Worcester Arena opens its
doors in early 2013 to provide exciting sporting and entertainment facilities. Going
forward, attention will centre on the development of University Park. This site will
form a valuable addition to the University's world class learning environment in
the near future.
Map showing University of Worcester sites.
University of Worcester sites
1.1 St Johns Campus
1.1.1 Site Plan
1.1.2
Overview: Site and ecology
St John’s Campus occupies 16.41 ha of land to the east of Worcester City Centre.
The widely-developed campus infrastructure consists of various educational,
social and residential facilities embedded into a leafy parkland arrangement. The
resultant landscape is predominated by hard surfaces, such as buildings, roads
and car parks which are interspersed by managed, vegetated areas.
To establish accurately the ecological composition and value of the campus
vegetation the University commissioned various ecological surveys. A ‘Phase 1’
habitat survey identified the dominant campus vegetation as improved (amenity)
grassland. It also noted the various planted shrubberies, a wide variety of trees
and an extensive hedgerow network which hosts native species including:

Hazel (Corylus avellana)

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus)

Wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana)

Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea)
In light of the significant ecological interest found within the hedgerows and
mature standard trees, the University undertakes regular arboricultural surveys.
These surveys help the University’s Ground’s Management Team to keep a log of
species found on campus and to monitor their condition.
Overall, the surveys conclude that the widely developed, urban campus grounds
demonstrate typically low habitat diversity. Despite this, it is clear that this
fragmented setting offers unusual opportunities for plants and animals and there
are some ecologically important features. Indeed, St John’s Campus has the
potential to support a number of legally protected and regionally or nationally
targeted species within the rich mosaic.
1.1.3 Legally Protected Species
The Phase 1 habitat survey determined the presence of the legally protected
Badger (Meles meles) and its sett within the boundaries of St John’s Campus.
Special arrangements are in place to protect the Badger and its habitat and to
ensure that disruption is maintained at a minimal level in accordance with the
legal requirements.
There are three ponds within St John’s Campus grounds. One of these ponds
may have the potential to support a number of reptiles and amphibians, if
managed appropriately, including the nationally and regionally significant Great
Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus).
Many of the trees on St John’s Campus are subject to Tree Preservation Orders
(TPO's). TPOs prevent the removal, topping, lopping and wilful damage or
destruction of protected trees. Further details, including the location and
description of protected trees, are available from the University.
1.1.4 Nationally and Locally Important Species and Habitat
Species Action Plans
Further Information
Great Crested Newt
(Triturus cristatus)

Refer to Protected
Species heading.
Slow Worm
(Anguis fragilis)

Suitable habitat at
hedge bottoms and
rank grass.
Known to be present
locally.

Habitat Action Plans
Urban Wildlife Habitat


Rich habitat mosaic.
Playing fields and
improved grassland
Standing Open Water and
Canals: Ponds

Pond on campus with
potential to support
important species.
Hedgerows

Internal and external
hedges.
Trees and woodland

Some trees of note
on Campus
Hedgerows

Generic Action Plans
Education Awareness and
Involvement
1.1.5 Trees

Key opportunity to
link to Local BAP to
support Education,
Awareness and
Stakeholder
Involvement
UK
BAP
Local
BAP
Arboricultural surveys have enabled the University to collate a full inventory of the
trees found on St John's Campus. Each tree has been classified according to its
rarity, ecological importance, landscape value, cultural significance and potential
remaining lifespan. Special mention is given below to what are considered the
most valuable and healthy specimens:
Species
No. On
Campus
Black Mulberry
(Morus nigra)
1
Pedunculate Oak
(Quercus robur)
1
Black Pine
(Pinus nigra)
1
Wild Cherry
(Prunus avium)
1
Beech
(Fagus sylvatica)
1
Coast Redwood
(Sequoia Sempervirens)
1
Atlas Cedar
(Cedrus atlantica)
1
Douglas Fir
(Pseudotsuga menziesii)
1
Common Yew
(Taxus baccata)
1
London Plane
(Platanus acerifolia)
2
Lime
(Tilia platyphyllos)
1
City Campus
1.2.1 Site plan
1.2.2
Site overview
City Campus is located within the centre of Worcester on the site of the former
Royal Infirmary. The site has recently undergone significant development and it
has been transformed into a new, modern city campus. Prior to commencement of
the works, the University commissioned a professional ecological survey. This
survey aimed to establish accurately the ecological composition of the site to
inform landscaping plans and management; ensuring the protection and
enhancement of the site’s ecological features during and after development work.
1.2.3
Site ecology
Similar to St John’s Campus, City Campus is a fine-grain urban mosaic which
comprises of various habitat types including buildings, large areas of hardstanding, improved grassland and a variety of landscaped areas. As a result of
intensive use of the land, and the fact that the site is bounded by a number of busy
roads, City Campus is not considered to be of significant conservation value. It is
unlikely that any of the protected species that have been recorded within the
immediate locality would find suitable habitat on this site.
Despite this, urban spaces can be important wildlife refuges and various birds,
mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and flora species make use of, and
rely on, urban sites. Indeed, many species are becoming increasingly ‘adapted’ to
urban living. To enhance the ecological value of the site, the University plans to
incorporate planted vegetated areas. The dominant vegetation type of amenity
grassland will also be managed to benefit biodiversity as outlined in section
entitled ‘actions for biodiversity value’.
1.2.4
Trees
The site hosts a variety of mature standard trees and hedgerows, which contain a
rich assemblage of native species. These features provide valuable opportunities
for foraging, nesting, roosting and shelter opportunities for a wide range of animals
and are particularly important in the urban environment.
Battenhall Playing Fields
1.3.1 Site plan
1.3.2
Overview: Site and ecology
Battenhall playing fields are situated between Bath Road and Battenhall Road,
Worcester. The site is located directly adjacent to an old, disused donkey
sanctuary and it has been used as a playing field for some years. The Duck Brook
water-body lies to the south-west of the site and it is accessible by a public
footpath. The site is bounded by fences and hedges. The hedges are comprised
mainly of Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
although Elder (Sambucus nigra) and Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) have a
significant presence. There are also two Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur)
standards.
The dominant vegetation is improved grassland which contains species such as
Rye-Grass (Lolium perenne) and Red Fescue (Festuca rubra) on the playing
fields. False Oat Grass (Arrhenatherum elatius) and Yorkshire Fog (Holcus
lanatus) dominate the grass mix closer to the paddocks. Both areas also contain
other common, widespread species such as Creeping and Spear Thistle (Cirsium
arvense and C. vulgare) and there are patches of nettles (Urtica dioca) scattered
around less well used areas of the site. Nearest the brook, a patch of wet
grassland contains species such as Hard and Soft Rush (Juncus inflexus and J.
effusus) and Tufted Hair Grass (Deschampsia cespitosa).
1.3.3
Legally protected species and species of note
While Great Crested Newts have not been recorded on site, certain areas may
offer suitable habitat for this species, along with other amphibians. Likewise, parts
of the paddocks of the adjacent donkey sanctuary have been identified as being
suitable to support the Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis), and other reptiles.
The site also has the potential to support a variety of breeding birds. Many birds
have been observed on the site including Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), Blackbird
(Turdus merula), Blue tit (Parus caeruleus), Great tit (Parus major), Greenfinch
(Carduelis chloris), Magpie (Pica pica) and Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs). It is likely
that birds with nest in, or around, the buildings, hedges and trees on site; although
these features are likely to be unsuitable for bats to roost.
1.3.4
Trees
A comprehensive arboricultural survey of all trees on site has been conducted
recently. It determined the presence of a wide range of native and non-native
species, of varying ages and conditions. The findings of the survey were used to
attribute a value to each tree according to remaining potential lifespan and
condition alongside ecological, cultural and landscape values. The most valuable
specimens have been deemed to include Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Horse
Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Walnut
(Juglans regia).
University Park (section current under development)
1.1.1 Location map and draft site plan
1.4.2
Overview: Site and Ecology
Located approximately 1.5 miles from St John’s Campus, University Park is a 47
acre ‘greenfield’ sites with no existing infrastructure. The University of Worcester
intends to develop the site to provide for its future expansion and to integrate this
with a science and enterprise park which will enhance links between the University
and the local business and scientific community. It will enable mutually beneficial
cooperation and innovation. Parts of the site will also develop the University’s work
in healthcare and wellbeing, again in partnership with local providers.
Approximately 27 acres of the site are considered to be ‘developable’ and the
University plans to retain around 12 acres for its own direct use. To ensure
biodiversity is considered during, and following, planned development initiatives
the University is in the process of ascertaining the ecological characteristics of
University Park.
1.5 The Moors Playing Field
1.5.1 Map and location
1.5.2
Overview: Site and ecology
The Moors playing field is a rectangular 8.62ha area of land to the east of the River
Severn. The site was used previously for recreational/sports purposes and contains
an associated disused building. It is regularly inundated with flood water from the
River Severn. The natural processes and previous land-use management has
resulted in an area dominated by improved grassland, although the site is bounded
by a variety of mature trees.
To build further a comprehensive understanding of this site, and to inform future
management, the University have recently undertaken a comprehensive tree
survey. The findings of the survey were used to attribute a value to each tree
according to remaining potential lifespan and condition alongside ecological,
cultural and landscape values. The most valuable specimens have been deemed to
include a number of high quality lime (Tilia sp.) trees along with Small Leaved Lime
(Tilia platyphyllos), cherry (Prunus sp.) and oak (Quercus sp.).
The University plans to continue the use of the site as sports ground. As such it will
be managed primarily according to the University's sports pitch management and
tree management procedures which aim to protect and enhance the ecological
features.
1.6 The Garage and Riverside
1.6.1 Site maps:
The Garage
Riverside Building
1.6.2
Overview: Site and Ecology
The Garage site was transformed from its previous use as a vehicle repair centre to
provide a dedicated fine art workspace. The site has very few ecological features as
it
comprises
mainly
of
hard-standing
and
buildings.
Before
undergoing
development, the site was contaminated with oils and fuels in some areas; initial
work to improve the ecological value of this site focused on remediation to improve
environmental quality.
The Riverside Building, which is located on Hylton Road and was formally a car
dealership, has been re-developed to provide a modern, flexible learning space.
Similar to the Garage, the previous land-use created a site that consisting largely
of impervious surfaces including a large tarmac car park and a substantial brick
built building.
Both sites have generally low conservation value; being sparsely vegetated and
devoid of habitat considered suitable to support legally protected and/or other
important species. The few ecological features consist of a small selection of
planted ornamental shrubs and trees at Riverside and a selection of trees located
behind the boundary of The Garage site. Notably, a single specimen of the highly
invasive Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) was discovered outside of the
Riverside Building. This has required specific management.
Despite the lack of valuable ecological features, these sites may offer suitable
habitat for some common bird species; particularly relating to the tree specimens.
With this in mind, The University are in the process of establishing ownership to
undertake tree management in line with the tree management policy, to maximise
conservation value. Consideration is also been given to the incorporation of
artificial habitat such as bird nesting and bat boxes.
1.7 The Arena
1.7.1 Artist impression of the site
1.7.2
Overview: Site and Ecology
This site that now hosts the Worcester Arena is located on Hylton Road,
Worcester at NGR SO840549. This was formerly a fruit and vegetable market and
it consisted mainly of hard-standing and a wide variety of disused buildings, which
were in a poor state of repair. This site is currently being developed and the new
£10m sports arena is due to open in 2013.
To ascertain and preserve any ecological value of the site, a phase 1 habitat
survey was commissioned by University prior to the commencement of
development work. The survey concluded that there were very few ecological
features of interest and the site was considered to have 'limited conservation
value'. The few sparsely vegetated areas that had developed between cracks in
the hard-standing areas consist mainly of common and widespread species such
as Herb-robert (Geranium robertianum), Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) and Buddleia
(Buddleja davidii).
A number of common bird species have been recorded on the site, including
Blackbird (Turdus merula), Robin (Erithacus rubecula) and the RSPB 'amber
status' Dunnock (Prunella modularis), although no nests have been found. It is
considered very unlikely that the site provides suitable habitat for any other
species of note, including bats and reptiles. Despite this, similar to other ‘urban’
University sites, the University continually reviews opportunities to incorporate
ecological and artificial habitat features.
2. Biodiversity management strategy
2.1 Biodiversity: Aspirations, targets and objectives
In December 2007, the University adopted a number of environmental objectives
and targets; including those specifically related to biodiversity management. The
University has since reviewed and updated its environmental policy and has
implemented a variety of new policies and procedures. In recognition of their ongoing commitment to continual improvement and effective environmental
management, The University has now secured Bronze, Silver, Gold and the most
prestigious Platinum level Ecocampus awards.
5 Year Target - Broad objective

Enhance Biodiversity
Action Areas

Incorporate biodiversity considerations into environmental management
system.

Conserve existing ecological features.

Create new opportunities for wildlife wherever possible on sites.
This biodiversity action plan reflects University of Worcester biodiversity policy
and has been put in place to guide the management of biological diversity on
University land. It will be used as a mechanism to refine and integrate biodiversity
targets and objectives into the University’s Environmental Management System
(EMS) by facilitating monitoring activities, site work plans and the assessment of
progress towards these objectives.
2.2 Priority action areas
Biodiversity enhancement and preservation opportunities have been assessed
and prioritised. This five year plan details the actions that have been given initial
priority and will be regularly updated throughout this period.
In the first instance, legal compliance is of paramount importance. The University
of Worcester has procedures in place to ensure that all site management
activities are legally sound. This biodiversity action plan builds on this to enhance
and conserve campus biodiversity alongside, and in addition to, these on-going
legal compliance measures.
3. Current Management and Constraints Affecting Site Biodiversity
3.1 Development
Educational grounds are often subjected to a wide variety of competing demands;
particularly in busy, urban areas. The University owns a diverse range of sites,
many of which are fragmented and diverse mosaics of human influenced habitat
types, within a background matrix of impervious surfaces (hard-standing and
buildings).
3.2 General land-use and management
In the past, ground’s management objectives focused mainly on the maintenance
of a visually pleasing manicured parkland arrangement and the utility value of the
site. This plan recognises the constraints such management regimes can present
to wildlife conservation and enhancement, and builds on some of the sustainable
management interventions that were already being developed by University of
Worcester Ground’s Management Team. An overview of the main management
activities is provided below.
Trees
The University has a documented tree policy which applies to all trees and
species within the boundary hedgerows, on all sites. All tree management
interventions are carried out by suitably qualified persons, to a high standard, as
determined by the University Ground’s Management Team and are scheduled in
accordance with the most recent tree survey. On-going tree maintenance
procedures include pruning; carried out at regular intervals for the following
reasons:

To improve safety by removing damaged or weighty limbs

To remove branches which have become in contact with buildings

To improve shape

To remove dead or diseased wood

To improve sight lines on corners or access routes

To improve security
The University avoids the unnecessary removal of trees and specimens are
protected, wherever possible, during construction activities. University policy
deems that individuals will be removed only in the following circumstances:

If they are creating a hazard to people.

If they are damaging essential services.

If they are growing in unsuitable areas; in close proximity to buildings or
roads etc.

When they need to be cleared for new development and no other option
exists.

If dead or decaying trees are located in inappropriate locations to be
retained for biodiversity benefit.
Any new tree planting must be carried out with direct consultation of the Ground’s
Management Team. A number of factors are considered before permission is
granted, including the position and suitability of the proposed species type. When
planting trees in new development areas, the University’s policy is to over-plant
and remove any unsuitable individuals at a later date.
Grassland
Appropriate management of the grassland vegetation patches is central to the
maintenance of the site values. Playing fields are managed for sports utility value
and visual appeal, while smaller swards form the backdrop of a parkland design.
Management procedures involve regular mowing, fertiliser inputs, appropriate
herbicide use when unavoidable, scarification, aeration, the renovation of worn
areas and leaf and litter collection.
Shrubberies
The campus shrubberies are kept weed free, tidy and free from other litter. New
plants are regularly incorporated and chippings from tree management activities
are often applied. Students must obtain permission from the grounds manager if
work of any other nature is to be instigated or requested.
3.3 Biodiversity and Climate Change
The type of action that is outlined in this plan to help protect biodiversity and
rebuild degraded natural systems is becoming increasingly important. There is a
growing consensus that climate change will have enormous implications for
biodiversity. We are already seeing alterations in the environment at local,
national and international scales.
Altered climatic conditions are linked to the changing ecology of many plant and
animal species. There is a growing body of evidence that the timing of seasonal
ecological events, such as first leafing dates, is already altering. In addition, some
species have been noted as changing their habitat preferences or ranges; some
moving further north to cooler areas as climate becomes warmer. Similarly,
extreme weather events that may be exacerbated or driven by climate change,
such as floods, may alter significantly a wide range of ecosystems. Overall, it is
likely that many species may be impacted by climate change in some way.
To counteract negative impacts, conservation work must focus on mitigation and
adaptation. Adaptation involves actions that are undertaken to reduce the impact
of climate change on biodiversity such as improving habitat quality, reducing
habitat fragmentation, improving landscape connectivity and/or managing on a
landscape scale to improve ecosystem and species resilience. Mitigation involves
the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, by undertaking initiatives such as the
University’s carbon management strategy, or the management of ecosystems to
ensure the maintenance of natural carbon sinks such as forests and wetlands.
4. Actions for biodiversity benefit
4.1
Planning
This biodiversity action plan has been designed to facilitate sustainable land use
and management. It sets out how the University will build on existing knowledge
and develop new ways of conserving and enhancing biodiversity without
detracting from the visual and utility value of the land. Planned sustainable
interventions to accentuate the naturally occurring biological attributes and
ameliorate negative impacts will focus on three primary objectives:
 Increasing connectivity within the landscape
 Improving the quality, and extending areas, of important existing habitats
within the mosaic
 Creating new habitats and features for wildlife interest
A biodiversity
management
group,
which
includes
a
wide
variety
of
representatives, has been set up to guide biodiversity action planning. This group
meets regularly at St John’s Campus to assess progress towards targets and
objectives and to ensure a sound strategic focus of future biodiversity action
planning. The most up to date version of the biodiversity action plan is published
on University of Worcester website.
4.2
Data collection
Monitoring is an essential component of wildlife conservation and enhancement
as it can determine the effectiveness of management interventions by highlighting
ecological changes and long term trends. Similarly, monitoring can also identify
unexpected or undesirable effects to prevent damage to biodiversity.
The University plans to use the information provided by professional surveys
alongside data that is gathered by staff and students, through their work and
studies, to create a comprehensive inventory of species diversity and biodiversity
trends at a finer scale. To facilitate this aim and to support wider biological
recording initiatives, the University has commissioned the services of the local
biological records centre.
Worcestershire Biological records centre will work with the Institute of Science
and Environment to set up and develop a biological recording database. This
information will allow the University to develop a greater understanding of
ecological features and trends, and track the presence of rare or invasive
species, to refine further the biodiversity action plan objectives. The data will be
made available through an openly accessible electronic resource to provide
ecological data for staff and students.
4.3
Training and development
Effective biodiversity management is dependent upon the sound application of
principles and actions. The University recognises that it has an enviable resource
of expertise, knowledge and assistance, relating to conservation, on site. It aims
to build on this by continually assessing development needs to realise
development opportunities.
4.4
Campus habitat: improvement and creation
4.4.1
Trees and hedgerows
Trees
The University will continue to seek best practice guidance from professional
arboriculturalists, and undertake regular tree surveys, to maintain the health and
biodiversity value of all trees on their land. Management procedures will consist of
regular tree surgery, maintenance and protection from damage to enhance the
quality of the trees. All management activities will be carefully timed to occur
outside the breeding season of common bird species (early March to late August),
wherever possible, to minimise the impact on breeding birds and other associated
species.
A good proportion of the trees on University sites are of non-native origin. Whilst
non-native species can be valuable to wildlife in the British Isles, increasing
attention is now being paid to species origin and the practice of landscaping with
native-only species has risen rapidly over recent decades. It is also noted that
native species of local provenance can conserve and enhance local genetic
diversity. With this in mind future tree planting initiatives will incorporate, wherever
possible, native tree species of local provenance.
The University continually seeks opportunities to plant new trees on their sites
and maintain existing specimens, by only removing unhealthy trees or unsuitable
trees where unavoidable. Recent planting and management has been carried out
at the Riverside development and St John’s Campus, where 37 native trees have
been planted and a small orchard of native apple trees has been created.
Hedgerows
Hedgerows, such as those bounding St John's Campus and Battenhall Playing
Fields, can deliver multiple landscape benefits. In addition to being aesthetically
pleasing, hedgerows provide high quality habitat to various plants, butterflies,
mammals and reptiles. They may also buffer the effects of land fragmentation by
increasing landscape connectivity.
Hedgerow quality is the main factor to determine the benefits to biodiversity.
Quality can be reduced by the removal of sections, sparse vegetation content and
the lack of appropriate management activities such as cutting back, laying or the
application of unnecessary chemical treatments.
To enhance the value of these ecological features, the University plans to survey
the hedgerows on St John's Campus and Battenhall Playing Fields to assess the
current composition, quality and 'connectivity'. This information will be used to
guide appropriate planting initiatives to improve hedgerow quality. Overall, the
aim is to encourage a structurally diverse assemblage of native shrubs, to
produce a gap-free hedge with good residual cover to accommodate a wide
range of species requirements.
In addition, opportunities will be sought to connect hedgerows to each other and
other vegetation patches by planting new hedges of suitable species. Current
plans include the planting of a new boundary hedge at Riverside site and a
programme of hedgerow surveying and planting / improvement activities. Most
recently, a suitably trained member of the University grounds management team
has undertaken a comprehensive hedgerow laying initiative at Battenhall Playing
fields.
To maximise, and ensure longevity of benefits, hedge monitoring and
maintenance activities will be take place on all relevant sites. The ultimate aim is
to implement a widespread end of winter trimming schedule, carried out on a 2-3
year rotational basis, to encourage structural diversity and to provide more
berries, fruit and nesting opportunities. Hedge laying and coppicing will continue
to be carried out at appropriate intervals to rejuvenate old bushes and improve
hedgerow quality. As with the tree management procedures, all hedgerow
management and basal grass mowing will be carefully timed, wherever possible,
to minimise the impact on breeding birds and other hedgerow species.
4.4.2
Grassland
Across the UK, the area of improved grassland has increased significantly over
the past 50 years. These areas are intensely managed to ensure the
maintenance of visually pleasing and useful dense swards of uniform height,
which are particularly important characteristics of sports pitches and decorative
areas. On the other hand, these nutrient rich and frequently disturbed
environments favour few species and characteristically display very low species
diversity.
Although the current grass management regimes cannot be subject to wide-scale
alterations, the University aims to incorporate a number of sustainable
management techniques.
The overall aim of the updated management
prescriptions is to increase species diversity of the grassland areas.
In the first instance, the University will continue to implement the policy of using
the minimum required amounts of chemical treatments and fertilisers on all
grassed areas. Going further, a management exclusion zone will be created
within all suitable hedgerow-to-grass boundary areas. Mowing will be restricted to
an annual or biannual crop to create a structurally diverse and graduated zone,
and chemical products will not be applied to these areas. This regime will allow
grass to grow longer and provide refuge for invertebrate populations whilst
encouraging many other flora and fauna species.
In other suitable areas, the University plan to create patches of species rich
grassland. To afford further biodiversity benefits, these areas will also be used to
help raise awareness of campus biodiversity. Management will consist of a hay
meadow mowing regime, which will be carried out on a rotational basis wherever
possible. As species richness often increases as fertility is reduced, these areas
will not be treated with nutrient inputs and cuttings will be removed once
regenerative seeds have fallen.
Wildflower area
Most recently, a wildflower strip has been created on St John’s Campus in
collaboration with the Malvern Hills Conservators. The area was established
using hay harvested from Malvern Common as a source of local seeds. Since this
time it has been managed carefully by frequent cuts to control common grasses
and promote establishment of wildflowers.
4.4.3
Shrubberies
The vegetation patches on St Johns Campus, City Campus and other smaller
sites are cultivated for maximum visual appeal. While aesthetically pleasing, such
areas can be less hospitable to wildlife than natural assemblages. The concept of
'wildlife gardening' is emerging as a technique to improve habitat quality in
cultivated urban landscapes. Wildlife gardening principles centre on creating
structural and functional diversity, within vegetation features, to support a greater
variety of species.
Wherever possible, any future planting will be designed to incorporate nectar rich
herbaceous annuals and perennials within flower borders and patches or under
hedges and trees. Flowering varieties will be planted in sheltered, sunny positions
in a drift or group to maximise the scent and visual stimuli. Plants will be arranged
to create structurally diverse assemblages of different heights to provide a variety
of micro-habitats. Care will be taken to incorporate a range of growth flushes and
flowering times to provide a good supply of seeds, berries and flowers throughout
much of the year for a host of visiting or resident species.
In addition, although the removal of old flower growth can stimulate autumn
flowering, some seed heads will be left on perennials throughout the winter as
these can offer a food source and hibernation site for a variety of birds and
insects. The planting regimes will also aim to support insect life-cycle
requirements and incorporate suitable vegetation for each life stage.
The University plans to increase the size and number of vegetation patches
wherever possible. It is recognised that the recent development work and
incorporation of new facilities, such as on St John's Campus and the new City
Campus, present prime opportunities to incorporate new vegetation to benefit
biodiversity and increase the visual appeal of the developments.
4.4.4
Water bodies / ponds
The ponds are managed by a specialist member of the University academic staff and
the University Ground’s Management Team to maintain and increase species
diversity. The aim of management activities is to provide visually attractive water
features that provide high quality habitat for plants, freshwater invertebrates, insects,
amphibians and birds. These areas also provide an invaluable teaching resource;
often used by students within the Institute of Science and The Environment and
Education to practice their water quality testing and identification skills for example.
Pond management activities are carefully timed throughout the year to minimise
impact on biological features and increase biodiversity benefit. During the autumn
ponds are cleared of dead vegetation in a manner that protects invertebrates and
amphibians. Netting is used to prevent excessive amounts of leaf litter falling onto
the main pond on St John’s Campus to prevent unwanted nutrient level increases
and excessive debris within the water-body.
During spring, further clearance work is undertaken to maintain open access to the
area as a teaching resource. New plants are introduced as appropriate and existing
pond plants are reorganised to afford protection to breeding freshwater invertebrates
and amphibians.
In summer, management activities focus on maintaining water levels and keeping the
area clear of excessive vegetation to improve oxygen levels. Overgrown marginal
plants are trimmed to afford continual accessibility for students and staff.
The University plan to continue their focus on the ponds to further increase
biodiversity; encouraging specifically greater numbers of native amphibian, reptile
and bird species. To achieve this, future activities will focus on the creation of greater
habitat diversity, to accommodate various species requirements, by installing rock
piles, corrugated sheeting, pond ledges and leaf piles for example.
4.4.5
Designated conservation area
To maximise the biodiversity value of St John’s Campus, University of Worcester
has developed a distinct conservation area. The main ecological features include
grassland that has been managed to increase species richness, various trees
species of differing ages, decaying wood features, intentionally created ground
undulations, a selection of hedgerows, two beehives and a pond. This area also
provides a valuable teaching resource and is used to develop students’ practical
skills.
The conservation area is subject to explicit management prescriptions to maintain
rich habitat diversity and quality. These prescriptions are determined by members
of the Institute of Science and the Environment; full details can be obtained from
University of Worcester Institute of Science and the Environment.
Students Surveying In Conservation Area
St Johns Campus
4.4.6
Artificial habitat
Birds
Over time, suitable habitat on University grounds has been colonised by a wide
variety of wildlife species. In general, birds are extremely mobile colonists. Many
different bird species have been spotted on the various sites and there is
evidence of nesting activity. Despite this, as with much of the United Kingdom,
widespread development has reduced the availability of suitable nesting sites for
many birds. Consequently, artificial nest sites have now assumed significant
importance to increase habitat availability.
With this in mind, the University plans to look at each site individually and
incorporate suitable artificial habitat to accommodate species that are most likely
to be found at that particular location. Care will be also be taken to site nest
boxes so that they are sheltered from extremes of weather, and in areas that are
not too busy or prone to attack by predators:

St John's and City Campus: artificial nest boxes will be placed with the
specific aim of targeting birds that are under particular pressure such as
the Common Swift (Apus apus). This bird has suffered massive declines
over recent years as habitat availability has been reduced by modern
construction methods. Despite these factors, Worcester still boasts a large
swift population which is now almost entirely dependent on man-made
nesting sites. The University of Worcester will facilitate the continued
provision of suitable habitat by placing a number of swift nest boxes
around these campuses.

Other sites: The University plans to increase the conservation value of
sites that are ecologically sparse by incorporating artificial habitat to
accommodate appropriate bird species. Existing vegetation, such as the
ornamental plantings, will also be left in situ wherever appropriate and new
habitat will be created as part of development works.

Battenhall and The Moors Playing Fields: These areas already contain
features that may provide habitat for birds; the University will monitor these
sites and use the information to inform their biodiversity records.
Bats
Bat numbers have also suffered drastic declines nationally due to habitat loss and
the loss of insect rich foraging and hibernation sites as a result of land-use
change and urbanisation. The hedgerows and trees on St Johns Campus and
Battenhall and The Moors Playing fields may already offer good foraging and
shelter sites for bats. It is recognised that other University buildings may also
provide roosting opportunities for bats.
To accentuate naturally occurring habitat, the University will incorporate artificial
bat habitat boxes, at various sites, to assist local and national bat population
recovery. Work will also be undertaken to ascertain the main areas of bat activity
in and around University grounds, and to establish which species are present.
4.4.7
Other habitat
Compost heaps comprise of habitats that are becoming scarcer within urban
environments such as fungi, decaying wood and other organic matter. The
University has identified this as a priority area for action and a number of compost
heaps have been created on St John's Campus and Battenhall Playing Fields to
provide habitat for various insects, invertebrates and worms, along with the local
priority species Slow-worm (Anguis fragilis). Compost heaps will be placed on to
bare soil and next to less intensively managed areas wherever possible.
The decaying wood features on St John's Campus support many fungi, bacteria
and lichen species, and provide habitat, food and shelter for a variety of
vertebrate and invertebrate species including worms, snails, millipedes,
centipedes, spiders, mites and other insects; providing food for many bat and bird
populations. To maximise the benefits provided by decaying wood, the University
will look to incorporate a greater number of wood features within vegetation
patches and under trees. The feasibility of developing a new dead wood feature
at Battenhall Playing Fields is also being assessed and work is underway to
ascertain a suitable site for a ‘stumpery’. Coarsely chopped tree bark will be reused as part of the shrubbery management regimes.
4.4.8
Invasive species
While most introduced species do not pose a direct threat to native wildlife in
Britain, a small number of species become invasive and can have a deleterious
effect on biodiversity. Japanese Knotweed, which was found at the Riverside Site,
is an introduced, invasive species which can affect negatively biodiversity and is
extremely difficult to control.
In the UK, there are special measures in place to control this species. The
University Ground’s Management Team have written a management plan to apply
best-practice and ensure legally compliant management of the Japanese
Knotweed specimen. Further information about the control and removal of
invasive species is available from the Environment Agency.
4.5
Biodiversity education, communication and awareness
The University of Worcester believes that communication is one of the most
important aspects of effective biodiversity management and a vital component of
successful projects. The University aims to utilise further the immense education
and awareness potential of their land by producing educational literature and
installing information boards to communicate campus biodiversity initiatives.
The University actively engages stakeholders to link into regional and local
communication and education initiatives, including Education for Sustainable
Development, to raise awareness of biodiversity issues and management
techniques at a variety of scales. The meeting of the biodiversity management
groups also presents invaluable opportunities for the sharing of information and
best practice for biodiversity benefit.
The University won a prestigious award at Chelsea Flower Show for their lowallergen garden. This garden incorporated a range of low pollen specimens,
making it particularly suitable for hay-fever sufferers. This garden, which
demonstrates how vegetation choice can be adapted to suit various needs, has
been transferred to a location outside of the Charles Darwin Building (National
Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit), on St John's Campus.
University of Worcester organises various
initiatives to highlight the ways in which
students and staff can benefit from the wide
variety of ecosystem services. In addition to
study and surveying activities, the University
encourages
the
use
of
the
natural
environment to improve health and wellbeing and has developed the ‘University Mile’; a healthy one mile outdoor stroll
around the campus. There are also opportunities for students and staff to grow
their own food on campus allotments, or use local produce and ‘university recipes’
to create nutritious and tasty meals.
University Mile Map