Pennine Way Junior School, Church Gresley
Habitat Creation and Management: Method
Statement
June 2010
Final
Client
Derbyshire County Council
Job Name
Pennine Way Junior School, Church Gresley
Report title
Habitat Creation and Management Method Statements
File reference
3259.02_002_ms_mw_bs_#v3.doc
Signed
Name
Position
Date
Originated
Mark Woods
Senior Ecologist
22/06/10
Reviewed
Philippa Harvey
Principal Ecologist
23/06/10
ISSUING OFFICE:
Arden House Deepdale Business Park
Ashford Road Bakewell
Derbyshire DE45 1GT
TEL: 01629 815544
FAX: 01629 815577
Web: www.bsg-ecology.com Email: info@bsg-ecology.com Offices in: Bakewell, Oxford, Berwick-upon-Tweed & Monmouth
Registered in: Cardiff No. OC328772 Registered address: Arden House Deepdale Business Park Ashford Road Bakewell Derbyshire DE45 1GT
Members: A list of members is available at each office.
Derbyshire County Council
Pennine Way Junior School
Report Contents
1 Introduction ..................................................................................... 1
1.1 Aims of Study............................................................................................ 1
2 Methodology ................................................................................... 1
3 Habitat Creation: Rationale and Outline Prescriptions .................... 2
3.1 Soil Type ................................................................................................... 2
3.2 Woodland Creation .................................................................................. 2
3.2.1
3.2.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 2
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 2
3.3 Translocation of Woodland Herbs ........................................................... 3
3.3.1
3.3.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 3
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 3
3.4 Individual Tree Planting............................................................................ 4
3.4.1
3.4.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 4
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 4
3.5 Creation of Species-rich Grassland .......................................................... 5
3.5.1
3.5.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 5
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 6
3.6 Provision of Bird-nesting Boxes and Structures....................................... 7
3.6.1
3.6.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 7
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 7
4 Habitat Management: Rationale and Outline Prescriptions............. 8
4.1 Woodland Management .......................................................................... 8
4.1.1
4.1.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 8
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 8
4.2 Management of Woodland Herbs ........................................................... 8
4.2.1
4.2.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 8
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 9
4.3 Management of Retained Trees............................................................... 9
4.3.1
4.3.2
Rationale................................................................................................. 9
Outline Prescriptions .............................................................................. 9
4.4 Management of New Trees.................................................................... 10
4.4.1
4.4.2
Rationale............................................................................................... 10
Outline Prescriptions ............................................................................ 10
4.5 Species-rich Grassland Management..................................................... 10
4.5.1
4.5.2
Rationale............................................................................................... 10
Outline Prescriptions ............................................................................ 10
4.6 Hedgerow Management ........................................................................ 11
4.6.1
4.6.2
Rationale............................................................................................... 11
Outline Prescriptions ............................................................................ 11
5 Work Programme .......................................................................... 12
6 Appendix 1 Replacement Habitat Proposals ................................. 16
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7 Appendix 2 Pennine Way Junior School Playing Fields Ecology Survey
Error! Bookmark not defined.
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1 Introduction
The purpose of this report is to provide a method statement for the establishment and
management of new habitats that will be created as part of the proposed re-development of
Pennine Way Junior School, located off Pennine Way in Church Gresley, South Derbyshire.
Derbyshire County Council proposes to build a new school on the land that is located to the east
of the existing school at OS grid reference SK 296 189. The development will involve the
clearance of the existing site, with the exception of the south boundary hedgerow. This will result
in the loss of broadleaved woodland, mixed hedgerow (north boundary), scattered scrub, dense
scrub and species-poor neutral grassland habitat.
The purpose of the habitat creation work is to mitigate for the losses that will occur as a
consequence of re-locating the school.
This report (ref. 3259.02_002_ms_mw_bs_#v1) was originally submitted to Derbyshire County
Council (DCC) on the 23rd March 2010, but following discussion between Departments of DCC,
further ecology survey work was recommended by Tom French (DCC Ecologist), in order to
provide supporting information for the contents of this method statement and to ensure that
there was no adverse ecological impact arising from the habitat creation proposals.
1.1
Aims of Study
Baker Shepherd Gillespie (BSG) was commissioned by DCC to provide a Method Statement for
the creation and long-term management of broadleaved woodland and species-rich neutral
grassland, and the long-term management of the retained hedgerow habitat. In addition, DCC
also commissioned BSG to carry out an Extended Phase One Habitat survey of the school playing
fields, in order to identify potentially adverse ecological impacts that could arise as a
consequence of the habitat creation work.
2 Methodology
The results of the Extended Phase One survey1 and the Phase Two Bird and Plant surveys2 were
reviewed to determine the nature conservation interest of habitats and species within the study
area. The survey reports were also reviewed, in order to provide recommended species for each
habitat type that will be created. Internet research identified potential sources of suitable
grassland seed-mixes and local tree suppliers, and the proposed methods described in this
report largely follow the guidelines of selected texts related to habitat creation such as Crofts &
Jefferson (1994)3, Andrews & Rebane (1994)4, Hibberd (1988)5, Francis and Morton (2001)6 and
Gilbert & Anderson (1998)7.
1
Baker Shepherd Gillespie (2007). Ecology Survey Report. Unpublished Report for Derbyshire County Council.
Baker Shepherd Gillespie (2009). Phase 2 Survey Report. Unpublished report for Derbyshire County Council.
3
Crofts, A. & Jefferson, R.G. (1994). The Lowland Grassland Management Handbook. English Nature, Peterborough.
4
Andrews, J. & Rebane, M. (1994). Farming and Wildlife Handbook: A Practical Management Handbook. RSPB, Sandy.
5
Hibberd, B.G. (1988). Farm Woodland Practice: Forestry Commission Handbook 3. HMSO, London.
6
Francis, J.L. & Morton, A. (2001). Enhancement of amenity woodland field layers in Milton Keynes. British Wildlife 12, pp244-251.
7
Anderson, P. & Gilbert, O.L. (1998). Habitat Creation and Repair. Oxford University Press.
2
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3 Habitat Creation: Rationale and Outline Prescriptions
3.1
Soil Type
The soil type will determine the methods of habitat creation, selection of species for each habitat
type and aftercare management methods. The composition of the botanical communities within
the study site indicates a clay-based soil with a slightly-acid pH.
3.2
Woodland Creation
3.2.1 Rationale
In order to mitigate for the loss of broadleaved woodland habitat, the new woodland areas
should be planted with the same native trees and shrubs that are present in the existing
woodland. Trees and shrubs should be sourced from a tree nursery in the local area and it is
recommended that smaller-sized trees and shrubs (45cm – 60cm whips) are selected for planting.
Smaller trees and shrubs usually have a more successful rate of establishment and growth rate in
the first five years after planting.
Before planting work is started it will be necessary to carry out investigation of the soil
characteristics within the two areas allocated for planting. The preparation of the soils, in order to
provide a suitable substrate for the young trees will be determined once the soil characteristics
are determined. The important characteristics are soil type, composition, presence of gleying or
mottling in sub-soils and the extent of soil organic matter. Once these characteristics have been
determined, a detailed statement for soil preparation should be prepared.
It is desirable to plant trees and shrubs in a random manner, in order to mimic the distribution of
trees and shrubs in semi-natural woodland. However, maintenance of young plantations becomes
much more difficult, particularly if mechanical weeding is required, because the location of young
trees and shrubs becomes much more difficult to find, if soft vegetation growth is vigorous.
Therefore, planting in a formal pattern is recommended. A more random distribution of trees and
shrubs can be achieved by selective thinning after a period of 15-20 years.
Young trees and shrubs will require protection, support and weed suppression during the first
five years following establishment. This can be achieved by the use of 0.6m high ‘Tuley’ tubes,
which will protect and support the trees and shrubs (if alternative tree protection is used such as
spiral guards, then tree supports will be required). Plastic mulch mats will suppress weed growth
in close proximity to the trees and shrubs, thereby reducing the potential effects of competition
from weeds, which can lead to poor growth and in the worst case, can cause significant loss of
specimens. Each woodland block should also be protected by enclosure with a rabbit-proof
perimeter fence, which to some extent will also protect the stands from adverse human activity.
3.2.2 Outline Prescriptions
See Appendix 1 for a plan of the proposed habitat creation and management work.
a.
Excavate 1 – 1.5m deep test-pits in both areas allocated for plantation woodland and
determine soil type, soil moisture, soil organic matter content and presence of soil layers
such as gleyed areas or an iron pan that could inhibit the growth and development of
planted trees and shrubs.
b.
Depending on the outcomes of the soil investigation work, provide details of appropriate
soil preparation techniques (5.1g).
c.
Mow existing grassland vegetation to a height of less than 5cm.
d.
Source, purchase and take collection of trees and shrubs (1842 x 40-60cm whips):
•
Silver Birch Betula pendula
20% (368 plants)
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Pedunculate oak Quercus robur
20% (368 plants)
Hazel Corylus avellana
20% (368 plants)
Rowan Sorbus aucuparia
15% (276 plants)
Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna
15% (278 plants)
Aspen Populus tremula
5%
(91 plants)
Crab apple Malus sylvestris
5%
(93 plants)
If temporary storage is required, excavate a trench of sufficient depth and size to
accommodate the trees and shrubs.
Place trees in the trench and back-fill to cover the roots of all of the trees and shrubs.
If no soil preparation work is required within the areas allocated for plantation woodland,
then prepare the top-soil before planting trees and shrubs, by ‘screefing’ 1m2 of the soft
vegetation that surrounds the location of each tree or shrub.
Plant trees and shrubs in rows at 2m centres by ‘slit’ or ‘notch’ planting.
Protect trees and shrubs with 0.6m tree shelters (Tuley tubes)
Place 1m2 plastic mulch mats around the base of each tree and shrub, and secure by
burying the corners of the mat.
Upon completion of the planting work, enclose each block of woodland with a 1.25m
high, wooden post and rabbit mesh perimeter fence.
Install a bridle gate at a suitable location on the perimeter fence to allow access for postestablishment management work.
•
•
•
•
•
•
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
3.3
Translocation of Woodland Herbs
3.3.1 Rationale
The addition of woodland herbs, donated from a local woodland site can accelerate the
development of a woodland field layer and enhance floral diversity. In general, colonisation by
woodland herbs is usually a slow process and woodlands less than 100 years old often have a
poor floral field layer diversity consisting of commonly-occurring herbs that are not necessarily
specific to woodlands. Following research by the Milton Keynes Park Trust8, reliable methods for
the translocation of woodland herbs have been developed. Translocation of individual plants can
be achieved by direct transfer, which involves uprooting individual plants and transferring root
materials such as bulbs, corms and rhizomes. In addition, seed collected from donor plants can
be directly sown into new woodlands, if the soil has been appropriately prepared. Soil
preparation usually involves incorporation of organic material into the upper soil horizons and
covering the soil with a cover of wood chippings to a depth of 2-4cm; bark or softwood
chippings should be avoided, because they can cause soil acidification.
3.3.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
8
During mid-summer, collect seed by hand from woodland herbs including:
•
Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta
•
Wood anemone Anemone nemorosa
•
Yellow pimpernel Lysimachia nemorum
•
Wood millet Milium effusum
•
Wood sedge Carex sylvatica
•
Wood avens Geum urbanum
•
Herb robert Geranium robertianum
Clean and store seed in dry, cool conditions until ready for sowing during autumn of the
same year.
Once the seed has been collected, uproot the bulbs of bluebell and store in dry, cool
conditions until ready for sowing during autumn of the same year.
Francis, J.L. & Morton, A. (2001). Enhancement of amenity woodland field layers in Milton Keynes. British Wildlife 12, pp244-251.
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d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
m.
3.4
Pennine Way Junior School
Select areas within the new woodland for seed sowing and bulb planting and prepare
soils by herbicide application (glyphosate) to remove the existing grassland vegetation.
Prepare soils by double digging and raking to produce a fine tilth that is suitable for seed
sowing.
Mix stored seeds and sow (4gm per square metre) by hand at low density.
Rake and compact areas sown with seeds with a light roller, to ensure that the seed is in
contact with the soils.
If required, water the sown areas, in order to promote germination.
Spread wood chippings over the sown areas to a depth of up to 5cm and lightly roll to
ensure adhesion to the soils.
Excavate soils to a depth of 15cm and place bluebell bulbs approx 15cm apart at the base
of a 1m2 pit.
Back-fill pits with a mix of three-parts excavated soils and one-part organic matter (leafmould or well-rotted manure), and water the soils if required.
Place a layer of wood chippings over the top of the back-filled pits and lightly roll to
ensure adhesion to the soils and to compact the soils below.
Individual Tree Planting
3.4.1 Rationale
As part of the proposed development, tree planting is proposed in the grounds of the new
school. At this stage, the number and species of trees has yet to be determined, but it is
recommended that native species are selected, in order to enhance the ecological interest of the
school grounds. It is recommended that pedunculate oak Quercus robur, ash Fraxinus excelsior
and silver birch Betula pendula are selected as these trees can support a diverse range of
invertebrates and once mature can provide opportunities for nesting birds. 1.5 to 2m standard
trees should be planted. It is recommended that new trees are planted in clusters of five to ten
trees, close to, but beyond the canopy of the retained trees (see section 4.3) or in close proximity
(between 10 and 20m) to the retained south boundary hedgerow. Trees should be planted no
less than 5m apart. The continuity of tree canopy will enable woodland birds to forage without
breaking cover and could also provide foraging and commuting habitat for bats, if they are
present in the local area.
Although standard trees are slow to establish, they are less likely to be accidentally damaged,
because of their high visibility in comparison to tree transplants and whips. Given their location
within the school grounds, it will be necessary to protect the trees from incidental damage, as a
consequence of human activity and landscape management. It will also be necessary to protect
trees from bark stripping by rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus and other small mammals. Protection
can be achieved by the use of robust tree guards and mulch mats (to reduce competition from
soft vegetation), and temporary wooden post and rail fences that surround each cluster of trees.
3.4.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Select appropriate locations to plant clusters of standard trees and mow existing
grassland vegetation to a height of less than 5cm.
Source, purchase and take collection of standard trees:
•
Silver Birch Betula pendula
35%
•
Pedunculate oak Quercus robur
35%
•
Ash Fraxinus excelsior
30%
If temporary storage is required, excavate a trench of sufficient depth and size to
accommodate the trees.
Place trees in the trench and back-fill to cover the roots of all of the trees and shrubs.
Prepare the ground before planting trees and shrubs, by ‘screefing’ 1m2 of the soft
vegetation that surrounds the location of each tree.
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f.
g.
h.
i.
3.5
Pennine Way Junior School
Plant trees and shrubs at 5m centres by pit-planting and back-fill pits with three-parts of
soil and one-part of well-rotted compost, or manure.
Protect and support trees with robust, staked tree shelters.
Place 1m2 plastic mulch mats around the base of each tree and secure by burying the
corners of the mat.
Upon completion of the planting work, enclose each cluster of trees with a 1.25m high,
wooden post and tree-rail perimeter fence.
Creation of Species-rich Grassland
3.5.1 Rationale
3.5.1.1 Selection of a Grassland Seed-mix
Seed sowing is the most common method of establishing new grasslands and the sowing
methods for establishing species-rich grassland are generally the same as those methods for
sowing agriculturally-improved grasslands. There are several suppliers (for example Emorsgate
Ltd) who can guarantee that the herbs supplied are sourced from UK stock and in some cases of
more local provenance. The seed-mix should be composed of those species, which are
commonly found on clay soils in the local area.
3.5.1.2 Soil Preparation for Species-rich Grassland Creation
In order to create species-rich grassland habitats, it is desirable to ensure that the substrate has a
fairly low level of nutrients particularly phosphate and nitrogenous compounds such as nitrates.
Results from research, cited by Gilbert & Anderson (1998) indicate that species-rich grasslands
have nutrient levels within the ranges described below, but soils with phosphate levels at the
lower end of the scale are the most suitable for creating species-rich grassland habitat.
•
Total Nitrogen
<10,000ppm
•
Phosphate
0-45ppm
•
Potassium
0-400ppm
•
Magnesium
0-100ppm
Therefore, it will be necessary to consider methods for reducing soil-nutrient levels before
establishment of vegetation. There are several methods for reducing soil-nutrient levels including
top-soil stripping and soil inversion by deep ploughing.
Top-soil stripping is often the most expensive option, because of the need to remove the top-soil
with excavators and then transfer the materials off-site. If the depth of top-soil is greater than
7.5cm, costs can be quite considerable if large areas are to be affected. In addition, sub-soils can
still be above the recommended limits of each soil nutrient. However, it is anticipated that topsoils stripped from the area allocated for habitat creation could be used elsewhere within the
proposed development during the construction phase.
If top-soil stripping is not a feasible option, then deep-ploughing can provide a satisfactory
alternative. Deep ploughing is a frequently used method on clay-based soils for re-distributing
nutrients within the soil profile, aerating sub-soil layers and improving field drainage. In addition,
deep ploughing can be a suitable method for reducing the levels of available nutrients in the
upper soil horizons and it is usually a cheaper option than top-soil stripping.
3.5.1.3 Establishment of Species-rich Grassland
There are several methods for sowing grassland seed, but for relatively small areas the
recommended method is application by a seed broadcaster at a rate of 4kg/m2. Seed should be
sown during April when weather conditions and soils are suitable. Soils should be moist so as to
avoid the need for additional watering after the seed has been sown. In addition, sowing should
be carried out when temperatures are sufficiently high (above 50C) to encourage rapid
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germination. This will reduce the potential for seed-loss, as a consequence of foraging birds and
small mammals. Following seed application, the soils should be gently rolled so that the seed
comes into contact with moist soils, in order to promote germination.
Provision should be made for further application of seed if germination fails. If areas of bare
ground are left un-seeded, then colonisation by pernicious weeds is likely to occur. If pernicious
weeds become established, repeated applications of herbicide will be required, which will
increase management costs.
3.5.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Remove existing amenity-grassland vegetation by herbicide (such as Glyphosate)
application.
Invert soils by deep ploughing to bury top-soils and reduce soil fertility.
Harrow and roll soils to produce a fine tilth that is suitable for seed sowing.
Source a suitable seed-mix for slightly acid clay-based soils such as mix EM5 that is
supplied by Emorsgate Ltd (http://wildseed.co.uk/mixtures/view/6), see Table 1 below.
Order, take delivery of, and sow grassland seed-mix during late April at a rate of 4gm of
seed per square metre (approximately 10kg of seed) by seed broadcaster.
Water soils following seed sowing if soils are relatively dry.
Inspect grassland and if bare ground is present, where germination has been
unsuccessful, re-apply seed using the same methods as described above.
In the first growing year following establishment, cut the grassland sward to a height of
5cm during mid-July, after yellow-rattle seed has ripened and dispose clippings off-site.
Table 1 Suggested Seed-Mix for Species-rich Grassland
%
Latin name
Herbs
0.5 Achillea millefolium
Common name
2
Centaurea nigra
2
0.5
1
Galium verum
Geranium pratense
Knautia arvensis
Yarrow
Common
knapweed
Lady's bedstraw
Meadow cranesbill
Field scabious
1
Leontodon hispidus
Rough hawkbit
1.2
2
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
2
2
1.8
1
1
i.
j.
Leucanthemum
vulgare
Lotus corniculatus
Malva moschata
Plantago lanceolata
Plantago media
Primula veris
Prunella vulgaris
Ranunculus acris
Rhinanthus minor
Rumex acetosa
Silene vulgaris
%
Latin name
Grasses
Agrostis capillaris
10
Anthoxanthum
2
odoratum
Briza media
2
Cynosurus cristatus
32
Festuca ovina
10
Festuca rubra ssp.
18
juncea
Common name
Common bent
Sweet vernal-grass
Quaking grass
Crested dog’s-tail
Sheep's fescue
Slender-creeping
fescue
Oxeye daisy
4
Phleum bertolonii
Smaller cat's-tail
Bird’s-foot trefoil
Musk mallow
Ribwort plantain
Hoary plantain
Cowslip
Selfheal
Meadow buttercup
Yellow rattle
Common sorrel
Bladder campion
2
Trisetum flavescens
Yellow oat-grass
red-
During the remainder of the growing season, repeat cutting to a height of 3-5cm, each
time the sward reaches 10cm. Clippings need to be removed from the grassland and
composted (or disposed off-site) each time the grassland is cut.
The 3m wide grassland strip on the north side of the retained hedgerow will not require
deep ploughing, because there is potential to damage the roots of the hedgerow shrubs
and the woodland soils are likely to be of relatively low fertility. However, existing
vegetation will require removal by herbicide application and the soils need to be
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prepared to a fine tilth. Seed sowing and aftercare management will follow the same
methods as those described above (see 5.1c – 5.1e).
3.6
Provision of Bird-nesting Boxes and Structures
3.6.1 Rationale
At this stage the design of the new school building is not known, but provision of nest-boxes for
birds that nest in buildings should be considered. Nest boxes that are suitable for house sparrow
Passer domesticus, starling Sturnus vulgaris, swift Apus apus, swallow Hirundo rustica and house
martin Delichon urbica are all commercially available and can be readily incorporated into
buildings without unduly influencing the overall building design.
The loss of woodland and scrub habitat will result in the loss of potential nesting habitat for birds
associated with these habitats. However, the retention of a number of mature woodland trees
will provide opportunities to mitigate, to some extent, for the loss of nesting opportunities,
because nest boxes can be erected within the canopy of the trees. Nest boxes should not be
attached to lower branches so that the risk of incidental or deliberate disturbance of nest boxes
during the bird nesting season is minimised.
3.6.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Identify suitable nest box locations within or on the proposed school buildings.
Identify suitable locations for installation of each nest box on retained trees.
Select and source an appropriate number of nest boxes or nesting structures for
installation onto, or within the proposed school buildings.
Select and source an appropriate number of nest boxes to attract cavity-nesting
woodland birds.
Purchase, take delivery of and temporarily store nest boxes and nesting structures.
Install nest boxes and nesting structures onto, or within the proposed school buildings
under the supervision of a suitably qualified ecologist.
Attach nest boxes to retained trees under the supervision of a suitably qualified ecologist.
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4 Habitat Management: Rationale and Outline Prescriptions
4.1
Woodland Management
4.1.1 Rationale
It is essential to carry out targeted management of new woodland habitat during the first five
years after planting, in order to ensure successful establishment. Young trees and shrubs need to
be supported and protected from grazing animals such as rabbit and other small mammals such
as voles and mice. In addition, significant losses of young trees and shrubs can occur if soft
vegetation is not controlled by cutting and/or suppression. Therefore, it will be necessary to
make regular checks of trees and shrubs, and replace dead, dying or diseased specimens where
required, and prune dead branches and twigs if present. Tree supports, guards and mulch mats
should also be inspected, and if required replaced or repaired. Likewise, repairs should be made
to the perimeter fence, in order to reduce the potential for damage by rabbit grazing. After ten
years, the perimeter fence should be removed, because trees and shrubs are less likely to be
damaged or destroyed by small mammal activity.
After ten and twenty years, thinning of each stand should be carried out, in order to reduce
competition between trees and shrubs. Targeted thinning will remove weaker specimens and
create a more random distribution of trees and shrubs. Larger pieces of cut timber should be
removed off-site, but brash (smaller twigs and branches) can be left on the ground to provide
deadwood habitat, which can provide opportunities for fungi and invertebrates, and promote
biodiversity.
4.1.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
4.2
Inspect trees and shrubs; identify and mark dead, dying or diseased specimens.
Remove and replace dead, dying or diseased specimens with the same species.
Prune dead branches, twigs and shoots.
Inspect and repair or replace damaged tree guards, supports and mulch mats.
Five years after establishment, remove tree guards, supports and mulch mats, and
dispose off-site.
Inspect perimeter fence and repair or replace any sections that are damaged.
Ten years after establishment, remove perimeter fence and bridle gate, and dispose offsite.
After 10 and 20 years following establishment, carry out selective thinning of 25 – 35% of
the trees and shrubs. Remove larger cut materials from site and leave brash in-situ.
Management of Woodland Herbs
4.2.1 Rationale
Following introduction of woodland herbs (seeds or bulbs), the soils will need to be mulched, in
order to suppress the growth of weeds. Without a mulch layer, ‘weeds’ will rapidly colonise
disturbed soils and out-compete woodland herbs. Once the woodland has developed to the
thicket stage, usually after 10 to 15 years, weeds tend to be less of an issue, because they are
less able to tolerate the dense continuous shade from the trees and shrubs. It is anticipated that
the mulch layer will last for at least three years and during that time will effectively suppress
weed growth. After a three year period, it may be necessary to apply a new mulch layer, or
implement mechanical or chemical weed control during late summer, when vernal woodland
wildflowers have seeded and died back (generally late July onwards).
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Derbyshire County Council
Pennine Way Junior School
4.2.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
4.3
Inspect areas planted with woodland herbs during late summer for a period of five years.
If present control weeds by targeted application of a suitable herbicide during late July to
early August when vernal woodland herbs have died back.
Areas containing wood millet and wood sedge should be treated with a selective
broadleaved herbicide such as ‘Grazon 90’ by targeted application.
Three years after establishment, check the depth of the mulch and if 2cm deep or less,
then apply a new layer wood chippings to a depth of 5cm.
Management of Retained Trees
4.3.1 Rationale
Within the area proposed for development some of the existing trees within the broadleaved
woodland habitat will be retained. At this stage, the location and number of trees to be retained
has not been fully determined, but the larger native trees should be targeted, because they will
support a greater abundance and diversity of associated species. During the construction phase,
the protection of trees should comply with British Standard 5387 (1991)9.
Given their location, any retained trees will need to be free of hazards such as part-fallen and
dead or dieing branches. Therefore, trees will need to be inspected during winter, when
branches are clearly visible, by a suitably qualified tree surveyor.
Features such as dead branches often contain rot holes, woodpecker holes and splits with
potential to support roosting bats. If the surveys by a qualified tree surveyor locate deadwood or
other features that could support roosting bats, then it is recommended that further survey work
is carried out by a licensed ecologist, prior to removal of these branches. To determine the
presence of roosting bats in trees, the recommended method is to climb the trees and closely
inspect the branches that will be removed. If roosting bats are located, a European Protected
Species Licence will be required, before removal. Appropriate mitigation including the provision
of bat-roosting boxes will be required.
The lower limbs of trees with bird nesting boxes should be removed, in order to restrict human
access to the nest-boxes and minimise the risk of disturbing or harming nesting birds, eggs of
fledglings.
4.3.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
9
Check retained trees for potential safety hazards during winter and mark branches to be
removed.
Check marked branches for the presence of roosting bats by direct inspection.
If roosting bats are present, apply for a European Protected Species Licence before
removal of branches (this will require the provision of alternative roosting features for
bats).
Remove dead, dying or damaged branches under the supervision of a suitably qualified
ecologist if roosting bats will be affected.
Remove any branches below a height of 2m to discourage tree climbing by children and
to raise the crown of the tree.
If roosting bats are present, then following appropriate mitigation work (installation of
bat roosting boxes), it will be necessary to carry out monitoring of bat boxes.
British Standard 5837 (1991). Trees In Relation To Construction. H.M.S.O.
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Derbyshire County Council
4.4
Pennine Way Junior School
Management of New Trees
4.4.1 Rationale
The standard trees will need to be intensively managed for a period of five years after planting, in
order to ensure effective establishment. Trees, tree guards, supports, mulch mats and perimeter
fences will be inspected during late summer. Dead, dying or diseased trees will be replaced
during winter and damaged tree guards, supports, mulch mats and protective fences will be also
replaced or repaired at the same time. Trees should also be pruned during winter to remove
dead or dying branches and twigs, and to raise the crown of each tree. Five years after
establishment, tree guards, supports, mulch mats and protective fences should be removed and
disposed off-site.
4.4.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
4.5
Inspect trees and shrubs; identify and mark dead, dying or diseased specimens.
Remove and replace dead, dying or diseased specimens with the same species.
Prune dead branches, twigs and shoots.
Inspect and repair or replace damaged tree guards, supports and mulch mats.
Five years after establishment, remove tree guards, supports and mulch mats, and
dispose off-site.
After 10 and 20 years following establishment, carry out selective thinning of 25 – 35% of
the trees and shrubs. Remove cut materials from site.
Species-rich Grassland Management
4.5.1 Rationale
Once the grassland is established it is essential to carry out management, in order to maintain
the diversity of the habitat. Without regular intervention, grasses will eventually out-compete the
less-competitive herbs, which will result in a loss of floral diversity.
With the right management and the selection of an appropriate seed mix, it is possible to
produce a species-rich grassland habitat that will enhance local biodiversity and amenity value. A
species mix that consists of herbs and grasses that flower early in the summer can be cut and
raked during early July and thereafter, maintained as short grassland for the remainder of the
summer season. Aftermath grazing by livestock following hay cutting is usually essential to
maintain grassland diversity, because it stops grasses out-competing herbs. Moderate trampling
as a consequence of human activity, can to some extent, mimic trampling by livestock and
regular cutting mimics the removal of the sward by livestock grazing.
4.5.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Annually mow the species-rich grassland during the second week in July and leave
clippings in-situ for two or three days to dry and to allow seeds to fall off the cut
materials, in order to build up a seed-bank in the soils.
Rake and collect dried clippings and remove from the site.
There is no requirement to stop access by children onto the species-rich grassland habitat
at any time of year. Light trampling is unlikely to have an adverse impact on the grassland.
From late July – early August, when re-growth of the grassland has reached a height of
10cm, mow the grassland, and immediately rake and collect the cuttings for off-site
disposal.
Repeat mowing and removal of cuttings until late September, each time the grassland
reaches a height of 10cm.
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Derbyshire County Council
f.
g.
4.6
Pennine Way Junior School
During early summer, inspect species-rich grassland for the presence of pernicious
agricultural weeds including common nettle, thistles and docks.
Apply a selective broadleaved herbicide such as ‘Grazon 90’ by spot treatment if the
cover of pernicious weeds is greater than 5% of the total grassland area. It will be
necessary for health and safety reasons, to apply herbicide during school holidays (halfterm holiday during the summer term), so that there is no risk of harm to children and
staff.
Hedgerow Management
4.6.1 Rationale
The existing hedgerow, located on the south boundary of the woodland is largely intact and is
maintained on the cemetery side by regular trimming of the south side and the top. As a
consequence, the hedgerow is less than 1.5m high. Whilst this is not an issue at the present time,
because the hedgerow is connected to the woodland providing continuity of habitat and cover
for fauna, the removal of woodland would lead to isolation of the hedgerow from other ‘woody’
habitat. This is likely to reduce the value of the hedgerow for fauna, if the existing cutting
management regime continues. The location of the hedgerow on the boundary of the cemetery
means that it needs to be maintained to produce a uniform profile that is appropriate to the
landscape of the cemetery grounds. However, even a regularly trimmed hedgerow can be of
value to fauna such as birds, if the hedgerow is fairly tall, with no gaps and a dense cover.
Therefore, it is recommended that the hedgerow is allowed to grow to a height of 2m and a
width of 2m.
Hedgerows are of greater value for biodiversity, if they are flanked by species-rich grassland
habitat and consequently, a 3m strip of species-rich grassland will be created alongside the entire
length of the hedgerow. The composition of the new grassland strip will consist of the same
species mix that will be used for the larger area of new grassland habitat (see section 3.5.2).
Management of the grassland strip will follow the same guidelines as stated for the larger area of
species-rich grassland that is located to the west of the hedgerow (see 4.5.2).
4.6.2 Outline Prescriptions
a.
b.
c.
d.
Allow hedgerow to grow to a height of 2.5m and a width of 2.5m, before implementing a
cutting regime (depending on growth rate of the hedgerow shrubs, this could take up to
three years).
Permit managers of the adjacent cemetery to continue to trim the south side of the
hedgerow, but discourage cutting before late June, to reduce potential for disturbing or
harming nesting birds.
Each year during winter (December to February), mechanically trim the top and the south
side of the hedgerow to a height of 2m and a width of 2m.
If necessary, collect hedgerow clippings and dispose off-site, or chip the hedgerow
clippings and spread onto the areas sown with woodland herbs within the new
broadleaved woodland stands (see section 4.2.2).
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Derbyshire County Council
Pennine Way Junior School
5 Work Programme
At this stage, the timetable and start date for the proposed development is not known.
Therefore, the following work programme provides details of when management should be
carried out, rather than provision of specific dates. The work programme also assumes that
habitat destruction will take place during winter, in order to ensure that nesting birds are not
disturbed. All habitat creation and management work should be inspected during and upon
completion of each task by a suitably qualified ecologist.
Table 2 Programme of Work
Ref.
Prescription
Habitat Creation Work
3.2a
Excavate soil test pits
3.2b
3.2b
3.2c
3.2d
3.2e
3.2f
3.2g
3.2h
3.2i
3.2j
3.2k
3.2l
3.3a
3.3b
3.3c
3.3d
Timing
Year
Responsibility
September
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Ecologist
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
1
1
2
Ecologist
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
2
2
2
2
2
– 2
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
– 2
Contractor
– 2
Contractor
Determine soil characteristics and propose soil
preparation methods
Mow grassland
Source trees and shrubs of local provenance
Purchase and take collection of trees and shrubs
Create temporary storage trenches
Store trees in trenches until ready for planting
Screef soft vegetation and dispose of unwanted
materials.
Plant trees and shrubs at 2m centres
September
- October
October
October
November
November
November
November –
December
November –
December
Apply ‘Tuley’ tubes to each tree and shrub
November –
December
Apply and fix mulch mats to each tree and shrub November –
December
Erect post and rabbit mesh perimeter fence to December
each woodland stand
Install a Bridle Gate on the perimeter fence of December
each woodland stand
Collect seed from selected woodland herbs
June – July
Clean and store seeds of woodland herbs
July
Collect bluebell bulbs, clean and store
July
3.3e
3.3f
3.3g
3.3h
3.3i
3.3j
Apply herbicide to receptor areas for
introduction of woodland herbs (seeds and
bulbs)
Prepare soils for introduction of seed and bulbs
Mix woodland seeds and sow at 4gm/m2
Rake and roll seeded areas
Water seeded areas (if required)
Apply wood chip mulch (5cm depth)
Excavate soils and plant bluebell bulbs
3.3k
Back-fill pits and if required, water the soils
3.3l
Apply wood chip mulch (5cm depth)
3259.02_002_ms_mw_bs_#v3
March
March
March
March
March
March
February
March
February
March
February
March
1
/
/
/
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Derbyshire County Council
Table 2 Programme of Work (continued)
Ref.
Prescription
Habitat Creation Work
3.4a
Select locations for tree planting and mow
grassland
3.4b
Source, purchase and take collection of standard
trees
3.4c
Create temporary storage trenches
3.4d
Store trees in trenches and back-fill with loose
soil
3.4e
Screef 1m2 of soft vegetation around the
location of each tree
3.4f
Pit-plant trees and back-fill with soil and manure
3.4g
3.4h
3.4i
3.5a
3.5b
3.5c
3.5d
3.5e
3.5f
3.5g
3.5h
3.5i
3.6a
3.6b
3.6c
3.6d
3.6e
Pennine Way Junior School
Timing
Year
Responsibility
October
2
October
2
November
November
2
2
Ecologist
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
2
Contractor
2
Contractor
2
Contractor
2
Contractor
2–3
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
Contractor
1
1
Ecologist
Contractor
1
1
1
1
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
1
Ecologist
1
Ecologist
1
Ecologist
2
Ecologist
1
Ecologist
Contractor
November –
December
November –
December
Protect and support trees with robust, staked November –
tree shelters.
December
Apply and fix 1m2 mulch mats
November –
December
Protect clusters of trees with wooden post and December –
rail fencing
January
Remove existing vegetation by herbicide March
application
Deep plough soils treated by herbicide Late March
application
– early April
Prepare soils to a fine tilth
Late March
– early April
Source a suitable grass-seed mix
March
Order, take delivery of and sow grassland seed- April
mix at 4gm/m2
Water soils (if required)
April
Inspect grassland and re-sow grassland seed-mix May
if required
Cut grassland and remove clippings off-site
July
Cut grassland to a height of <5cm during late July
–
summer each time sward reaches 10cm high
October
Identify suitable nest box locations within, or on As required
the proposed school buildings
Identify suitable locations for installation of each As required
nest box on retained trees
Select and source an appropriate number of As required
nest boxes or nesting structures for installation
onto, or within the proposed school buildings
Select and source an appropriate number of As required
nest boxes to attract cavity-nesting woodland
birds
Purchase, take delivery of and temporarily store As required
nest boxes and nesting structures
3259.02_002_ms_mw_bs_#v3
/
/
/
or
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Derbyshire County Council
Table 2 Programme of Work (continued)
Ref.
Prescription
Habitat Creation Work
3.6f
Install nest boxes and nesting structures onto,
or within the proposed school buildings under
the supervision of a suitably qualified ecologist
3.6g
Attach nest boxes to retained trees under the
supervision of a suitably qualified ecologist
Habitat Management Work
4.1a
Inspect trees and shrubs, and mark dead,
dying and diseased specimens
4.1b
Remove and replace dead, dying and diseased
specimens
4.1c
Prune trees and shrubs if required
4.1d
4.1e
4.1f
4.1g
4.1h
4.2a
4.2b
4.2c
4.2d
4.3a
4.3b
4.3d
4.3e
4.3f
Pennine Way Junior School
Timing
Year
Responsibility
As required
1&2
Ecologist
Contractor
/
Winter
2
Ecologist
Contractor
/
September
2–5
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
/
November – 2 – 5
December
November – 2 – 5
December
Inspect and repair or replace tree guards, September
2–5
supports and mulch mats
Remove guards, supports and mulch mats
November – 6
December
Inspect and repair perimeter fence
September
2–5
Remove perimeter fence and bridle gate, and September
10
dispose off-site
Thin 25 – 35% of woodland
November – 10 &
December
20
Inspect areas sown with bulbs and seeds of June
From
woodland herbs
Yr 2
Apply herbicide to control pernicious weeds (if July
2–6
required)
Apply selective herbicide to control pernicious July
2–6
weeds (if required)
Re-apply wood chip mulch to a depth of 5cm November – 3 & 5
(if required)
December
Check retained trees for potential safety Winter
1
hazards during winter and mark branches to
be removed
Check marked branches for the presence of Winter
1
roosting bats by direct inspection (tree
climbing)
If roosting bats are present, apply for a Winter
1
European Protected Species Licence before
removal of branches
Remove dead, dying or damaged branches
Winter
1
4.4a
Remove branches below 2m to discourage Winter
tree climbing by children and to raise the
crown of the tree
If required, monitor roosting bats by routine Summer
inspection of bat boxes.
Annually mow species-rich grassland
July
4.4b
Rake grassland clippings and dispose off-site
4.3g
3259.02_002_ms_mw_bs_#v3
July
1
1-3
From
yr 2
From
yr 2
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
/
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
/
Contractor
Contractor
Arboricultural
Contractor
Licensed
Ecologist
Ecologist
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
/
Licensed
Ecologist
Contractor
Contractor
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Derbyshire County Council
Table 2 Programme of Work (continued)
Ref.
Prescription
Habitat Management Work
4.4d
Mow and remove cuttings when grassland
reaches 10cm height
4.4e
Repeat cutting every time grassland reaches
10cm height
4.4f
Inspect grassland for presence of pernicious
weeds
4.4g
If required, apply herbicide by spot application
4.5a
4.5b
4.5c
4.5d
Pennine Way Junior School
Timing
From
yr 2
August
- From
October
yr 2
May
From
yr 2
May - June
From
yr 2
Allow hedgerow to grow to 2.5m high and Not
1–3
2.5m wide
applicable
Trim south side of hedgerow
July
– All yrs
October
Mechanically trim top and north side of December - From
hedgerow
February
yr 2 or
3
Collect trimmings, chip and mulch areas sown December - From
with woodland herbs in new plantations
February
yr 2 or
3
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August
Year
Responsibility
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Contractor
Not Applicable
Cemetery
Manager
Contractor
Contractor
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Derbyshire County Council
Pennine Way Junior School
6 Appendix 1 Replacement Habitat Proposals
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