10 ECOLOGY - apps2.staffordshire.gov.uk

Land south of the A513, Orgreave, Alrewas

1

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10 ECOLOGY

The following Technical Appendices referred to in this chapter can be found at Appendix 3 to this

document.

Appendices

Appendix 3.1 – Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report (CE-AW-1225-RP06).

Appendix 3.2 – Great Crested Newt Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP07).

Appendix 3.3 – Great Crested Newt Method Statement (CE-AW-1225-RP08).

Appendix 3.4 – Confidential Ecological Information – see separate document (CE-AW-1225-RP09).

Appendix 3.5 – Bat Activity Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP10).

Appendix 3.6 – Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP11).

Appendix 3.7 – Breeding Bird Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP12).

Appendix 3.8 – Terrestrial Invertebrate Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP13).

Appendix 3.9 – Policy

Appendix 3.10 – Confidential Ecological Information – see separate document (EcIA – Additional

Information).


2

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Introduction

Background

10.1.1 Crestwood Environmental Ltd. (‘CEL’) was appointed by CEMEX (‘the Applicant’) to

undertake this Ecological Impact Assessment (‘EcIA’). This assessment has been

prepared by Lucy Cash (Associate Director) and Jaclyn Walker (Senior Ecologist) at CEL.

Lucy is a Chartered Ecologist and full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and

Environmental Management (CIEEM) and has been an ecologist for 20 years. Jaclyn is

an Associate Member of CIEEM and has been an ecologist for 5 years.

The Proposal

10.1.2 The Applicant is applying for planning permission for mineral extraction operations,

specifically the extraction of sand and gravel, to supply 500,000 cubic metres of ready-

mix concrete to the HS2 infrastructure project (‘the Proposal’), as described further

below.

10.1.3 In summary, the Proposal consists of:

• Clearance of vegetation and topsoil and creation of infrastructure including haul

roads prior to mineral extraction;

• Extraction of approximately 1.4 million tonnes of sand and gravel over an area of

approximately 12.2ha (‘Extraction Area’);

• Extraction to take place over a period of 4 years (c.300,000 tonnes per annum)

over 8 development phases;

• No fill is proposed to be imported following extraction; and

• Restoration to agriculture, lowland meadow, waterbodies and woodland.

Purpose

10.1.4 This assessment has been undertaken in accordance with current guidance, The

Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom (‘the Guidelines’),

published in September 2018 by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental

Management (CIEEM, 2018). The assessment process aims to:


3

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Provide a clear and understandable assessment of the potential ecological effect(s)

of the Proposal;

• Determine the potential impact(s) and effect(s) of the Proposal in relation to

international, national, regional and local nature conservation and biodiversity

policies; and

• Contribute to the design of the Proposal, in relation to ecological considerations, in

order to comply with legal requirements and, wherever possible, policy

requirements.

10.1.5 The main sources of information for this assessment include:

• Legislation and relevant national and local policies, including relevant local

supplementary planning guidance issued by Lichfield District Council;

• Biological Records (obtained from Staffordshire Ecological Record (‘SER’) (SER,

2019);

• Other third-party reports detailing Noise, Air Quality and Hydrological Assessments;

and

• Field Survey.

Summary of the Baseline Situation

10.1.6 Using a combination of desk study and field survey work the Baseline Situation of the

Proposal has been established, a summary of which is provided below:

• A variety of habitats are present including arable, poor semi-improved grassland,

coniferous woodland, wet and dry ditches and scattered trees;

• Two Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI) present within the Application Site

including hedgerows and deciduous woodland;

• The Pyford Brook and Ashby Sitch flow west to east located along the southern

boundary and centrally through the Application Site respectively, and act as wildlife

corridors providing ecological connectivity to the local area;


4

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• The Trent and Mersey Canal, River Trent, Coventry Canal, railway lines, drain and

hedgerow network within 2km act as wildlife corridors providing ecological

connectivity within the local area;

• 8 Statutory wildlife sites are present within 10km and 11 Non-Statutory Wildlife

Sites within 2km of the Application site; and

• Habitats and wildlife corridors suitable for a range of protected and notable faunal

species.

10.1.7 The following technical reports can be found within the Appendices of this report:

• Appendix 3.1 – Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report (CE-AW-1225-RP06);

• Appendix 3.2 – Great Crested Newt Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP07);

• Appendix 3.3 – Great Crested Newt Method Statement (CE-AW-1225-RP08);

• Appendix 3.4 – Confidential Ecological Information – see separate document (CE-

AW-1225-RP09);

• Appendix 3.5 – Bat Activity Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP10);

• Appendix 3.6 – Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP11);

• Appendix 3.7 – Breeding Bird Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP12); and

• Appendix 3.8 – Terrestrial Invertebrate Survey Report (CE-AW-1225-RP13).

10.1.8 Where relevant, mitigation measures are proposed to minimise the impacts of the

Proposal during both the preparation and operational phases of the scheme. Any

anticipated residual effects of the proposals are then stated.

10.1.9 The following tables are referred to within this report:

• Table 10.1 – Study Areas;

• Table 10.2 – ZoI of Ecological Features;

• Table 10.3 – Study Areas for Environmental Impacts;


5

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Table 10.4 – Brief Summary of Key National Planning Policies;

• Table 10.5 – Brief Summary of Key County Planning Policies;

• Table 10.6 – Brief Summary of Key Local Planning Policies;

• Table 10.7 – Brief Summary of Key SPDs;

• Table 10.8 – Criteria for Evaluation;

• Table 10.9 – Impact/Effect Parameters;

• Table 10.10 – Classification of Impact/Effect Parameters;

• Table 10.11 – Classification of Significance and Nature of Effect;

• Table 10.12 – Statutory Wildlife Sites Within 10km of the Application Site;

• Table 10.13 – Non-Statutory Wildlife Sites Within 2km of the Application Site;

• Table 10.14 – Summary of Habitats at the Application Site;

• Table 10.15 – Summary of Application Site Suitability for Protected/Notable

Species;

• Table 10.16 – Great Crested Newt Survey Summary;

• Table 10.17 – Potential Roost Features – Trees;

• Table 10.18 – Bat Activity Survey Summary;

• Table 10.19 – Automated Survey Results Summary;

• Table 10.20 – Summary of Baseline Conditions and Evaluation for Ecological

Features;

• Table 10.21 – Habitat Quantity Change;

• Table 10.22 – Screening of Faunal Receptors;

• Table 10.23 – Impacts and Effects (Pre-Mitigation) - Fauna;


6

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Table 10.24 – Mitigation Measures and Residual (Post Mitigation) Effects – Great

Crested Newt;

• Table 10.25 - Mitigation Measures and Residual (Post Mitigation) Effects – Bats;

and

• Table 10.26 – Mitigation Measures and Residual (Post Mitigation) Effects –

Breeding Birds.

10.1.10 The following plates are referred to within this report:

• Plate 10.1 – Great Crested Newt Study Area;

• Plate 10.2 – Badger Study Area; and

• Plate 10.3 – Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Study Area.

Study Area

10.2.1 The ecological surveys were undertaken throughout 2019; however, since undertaking

the surveys, the boundary has been altered to occupy a smaller area within the original

survey boundary. The updated boundary, and the focus of this ecological assessment

will be referred to as the ‘Application Site’ and the area in which the surveys were

undertaken, where this now extends outside of the Application Site, will be referred to

as ‘Wider Survey Area’.

10.2.2 The area which is the focus of this EcIA, is located at land south of Alrewas Road

(A513), Alrewas, Burton-on-Trent, within Vice-County 39: Staffordshire – centred at

National Grid Reference (NGR) SK 14895 15280 (‘the Application Site’).

10.2.3 The Application Site is located approximately 4.5km north-east of Lichfield, 1.2km west

of Alrewas and 2.1km south-east of Kings Bromley. The site is bordered by Hay End


7

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Lane to the west, the Pyford Brook to the south and Alrewas Road (A513) to the north.

10.2.4 The Study Area for ecological features are detailed in Table 10.1 overleaf.

Table 10.1 Study Areas for Ecological Features

Ecological Feature Study Area (including

within the Application Site)

Statutory Sites 10km

Non-Statutory Sites

2km Protected and Notable species

Species listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (HMSO,

1981)

Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI) and Ancient Woodland 250m

Granted European Protected Species (EPS) Mitigation Licences

1km

Cumulative Impacts

Zone of Influence (ZoI)

10.2.5 The ZoI for species or species groups has been determined by research and the

professional judgement of the CEL ecologists. For example, Common Lizard (Zootoca

vivipara) has restricted mobility and generally occupies smaller home ranges (up to

700m2) (Langton & Beckett, 1995).

10.2.6 The ZoI for each species or species-group is identified in the relevant sections. The

species/species-group not included within the table below have been discussed

separately above or assessed and scoped out during baseline surveys. Table 10.2


8

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

overleaf details the ZoI for the ecological features relevant to the Proposal.


9

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Table 10.2 ZoI of Ecological Features

Ecological Feature ZoI

Plants Application Site and immediately adjacent habitats

Reptiles 1km

Bats 2km

Other Mammals Application Site and immediately adjacent habitats

Birds 2km

Aquatic and Terrestrial Invertebrates Application Site and immediately adjacent habitats

Fish Dependent on species and geographical range.

10.2.7 Direct and indirect effects relating to dust, hydrology and noise in relation to the

Proposals on ecological features both within and outside of the Application Site are

detailed in Table 10.3. The hydrology study area has been taken from Stantec’s

Hydrogeology and Flood Risk assessment (Stantec, 2020) and the Noise study area

from WBM Acoustic Consultant’s Noise assessment (WBM Acoustic Consultants,

2020).

Table 10.3 Study Areas for Environmental Impacts

Environmental Impacts Study Area

Dust 250m

Hydrology 4km

Noise 300m – 700m


10

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10.2.8 The majority of the ecological surveys were undertaken within the bounds of the

Application Site only, including:

• Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey;

• Bat Activity Survey;

• Breeding Bird Survey; and

• Terrestrial Invertebrate Scoping Survey.

10.2.9 Several ecological surveys had varied Study Areas specific to the species/species

groups, as defined separately below.

Great Crested Newt

10.2.10 In line with current good practice guidelines (English Nature, 2001), waterbodies at

and within 500m of the Application Site were surveyed for the presence/likely absence

of Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) (‘the Great Crested Newt Study Area’) as

represented by the orange dashed line as shown on Plate 10.1 overleaf. The yellow

dashed line represents 500m study area from the Wider Survey Area.

10.2.11 Whilst flowing waterbodies are not generally suitable for Great Crested Newt, the two

wet ditches within the Application Site, Ditch 1 and Ditch 2, were very slow flowing and

considered to provide some suitability for the species and were therefore included

within the study area.


11

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Great Crested Newt Study Area

Badger

10.2.12 In line with The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (HMSO, 1992) the Application Site, as

well as 30m outside of the Application Site (where accessible) and Wider Survey Area

was surveyed for the presence/likely absence of Badger (Meles meles) (‘the Badger

Study Area’) as represented by the yellow dashed line as shown on Plate 10.2 overleaf.


12

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Badger Study Area

Otter / Water Vole / White-Clawed Crayfish

10.2.13 The Application Site, as well as proximal areas (an additional 30m length of the Pyford

Brook) outside of the Application Site (where accessible) was surveyed for the

presence/likely absence of Otter (Lutra lutra), Water Vole (Arvicola amphibius) and

White-Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) (‘the Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish

Study Area’) as represented by the white dashed lines (Section A and B) as shown on

Plate 10.3 overleaf.


13

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Study Area

Methodology

Previous Assessment Stages

10.3.1 CEL undertook the following ecological surveys at the Application Site (and within the

Wider Survey Area) in 2017:



• Breeding Bird Survey;

• Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Presence/Likely Absence Survey; and



14

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10.3.2 All surveys as listed above were updated in 2019.

Legislation and Planning Policy

National Planning Policy

10.3.3 In respect of ecology, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2019 (HMSO,

2019) is relevant to the Proposal and the Application Site at a National Planning Policy

level.

10.3.4 A summary of the key national planning policies relevant to biodiversity and the

Proposals at the Application Site is detailed within Table 10.4.

Table 10.4 Brief Summary of Key National Planning Policies

National

Planning

Policy

Document

Policy Reference Summary of Key Points

NPPF

15. Conserving and

Enhancing the

Natural Environment

- Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the

natural environment by minimising impacts on and providing net gains

for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks.

- Proposals should give consideration to sites of biodiversity value such

as statutory designated sites, wildlife-rich habitats, ecological networks

and wildlife corridors.

- Proposals should promote the conservation, restoration and

enhancement of priority habitats, ecological networks, the recovery of

priority species and to pursue opportunities for net gains for

biodiversity.

- Proposals should be refused that cause significant harm to biodiversity

that cannot be adequately mitigated or compensated for.

County Planning Policy

10.3.5 In respect of ecology, the Minerals Local Plan for Staffordshire (2015-30) 2017 (‘MLPS’)

(Staffordshire County Council, 2017) is relevant to the Proposal and the Application


15

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Site at a County Planning Policy level.

10.3.6 A summary of the key national planning policies relevant to biodiversity and the

Proposals at the Application Site is detailed within Table 10.5.

Table 10.5 Brief Summary of Key County Planning Policies

County

Planning

Policy

Document


MLPS

Policy 4: Minimising

the Impact of Mineral

Development

- Mineral development must consider impacts on the natural

environment including designated sites, protected/notable habitats and

species etc.

- Proposals should seek to conserve and enhance the natural

environment and where possible enhance ecological networks and

green infrastructure.

- Where unacceptable adverse effects cannot be avoided, adequate

mitigation, and where required, compensation should be implemented.

MLPS Policy 6: Restoration

of Mineral Sites

- Proposals for restoration of minerals sites will only be approved where

they accord with other policies, including Policy 4 (see above).

- Restoration proposals should seek to enhance the natural environment

to achieve net gains in biodiversity, contribute to local ecological

networks and support populations of protected/notable species.


16

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Local Planning Policy

10.3.7 With respect to ecology, the following Local Planning Policy Documents are relevant to

the Proposal and the Application Site:

• Lichfield District Local Plan Strategy (2008-2029) 2015 (‘LDLPS’); and

• Alrewas Neighbourhood Plan (2013-2029) (‘ANP’).

10.3.8 A summary of the key local planning policies relevant to biodiversity and the Proposals

at the Application Site is detailed within Table 10.6.

Table 10.6 Brief Summary of Key Local Planning Policies

Local

Planning

Policy

Document


LDLPS

Core Policy 13:

Our Natural

Resources

- Proposals should seek to safeguard ecological networks, restore and create

new habitats veteran trees, woodland planting etc.

- Designated sites and priority habitats should be protected from damage from

development and enhanced where possible.

- Development should seek opportunities for the creation of new habitats that

allow for mitigation of the effects of climate change on species, including the

enhancement of opportunities for species to migrate.


17

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Local

Planning

Policy

Document


LDLPS

Policy NR3:

Biodiversity,

Protected Species

& Their Habitats

- Development proposals should protect and enhance biodiversity, minimise

fragmentation and maximise opportunities for biodiversity, incorporate

features that will help adapt wildlife to climate change and deliver net gains

for biodiversity.

- Proposals should contribute towards UKBAP and Staffordshire BAP targets.

- Proposals that have a direct or indirect effect on ecological features will only

be permitted where adequate mitigation and compensation can be

implemented.

Policy NR4:

Trees, Woodland

and Hedgerows

- Trees and Woodland will be retained and protected unless removal is

demonstrated and necessary and mitigation is implemented.

- Sufficient space within developments must be reserved for planting.

Policy NR5:

Natural & Historic

Landscapes

- Development should not negatively impact, and proposals should seek to

protect, conserve and enhance sites of international, national, regional and

local importance.

Policy NR6:

Linked Habitats

Corridors & Multi-

Functional

Greenspaces

- New habitats and links between habitats should be created to enhance

biodiversity and mitigate against climate change by providing opportunities

for species to move or migrate.

- Proposals will be expected to create and link green infrastructure and

enhance existing green and river corridors.

Policy NR8: River

Mease Special

Area of

Conservation

- Development must not either directly or indirectly adversely affect the

integrity of the River Mease SAC.

- Development that falls within the water catchment of the SAC will require an

assessment under the Habitat Regulations.

- Development outside of the water catchment of the SAC may need to

demonstrate that there will be no adverse impact on the SAC.


18

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Local

Planning

Policy

Document


LDLPS Policy NR9: Water

Quality.

- Development should not have negative impacts on water quality (through

pollution etc.). Site specific analysis will be required of development

proposals in proximity or upstream of any SSSI.

ANP Policy PR4: Trees

and Hedgerows

- Proposals that damage or result in tree and hedgerow loss will need to

provide suitable mitigation. Trees and hedgerows should be retained and

protected where possible.

- Further tree planting within Alrewas is supported.

Supplementary Planning Documents

10.3.9 With respect to ecology, the following Supplementary Planning Documents (‘SPD’) are

relevant to the Proposal and the Application Site:

• Lichfield District Trees, Landscaping and Development SPD 2016 (‘TLD SPD’)

(Lichfield District Council, 2016); and

• Lichfield District Biodiversity and Development SPD 2016 (‘BD SPD’) (Lichfield

District Council, 2016).

10.3.10 A summary of the key SPDs relevant to biodiversity and the Proposals at the

Application Site is detailed within Table 10.7 overleaf.


19

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Table 10.7 Brief Summary of Key SPDs

SPD Summary of Key Points

Trees,

Landscaping and

Development

- The council advocates the recommendations given in British Standard: 5837: 2012

‘Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction - Recommendations’ and

future editions.

- Proposals should protect and retain trees where possible and allow sufficient space for

trees to mature.

- Specific tree surveys may be required to assess impacts of development on trees.

- Tree root areas should be considered when designing development schemes.

- Other considerations in relation to trees and development include species, light/shade,

seasonal changes, space for growth etc.

- Veteran/ancient trees have protection under the NPPF.

- Trees/hedgerows which support protected/notable faunal species should be retained and

protected.

- New planting should be implanted wherever possible.

Biodiversity and

Development

- Development has the potential to effect biodiversity both negatively and positively both

inside and outside of the boundary of the development.

- Priority sites, habitats and species are a material consideration for planning.

- Appropriate survey, assessment and mitigation is required to assess impacts of

development on biodiversity.

- All development is required to provide a net gain for biodiversity.


20

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Assessment Methodology

Establishing the Baseline

10.3.11 Using a combination of desk study and field survey work the Baseline Situation of the

Proposal has been established. This provides a transparent basis from which

assessment results have been determined and against which professional judgements

have been made.

10.3.12 During the field survey, the flora, fauna and other notable ecological features of the Site

were recorded. As recommended in the EcIA Guidelines (CIEEM, 2018) the Ecological

Importance of features, habitats and species (flora and fauna), both within and

surrounding the Proposal, will be considered from International through to Negligible

Importance scales.

Desk Study

10.3.13 A desk study was undertaken to collate existing baseline information held by

Staffordshire Ecological Records Centre (SER).

10.3.14 The desk study was undertaken to search for statutory and Non-Statutory Designated

Sites within the ranges set out in Section 10.2 of the red line boundary, based on the

estimated ZoI for the particular ecological feature.

10.3.15 Using a combination of aerial imagery (Google Earth) and OS mapping, the surrounding

500m was investigated for any presence of ponds, or other water bodies, which may be

suitable for Great Crested Newt and connected to the Site by suitable habitat.

10.3.16 The following information for species was also returned as part of the desk study:

• Legally protected and notable species records within 2km; and

• Schedule 9 species within 2km.

10.3.17 Online resources, including data available through the Multi-Agency Geographic

Information for the Countryside website (MAGIC (DEFRA, 2019)) was used to

supplement information obtained from consultees and review in order to obtain an


21

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

overview of habitat classification and statutory designations.

Field Surveys

10.3.18 The ‘Survey Area’ for several of the surveys listed below varies and is detailed within

Section 10.2 above and shown on the associated Figures within the associated survey

report Appendices.

10.3.19 The following field surveys have been undertaken in 2019:


• Great Crested Newt Presence/Likely Absence Survey (Environmental DNA

Analysis);

• Great Crested Newt Population Size Class Assessment;


• Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Presence/Likely Absence Survey; and


10.3.20 Each CEL report details the following:

• Purpose and scope of the survey;

• The detailed methodologies used;

• Weather conditions;

• Limitations to survey;

• Survey results; and

• Impacts and effects of the Proposal.

10.3.21 Each survey carried out by CEL was based on standard best practice guidance

available at the time of the surveys, with any deviations justified in the relevant survey


22

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

report.

Determining the Level of Ecological Importance

10.3.22 The Ecological Importance of the existing habitats at the Application Site was evaluated

following established principles as set out in Guidelines for Ecological Impact

Assessment in the United Kingdom (CIEEM, 2018).

10.3.23 In assessing the value of a receptor, consideration has been given to the criteria

adapted from Ratcliffe (1977), namely naturalness, size, rarity, diversity and fragility as

well as position within the ecological unit, potential value and intrinsic appeal. The

evaluation of the importance of individual species groups also considers lists of County

and nationally prepared Red Data Books where available.

10.3.24 All species and populations of species, including those with statutory protection, are

evaluated on the same basis. An example of this would be a small population of a

protected species at the Site, where the species is widespread, will not rank highly.

Table 10.8 details the Criteria for Evaluation.

Table 10.8 Criteria for Evaluation

Level of

Importance Species Habitat

International

A regularly occurring population of an internationally

important species, which is threatened or rare in the

UK, where the population is a critical part of a wider

population or where a species is at a critical phase in

its life cycle at this scale.

An internationally designated site, i.e.

SAC, SPA, Ramsar, or one proposed for

designation.

Sites supporting areas of priority habitats

which are scarce at an international level

or where it is needed to maintain the

viability of a larger area at that level.


23

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Level of


National

A regularly occurring population/number of a

nationally important species which is threatened or

rare, where the population is a critical part of a wider

population or where a species is at a critical phase in

its life cycle at this scale. A regularly occurring

population of a nationally important species on the

edge of its natural range. A species assemblage of

national significance.

A nationally designated site, i.e. SSSI or

one that meets the published criteria.

Sites supporting areas of priority habitats

(HPI) which are scarce at a national level

or where it is needed to maintain the


Regional

A regularly occurring, locally significant population of

a species listed as being nationally scarce. A

regularly occurring, locally significant number of a

regionally important species or where the population

is a critical part of a wider population or where a

species is at a critical phase in its life cycle at this

scale. A species assemblage of regional

significance.

Sites supporting a viable area of a priority

habitat (HPI) which is scarce at a regional

level or where it is needed to maintain the


County

Any regularly occurring, locally significant population

of a species which is listed in a county Red Data

Book or BAP on account of its rarity.

A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a

county important species or where the population is

a critical part of a wider population or where a

species is at a critical phase in its life cycle at this

scale.

A species assemblage of county significance.

A County designated site or one that

meets published criteria.

Sites supporting a viable area of a priority

habitat (HPI) which is scarce at a county

level or where it is needed to maintain the

viability of a larger area.

Local Wildlife Sites/potential Local Wildlife

Sites.

Areas of Semi Natural Ancient Woodland.


24

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Level of


District

A population of a species that is listed in a district

BAP because of its rarity in the locality.

A species assemblage of district significance.

A regularly occurring, locally significant number of

district importance or where the population is a

critical part of a wider population or where a species

is at a critical phase in its life cycle at this scale.

Sites/features that are scarce within the

district.

Local

Populations or species assemblages considered to

enhance the local ecological resource, e.g. a

breeding Bird assemblage.

Areas of habitat considered to enrich

appreciably the habitat resource within the

context of the locality or which buffer those

of a more important nature.

Site Populations or species assemblages insufficient to

be considered in the wider context.

Habitats or areas of habitat insufficient to

be considered in the wider context.

Negligible Not applicable. Habitat or areas of habitat of insignificant

ecological value.

Classifying Impacts and Effects

10.3.25 In line with recognised assessment guidance (CIEEM, 2018), the ecological impacts

and effects are assessed using surveys and research to identify ecological receptors

which will be affected as a result of the Proposal as follows:

• Determine the severity of the impact and effect without specific mitigation measures;

• Outline a potential mitigation strategy which would be implemented to avoid or

reduce undesirable impacts and effects;

• Assess the likelihood that the mitigation strategy will be successful;

• Establish areas of potential environmental improvement; and


25

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Assess the Significance of the residual impact of the Proposal, assuming the

mitigation strategy has been fully implemented and that suggested areas of

potential environmental improvement have been acted upon.

10.3.26 A description of parameters that are considered when assessing the degree and type of

change are provided in Table 10.9. Criteria to assess, on a scale of Low to High, the

degree and type of change are provided in Table 10.10, and an overall level of effect

determined.

10.3.27 In conjunction with consideration of the evaluation of the ecological receptor, an

assessment of the Significance of the residual effect (for the type/nature of change), is

provided in accordance with the criteria in Table 10.11 and described together.

Table 10.9 Impact / Effect Parameters

Parameters Definition

Nature of

Change

‘Direction’ of change. Positive changes are given equal merit to Negative changes

in relation to the overall biodiversity outcome. No overall change would be Neutral.

Magnitude

The ‘size’, ‘scale’ or ‘amount’ of change determined on a quantitative basis where

possible. Includes consideration of:

The geographical extent (area) over which change occurs.

The Duration of time over which the assessed change is expected to last. This is

based on ecological characteristics not human timeframes and may be

Temporary, Short Term, Medium Term or Long-Term.

The Frequency of a Negative impact must also be considered; A single impact

may have no effect, but a number of repeating same impacts may create a

Negative effect.


26

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Parameters Definition

Reversibility

Irreversible changes are negative changes from which recovery is not possible

within a reasonable timescale or for which there is no reasonable change of action

being taken to reverse it.

Reversible changes are negative changes from which spontaneous recovery is

possible or for which effective mitigation are both possible and an enforceable

commitment is proffered.

Timing Timing of a Negative impact may be important in understanding the effect of that

impact, e.g. if it coincides with critical life-stages or seasons.

Table 10.10 Classification of Impact/Effect Parameters

Parameter

Degree of Impact Aspect

LOW MEDIUM HIGH

Magnitude Minimal Change <--------------> Substantial Change

Extent Limited / Small Area <--------------> Widespread Change

Duration

<18 months

(Temporary)

<-------------->

>8 years

(Long-term)

Frequency Single or seldom

occurring event <-------------->

Numerous, regular occurring

events

Timing Non-Critical Timing <--------------> Critical Timing


27

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Table 10.11 Classification of Significance and Nature of Effect

Classification Criteria

Negative

(Significant)

Likely to create a Significant negative effect, including loss, or long-term or irreversible damage

on the integrity / status of an ecological receptor.

Negative (Not

Significant)

Likely to create a negative effect without causing long-term or irreversible damage to the integrity

/ status of an ecological receptor.

Neutral (Not

Significant) Effects are either absent or such that no overall net change to ecological receptor occurs.

Positive (Not

Significant)

Likely to create a beneficial effect on an ecological receptor or providing a new (lower value)

ecological feature, without improving its conservation status markedly.

Positive

(Significant)

Activity is likely to create a Significant beneficial effect, including long-term enhancement and

favourable condition of an existing ecological receptor, or creation of a new ecological feature.

10.3.28 Residual effects are then considered alongside legal requirements, nature conservation

policies and overall effects on biodiversity.

EIA Assumption Limitations

10.4.1 The limitations and justification for deviation to standard guidance for the surveys were

as follows:

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey:

• The presence of ponds within 500m was determined using OS mapping and aerial

imagery therefore the presence of recently created or very small waterbodies (e.g.

within a garden) may not have been detected; and

• Not all areas within 30m outside of the Application Site boundary could be accessed

to check for Badger due to some of the areas falling within private land ownership.


28

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

This is not considered to be a significant limitation as the boundaries adjoining these

areas showed no evidence of Badger activity, and areas were able to be observed

remotely from the boundaries.

Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) Assessment for Great Crested Newt:

• HSI assessment is used as a tool to evaluate the suitability of a pond to support

Great Crested Newt and is not a substitute for Amphibian surveys. Some indices

can only be calculated at certain times of the year (Oldham, et al., 2000); and

• The HSI for Great Crested Newt is a measure of habitat suitability. It is not a

substitute for newt surveys. In general, ponds with high HSI scores are more likely

to support Great Crested Newt than those with low scores. However, the system is

not sufficiently precise to allow the conclusion that any particular pond with a high

score will support newts, or that any pond with a low score will not do so.

Great Crested Newt eDNA Survey:

• Survey of flowing water systems results in the possibility of DNA flowing into the ZoI

from undetectable outside sources.

Terrestrial Invertebrates:

• The number of species recorded was partly limited by the fact that only a single

survey visit was made and that only active methods could be used. Although

numerous other species would undoubtedly be found with a longer survey season

and the use of trapping methods, the sample taken is considered adequate for

further data analysis within ISIS and Pantheon.

Baseline Environment

Statutory Sites

10.5.1 There are 8 Statutory Designated Sites (designated for their biodiversity interest) within

10km of the Application Site. The sites are detailed in Table 10.12 and are categorised


29

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

as:

• Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (‘AONB’);

• Special Area of Conservation (‘SAC’);

• Site of Special Scientific Interest (‘SSSI’); and

• Local Nature Reserve (‘LNR’).

Table 10.12 Statutory Wildlife Sites within 10km of the Application Site

Site Name Designation NGR

Proximity to

Application

Site

Reason for Designation

River Mease

SAC Sk 260

114

4km East

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the

Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho Batrachion vegetation.

Qualifying species: White-clawed (or Atlantic stream)

crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes, Spined loach Cobitis

taenia, Bullhead Cottus gobio and Otter Lutra lutra.

SSSI

SK 360

144 –

SK 194

148

The River Mease represents a lowland clay river supporting

nationally significant populations of spined loach Cobitis

taenia and bullhead Cottus gobio, two internationally

notable species of native freshwater fish with a restricted

distribution in England. Additional interest is provided by

populations of freshwater white-clawed crayfish

Austropotamobius pallipes and otter Lutra lutra, both

animals with a restricted distribution within the East

Midlands and which receive special legal protection.

Christian

Fields LNR

SK 112

113

4.6km

Southwest

A site of approximately 6.5 hectares which consists of a

mixture of semi-improved grassland, tall ruderals, scrub,

woodland and hedgerows.


30

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations


Proximity to

Application

Site


Stowe Pool

and Walk

Mill Clay Pit

SSSI SK 120

100

5.2km

Southwest

Stowe Pool and Walk Mill Clay Pit are two water bodies

which support large and healthy populations of native

white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes. The

shallow margins of Stowe Pool are dominated by extensive

low-growing blankets of the water plant Chara aspera var.

curta a nationally scarce stonewort (Charophyte).

Braken

Hurst SSSI

SK 137

222 6.1km North

One of the largest, least-altered remnants of the once

extensive plateau woodlands and wood pastures. The full

range of types of semi-natural woodland is represented in a

variety of stands including former coppice, wood pasture

relics and broadleaved high forest. The site shows

evidence for a largely continuous history of woodland cover

since at least the Middle Ages. The spatial proximity of

stands of different management histories, variety of soil

types and mature and over-mature timber over a long

period are features of intrinsic interest which sustain a

diverse flora and fauna; this includes several rare plants

and a notable assemblage of moths and butterflies.

Branston

Water Park LNR

SK 215

207

7.7km

Northeast

A lake surrounded by woodland, wetland and wildflower

meadow. A former gravel pit in the River Tweed valley.

Cannock

Chase AONB

SK 011

907

7.9km

Southwest

Cannock Chase was designated as an AONB in 1958

because of its beautiful landscape, wildlife and history.

Cannock Chase is the largest surviving area of lowland

heathland in the Midlands. Lowland heath is an

internationally scarce and threatened wildlife habitat. The

AONB also has extensive areas of forest and woodland

along with areas of designed parkland, sand and gravel

quarrying and mixed agriculture.


31

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations


Proximity to

Application

Site


Gentleshaw

Common SSSI

SK 050

113

9.5km

Southwest

One of the largest surviving areas of this much reduced

habitat in Staffordshire, the floristic character has elements

of both oceanic, western and northern heaths, and there is

a well-developed transition from dry to humid and wet

heath. The site supports three rare plant species in

Staffordshire:.bog asphodel Narthecium ossifragum, round-

leaved sundew Drosera rotundifolia and cranberry

Vaccinium oxycoccos.

Non-Statutory Wildlife Sites

10.5.2 There are 11 Non-Statutory Wildlife Sites within 2km of the Application Site boundary.

The sites are detailed in Table 10.13 and are categorised as:

• Local Wildlife Sites (‘LWS’);

• Biodiversity Alert Sites (‘BAS’); and

• Retained Biodiversity Alert Sites (‘Retained BAS’).

Table 10.13 Non-Statutory Wildlife Site within 2km of the Application Site

Site Name Designation NGR Proximity

to Site Description

Orgreave

Mews LWS

SK 148

158

25m

North

An avenue of common lime trees, which leads into an area of

wood-pasture. 23 veteran trees with a diverse invertebrate

assemblage and evidence of bat activity.

Pool Wood

and Fradley

Reservoir

LWS SK 141

141

550m

Southwest

Fradley Reservoir used by a wide range of wildfowl, and

surrounding woodland which comprises mainly sycamore. An

area of swamp occupies the western end.


32

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations


to Site Description

Alrewas

(west of

River Trent)

Retained

BAS

SK 164

157

830m

Northeast

Semi-improved neutral grassland site with some areas of

marshy grassland/swamp crossed by several steep sided drains

which support ruderal vegetation.

Alrewas,

River Trent

and Mill

Stream

Retained

BAS

SK 171

155

870m

Northeast

A short length of the river Trent, part of Mill Stream tributary and

a small area of marshy grassland. The river Trent supports

diverse emergent/marginal vegetation. A key site in the

‘Staffordshire Washlands Project’.

Kings

Bromley

Wharf

LWS SK 128

134

900m

Southwest

Two lengths of canal that meet at Fradley Junction that support

diverse marginal and emergent vegetation, which include

several uncommon/rare species for the county.

Fradley

Wood BAS

SK 139

136

950m

Southwest

A large area containing many woodland blocks including both

conifer and broadleaved plantation.

Hay End

Lane

(Hedge 1)

BAS SK 150

136

1000m

South

A hedge valued for its large height, width and A-shape. 29

standard trees along its length and 2 young trees. The hedge

had a grass verge of over 2m and a ditch.

Wychnor

(southwest

of) SBI

LWS SK 171

161

1380m

Northeast

Species-rich neutral grassland in several fields, combined with

wetter areas and a network of ditches, some of which display a

botanically diverse habitat

Wychnor

(southwest

of) BAS

BAS SK 171

161

1480m

Northeast

Yorkshire-fog is in abundance throughout the field closely

followed by meadow foxtail, wall barley and creeping bent.

Wychnor

Park

Retained

BAS

SK 160

169

1600m

Northeast

Broadleaved woodland with diverse woodland flora on slope

areas, a river running to the south which supports mainly Nettle

and some Branched Bur-reed on its banks.


33

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations


to Site Description

Wychnor

Park LWS

SK 160

166

1670m

Northeast

A golf course, mixed plantation woodland containing 12 veteran

trees, arable farmland and an inundation zone with poor semi-

improved grassland vegetation. Supports some uncommon

floral species in Staffordshire.

Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI) and Ancient Woodland

10.5.3 According to the Staffordshire LBAP there are 15 Habitat Action Plans (HAP) for

Staffordshire comprising a range of woodland, farmland, grassland, heathland and

wetland habitat types (SBAP, 2019). There are 15 Ecosystem Action Plans throughout

Staffordshire, the Application Site falls within the River Gravels Action Plan.

10.5.4 Based on the NERC Act 2006 (HMO, 2006), the majority of habitats targeted within the

LBAP are also of HPI status.

10.5.5 Two HPI are present at the Application Site: hedgerows and deciduous woodland.

10.5.6 HPI, as identified through the use of Magic Map (DEFRA, 2020) within 250m of the

Application Site include:

• Coastal and floodplain grazing marsh;

• Broad-leaved deciduous woodland;

• Hedgerows; and

• Wood pasture and parkland.


34

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10.5.7 No areas of Ancient Woodland were present at, or within 250m of the Application Site.

10.5.8 The HPI are assessed as being of District Importance in accordance with Table 10.8.

Protected Species and Species of Principal Importance (SPI)

10.5.9 According to the Staffordshire LBAP there are 28 Species Actions Plans (SAP) (SBAP,

2019). Based on the NERC Act 2006 (HMO, 2006), the majority of SAP concern SPI

listed on the LBAP.

10.5.10 SER provided records of protected species and SPI within 2km of the Application Site.

Where relevant to the Application Site and the Proposals, these records are

summarised within the species accounts in Section 10.5.

Habitats

10.5.11 The Application Site comprises the following habitat and vegetation types as detailed

within Table 10.14. The Level of Importance (see Table 10.8) is in relation to habitats

only and the habitat descriptions are summarised and collated from the Preliminary

Ecological Appraisal Report by CEL (see Appendix 3.1).

Table 10.14 Summary of Habitats at the Application Site

Habitat Location Description Summary HPI Level of

Importance

Arable Dominant habitat.

Dominant habitat across the Application

Site.

Arable Margins of poor semi-improved

grassland no wider than 3m.

No Site

Broadleaved

Woodland Southern extent.

Narrow strip of habitat comprising

mostly mature specimens and ground

vegetation was dominated by Bramble

(Rubus fruticosus agg.).

Yes

(Deciduous

Woodland)

District


35

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Habitat Location Description Summary HPI Level of

Importance

Dense Scrub Southern extent. Located within the broad-leaved

woodland, dominated by Bramble.

No Site

Dry Ditch

One located in the

northern extent and

another located adjacent

to a section of the

eastern Application Site

boundary.

Two dry ditches, narrow width with

steep sided densely vegetated banks.

Hedgerows 21 throughout the

Application Site.

Majority of hedgerows are intact with

trees and all are species poor. Yes District

Mixed

Woodland

(Plantation)

South-eastern extent.

Mostly mature trees planted in a

rectangular strip splitting two Arable

fields, no ground flora present.

No Site

Poor Semi-

Improved

Grassland

Throughout the

Application Site.

Narrow strips present along the majority

of the arable field margins.

Running

Water

One located throughout

the centre of the

Application Site (Ashby

Sitch) and one bounded

the Application Site to the

south (Pyford Brook).

Ashby Sitch flows west to east and

contained very low levels of water.

Pyford Brook flows west to east and

contained variable water levels ranging

from c.5cm – 1m deep.

Yes (Pyford

Brook only

adjacent to

Application

Site)

District

Scattered

Scrub

Throughout the

Application Site.

Present in small patches along several

of the margins of the arable fields.

No Site

Wet Ditch Northern extent.

Adjacent to the line of mature scattered

trees. Narrow width with some

vegetation.


36

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10.5.12 Locations of these habitat types are shown on the Phase 1 Habitat Plan (Figure E5) and

descriptions are within the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report (Crestwood

Environmental, 2019) in Appendix 3.1 of this report.

Plants

10.5.13 The ZoI for plants was determined to be the habitats within and adjacent to the red line

boundary of the Application Site; this was determined based on the presence of similar

habitats bordering/surrounding the Application Site. The potential effects of the

Proposal on flora, have been determined using information from the desk study and

field surveys undertaken by CEL.

10.5.14 No notable or rare floral species were recorded within the Application Site as part of the

ecological surveys undertaken throughout 2019 and floral diversity was low for the

Application Site overall. The majority of habitats at the Application Site are arable in

nature and are heavily managed for crop cultivation.

10.5.15 Given the limited extent of the notable plant species recorded during the Extended

Phase 1 Habitat Survey and the lack of evidence of protected or notable species during

the further phase 2 ecological surveys by CEL, it is considered that the Application Site

is of Site Importance for protected and notable / rare plant species.

10.5.16 Parrot’s-feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum), an invasive, non-native aquatic floral

species listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

(HMSO, 1981) was recorded within sections of the Pyford Brook which bounds the

Application Site to the south.

Fauna

10.5.17 See Confidential Appendix 3.4 and 3.10 for further information.

10.5.18 A summary of the suitability of the Application Site for protected and notable faunal


37

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

species is detailed within Table 10.15.

Table 10.15 Summary of Application Site Suitability for Protected/Notable Species

Species Records within 2km Suitable Habitat Species-Specific

Surveys Undertaken

Great Crested Newt ☒ ☒ ☒

Reptiles ☐ ☒ ☐

Badger ☒ ☒ ☒

Bats ☒ ☒ ☒

Otter and Water Vole ☒ ☒ ☒

Other Mammals ☒ ☒ ☐

Breeding Birds ☒ ☒ ☒

Wintering Birds ☒ ☒ ☐

Invertebrates ☒ ☒ ☒

Great Crested Newt

10.5.19 CEL undertook a Great Crested Newt Presence/Likely Absence Survey and

subsequently a Population Size Class Assessment in 2019 (Crestwood

Environmental, 2019) following the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey (see Appendix

3.2).

10.5.20 The local biological records centre data search undertaken as part of Extended Phase 1

Habitat Survey (Crestwood Environmental, 2019) returned one record of Great

Crested Newt within 2km of the Application Site, dated 2011 and located circa 1.1km


38

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

southwest.

10.5.21 The ZoI for Great Crested Newt and other Amphibians was determined to be 500m

using a combination of information from the desk study and field surveys.

10.5.22 Table 10.16 details the waterbodies/ponds that were recorded at and within 500m of the

Site. A total of 2 waterbodies (wet ditches) were recorded within the Application Site

boundary, and 4 ponds were recorded within 500m of the Application Site.

Table 10.16 Great Crested Newt Survey Summary

Distance

from the

Application

Site

Waterbody

/ Pond

Reference

HSI

Assessment

HSI

Category

Presence/Likely

Absence

Survey (eDNA)

Recorded

Present

Population

Size Class

Assessment

Results

Within the

Site

Ditch 1 ✓ Below

Average ✓ No / /

Ditch 2 ✓ Below

Average ✓ Yes ✓ None

Within

500m of

the Site

P1 X / / / / /

P2 X / / / / /

P3 ✓ Average ✓ No / /

P4 ✓ Average ✓ No / /

10.5.23 Ditch 2 within the Application Site returned a positive result for Great Crested Newt

DNA and was subject to a Population Size Class Assessment. All other

waterbodies/ponds returned a negative result for Great Crested Newt DNA.

10.5.24 No Great Crested Newt were recorded within Ditch 2 during the Population Size Class


39

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Assessment indicating the likely absence of Great Crested Newt at the Application Site.

10.5.25 No other species of Amphibian were recorded during the Population Size Class

Assessment of Ditch 2.

10.5.26 The arable habitat at the Application Site is considered to be of Low suitability for Great

Crested Newt. The hedgerows, areas of woodland and semi-improved grassland

provide opportunities for foraging, shelter and hibernation and are connected to the

surrounding landscape via hedgerows outside the Application Site boundary.

10.5.27 No Great Crested Newt were recorded within any of the ponds within 250m of the

Application Site. It is therefore considered that the Site is of Site Importance for Great

Crested Newt as some suitable habitat is present.

10.5.28 The waterbodies at the Application Site and within 250m of the Application Site provide

suitable foraging, shelter and breeding opportunities for other Amphibians, such as

Smooth Newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and Common Frog (Rana temporaria). The

Application Site is considered to be of Site Importance for other amphibians.

10.5.29 Detailed survey results can be found in the Great Crested Newt Survey report

(Appendix 3.2).

Reptiles

10.5.30 Using a combination of information from the desk study and field surveys, an

assessment of the potential effects of the Proposals on Reptiles plus information on the

dispersal abilities of common UK Reptile species (Langton & Beckett, 1995), the ZoI

for Reptiles was determined to be the Application Site and ecologically connected

habitats within 1km.

10.5.31 No records of Reptiles within 2km were returned as part of the desk study.

10.5.32 The Application Site offers some areas of suitable habitat for Reptiles, in the form of

areas of poor-semi-improved grassland, hedgerows, woodland and watercourses.


40

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

There is opportunity for basking, foraging and shelter for Reptiles at and within the

wider surrounds of the Application Site.

10.5.33 No detailed surveys have been undertaken for Reptiles due to the limited extent of good

quality habitat. No incidental observations of Reptiles have been recorded at the

Application Site during the ongoing survey work undertaken by CEL throughout 2019.

10.5.34 Given the lack of Reptiles recorded within 2km of the Application Site, the Application

Site is considered to provide habitats of Site Importance only.

Bats

10.5.35 CEL undertook a Bat Activity Survey in 2019 (Crestwood Environmental, 2019)

following the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, see Bat Activity Survey Report

(Appendix 3.5) for detailed survey results.

10.5.36 As part of the SER data search undertaken as part of the Extended Phase 1 Habitat

Survey, the following Bat species have been recorded within 2km of the Application

Site:

• Common Pipistrelle Bat (Pipistrellus pipistrellus);

• Soprano Pipistrelle Bat (Pipistrellus pygmaeus);

• Noctule Bat (Nyctalus noctula);

• Brown Long-Eared Bat (Plecotus auritus);

• Daubenton’s Bat (Myotis daubentonii);

• Whiskered Bat (Myotis mystacinus); and

• Brandt’s Bat (Myotis brandtii).

10.5.37 Four species of Bat have been recorded roosting within 2km of the Application Site

including Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle, Brandt’s Bat and Daubenton’s Bat.

The closet roost record is of a Daubenton’s Bat roost and is located circa 700m


41

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

southeast of the Application Site dated 2014.

10.5.38 Two Soprano Pipistrelle maternity colony roosts have been recorded within 2km of the

Application Site, both dated 2014 and located with 1km of the Application Site. Two

records of Brown Long-Eared Bat roosts exist within 2km of the Application Site. The

most recent record is dated 2009 and located circa 1.5km southeast of the Application

Site, the other record is of a potential roost dated 2002 located circa 70m west of the

Application Site boundary.

10.5.39 All other Bat species records returned as part of the desk study were recorded

commuting or foraging.

10.5.40 Both the Application Site and Wider Survey Area were surveyed as part of the Bat

activity survey, results of which are summarised below. Locations of survey results can

be seen on the relevant figures as part of the Bat Activity Survey Report (Appendix 3.5).

10.5.41 During the Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey conducted on the 23rd April 2019, 9 trees

were identified as having Potential Roost Features (PRFs) and were considered

suitable for roosting Bats. These trees are described in Table 10.17 below and the

locations of these trees can be seen on Figure E7 in the Bat Activity Survey Report.

Table 10.17 Potential Roost Features – Trees

Tree

Reference Grid Reference Tree Species Description of Feature

Level of Bat

Roost Suitability

T1 SK 15099 15555 English Oak Small cracks in limb.

Low

T2 SK 15142 15546 English Oak Small cracked limbs, some dense Ivy cover.

T3 SK 15160 15539 Horse Chestnut Some dense Ivy cover.

T4 SK 15097 15388 English Oak Some dense Ivy cover.


42

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Tree

Reference Grid Reference Tree Species Description of Feature

Level of Bat

Roost Suitability

T5 SK 15428 15319 Alder Lightning strike.

Low

T6 SK 14580 15334 English Oak Cracked and flaking bark.

T7 SK 14639 15324 Ash Small cracks and buttrot.

T8 SK 14565 14852 Willow spp. Small cracks in limb.

T9 SK 14765 14879 Willow spp. Small cracks in limb.

10.5.42 The peak count results of the Bat Activity Surveys undertaken in 2019 are summarised

in Table 10.18. A plan of the transect routes can be found on Figure E10 in Bat Activity

Survey report (Appendix 3.5). The majority of the North Transect is situated within the

Wider Survey Area.

Table 10.18 Bat Activity Survey Summary

Transect

Reference Species Peak Count Activity

North

Transect

Soprano Pipistrelle 12

Commuting and foraging.

Common Pipistrelle 19

South

Transect

Noctule 3



10.5.43 Species recorded at the Application Site during the activity transect surveys were:

• Noctule;


43

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Soprano Pipistrelle; and

• Common Pipistrelle.

10.5.44 The majority of Bat activity recorded during the North Transect was along the lines of

mature scattered trees. The highest levels of Bat activity recorded during the South

Transect was along the Pyford Brook corridor and central hedgerow. Bat activity was

recorded across the entire Site, particularly along the hedgerows for both transects.

Automated Surveys

10.5.45 Automated Bat activity surveys were carried out during 2019 using AnaBat Express

detectors. The detectors were deployed at a single location per transect to

simultaneously record bat passes at those static location for five consecutive nights per

month.

10.5.46 Detectors were programmed to record all Bat activity from sunset until sunrise

throughout the monitoring period. The data collected was analysed using the AnalookW

software package (Titley Scientific).

10.5.47 Six Bat species were recorded across the Application Site during the automated

surveys:

• Common Pipistrelle;

• Soprano Pipistrelle;

• Unidentified Myotis Bat spp.;

• Noctule;

• Leisler’s Bat; and

• Serotine.

10.5.48 The majority of activity was Common Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle. The automated

surveys recorded three additional Bat species than the walked transects; Unidentified


44

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Myotis Bat spp., Leisler’s Bat and Serotine.

10.5.49 A results summary of the automated surveys is shown in Table 10.19 detailing the total

number of passes across both detectors deployed at the Application Site.

10.5.50 Detailed results for the statics can be found in Bat Activity Survey report in Appendix

3.5.

10.5.51 Static detector locations can be found on Figure E10 (Appendix 3.5).

Table 10.19 Automated Survey Results Summary

Survey

Month Static Location Species

Total Number of

Passes

May

(22nd - 26th)

North Transect



Noctule 37

Myotis spp. 306

Leisler’s Bat 48

Serotine 88

May

(22nd - 26th)

South Transect



Noctule 4

Myotis spp. 4

Leisler’s Bat 12


45

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Survey


Total Number of

Passes

August

(22nd - 26th)

North Transect



Noctule 18

Myotis spp. 365

Leisler’s Bat 9

Serotine 4

South Transect



Noctule 5

Myotis spp. 16

Leisler’s Bat 12


46

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Survey


Total Number of

Passes

September

(11th - 15th)

North Transect



Noctule 2

Myotis spp. 91

Leisler’s Bat 2

South Transect



Myotis spp. 6

Leisler’s Bat 1

10.5.52 The majority of activity was Common Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle along the

boundaries and inner hedgerows of the Application Site. Common Pipistrelle passes

could relate to both foraging and commuting behaviour.

10.5.53 The Application Site provides suitable habitat for foraging and commuting Bats,

specifically the linear features of the Site such as boundary hedgerows. Habitat

adjacent to the Site considered to provide suitable foraging, commuting and roosting

habitat for Bats, includes the Pyford Brook and areas of woodland. The arable fields

provide some further foraging habitat for Bats.

10.5.54 Based on the type of Bat activity recorded, the species assemblage and habitat quality,

as well as the quality of habitats in the surrounds of the Application Site, the Application

Site is assessed as being of Local Importance for Bats based on Table 10.8; no Bat

roosts are present at the Application Site and the habitats are generally of low quality

for Bats, however a large number of commuting and foraging Bats were recorded during


47

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

the survey period.

Otter and Water Vole

10.5.55 The data search returned several Otter records within 2km of the Application Site dated

1999 – 2015 associated with the River Trent and Coventry Canal corridors. A single

record of Water Vole dated 2002 also exists within 2km of the Application Site.

10.5.56 An Otter and Water Vole survey was undertaken at the following waterbody locations:

• Along the Ashby Stitch, which flows east to west through the centre of the

Application Site; and

• Along five sections of the Pyford Brook, which flows west to east immediately

adjacent to the southern Application Site boundary.

10.5.57 The locations of the waterbodies surveyed for Water Vole and Otter can be found on

Figure E12 (Appendix 3.6).

10.5.58 No evidence of Otter or Water Vole was recorded during the surveys within the Study

Area.

10.5.59 Habitats at the Application Site are considered to be suitable for Otter and Water Vole,

specifically the Pyford Brook and associated riparian habitat. The Application Site is

considered to be of Site Importance for Otter and Water Vole.

10.5.60 Detailed survey results can be found in the Otter and Water Vole report (Appendix 3.6).

Other Mammal Species of Principal Importance (SPI)

10.5.61 Records of Mammal SPI returned by SER included:

• Several records of European Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) exist with 2km of

the Application Site dated 2009 and 2015, located circa 1.5km southeast; and


48

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Several records of Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus) exist within 2km of the

Application Site dated 1999 – 2009, with one of the most recent records located

circa 680m west.

10.5.62 Brown Hare was recorded at the Application Site within the arable fields during several

of the surveys.

10.5.63 No evidence of other Mammals was recorded at the Application Site during the

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey.

10.5.64 The Application Site provides suitable habitat for Brown Hare and Hedgehog (Erinaceus

europaeus) and other common and widespread Mammal SPI, given the mosaic of

habitats providing shelter and foraging opportunities. The Application Site is surrounded

by similar habitat and therefore the habitats are considered to be of Site Importance for

Mammal SPI.

Birds

10.5.65 Numerous records of protected and notable Bird species including ‘Red’ and ‘Amber’

Birds of Conservation Concern (Eaton, et al., 2015), SPI and species listed as

‘Schedule 1’ in the Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) within 2km of the

Application Site were returned as part of the desk study.

10.5.66 Several records of Barn Owl (Tyto alba), listed as ‘Schedule 1’, exist within 2km, dated

2001 – 2013. An observational record of two adult Barn Owls hunting is the closet

record to the Application Site dated 2006, located adjacent to the northern boundary of

the Application Site.

Breeding Bird Survey

10.5.67 Breeding Bird surveys were completed during April, May and June 2019 and consisted

of three separate surveys. Each of the survey visits were separated by at least two


49

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

weeks and surveys started within 1 hour of sunrise.

10.5.68 A total of 34 Bird species were recorded during the surveys, of these:

6

10.5.69 Of the 34 Bird species recorded during the surveys, the following were recorded:

10.5.70 The results of the Breeding Bird survey indicate that the habitats within the Application

Site support typical assemblages for the habitat types present with widespread and

ubiquitous Bird species distributed across the Site. The habitats at the Application Site

are considered to be of Local Importance for breeding Birds.

10.5.71 Detailed survey results can be found in the Breeding Bird Survey report (Appendix 3.7).

10.5.72 Several wintering Bird species records were returned as part of the desk study,

including Redwing (Turdus iliacus), Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris), Brambling (Fringilla

montifringilla), Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros), Ruff (Calidris pugnax) and

Bewick’s Swan (Cygnus columbianus), the closest of which relates to Bewick’s Swan,

located c.500m west of the Application Site.

10.5.73 The arable habitat within the Application Site provides opportunities for foraging

wintering Birds, however the habitat is limited in extent and the wider surrounds of the

Application Site provide higher quality opportunities for wintering Birds. The Application


50

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Site is considered to of be Site Importance for wintering Birds.

Invertebrates (Terrestrial and Aquatic)

10.5.74 Several records of protected and notable terrestrial Invertebrate species within 2km of

the Application Site were returned as part of the desk study dated 2002 – 2015. The

records concerned mostly Moth and Bumblebee species and were mostly associated

with the Pool Wood and Fradley Reservoir LWS.

10.5.75 An Invertebrate assessment was undertaken at the Application Site during 2019 (see

Appendix 3.8). A total of 178 species were collected. The majority of the collected

species are considered likely to be found widely in the area within habitats such as

hedgerows and road verges and have no conservation significance.

10.5.76 Overall the arable habitat at the Application Site is considered to be of Negligible

suitability for Invertebrates. However, the woodland, hedgerows and narrow strips of

semi-improved grassland forming field margins provide Low suitability for

Invertebrates.

10.5.77 Based on this information, the Application Site is considered to provide habitat of Site

Importance.

10.5.78 Detailed survey results can be found in Terrestrial Invertebrate Scoping Survey report

(Appendix 3.8).

10.5.79 Records of White-Clawed Crayfish within 2km of the Application Site were provided by

the local biological records centre dated 2007.

10.5.80 A White-Clawed Crayfish survey was undertaken at the following waterbody locations:

• Along the Ashby Stitch, which flows east to west along the northern boundary and

through the access route of the Application Site; and

• Along five sections of the Pyford Brook, which flows west to east immediately

adjacent to the southern Application Site boundary.


51

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10.5.81 The locations of the waterbodies surveyed for White-Clawed Crayfish can be found on

Figure E12 (Appendix 3.6).

10.5.82 No evidence of White-Clawed Crayfish was recorded during the surveys at the

Application Site.

10.5.83 Habitats at the Site are considered to be of Low suitability for White-Clawed Crayfish.

The Application Site is considered to be of Site Importance for White-Clawed Crayfish.

10.5.84 Detailed survey results can be found in Otter/Water Vole/Crayfish Survey report

(Appendix 3.6)

Summary of Evaluation

10.5.85 Table 10.20 summarises the Baseline Conditions and Importance of each feature within

the potential Zone of Influence of the Proposal.

Table 10.20 Summary of Baseline Conditions and Evaluation for Ecological Features

Ecological Feature

Within

Application

Site boundary

Within

ZoI*

Level of

Importance Comments

Habitats

International /

European Statutory

Designated Sites No No

International /

National Statutory

Designated Sites National /

Non-Statutory

Designated Sites No Yes County

Orgreave Mews LWS located circa 25m

north of the Application Site boundary.


52

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Ecological Feature

Within

Application

Site boundary

Within

ZoI*

Level of

Importance Comments

Other Sites and

Conservation Target

Areas

No Local -

District /

HPI Yes Yes Local

Within the Site: broadleaved woodland,

hedgerows and running water.

All HPI within the Application Site are not

considered to constitute significantly high-

quality examples of their habitat types

and/or of a significant quantity to be

considered to be of ‘County’ level

importance.

Protected/Rare/Notable Species & Species Groups

Plants

No No Site

No protected/notable plant species

present.

Great Crested Newt

Great Crested Newt considered likely

absent at and within 500m of the Site

following the undertaking of a Population

Size Class Assessment Survey.

Reptiles /

Badger See Confidential Appendix 3.4 and 3.10

Bats Yes Yes Local /

Otter

No No Negligible None recorded.

Water Vole

Other SPI Yes Yes Site Brown Hare recorded.


53

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Ecological Feature

Within

Application

Site boundary

Within

ZoI*

Level of

Importance Comments

Protected/Rare/Notable Species & Species Groups

Breeding Birds Yes Yes Local /

Wintering Birds No No

Site

Site of low importance for Wintering Birds.

Invertebrate

assemblage Yes Yes

Common and widespread species present.

No White-Clawed Crayfish present.

* = Presence within ZoI determined by desk study and/or field survey.

Embedded Mitigation

10.6.1 The following measures will be implemented as part of the working / restoration scheme

as Embedded Mitigation within the Application Site:

• Phased operational development coupled with progressive restoration to minimise

‘land-take’ at any one time;

• Partial retention and protection of habitats;

• A minimum stand-off of 8m from the Pyford Brook to the south of the Application

Site;

• With the exception of vehicle access from the A513, all operational works will be

located >300m from Orgreave Mews LWS to the north of the Application Site;

• Retention of all ditches within the Application Site with the implementation of a

culvert for access;

• Partial replacement of existing habitats (mostly arable land for agriculture);

• Creation of standing water, including two large lakes and 5 ponds;


54

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Creation of 1090m of additional hedgerows (HPI);

• Infilling of retained hedgerows;

• Creation of lowland meadows (HPI);

• Creation of wet grassland and reedbeds (HPI);

• Creation of deciduous woodland (HPI);

• Additional Scattered Tree planting along the Pyford Brook to existing riparian

habitat to enhance ecological connectivity and improve the wildlife corridor;

• Dust Management Plan (see relevant section);

• Hydrological mitigation measures in relation to drainage and dewatering (see

relevant section);

• Implementation of noise limitation recommendations (see relevant section); and

• Implementation of a Sensitive Lighting Scheme (see Section 10.6.3).

10.6.2 Embedded Mitigation as part of the working / restoration scheme contributes to the

avoidance and minimisation of impacts as part of the Proposal, especially where

implemented prior to commencement of development.

10.6.3 Controls on artificial lighting at the Application Site can be implemented in conjunction

with ecological advice and secured via an appropriately worded planning condition

which will minimise any potential disturbance effect. These controls will include the

following measures:

• Use of artificial lighting only where required for security, health and safety purposes

and within the vicinity of the Application Site access;

• Lighting to be used only where the hours of darkness coincide with operating hours,

specifically early mornings and late afternoons during the winter period and will be

turned off when the Application Site is not operating; and


55

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Light spill to be controlled and minimised by the use of hoods, cowls, timers and

luminaire design.

Likely Significant Environmental Effects

Introduction and General Approach

10.7.1 This section considers the direct and indirect effects of the Proposal on ecological

features. For each feature included in the assessment, the likely significant effects are

identified, and appropriate mitigation described. Where no significant effect is likely this

is stated and justified.

10.7.2 The operational and restoration design for the Application Site has taken into account

the requirement to mitigate against any effects of any of the Proposal as far as possible

– aiming to avoid them in the first instance and, if this is not possible, to minimise the

adverse effects and then off-setting/compensating for any residual effects during the

operational period, with opportunities considered to provide enhancement where

practical/applicable.

10.7.3 With any mineral developments, avoidance of all impacts is often difficult to achieve, as

existing habitat is always likely to temporarily removed, wherever extraction occurs.

Peripheral features and habitats can be retained, and the soil resource can be retained

for use in on-site and off-site habitat recreation (where applicable).

10.7.4 A phased programme of operations (extraction) over 8 phases, coupled with

progressive restoration, will minimise the net habitat losses at any one moment in time.

This mitigation will help to maximise retention of ecological importance during the

operational period.

10.7.5 Important habitats, lost during the operational period, will be incorporated into the

restoration scheme like-for-like, to demonstrate a status quo of ecological value on a

comparable basis. Where this is not possible, different habitats and features of at least

equal ecological value will be provided. Where the provision of these provides

ecological value over and above that already present (or part of the baseline), it would


56

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

be considered to be enhancement (benefit) but may off-set other unavoidable negative

effects (e.g. temporal effects) that may be present from operational working.

10.7.6 When considering the mitigation for the likely loss of ecological value present within the

Application Site, local and national policies and legislation have been considered.

Construction Impacts

10.7.7 The creation of new infrastructure, including new access, haul road, ditch culvert and

conveyor system will be undertaken at the Application Site as part of the Proposal.

Operational Impacts

10.7.8 The operational impacts of the Proposal (in the absence of mitigation) relate to

vegetation removal, soil removal and mineral extraction and related aspects include:

• Partial loss of arable;

• Partial loss of poor semi-improved grassland;

• Partial loss of hedgerows;

• Modification of a ditch via a culvert for access;

• An increase in dust;

• An increase in noise;

• An increase in run-off from haul roads and any bare earth associated with the

Proposal;

• A potential decrease in groundwater and potential indirect effects on hydrological

conditions of adjacent habitats;

• An increase in light spill during operational hours, where fixed lighting is required;

and


57

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• An increase in human activity at the Application Site.

Air Quality (Including Dust)

10.7.9 The Air Quality Assessment undertaken by Tim Pinder of EA Ltd. (Chapter 8) identified

10 sensitive non-ecological receptors.

10.7.10 The Zone of Influence for dust is considered to be 250m. The IAQM Guidance on

Mineral Dust Impact (IAQM, 2016) for planning states that adverse impacts from sand

and gravel extraction are uncommon beyond 250m measured from the nearest dust

gathering activities. The greatest impacts can be within 100m of a source and can

include both large and small particles. The greatest rate for dust deposition and PM₁₀

concentrations occurs within this distance.

10.7.11 Orgreave Mews LWS is located circa 25m north of the Application Site boundary. With

the exception of vehicle access from the A513 (a current main road), all other works,

including mineral extraction, associated with the Proposals will be located circa 330m

from the LWS.

Mitigation Measures

10.7.12 The mitigation for particulate matter proposed standard good practice mitigation with

additional measures including:

• Dust monitoring;

• Dampening material;

• Mechanical road sweepers;

• Wheel wash for exiting vehicles;

• Working of the remaining 4m of mineral wet;

• Covering the conveyor;


58

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Restricted vehicle speeds;

• Vegetation screening of working areas; and

• Store material under cover where practical.

10.7.13 The construction of several boundary bunds will reduce impacts of dust via screening.

The bunds will be seeded to further reduce impacts of dust by reducing wind whipping

and associated dust dispersal. The existing and planned tree and shrub planting along

the Pyford Brook adjacent to the southern boundary of the Application Site will act as a

wind barrier from the predominant south-easterly winds.

10.7.14 The residual effects of particulate matter following implementation of the above

mitigation measures is considered to be Neutral (Not Significant).

Hydrology

10.7.15 The Hydrology Assessment undertaken by Stantec (Chapter 12) identified the following

as ecological receptors for potential hydrological change as part of the Proposals:

• Pyford Brook;

• Other water features within the study area (except the canals which are understood

to be lined); and

• Fradley Pool Nature Reserve and SBI.

10.7.16 The Pyford Brook is located along the southern boundary of the Application Site and

approximately 30m south of any excavation areas. In the absence of mitigation

measures, the effects of change in water level and potential change in water quality

from spillages are considered to be Negative (Not Significant).

10.7.17 Other water features within the Application Site include the drain which runs west to

east along the northern boundary of the Application Site and through the Application

Site access. Flows and water levels will likely be depleted and/or intercepted by the

dewatering activities as part of the Proposals, however this is not considered to have a


59

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

negative impact, given the phased nature of the Proposal, as well as the limited

ecological importance of the receptor. No protected species were recorded using the

ditch during the surveys undertaken within the Application Site and Wider Survey Area.

Therefore, the impact of the Proposals on other water features is considered to be

Neutral (Not Significant).

10.7.18 The Fradley Pool Nature Reserve is an SBI/LWS (non-statuary designation) located

600m south of the Application Site. This site is conservatively considered as a medium

sensitivity receptor. The main water-dependent feature is a pool that was originally built

as a reservoir and is therefore presumed to be lined and not susceptible to changes in

groundwater level. Therefore, the impact due to dewatering on Fradley Pool Nature

Reserve is expected to be Neutral (Not Significant).

Mitigation Measures

10.7.19 The following mitigation measures will be implemented as part of the Proposals in

regard to hydrology:

• Phased operational development coupled with progressive restoration to minimise

‘land-take’ at any one time;

• A minimum stand-off of 8m from the Pyford Brook to the south of the Application

Site;

• Creation of standing water, including two large lakes and 5 ponds as part of the

restoration proposals;

• Water discharge into the Pyford Brook via an outlet upstream of the Application Site

to maintain water level and flow;

• Settlement ponds to facilitate the settlement of silt/clay prior to discharge to the

Pyford Brook via an outlet.

• Off-site discharge undertaken in accordance with a discharge permit; and


60

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Monitoring of the Pyford Brook using a gauge board to monitor water levels and

ensure they are maintained.

10.7.20 It is considered, following implementation of the mitigation measures as set out above,

the residual effects of the Proposals in relation to hydrology will have a Neutral (Not

Significant) effect.

Noise

10.7.21 A Noise Impact Assessment has been undertaken by WBM Acoustic Consultants

(WBM Acoustic Consultants, 2020) (Chapter 7).

10.7.22 No ecological receptors have been identified as part of the noise assessment

undertaken by WBM.

10.7.23 All noise levels were predicted to be within acceptable levels and all operations will be

undertaken during daytime hours only.

10.7.24 Standard protocols for noise limitation and mitigation will be followed in line with the

Noise Assessment report. It is considered that noise effects on ecological receptors will

be Neutral (Not Significant).

Designated Sites and Other Sites of Conservation Interest

Statutory Designated Sites

Assessment of Effects

10.7.25 There are no European designated statutory sites within 2km of the Application Site,

designated for their ecological interest.

10.7.26 The closest statutory designated site is the River Mease SAC/SSSI, which is located

circa 4km east. Utilising the SSSI Impact Risk Zone from MAGIC (DEFRA, 2020), the


61

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Proposal falls outside of the impact zone of the River Mease SAC/SSSI.

Potential Pre-Mitigation Ecological Effects from Habitat Loss

10.7.27 There will be no direct impacts on statutory designated sites as a result of the Proposal;

therefore, effects are considered to be Neutral (Not Significant).

Potential Pre-Mitigation Ecological Effects from Dust, Hydrology and Noise

10.7.28 In the absence of mitigation, indirect effects from dust deposition would occur as part of

the Proposal, however, there are no statutory designated sites within 2km and dust is

expected to travel no more than 250m from the Application Site. The unmitigated effects

of dust on statutory designated sites are considered to be Neutral (Not Significant).

10.7.29 There will be no indirect impacts on statutory designated sites relating to hydrology and

noise as a result of the Proposal due to the distance between the Application Site and

the nearest statutory designated site; therefore, effects are considered to be Neutral

(Not Significant).

Mitigation Measures

10.7.30 As part of the embedded mitigation measures at the Application Site, the following will

be implemented as part of the Proposal:

• Phased mineral extraction and restoration, resulting in minimised impacts from dust

and hydrology;

• A minimum stand-off of 8m from the Pyford Brook (to minimise impacts relating to

hydrology);

• A Dust Management Plan will reduce the impacts of dust deposition; and

• Management methodologies set out within the Hydrology chapter.

10.7.31 The residual effects following implementation of mitigation measures are considered to


62

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

be Negligible (Neutral) for Statutory Designated Sites.

Non-Statutory Designated Sites


10.7.32 11 Non-Statutory Designated Sites (comprising 5 LWS, 3 BAS and 3 RBAS) are

present within 2km of the Application Site.

10.7.33 The closest Non-Statutory Designated Site is Orgreave Mews LWS located circa 25m

north of the Application Site. All other Non-Statutory Designated Sites are located more

than 500m from the nearest Application Site boundary.


10.7.34 There will be no direct impacts on non-statutory designated sites as a result of the

Proposal; therefore, effects are considered to be Neutral (Not Significant).

Potential Pre-Mitigation Ecological Effects of Dust, Hydrology and Noise

10.7.35 In the absence of mitigation, impacts of dust deposition on the Non-Statutory

Designated Sites within the ZoI (Orgreave Mews LWS) include reduced growing

capacity of vegetation during the operational phase of the Proposal. However, all

mineral extraction will be located more than 300m from the Orgreave Mews LWS and

the only activity associated with the Proposal within 250m of the LWS will be vehicle

access from the A513. Therefore, effects are considered to be Neutral (Not

Significant).

10.7.36 In the absence of mitigation, there are anticipated to be no impacts of dewatering on the

Non-Statutory Designated Sites within the ZoI (Fradley Pool Nature Reserve).

Therefore, effects are considered to be Neutral (Not Significant).

10.7.37 In the absence of mitigation, there are anticipated to be no impacts of noise on the Non-

Statutory Designated Sites within the ZoI. Therefore, effects are considered to be

Neutral (Not Significant).

10.7.38 All other Non-Statutory Designated Sites present within 1km of the Application Site are


63

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

at a distance where it is considered that there will be no direct or indirect significant

effects arising from dust, hydrology or noise as a result of the Proposal as they fall

outside of the Zone of influence for each aspect.

Mitigation Measures




and hydrology; and

• No mineral extraction within 300m of Orgreave Mews LWS.

10.7.40 Implementation of a dust management plan will reduce the impacts of dust deposition

as part of the Proposal.


be Negligible (Neutral) for Non-Statutory Designated Sites.

Habitats of Principal Importance and Ancient Woodland


10.7.42 There are no areas of Ancient Woodland at or within 250m of the Application Site,

therefore, there are considered to be no direct or indirect effects on Ancient Woodland

as a result of the Proposal.

10.7.43 There are 2 HPI within the Application Site boundary and within 250m; hedgerows and

broad-leaved deciduous woodland. There are 2 additional HPI within 250m of the

Application Site: coastal and floodplain grazing marsh and wood pasture and parkland.


10.7.44 In the absence of mitigation, all hedgerows are to be retained as part of the Proposal

with the exception of gaps required to facilitate access. All other HPI are to be retained

as part of the Proposal. The effects of habitat loss of HPI would be Negative (Not

Significant) due to the limited extent of removal. Effects would be long-term but


64

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

reversible.


10.7.45 In the absence of mitigation, the impacts of dust deposition have the potential to affect

all HPI at the Application Site and within 250m of the Application Site. This is

considered to be Negative (Not Significant). Effects would be long-term but reversible.

10.7.46 In the absence of mitigation, the impacts of dewatering have the potential to affect both

HPI at the Application Site, by reducing groundwater levels and therefore availability of

water for vegetative habitats. This is considered to be Negative (Not Significant).

10.7.47 No effects from noise impacts are anticipated as part of the Proposals.

10.7.48 There are no likely Significant effects from noise on HPI Habitats.

Mitigation Measures

10.7.49 The effects of habitat loss of sections of hedgerow HPI as part of the Proposal will be

mitigated by reinstatement of any sections of hedgerows lost, as part of the embedded

mitigation set out within the restoration scheme. The restoration will result in an

additional 1090m of hedgerow at the Site.




and hydrology;

• A minimum stand-off of 5m from retained hedgerows (RPAs withstanding);

• Majority of retained hedgerows to be protected with tree protection fencing; and

• Management methodologies set out within the Hydrology chapter.

10.7.51 Implementation of a dust management plan will reduce the impacts and effects of dust

deposition on retained hedgerows and HPI at the Application Site and within 250m of




65

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

be Negligible (Neutral) for HPI and Ancient Woodland.

Other Sites


10.7.53 The Pyford Brook is located directly adjacent to the southern boundary of the

Application Site, although not covered by a statutory or non-statutory designation, the

Pyford Brook is considered to be an ecological receptor in regard to the Proposal.


10.7.54 There will be a minimum 8m stand-off from the Proposal and the Pyford Brook;

therefore, there will be no direct impacts as a result of the Proposal; therefore, effects

are considered to be Neutral (Not Significant).


10.7.55 In the absence of mitigation, the Pyford Brook, will be affected by dust deposition and

potential run-off as part of the Proposal, resulting in potential changes in water quality

and chemistry. The effects of dust and run-off would be Negative (Not Significant).

Effects would be long-term but potentially reversible.

10.7.56 There are no likely Significant effects from noise on the Pyford Brook and associated

riparian habitats.

Mitigation Measures

10.7.57 The effects on the Pyford Brook as part of the Proposal will be mitigated through the

embedded mitigation measures set out for other designated sites, including:


and hydrology;

• A minimum stand-off of 8m from the Pyford Brook (located adjacent to the southern

boundary); and

• Management methodologies set out within the Hydrology chapter

10.7.58 Implementation of a dust management plan will reduce the impacts of dust deposition


66

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

on the Pyford Brook.


be Negligible (Neutral) on the Pyford Brook.

Habitats


10.7.60 The Application Site is approximately 32.17ha in size, with a total of approximately

12.2ha removed for mineral extraction.

10.7.61 The Proposal includes a phased scheme of working and progressive restoration over 8

Phases. Restoration proposals for the Extraction Area will use existing materials at the

Application Site. There will be changes in habitat, as shown in Table 10.21.

Measurements (ha/m) have been rounded to the nearest two decimal places where

necessary.

10.7.62 As part of restoration, areas of ‘Nectar Buffer Strip’ and ‘Turtle Dove Seed Mix’ have

been included, for the purposes of the EcIA these areas have been incorporated into

the lowland meadow habitat in the table.

Table 10.21 Habitat Quantity Change

Habitat Importance

Ex

isti

ng

Rem

ov

ed

Reta

ine

d

Cre

ate

d

To

tal

(po

st-

res

tore

d)

Ch

an

ge

(+

or

-) Significance of

Effect

EXISITNG BASELINE HABITATS

Arable Site 27.48 20.76 6.72 1.93 8.65 -18.83 Negative (Significant)

Broad-Leaved

Woodland Local 0.32 0 0.32 0.38 0.7 +0.38

Positive (Not

Significant)

Dry Ditch Site 253 0 253 0 253 0 Neutral (Not

Significant)

Hedgerows District 2507 35 2472 1125 3597 +1090 Positive (Significant)


67

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Habitat Importance

Ex

isti

ng

Re

mo

ve

d

Re

tain

ed

Cre

ate

d

To

tal

(po

st-

res

tore

d)

Ch

an

ge

(+

or

-) Significance of

Effect

Mixed

Woodland -

Plantation

Site

0.72 0 0.72 0 0.72 0 Neutral (Not

Significant)

Poor Semi-

Improved

Grassland

3.25 0.01 3.24 0 3.24 -0.01 Negative (Not

Significant)

Scrub 0.31 0 0.31 0 0.31 0 Neutral (Not

Significant) Wet Ditch 223 0 223 0 223 0

HABITATS TO BE CREATED

Lowland

Meadow

(including

‘Specialist

Seed Mix’

areas)

County 0 0 0 8.9 8.9 +8.9

Positive (Significant) Standing

Water - Lakes

Local

0 0 0 10.6 10.6 +10.6

Standing

Water - Ponds 0 0 0 0.1 0.1 +0.1

Wet Grassland

and Reedbeds District 0 0 0 1.5 1.5 +1.5

10.7.63 The mitigation incorporated into the restoration plan overall would result in Positive

(Significant) effect on a number of habitats, which are of considered to be of Local to

County Importance. A significant increase in hedgerow length, aquatic habitats,

reedbeds and lowland meadow is incorporated as part of the Proposal restoration


68

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

scheme, which are HPI habitats.

10.7.64 The loss of the arable habitat is Negative (Significant), due to its total quantity of

change. The restoration of part of the Site to a similar habitat (agriculture) is considered

to compensate for this loss. Additionally, the provision of a significant area of lowland

meadow habitat which equates to approximately one third of the total Application Site

area, will result in a Positive (Significant) effect of County level importance.

10.7.65 There is no loss of aquatic habitat and 2 large waterbodies as well as 5 ponds are to be

created as part of the Proposal. This is considered to be a Positive (Significant) effect

as part of the Proposal. Additionally, the provision of associated aquatic habitats such

as wet grassland and reedbeds, which is considered to be of District level of importance

due to the rarity of the habitat in the local and wider areas, as well as being of HPI

status, provides a Positive (Significant) effect.


10.7.66 The habitats to be lost at the Application Site as part of the Proposal have aimed to

prioritise habitats of lower Importance where possible (arable). 12.2ha of the 32.17ha

Application Site area is to be extracted for mineral. The remaining habitat to be lost will

be to facilitate the plant site and access as part of the Proposals.

Mitigation Measures

10.7.67 To mitigate for the partial loss of arable habitat, like-for-like habitats will be implemented

as part of the proposed restoration scheme and habitats of higher importance will be

included as part of restoration which will increase the overall biodiversity value of the

Application Site.

10.7.68 To mitigate for the initial temporary loss of any sections of hedgerow to facilitate access,

hedgerow sections will be gapped up upon completion of the Proposals and 1090m of

additional hedgerow HPI will be planted.

Species and Species-Groups

General

10.7.69 Dust - The implementation of the dust management plan will minimise the effect of dust


69

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

deposition on retained vegetation at the Application Site.

10.7.70 Hydrology- The implementation of methodologies as set out in the hydrology report will

minimise the effects of hydrology on the aquatic environments retained at the Site and

within the ZoI of the Site.

10.7.71 Noise – The effects of increased levels of noise upon Birds is not considered to have a

likely significant effect. Breeding Bird species are known to use sites where mineral

activities are undertaken, taking advantage of the different habitats that develop at

mineral workings (i.e. Sand Martin (Riparia riparia)).

10.7.72 Artificial Lighting – The implementation of a Sensitive Lighting Scheme, where lighting

is required at the Application Site, will minimise the impacts on nocturnal faunal species.

Flora


10.7.73 No rare, notable or invasive plant species were recorded at the Application Site during

the surveys undertaken by CEL.

10.7.74 A dust management plan and methodologies set out in the hydrology chapter will be

implemented as part of the Proposal. It is considered that no likely Significant effects

are expected as part of the Proposal on flora in relation to dust, hydrology or noise.

Fauna

Screening of Faunal Receptors

10.7.75 The faunal surveys undertaken to support the Proposal which returned negative results

have been screened out of further assessment as part of the EcIA. Table 10.22 overleaf

details the justification for screening of faunal receptors.


70

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Table 10.22 Screening of Faunal Receptors

Faunal Receptor Justification for Exclusion from Further Assessment

Reptiles

No records of Reptiles within 2km of the Application Site and no incidental sightings of Reptile

during other surveys undertaken at the Application Site.

Suitable habitats are limited to narrow strips of grassland comprising arable field margins and

hedgerows, the majority of which are to be retained. Suitable habitats at the Site will be

replaced and additional habitats will be created as part of the restoration scheme which will

benefit Reptiles.

Otter and Water

Vole

No Otter, Water Vole or White-Clawed Crayfish were recorded at the Application Site or within

the ZoI. A minimum 8m stand-off zone from the Pyford Brook and creation of additional riparian

habitats as part of restoration provide benefits for all species where present within the wider

surrounds of the Application Site. The implementation of a sensitive lighting scheme, dust

management plan and methodologies within the hydrology report will minimise any negative

effects on suitable aquatic habitats.

White-Clawed

Crayfish

Other SPI

Brown Hare recorded at the Site. No significant anticipated effects are considered likely as part

of the Proposal on other SPI. The phased nature of the Proposal will reduce habitat loss at any

one time. Restoration of the Application Site will replace existing habitats and create additional

habitats to benefit a range of SPI.

Terrestrial

Invertebrates

The Application Site is of Site importance only for Terrestrial Invertebrates and only common

and widespread species were recorded during the surveys. The implementation of dust and

water management plans will reduce any indirect negative effects. Restoration will replace

existing habitats and create additional habitats which will benefit a range of Invertebrate

species.

Wintering Birds

The Application Site is considered to be of Site importance only for wintering Birds. The

Application Site is limited in extent and higher quality habitat is present in the surrounds of the

Application Site.


71

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Impacts and Effects

10.7.76 Table 10.23 details the impacts and effects of the Proposal, pre-mitigation set out as

part of the restoration scheme.

Table 10.23 Impacts and Effects (Pre-Mitigation) - Fauna

Species Impacts Effects Positive /

Negative

Level of

Significance

Great

Crested

Newt

Partial loss of hedgerows. Partial reduction in dispersal

habitats.

Negative

Not

Significant

Partial loss of broadleaved

woodland and poor semi-

improved grassland.

Partial reduction in foraging habitat.

An increase in run-off.

Potential change in water chemistry

in the on-Application Site wet

ditches and the adjacent

watercourse.

Bats

Partial loss of hedgerows. Partial reduction in commuting

habitats.

Partial loss of arable, scrub and

poor semi-improved grassland. Partial reduction in foraging habitat.

Significant

Breeding

Birds

Partial loss of arable, scrub, poor

semi-improved grassland and

hedgerows.

Loss of suitable breeding and

nesting habitat.

An increase in human activity at


An increase in disturbance to

retained habitats, such as areas of

woodland and hedgerows.

Note: for general Dust, Hydrology and Noise see Section 10.7.9 to 10.7.24.


72

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Mitigation Measures

Great Crested Newt

10.7.77 Great Crested Newt DNA was confirmed present within Ditch 2 at the Application Site.

Great Crested Newt were confirmed likely absent from Ditch 2 during the subsequent

Population Size Class Assessment survey.

10.7.78 In the absence of mitigation, the effect of loss of habitat in is considered to be Negative

(Not Significant), given the likely absence of the species from the Application Site, the

dominant habitat to be lost is Arable which is of low suitability for the species and loss of

higher suitability habitats is minimal. The effects will be long-term but reversible.

10.7.79 A Method Statement (Appendix 3.3) incorporating precautionary working methods is

considered suitable in lieu of a Great Crested Newt European Protected Species

Licence (EPS) for the following reasons:

• Despite the positive result for Great Crested Newt DNA within Ditch 2, none were

recorded as part of the subsequent Population Size Class Assessment survey,

indicating a likely absence of Great Crested Newt at the Application Site;

• The positive eDNA result in Ditch 2 had a very low concentration of DNA within

the sample (1/12 replicates only);

• The Ditch contains slow flowing water, indicating a strong possibility of Great

Crested Newt DNA flowing into the Application Site from outside the Application

Site boundary;

• Only a single record of Great Crested Newt was returned as part of the desk

study, within 1km of the Application Site, dated 2011;

• Ditch 1 within the Application Site and the two off-site ponds (2 and 3) returned a

negative eDNA result;

• The Application Site is dominated by low suitability habitat for Great Crested Newt

(arable); and


73

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• The majority of habitat to be lost as part of the Proposal is limited to the arable

habitat, with only very small extents of higher quality habitat to be lost, with

abundant better-quality habitat for Great Crested Newt being replaced upon

restoration.

10.7.80 Table 10.24 summarises the mitigation measures set out as part of the Proposal and

the residual (post-mitigation) assessed level of effects for Great Crested Newt.

Table 10.24 Mitigation Measures and Residual (Post-Mitigation) Effect – Great Crested Newt

Mitigation Measure Benefits for Great Crested Newt Residual Effect

Phased development and

restoration scheme.

Loss of suitable habitat kept to a minimum for the duration of

the Proposal.

Neutral (Not

Significant)

Partial retention of habitats. Partial retention of dispersal routes and foraging habitats.

Stand-off to retained habitats. Decrease disturbance levels.

Stand-off to wildlife corridors

adjacent to the Application Site

boundary.

Minimum 8m stand-off to Pyford Brook (adjacent to southern

boundary) to minimise disturbance and maintain ecological

connectivity throughout the Application Site.

Partial replacement of habitats. Replacement of suitable foraging habitat.

Creation of additional

hedgerows. Addition of suitable dispersal and foraging habitat.

Positive

(Significant)

Creation of standing water.

Additional foraging and breeding habitat. Creation of wet grassland and

reed edges.

Creation of lowland meadows.

Gap filling of retained

hedgerows. Replacement of suitable foraging/dispersal habitat.

Neutral (Not

Significant)


74

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Mitigation Measure Benefits for Great Crested Newt Residual Effect

Implementation of a sensitive

lighting scheme (see Section

10.7.72).

Reduce the impacts of lighting on nocturnal species.

Neutral (Not

Significant)

Implementation of dust

management plan. Reduce impacts of dust on retained foraging habitat.

Bats

10.7.81 6 Bat species were recorded across the Application Site during the Bat surveys

undertaken in 2019 the most common of which were Common Pipistrelle and Soprano

Pipistrelle. No roosts were recorded at the Application Site at the time of the surveys.

10.7.82 The Proposal will create a loss in sections of hedgerows to facilitate access and

suitable foraging habitat for a range of species, in particular Noctule Bat, which forage

over open fields. The Application Site is considered to be of Local importance for Bats.

10.7.83 In the absence of mitigation, the effect of loss of this foraging and commuting habitat in

the absence of any mitigation is considered to be Negative (Significant) / Negative

(Not Significant), given the dominant habitat to be lost is arable which is mostly

suitable for foraging larger Bat species, particularly Noctule Bat, which were recorded in

low numbers across the Application Site. The abundance of similar habitat in the

immediate surrounds of the Application Site. The effects will be long-term but reversible.

10.7.84 Table 10.25 summarises the mitigation measures set out as part of the Proposal and

the residual (post-mitigation) assessed level of effects for Bats.


75

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Table 10.25 Mitigation Measures and Residual (Post-Mitigation) Effect – Bats

Mitigation Measure Benefits for Bats Residual Effect

Phased development and

restoration scheme.

Loss of suitable habitat kept to a minimum for the duration of

the Proposal.

Neutral (Not

Significant)

Partial retention of habitats. Partial retention of commuting routes and foraging habitats.

Stand-off to retained habitats. Decrease disturbance levels to Bat species using hedgerows

and woodland within the Application Site.

Stand-off to wildlife corridors

adjacent to the Application Site

boundary.

Minimum 8m stand-off to Pyford Brook (adjacent to southern

boundary) to minimise disturbance levels to Bats within the

surrounds of the Application Site.

Partial replacement of habitats. Replacement of suitable foraging habitat.


hedgerows. Addition of suitable commuting and foraging habitat.

Positive

(Significant)

Creation of standing water.

Additional foraging habitat for a wider range of species. Creation of wet grassland and

reed edges.

Creation of lowland meadows.

Gap filling of retained

hedgerows. Replacement of suitable foraging/commuting habitat.

Neutral (Not

Significant)

Implementation of a Sensitive

Lighting Scheme (see Section

10.7.72).

Reduce the impacts of lighting on nocturnal species.

Implementation of Dust

Management Plan. Reduce impacts of dust on retained foraging habitat.


76

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Breeding Birds

10.7.85 The habitats at the Application Site are considered to be of Site importance for breeding

Birds following the Breeding Bird Survey, given the Bird assemblage present and the

abundance of similar habitat in the immediate and wider surrounds of the Application

Site.

10.7.86 In the absence of mitigation, the loss / partial loss of habitats, in particular the arable at

the Application Site are considered to be Negative (Significant), given the extent and

use of arable habitat to be lost for ground-nesting Birds. The effects are considered to

be long-term but reversible.

10.7.87 Table 10.26 summarises the mitigation measures set out as part of the Proposal which

will mitigate the impacts for breeding Birds.

Table 10.26 Mitigation Measures and Residual (Post-Mitigation) Effect – Breeding Birds

Mitigation Measure Benefits for Breeding Birds Residual

Effect

Phased development and restoration

scheme.

Loss of suitable habitat kept to a minimum for the duration

of the Proposal.

Neutral (Not

Significant)

Partial retention of habitats. Retention of all woodland habitats, as well as retention of

the majority of hedgerows (with the exception of access).

Partial replacement of habitats. The inclusion of arable habitat upon restoration will

replace habitat for ground-nesting Birds.

Removal of habitats (where required)

outside the breeding Bird season or

an ecologist performs a nesting Bird

check immediately prior to removal.

Avoid a breach in legislation and killing / injury of breeding

Birds.

Stand-off to retained habitats. Reduced disturbance to breeding Birds in woodland and

hedgerow habitats.


77

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Mitigation Measure Benefits for Breeding Birds Residual

Effect

Creation of standing water and

associated habitats.

Additional foraging/nesting habitat for a variety of breeding

Birds.

Positive

(Significant)


woodland/hedgerows. Additional nesting habitat for breeding Birds.

Creation of lowland meadows. Creation of good quality foraging habitat for a range of

species.

Post Restoration

10.7.88 Restoration of the Application Site will result in a decrease in habitats of lower

ecological value (i.e. arable) and an increase in habitats of higher ecological value

designated as HPI and UKBAP Priority Habitats. This will increase the overall ecological

value of the Application Site, increase floral diversity and create suitable habitat for a

range of protected and notable faunal species therefore increasing the overall

biodiversity of the Application Site.

10.7.89 Restoration will also support planning policy by increasing target habitats within

Staffordshire.

Additional Mitigation, Compensation, Enhancement Measures

Compensation

10.8.1 Since no likely Negative Significant residual or cumulative effects are anticipated,

compensatory measures are not required.

Enhancement

10.8.2 In addition to the newly created habitats as part of the proposed restoration scheme, the


78

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

species-specific enhancements include:

• 15 No. Woodcrete Bat Boxes;

• 10 No. Bird Boxes of suitable for a number of species, including Barn Owl;

• 4 hibernacula suitable for Great Crested Newt and Reptiles; and

• 4 log piles suitable for Invertebrates.

Monitoring

10.8.3 Due to arable being the dominant habitat to be lost as part of the Proposal with only

minimal extents of other habitats to be lost (i.e. hedgerows etc.), the limited extent of

each Phase size as well as progressive restoration over a total period of 4 years, it is

considered that pre-commencement Phase monitoring surveys for faunal species is

only required for nesting Birds.

10.8.4 In the event that works within each new Phase of the Proposal are undertaken outside

of the Bird nesting season (typically March – August inclusive) then no pre-

commencement checks for nesting Birds will be required. In the event works commence

in each new Phase of the Proposal during the Bird nesting season, a check by an

ecologist will be undertaken to check for any active Birds’ nests. Any active Birds’ nests

identified will be retained with a minimum 5m buffer for nesting Birds (within Hedgerows

etc.), and 10m buffer for ground-nesting Birds, of vegetation will be retained, protected

and cordoned off until the end of the nesting season/nesting has ceased.

10.8.5 See Appendix 3.4 for additional information regarding pre-commencement ecological

surveys.

10.8.6 A minimum 5-year after use management schedule for biodiversity will be implemented

at the Application Site following completion of the restoration scheme.


79

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Assessment Summary and Likely Significant Residual

Environmental Effects

10.9.1 It is considered that there will be no Significant residual effects as a result of the

Proposal. Implementation of mitigation measures as part of the Proposal will result in

either Negligible (Neutral) or Positive (Significant) residual effects.

10.9.2 It is considered that a net gain in biodiversity is likely to be achieved as a result of the

Proposal for the following reasons:

• Extraction is mostly limited to the habitat of low ecological importance (arable), of

which there is abundant habitat in the immediate and wider surrounds of the

Application Site;

• The restoration scheme will replace the habitats lost through the creation of a

variety of habitats not currently present resulting in greater habitat diversity;

• No aquatic habitat is currently present at the Application Site and two large lakes as

well as 5 smaller ponds will be created, resulting in a significant increase in aquatic

habitat which will benefit a wide range of species/species groups;

• All sections of hedgerow to be lost will be replaced upon restoration, as well as

creation of an additional 1090m of hedgerow, which will increase HPI habitat within

the Application Site as well as the county;

• Restoration will include an approximate third of the Application Site (8.9ha) being

restored to lowland meadow HPI which is a significant increase in this habitat type;

• The inclusive of wet grassland and Reedbed HPI as part of restoration provides

another increase in good quality HPI habitat not currently present at the Application

Site; and

• Broad-leaved woodland will be slightly increased following restoration which

increases the extent of this HPI; and

• The improvement to the Pyford Brook wildlife corridor via additional planting will

increase floral diversity as well as the integrity of the wildlife corridor.


80

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

10.9.3 Stand-off zones will be managed through the implementation of a Construction

Environment Management Plan (CEMP) for the duration of the Proposal.

Cumulative Impacts

10.10.1 Two existing quarries are located in the wider surrounds of the Application Site who

have applied for planning permission to extend their mineral extraction operations:

• Tarmac Alrewas Quarry located approximately 2km southeast from the Application

Site at its closest point; and

• Hanson Barton Quarry located approximately 3km northeast from the Application

Site at its closest point.

10.10.2 A single proposed large-scale development is located within the wider surrounds of the

Application Site, a residential development comprising 250 dwellings is located

approximately 1.1km south of the Application Site at Fradley.

10.10.3 The current planned HS2 route will be located approximately 1.5km from the Application

Site.

10.10.4 Due to all existing or proposed large scale developments being located more than 1km

from the Application Site, there are considered to be no cumulative impacts arising from

the Proposal.

Impact of Climate Change

10.11.1 The Proposal has the potential to negatively impact climate change due to the following:

• Habitat loss;

• Increased vehicle movements; and


81

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

• Increased dust and noise and impacts on hydrology.

10.11.2 The Proposal will minimise any negative impacts on climate change via the following:

• Phased working and progressive restoration;

• Mineral extraction over relatively short time period of 4 years;

• Limiting mineral extraction to habitats of low ecological value;

• Creation of various habitats of higher ecological value upon restoration;

• Creation of aquatic vegetative habitats such as reedbeds which aid in oxygenation;

• Tree planting of additional broad-leaved woodland and hedgerows will combat

negative impacts of climate change;

• Traffic movement monitoring;

• Reducing emissions where possible by using newer vehicles with lower emissions;

and

• Implementation of dust, hydrology and noise management plans.

Conclusion

Overall Ecological Effects of the Scheme

10.12.1 The Application Site has been subject to a series of habitat surveys and species-

specific surveys. The surveys identified a number of different habitats and protected

species at the Application Site, which were identified as Site - County Level of

Ecological Importance.

10.12.2 The faunal surveys identified suitable habitat for a range of protected species and

confirmed breeding Birds and foraging and commuting Bats present at the Application

Site. Great Crested Newt is considered likely absent from the Application Site; however,


82

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

in the interest of due diligence, precautionary measures have been set out in relation to

this species.

10.12.3 No other protected species were identified at the Application Site and, overall the

protected species recorded, and the suitability of the habitat present indicates that the

Application Site is of Site - Local Level of ecological Importance in relation to fauna.

10.12.4 Habitat change was considered to be the largest direct impact of the Proposal, this

impact was considered to be Negative (Significant) for arable due to the quantity of

loss; however, this habitat type is of low ecological value and is abundant in the

immediate, local and wider areas. Habitat loss in relation to the other habitats at the

Application Site is considered to be Negative (Not Significant) or Neutral (Not

Significant).

10.12.5 The extraction activities will be undertaken over a period up to 4 years, with phased

extraction and restoration. The proposed restoration scheme is to replace the arable

habitat with either arable / agricultural grassland, alongside creation of other habitats

including standing water, lowland meadow and additional hedgerows at the Application

Site increase biodiversity value.

10.12.6 Restoration will result in an overall Positive (Significant) effect on habitats due to a

significant increase in a variety of habitats including habitats designated as HPI and

UKBAP Priority Habitats, increasing floral diversity, suitability for protected and notable

faunal species and overall biodiversity.

10.12.7 To avoid direct impact to protected species, species-specific mitigation measures with

regards to the Proposal will be implemented including:

• Checks of vegetation by a suitably qualified ecologist for Birds’ nests prior to

removal; or timing constraints on vegetation removal to avoid nesting season;

• Precautionary Working Measures for Great Crested Newt;

• Update surveys where necessary (see Appendix 3.4); and

• Retention and protection of sensitive habitats for protected species.


83

February 2020

CEMEX UK Operations

Compliance with Legislation and Policy

10.12.8 The mitigation proposals detailed within this EcIA have addressed the potential impacts

from the Proposal to comply with both wildlife legislation and Policy.

10.12.9 After all mitigation proposals and species-specific precautionary measures are

implemented, the effects of the Proposal are not considered to trigger any wildlife

legislation.

10.12.10 After all mitigation proposals, species-specific precautionary measures and

enhancement measures are implemented, the effects of the Proposal are considered to

comply with National and Local Policy detailed in Appendix 3.9.

Mechanisms to Secure Delivery

10.12.11 The proposed design, operating procedures, precautionary and mitigation measures are

all key to ensuring no significant residual effects are expected from the Proposal. All

measures associated with the operation and restoration of the Application Site could be

secured using planning obligation or conditions.