Eryri Local Development Plan 2016 2031 · The Habitats Regulations Assessment consists of a number of documents which detail the HRA that was carried out at every stage of the LDP’s

Eryri Local Development Plan 2016 – 2031

Short Form Revision

Finalised Habitats Regulations Assessment

February 2019

Introduction

The Habitats Regulations Assessment consists of a number of documents which

detail the HRA that was carried out at every stage of the LDP’s preparation. All of the

HRA’s carried out (including the HRA for the Local Development Plan 2007-2022)

are included within this document.

For ease of reference the documents included have been identified below:

Habitats Regulations Assessment – Screening Report (March 2009)

Shadow Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Snowdonia National Park

Authority Revised Local Development Plan 2016-2031 – HRA Addendum

(May 2017)


Authority Revised Local Development Plan 2016-2031 – HRA Addendum:

Assessment of Focussed Changes (March 2018)


Authority Revised Local Development Plan 2016-2031 – Addendum: HRA

Update Following MAC Review (September 2018)

Snowdonia National Park Authority

Local Development Plan Habitats Regulations Assessment

Screening Report

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited 2212959 Firecrest Court Centre Park Warrington WA1 1RG United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)870 000 3008 Fax: +44 (0)870 000 3908 www.hyderconsulting.com


Local Development Plan Habitats Regulations Assessment

Screening Report

Author D Hourd

Checker N Hartley

Approver S Hill

Report No 002-NH51128-NHR-05

Date March 2009

This report has been prepared for the Snowdonia National Park Authority in accordance with the terms and conditions of appointment for Sustainability Appraisal dated 30 July 2008. Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited (2212959) cannot accept any responsibility for any use of or reliance on the contents of this report by any third party.

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 Page i k:\projects\nh51128-snowdonia-sea\f-reports\002-nh51128-nhr-05-hrascreeningldp.doc

CONTENTS

Abbreviations .................................................................................................. iii 1 Introduction and Purpose of the Report ............................................... 1

1.1 The Purpose of Habitats Regulations Assessment and Appropriate Assessment .......................................................................................... 1

1.2 Legislation and Guidance ..................................................................... 2 2 The Habitats Regulations Assessment Process .................................. 3

2.1 HRA Screening Methodology ............................................................... 3 2.2 The Scope of the Assessment.............................................................. 3 2.3 Applying HRA to the Snowdonia LDP................................................... 4 2.4 Definition of Significant Effects ............................................................. 5 2.5 In Combination Effects ......................................................................... 5 2.6 Mitigation Measures ............................................................................. 7

3 The Deposit LDP .................................................................................. 9 3.1 Introduction........................................................................................... 9 3.2 Influences ............................................................................................. 9 3.3 The LDP Policies .................................................................................. 9

4 The European Sites............................................................................ 11 5 Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Deposit Version LDP......... 15

5.1 Introduction......................................................................................... 15 5.2 European Sites and the Settlement Hierarchy.................................... 15 5.3 Assessment Matrices ......................................................................... 15 5.4 Summary of Key Findings .................................................................. 70

6 Conclusions and Recommendations.................................................. 72

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 Page ii k:\projects\nh51128-snowdonia-sea\f-reports\002-nh51128-nhr-05-hrascreeningldp.doc

Tables Table 2-1 Methodological Stages of the HRA Process 4

Table 2-2 Plans and Projects Considered for In-Combination Effects 5

Table 4-1 European Sites Located in and Around the National Park 12

Appendices Appendix A Preferred Strategy Options February 2008 Appendix B Assessment of the Preferred Strategy Options February 2008 Appendix C European Sites located near to or adjacent to Settlements Appendix D Conservation Objectives of the European Sites Figure 1 Location of European Sites

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 Page iii k:\projects\nh51128-snowdonia-sea\f-reports\002-nh51128-nhr-05-hrascreeningldp.doc

Abbreviations CCW Countryside Council for Wales

cSAC Candidate Special Area of Conservation

FCS Favourable Conservation Status

GB Great Britain

GIS Geographical Information Systems

HRA Habitats Regulations Assessment

LDP Local Development Plan

LHMA Local Housing Market Assessment

pSPA Potential Special Protection Area

RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

SAC Special Area of Conservation

SNPA Snowdonia National Park Authority

SPA Special Protection Area

TAN Technical Advice Note

UDP Unitary Development Plan

WAG Welsh Assembly Government

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 Page iii k:\projects\nh51128-snowdonia-sea\f-reports\002-nh51128-nhr-05-hrascreeningldp.doc

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 Page 1k:\projects\nh51128-snowdonia-sea\f-reports\002-nh51128-nhr-05-hrascreeningldp.doc

1 Introduction and Purpose of the Report The Snowdonia National Park Authority (SNPA) is preparing a Local Development Plan (LDP) for the period to 2022. The LDP builds on national and regional policy and provides the development strategy and policy framework within which provision is made for the development and conservation needs of the National Park. The LDP will be used by the Authority to encourage development to the most suitable locations and to provide a basis for determining planning applications consistently and appropriately.

The SNPA is obliged to afford the highest levels of protection to the intrinsic qualities of the National Park. The National Park’s biodiversity is a key aspect of this and, as such, the SNPA is committed to protecting the designated sites located within and around its borders.

Within the National Park and immediately adjacent there are a number of sites that form part of the Natura 2000 Network. Natura 2000 is a network of areas designated to conserve natural habitats and species that are rare, endangered, vulnerable or endemic within the European Community. The sites forming part of the network are frequently referred to as ‘European Sites’ and include Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) designated under the EC Habitats Directive 1992 (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) for their habitats and/or species of European importance and Special Protection Areas (SPA) classified under the EC Birds Directive 1979 (Council Directive 79/409/EEC) for rare, vulnerable and regularly occurring migratory bird species. There are also Ramsar Sites which are wetlands of international importance designated under the Convention on Wetlands, signed in Ramsar, Iran in 1971.

Prior to the adoption of the LDP it is the responsibility of the SNPA to consider the potential effects of the LDP on European Sites. This process is referred to as Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA).

The HRA process for the LDP commenced for the LDP in February 2008 when the options for the LDP were reviewed to determine their effects on European Sites. Following consultation upon the LDP Options, the SNPA has prepared the Deposit Version of the LDP and it is necessary to re-screen the policies in the LDP to determine the likelihood of significant effects occurring and subsequently whether the LDP should be subject to Appropriate Assessment. This HRA Screening Report should be read in conjunction with the Deposit Version of the LDP1.

1.1 The Purpose of Habitats Regulations Assessment and Appropriate Assessment Under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive, an assessment is required where a plan or project may give rise to significant effects upon a site within the Natura 2000 network. This requirement is transposed into national legislation in the

1 SNPA (March, 2009) Local Development Plan, Deposit Version


Conservation (Natural Habitats & c) (Amendment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007.

As part of the assessment, effects upon SACs and SPAs must be considered. Additionally, and as a matter of policy, the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) requires all public authorities to treat potential SPAs (pSPA), candidate SACs (cSAC) and possible Ramsar sites (pRamsar) as if they were fully designated.

The overarching aim of HRA is to determine, in view of a site’s conservation objectives and qualifying interests, whether a plan, either in isolation and/or in combination with other plans, would have a significant adverse effect on the designated site. If the Screening Report concludes that significant adverse effects are likely then Appropriate Assessment must be undertaken to determine if there will be adverse effects on site integrity.

Section 2 provides further procedural and methodological information.

1.2 Legislation and Guidance The HRA has drawn upon the following pieces of legislation and guidance:

Habitats Regulations (the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) (Amendment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007.

Consultation Draft Annex to Technical Advice Note (TAN) 5, Nature Conservation and Planning – the Assessment of Development Plans in Wales under the Provisions of the Habitats Regulations (WAG 2006).

Department for Communities and Local Government (2006) Planning for the Protection of European Sites: Appropriate Assessment (whilst it is acknowledged that this applies only to the English planning system, the guidance has many useful and transferable points).

European Commission, Managing Natura 2000 sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC.

European Commission, Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC.


2 The Habitats Regulations Assessment Process This section provides an outline of the stages involved in HRA and the specific methods that have been used in preparing this report.

2.1 HRA Screening Methodology The purpose of the HRA Screening Report, as shown on Diagram 2-1, is to determine the likelihood of significant adverse effects occurring, as a result of the implementation of policies in the LDP. Should significant adverse effects be considered likely, then a full Appropriate Assessment will be required to accompany the Deposit LDP to Examination. Alternatively, concluding that no significant impacts are likely will enable the Deposit LDP to proceed without further HRA.

Diagram 2.1 Stages in the HRA Process

2.2 The Scope of the Assessment There are 21 designated sites of international nature conservation importance within the National Park, which may be directly or indirectly affected by the LDP. In accordance with best practice guidance and in recognition of the fact that the LDP could result in significant effects beyond the National Park boundary, this report

Stage of LDPDevelopment HRA

AppropriateAssessment

Examination

Preferred Options

Deposit LDP

HRA ScreeningReport

Options ScreeningReport

LikelySignificantEffects?

Yes No

Plan proceeds without further assessment

Stage of LDPDevelopment HRA

AppropriateAssessment

Examination

Preferred Options

Deposit LDP

HRA ScreeningReport

Options ScreeningReport

LikelySignificantEffects?

Yes No

Plan proceeds without further assessment


has also considered a further site outside of the National Park. The location of these sites is shown on Figure 1.

2.3 Applying HRA to the Snowdonia LDP This HRA Screening Report is a successor to an initial Options Screening Report, produced in February 2008, in which an assessment was made of the impacts of the LDP Preferred Options. Only the Preferred Options were assessed through the process, as the Strategic Environmental Assessment process was used to inform the selection of the most appropriate options and so it was not deemed necessary to review the discounted options in the HRA process.

The Preferred Options subject to HRA Screening in February 2008 are presented in Appendix A. The Screening Report consisted of a two-stage process in which the options were first screened to discard those that would have no impact upon European sites, with the remainder subject to a more in-depth assessment. Both stages are documented in Appendix B. This Screening Report was consulted upon publicly, as well as being submitted to the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) as the regulatory body for nature conservation in Wales, who provided feedback. The report was followed by a meeting between CCW, representatives of Hyder Consulting (UK) Ltd and the SNPA on 13 August 2008.

The SNPA has subsequently produced a Deposit Version of the LDP which builds upon the Preferred Options that were consulted upon in February 2008. This Deposit Version of the LDP will be consulted upon publicly in spring 2009. This report documents the HRA screening of the policies contained within the Deposit Version LDP.

Table 2-1 presents the methodological stages that have been followed in determining whether significant effects are likely to occur.

Table 2-1 Methodological Stages of the HRA Process

Methodological Stage (as identified in Consultation Draft Annex to TAN5)

Application to this Study

Identify all European Sites in and around the LDP area.

Data has been obtained from the CCW and the SNPA about the European Sites within the National Park and in adjacent areas. The identification of the sites has had regard to the fact that a site may be spatially distant from the National Park but could still be affected by policies in the LDP.

A list of sites is presented in Section 4.

All European Sites have been mapped using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) – see Figure 1.

Acquire, examine and understand conservation objectives of each interest feature of each potentially affected

The interest features of all of the sites have been defined and are presented in the tables in Section 5.


Methodological Stage (as identified in Consultation Draft Annex to TAN5)

Application to this Study

European Site.

Consider the policies and proposals in the LDP, and the changes that they may cause, that may be relevant to European Sites.

All LDP policies that could potentially affect European Sites are identified in Section 5. The impacts that would result from these policies are identified.

Determine whether the plan would have a significant effect on any interest feature, alone, or in combination with other projects and plans, directly or indirectly.

The tables presented in Section 5 discuss whether or not the LDP is likely to have a significant adverse effect on European Sites.

2.4 Definition of Significant Effects For the purposes of this assessment the definition of ‘likely’ and ‘significant’ follow those provided in the Consultation Draft Annex to TAN5 guidance. ‘Likely’ means ‘readily foreseeable not merely a fanciful possibility’ and ‘significant’ is defined as ‘not trivial or inconsequential but an effect that is potentially relevant to the site’s conservation objectives’.

2.5 In Combination Effects As outlined in Table 2-1, it is necessary for the HRA to consider not only the policies within the LDP that may lead to significant impacts upon European Sites on their own, but those that may have a significant impact in combination with other plans. These may be general spatial planning documents produced by neighbouring planning authorities, or sector specific strategic plans on such topics as waste, water resources or transport. A review has been undertaken of plans and projects with the potential for an in-combination effect with the Snowdonia LDP. Table 2-2 presents details of the plans and projects considered.

Table 2-2 Plans and Projects Considered for In-Combination Effects

Authority Relevant Plan/Project

Gwynedd Council The current development plan framework comprises the Gwynedd Structure Plan, Menai Straits Local Plan, Rural Arfon Local Plan, Dwyfor Local Plan, Porthmadog/Ffestiniog Local Plan and the Dyffryn-Ardudwy Local Plan.

These are due to be replaced later in 2009 when the Gwynedd Unitary Development Plan (UDP) is adopted. The


Authority Relevant Plan/Project Proposed Modifications to the Deposit Draft 2008 version of the UDP have been used where relevant for the in-combination effects assessment. The UDP is currently a material planning consideration.

Conwy County Council The current development plan framework comprises the Clwyd Structure Plan Second Alteration, Gwynedd Structure Plan, Colwyn Borough Local Plan and Llandudno/Conwy District Plan.

Work on the UDP has ended although it is still a material consideration in some planning applications.

Preparation of the Local Development Plan (LDP) has commenced.

Ceredigion Council The UDP is used for development control purposes but work has now ceased on its development. Preparation of the LDP is now underway. As part of this process, a Draft Issues paper on Nature Conservation was published in 2008, recognising the need for the LDP to enhance as well as protect nature conservation in European Sites and across the wider Ceredigion area.

Denbighshire County Council

The Adopted UDP is used for development control purposes. It will be replaced by the LDP which is currently in preparation.

Flintshire County Council Until the adoption of the emerging Flintshire UDP, the Development Plan for Flintshire consists of six documents: Clwyd Structure Plan First Alteration and Second Alteration: Flintshire Edition, Delyn Local Plan, Alyn & Deeside Local Plan, Draft North Flintshire Local Plan and the emerging UDP itself.

It is anticipated that the Flintshire UDP will be adopted in 2010.

Powys County Council The Powys UDP is still in development but has been approved for the purposes of making development control decisions. Also relevant for this purpose until the UDP is fully adopted are: Powys County Structure Plan, Minerals Local Plan, and for the area bordering Snowdonia National Park, the Montgomeryshire Local Plan.

Anglesey County Council The current development plan framework comprises the UDP (work has ceased on the plan although it will be used for development control processes in certain circumstances), Gwynedd Structure Plan and Ynys Mon Local Plan.

The Local Development Plan is now in preparation.

Trafnidiaeth Canolbarth Cymru (TraCC) – Mid Wales Transportation

Provisional Regional Transport Plan (December, 2008)


Authority Relevant Plan/Project

Taith North Wales Regional Transport Plan 2008

North Wales Regional Members Group

North Wales Regional Waste Plan

Environment Agency North-West Wales Catchment Flood Management Plans

Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies

National Assembly for Wales

Woodlands for Wales

Dwr Cymru Welsh Water Draft Water Resources Plan 2008

Dwr Cymru Welsh Water Drought Plan 2006

Gwynedd Council North Cardigan Bay Shoreline Management Plan

WAG The Coastal Tourism Strategy

WAG People, Places, Futures – The Wales Spatial Plan 2008 Update

WAG One Wales: Connecting the Nation, Wales Transport Strategy and Plan

WAG Proposed improvements to the A470 (T) between the end of a previously improved section at Maes-yr-Helmau to a point near the Cross Foxes Hotel

WAG A470 (T) interim improvements at Gelligemlyn, north of Dolgellau. This priority scheme to repair the existing road and resume each-way traffic flow was given the approval of the Minister for the Economy and Transport in December 2008.

A470(T) Gelligemlym: Main Scheme. A further proposal to improve a section of the A470 south of the interim scheme is currently at the planning stage.

WAG A487 Porthmadog, Minffordd and Tremadog Bypass. A scheme to divert traffic from the congested centre of Porthmadog that would cross undeveloped land to the north and east of the town.

It should be noted that in-combination effects only require consideration where the plan being assessed has an impact. A conclusion of ‘No Impact’ negates the possibility of in-combination effects.

2.6 Mitigation Measures In preparing this HRA Screening Report, consideration has been given to potential avoidance and mitigation measures which would serve to avoid adverse effects on the integrity of European Sites, for example the provision of specific clauses within the policies that may prevent effects occurring.



3 The Deposit LDP 3.1 Introduction

The Snowdonia LDP establishes policies to guide and direct the use of land within the National Park in the period to 2022. It sets out the SNPA’s overall vision and strategy for the National Park, creates land allocations for certain activities and forms the basis for the determination of planning applications. Crucially for an area of such significance for its landscapes and biodiversity, the LDP also contains provisions to conserve and protect the natural and cultural environment.

3.2 Influences Development of the LDP has been influenced by the statutory purposes of the National Park:

To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area

To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the area by the public.

In addition to the above purposes, the Authority has a duty in taking forward these purposes to:

Seek to foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the National Park.

‘Special Qualities’ are explicitly defined in the LDP and consist of a range of attributes for which the National Park is particularly valued, including biodiversity.

The Deposit Version LDP must also reflect national and regional planning policy, including an allocation of new housing units to be delivered by the planning authority. It has been prepared through consideration of a wealth of information and evidence, including strategic guidance from WAG and partners, such as constituent authorities, statutory agencies and organisations funded by WAG. Its development has also sought to draw out community and key stakeholder perceptions of the most important issues that the Authority and its partners must address.

3.3 The LDP Policies The HRA Screening Report focuses upon the Strategic Policies and Development Policies presented in the LDP. The Strategic Policies provide an overarching approach for development, whilst the Development Policies help to deliver the Strategic Policies by providing further detailed guidance against which individual planning applciations will be assessed. The policies in the LDP are grouped into the following sections:

The Development Strategy

Protecting, Enhancing and Managing the Natural Environment


Protecting and Enhancing the Cultural and Historic Environment

Promoting Healthy and Sustainable Communities

Supporting the Rural Economy

Promoting Accessibility and Inclusion

It is important to note that the policies in the LDP constitute an overall approach to future development in the National Park and that the LDP should be read as a whole.


4 The European Sites Twenty-two European sites have been considered in this assessment, 21 located either wholly or partially within the National Park, a further one lying just beyond the National Park boundary. The 22 sites comprise:

15 Special Areas of Conservation, designated under the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC);

4 Special Protection Areas, designated under the EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC);

3 Ramsar Sites, designated under the Convention on Wetlands, signed in Ramsar, Iran in 1971.

A number of these sites overlie one another, such as where a large SAC contains a small lake designated as a Ramsar site, or when the same area is designated under both the Habitats and Birds Directives.

A list of the sites together with their status and location is presented in Table 4-1.

The boundaries of the sites are located on Figure 1.


Table 4-1 European Sites Located in and Around the National Park

Status Location Name of Sites

SAC SPA Ramsar Within Snowdonia National Park

Outside Snowdonia National Park

Aber Dyfi / Dyfi Estuary

Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid / River Dee and Llyn Tegid

Afon Eden, Cors Goch – Trawsfynydd

Afon Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn / River Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn

Berwyn

Berwyn a Mynyddoedd de Clwyd / Berwyn and South Clwyd Mountains

Cadair Idris

Coedydd Aber

Coedydd Derw a Safleodd Ystlumod Meirion / Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites

Cors Fochno & Dyfi

Corsydd Eifionydd


Status Location Name of Sites

SAC SPA Ramsar Within Snowdonia National Park

Outside Snowdonia National Park

Craig yr Aderyn / Bird’s Rock

Eryri / Snowdonia

Glynllifon

Llyn Idwal

Llyn Tegid

Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt

Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt

Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn

Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir / Gwydyr Forest Mines

Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau / Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau

Rhinog



5 Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Deposit Version LDP

5.1 Introduction The LDP Screening Report produced in February 2008 concluded that Appropriate Assessment was not required for the Preferred Options. However, it was considered necessary to re-screen the LDP once the Deposit Version had been prepared. This section presents the results of this screening exercise.

5.2 European Sites and the Settlement Hierarchy A key element of the LDP is the establishment of a settlement hierarchy within the National Park to ensure that development is directed towards the most appropriate locations. In specific terms, this is reflected in a particular settlement’s allocation for new housing being proportionate to its level on the hierarchy.

As part of the HRA Screening process it has been essential to understand where settlements are situated in relation to European Sites. Appendix C of this report presents the hierarchy and details of the European Sites that are in close proximity to them.

5.3 Assessment Matrices The matrices that follow present the results of the assessment of each European Site. Information about the vulnerability of each site has been extracted from the Natura 2000 Standard Data Forms available from the JNCC website.

When identifying the elements of the LDP that could potentially affect European Sites it was important to focus upon those policies that would have the greatest likelihood of impacting the sites and, therefore the definition of significance identified in Section 2.4 was very important. The LDP is intended to be read as a single document rather than a series of separate policies, and has been assessed as such. Policies in one area of the LDP may mitigate potentially damaging activities promoted in another area and should be understood in the wider context of the LDP’s aims and purposes. Both direct effects (e.g. land take) and indirect effects (e.g. disturbance) have been considered.

All policies within the Deposit Version LDP have been considered as being of potential relevance to European Sites.

In-combination effects with other plans and programmes are also referred to in the matrices



Site Names Aber Dyfi / Dyfi Estuary Type of Site SPA Size of Site 2048.11ha

Site Description The wide estuary of the Afon Dyfi supports tidal rivers, estuaries, mud flats, sand flats and lagoons.

Annex I Birds and regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed on Annex I: Quality and Importance

Over winter the area regularly supports: Greenland White-Fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris): 1% of the Great Britain (GB) population (5 year peak mean for 1993/94 – 1997/98) [Status: Unfavourable – declining as the flock has reduced in size in recent years for reasons unknown]

Conservation Objectives To achieve the Favourable Conservation Status of the above Species. Full details are given in Appendix D.

Vulnerability Disturbance by leisure activities including wildfowling, and also low-flying aircraft, may be significant to feeding and roosting geese. Appropriate grazing of the saltmarsh and grassland is important to maintain feeding areas. There is an increasing resident flock of Canada Geese on the estuary of approximately 2,000 birds. The interactions between this species and the Greenland White-Fronted Geese, and the impact on the habitat, are unknown.

Element of the LDP Development and Land-Use Changes and Potential Effects Avoidance and Mitigation Likely Significant Effects (In View of

Avoidance and Mitigation) In-Combination Effects (including relevant

avoidance and mitigation measures)

The Development Strategy Located on the north bank of the estuary, Aberdyfi is classified as a Service Settlement capable of absorbing developments that serve a wider area, including small scale affordable housing, retail and employment sites. 110 houses are proposed across five Service Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Aberdyfi is not stipulated. Only a small part of the European site lies within the LDP jurisdiction – the north bank of the Dyfi and part of the channel itself. No land use changes are proposed higher up the Dyfi Valley. No direct land-take within the SPA is proposed. Housing and population growth has potential to result in indirect disturbance of SPA qualifying bird interests through noise and light pollution and increased recreational pressure at the foreshore. However, the low levels of growth proposed are not considered to have a significant potential effect.

New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous matrials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary unless there is a need for a local conversion in the open countryside Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting.

No effects on the SPA predicted.

The Afon Dyfi drains an area partly outside the National Park which is subject to the planning policies of Gwynedd Council and Ceredigion Council. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Furthermore: Policy B14 of the Gwynedd UDP provides strong protection for internationally designated nature conservation sites. Proposals likely to have a significantly adverse impact, either in isolation or in combination with other plans, will be refused unless there is no alternative, an overriding public interest and a threat to public health and safety. The UDP then requires compensatory measures and enhancement of remaining features. The southern part of the estuary is subject to Policy ENV1.2 of the Ceredigion UDP which affords protection to international conservation sites similar to that outlined above.





Protecting, Enhancing & Managing the Natural Environment

The policies within this group, and the objectives behind their creation, support the integrity of European Sites and the objectives of nature conservation.

Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment states that biodiversity resources will be protected from inappropriate development. There is a specific clause addressing the Habitats Regulations and the need for all future developments to meet their requirements.

Positive impacts upon the European site as a result of measures to support nature conservation within the planning process.

Positive impacts would be reinforced by the management of the site being undertaken jointly by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and CCW.

Protecting & Enhancing the Cultural & Historic Environment

No relevant policies. No additional mitigation required. No effects on the SPA predicted. No significant in-combination effects have been identified from a review of relevant plans and projects.

Promoting Healthy & Sustainable Communities

Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exception sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.

Development Policy 11 also states that there should be no adverse effects upon the integrity of European Sites as a result of affordable housing on exception sites.

No effects on the SPA predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.

Supporting a Sustainable Rural Economy

Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Tourism in the National Park is generally promoted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. Such activites could result in disturbance effects upon qualifying bird interests.

The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted.

Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the SPA predicted.

No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Leisure impacts are monitored by on-site wardens as part of the RSPB/CCW management arrangements.





Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specifc transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.

Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.


Appropriate Assessment Requirements Appropriate Assessment not required


Site Names Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid / River Dee and Llyn Tegid Type of Site SAC Size of Site 1308.93ha

Site Description Located in the eastern corner of Snowdonia, both the lake and River Dee contain important habitats with estuaries, mud flats, sand flats and lagoons.

Annex I Habitats that are the primary reason for site selection

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified based upon an absence of Myriophyllum spicatum and scarcity of some species. Further research needed]

Annex II Species that are a primary reason for site selection

Atlantic salmon Salmo salar [Status: Unfavourable due to poor water quality and environmental disturbance] Floating water-plantain Luronium natans [Status: Favourable – unclassified]

Annex II Species present as a qualifying interest but not a primary reason for site selection

Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified due to low numbers] River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified but numbers unknown] Otter (Lutra lutra) [Favourable – unclassified but further research required] Brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri) [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified but numbers unknown] Bullhead (Cottus gobio) [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified due to low numbers]

Conservation Objectives To achieve the Favourable Conservation Status of the above Habitat and Species. Full details are given in Appendix D.

Vulnerability

The site and its features are threatened by practices which have an adverse effect on the quality, quantity and pattern of water flows. In particular the following may threaten riverine ecosystems: inappropriate flow regulation; excessive abstraction (for industry, agriculture and domestic purposes); threats to water quality from direct and diffuse pollution; eutrophication and siltation. Degradation of riparian habitats due to engineering works, agricultural practices and invasive plant species may also have an adverse effect. The Atlantic salmon population is threatened by excessive exploitation by high sea, estuarine and recreational fisheries. Introduction of non-indigenous species could also threaten both fish and plant species.

Element of the LDP Development and Land-Use Changes and Potential Effects

Avoidance and Mitigation Likely Significant Effects (In View of Avoidance and Mitigation)

In-Combination Effects (including relevant avoidance and mitigation measures)

The Development Strategy Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy designates Y Bala as one of two Local Service Centres in the National Park where most housing and employment development will occur. 225 houses are proposed to be spread between Y Bala and Dolgellau throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Y Bala is not stipulated. There are two housing allocations in Y Bala. However, both sites are small and neither is situated in close proximity to the European Site. One site lies within the housing development boundary, and the other lies immediately adjacent to it. Employment sites would be supported on land allocated in the proposals map. The site identified already contains significant employment development. The site lies within 100m of the European Site. Retail would be allowed close to the existing commercial areas. No direct land-take within the SAC is proposed. In the absence of mitigation, effects from housing, employment and retail development of this scale is likely to be limited to an increase in surface water run-off which may

The two housing allocations in Y Bala are very small and neither is situated in close proximity to the SAC. One site lies within the existing development boundary, and the other lies immediately adjacent to it. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous matrials or waste production. As such, it is considered that if polluted run-off or discharges are predicted to occur, then appropriate mitigation measures would need to be provided as part of the design in order to comply with this LDP policy. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes

No effects on the SAC predicted. Indirect impacts resulting from increased runoff or polluted discharges would be mitigated to negligible levels by the range of policy measures proposed. The scale of proposed development within Y Bala alone is such that the impacts of increased water abstraction would be small. Furthermore, abstractions are not taken from Bala to serve the local population. The Water Resources Management Plan identifies that increased demand in the Bala Zone as a result of new development could be met through a programme of leakage detection. Abstraction levels would therefore not need to increase from the SAC.

No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely with respect to effects upon water quality or flow. With respect to water quantity, the SAC is subject to significant abstraction pressure from a number of sources, notably further downstream including in the Chester and Flintshire area. Dwr Cymru review water resource requirements on a zonal basis which takes into account a wide range of future demand scenarios based upon known levels of development and growth which would put pressure on that zone. This includes abstraction requirements from the SAC. The River Dee component of the SAC also flows within the Alwen/Dee zone. Both this and the Bala Zone are predicted to fall into deficit with the amount of increased demand forecast over the plan period. However, these deficits will be eliminated through a process of leakage detection. Furthermore, Dwr Cymru is obliged to apply for abstraction licenses from the Environment Agency who review these consents with respect to impacts upon the

2 Dwr Cymru ( March 2008) Draft Water Reosurces Management Plan





contain polluants (such as road run-off or construction materials) which could find their way into the SAC. This is only likely to be of concern for the employment site where some of the site is greenfield land and is located nearest to the boundary of the SAC. Water is currently abstracted from Llyn Arenig Fawr to serve Y Bala. It is anticipated that future houses constructed in the settlement would also be served by this source and it is not expcted that a direct water abstraction from the River Dee and Llyn Tegid SAC would be required. The Water Resources Management Plan2 assesses the level of demand and available supply from this resource based upon a wide range of demand assumptions including future growth predictions. The level of development proposed in Y Bala alone is unlikely to have a significant adverse effect upon water quantity in the SAC although effects may be possible in-combination with other developments.

very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. Dwr Cymru’s Draft Water Resources Plan identifies the Bala Zone as falling into water resource deficit in 2010/11 reaching a maximum deficit of 0.19 Ml/d in 2019/20. This is as a combined result of lower deployable output and an increase in demand forecast. To resolve the deficit, the Water Resources Plan proposes a programme of leakage detection and improvement which would resolve this deficit. Furthermore, Dwr Cymru is obliged to apply for abstraction licenses from the Environment Agency who review these consents with respect to impacts upon the integrity of European Sites. If the Environment Agency does not renew the consent, Dwr Cymru would be required to obtain the water supply from other areas. As such, the development proposed in the LDP cannot result in an adverse effect upon the SAC either alone or in combination with other abstractions elsewhere.

integrity of European Sites. If the Environment Agency does not renew the consent, Dwr Cymru would be required to obtain the water supply from other areas. As such, the development proposed in the LDP cannot result an adverse effect upon the SAC either alone or in combination with other abstractions elsewhere.





Positive impacts would be reinforced by the ongoing management of the River Dee being led by the Environment Agency with contributions from other statutory and non-statutory organisations.


No relevant policies. No mitigation required. No effects on the SAC predicted.

No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.






Strategic Policy Ng: Housing promotes the development of new open market and affordable housing in Y Bala. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exception sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.

Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites also states that there should be no adverse effects upon the integrity of European Sites as a result of affordable housing on exception sites. The lakeshore remains protected from development under the plan.

No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


The Y Bala employment site is identified under The Development Strategy above. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Tourism in the National Park is generally promoted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. Such activites could result in water pollution effects upon SAC qualifying interests.

The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments casuing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous matrials or waste production.

Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the SAC predicted.


Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.





Site Name Afon Eden, Cors Goch Trawsfynydd Type of Site SAC Size of Site 248.29ha

Site Description A tributary of the Afon Mawddach, the Afon Eden drains a little-modified catchment, containing meadow pools and naturally slow-moving waters north of Dolgellau.

Annex I Habitats present as a qualifying interest but not a primary reason for site selection

Active raised bogs (Priority feature) [Status: Unfavourable due to low Sphagnum cover, high cover of bare peat and the presence of a large artificial drain on the northern dome]


Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) [Status: Unfavourable due to a declining population now close to functional extinction] Floating water-plantain (Luronium natans) [Status: Favourable]


Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) [Status: Unfavourable as the river is artificially stocked with EA releases] Otter (Lutra lutra) [Status: Unfavourable due to limited distribution of individuals]


Vulnerability The pearl mussel and salmonids are particularly vulnerable to water pollution e.g. sheep-dip, nitrate input, sediment input, and inappropriate river management. Any inputs to the river which affect water chemistry need to be controlled, and river management must take account of the needs of the features. The mire features require appropriate grazing and control/cessation of burning, currently being addressed through agri-environment scheme agreements (Tir Cymen/Tir Gofal). The high rainfall and acidic geology/pedology renders this area vulnerable to acidification.




The Development Strategy Located approximately 450m from the SAC, Trawsfynydd is classified as a Service Settlement capable of absorbing developments that serve a wider area, including small scale affordable housing, retail and employment sites. 110 houses are proposed across five Service Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Trawsfynydd is not stipulated. Ganllywd (immediately adjacent to the SAC) and Llanelltyd (less than 100m from the SAC) are identified as Secondary Settlements. 380 houses are proposed across 39 Secondary Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses in each settlement is not stipulated. Small scale employment is also proposed in these settlements. No direct land-take within the SAC is proposed. In the absence of mitigation, housing and employment land development have the potential to result in polluted run-off entering the SAC and causing harm to qualifying interests. However, the low levels of growth proposed are not considered to have a significant potential effect.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to

No effects on the SAC predicted.






its setting.





Positive impacts on the salmon population would be reinforced by actions arising from the Environment Agency’s Salmon Action Plan for the Mawddach catchment.









Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Potential improvements to tourism facilities at Coed y Brenin Forest would be supported by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. These may include new buildings, extended car parking, and new walking or cycling trails. If located adjacent to the Afon Eden they could pose a threat to the SAC through compaction, bank erosion and disturbance to wildlife. Additional runoff and the introduction of pollutants from new less permeable surface materials may also have an adverse impact.

Coed y Brenin is managed by the Forestry Commission along sustainable tourism principles. The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.

Developments at Coed y Brenin are the responsibility of the Forestry Commission and the LDP has a limited influence. Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the SAC predicted.

Conserving and enhancing biodiversity is an objective of WAG’s Woodlands for Wales Strategy. This document provides additional support for protecting the integrity of designated conservation sites in or adjacent to forested areas. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.








Appropriate Assessment Requirements Appropriate Assessment not required.


Site Name Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn / River Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn Type of Site SAC Size of Site 114.29ha

Site Description Glacial in origin, Llyn Cwellyn is a fine example of a Littorella-Lobelia-Isoetes oligotrophic lake. It is broadly representative of other oligotrophic lakes found across Snowdonia, though is relatively large, and deep. Its outfall, the Afon Gwyrfai, meets the Menai Strait west of Caernarfon and provides notable river corridor habitat.


Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or the Isoeto-Nanojuncetea [Status: Unfavourable – recovering as a result of long term acidification, though this may be reversing]

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [Status: Favourable]


Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified as a result of precautionary assessments] Floating water-plantain (Luronium natans) [Status: Favourable conditional upon deeper water survey of Llyn Cwellyn]


Otter (Lutra lutra) [Status: Unfavourable due to low numbers and poor distribution of actual and potential breeding sites]

Conservation Objectives To achieve the Favourable Conservation Status of the above Habitats and Species. Full details are given in Appendix D.

Vulnerability

The lake is utilised as a raw drinking water reservoir. The present abstraction regime is compatible with its nature conservation status. Recent investigations have revealed that Llyn Cwellyn has acidified by 0.7 pH units since the late 1800s, due to increases in emissions of oxides of sulphur and nitrogen and subsequent acidic depositions in the form of 'acid rain'. The management of the extensive block of coniferous plantation on the shores of Llyn Cwellyn is an important factor in safeguarding the conservation value of the lake. A management plan has been agreed upon between CCW and Forest Enterprise. Negotiations are in progress to redesign the plantation to remove trees from around tributary streams, and hence reduce any further risk of acidification. The Afon Gwyrfai is likely to be most vulnerable to cumulative impacts of small-scale changes along its length which may affect water quality and habitat structure.




The Development Strategy Two small settlements immediately adjacent to the SAC, Rhyd Ddu and Betws Garmon, are both identified as Smaller Settlements and would experience very little change as a result of the LPD. 54 houses are proposed across 27 Smaller Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for each settlement is not stipulated. Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy also allows improvements to and new community facilities to be provided to serve local residents only. The very small scale of development in these settlements is very unlikely to result in any form of adverse impact upon the SAC.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality.


No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Furthermore: Housing policies within the Gwynedd UDP support additional dwellings in the countryside and on exceptions sites bordering rural villages, subject to Policy B14: Protection of International Nature Conservation Sites. In practice, this caveat would exclude any potentially harmful development in the lower reaches of the Afon Gwyrfai.





Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting.





Positive impacts on water quality would be reinforced by actions arising from the joint CCW/Forestry Commission management plan for Beddgelert Forest.





Development Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exception sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.

Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites also states that there should be no adverse effects upon the integrity of European Sites as a result of affordable housing on exception sites.

No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Furthermore: Housing policies within the Gwynedd UDP support additional dwellings in the countryside and on exceptions sites bordering rural villages, subject to Policy B14: Protection of International Nature Conservation Sites. In practice, this caveat would exclude any potentially harmful development in the lower reaches of the Afon Gwyrfai.


Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification promotes non-farming uses of agricultural land. Land use changes in the catchment of the Afon Gwyrfai pose a threat to the qualifying interests through changes to water chemistry as a result of runoff and discharges.

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes, the Sandford3 Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose.

Adverse impacts on the integrity of the SAC, as a result of this policy will be highly unlikely. The area of agricultural land in the upper parts of the Gwyrfai catchment is small, and the limited diversification possible under the policy would cause imperceptible impacts to the integrity of the SAC.

The river will be sensitive to agricultural practices and land use changes lower down the Gwyrfai valley and to operations by the Forestry Commission in Beddgelert Forest. These are tightly controlled by Policy B14 of the Gwynedd UDP and the measures within the CCW/Forestry Commission management plan for the forest. No in-combination effects predicted.




3 Section 62 of the Environment Act 1995 makes clear that if National Park purposes are in conflict then conservation must have priority. This is known as the ‘Sandford Principle’ and stems from the Sandford Committee’s recommendation, in 1974




Site Names Berwyn Type of Site SPA Size of Site 24187.53ha

Site Description Berwyn is located on the eastern side of Snowdonia. Its upland character contains the largest stands of upland European dry heath and tract of near-natural blanket bog in Wales. The site consists mainly of bogs, marshes, fens, heath, scrub, phygrana and dry grassland.


During the breeding season the area regularly supports: Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus): 2.2% of the Great Britain (GB) breeding population (5 year mean, 1991-1995) [Status: Unfavourable as a result of nest predation, poor weather or unavailability of food (circumstantial evidence) or nest abandonment due to unidentified reasons] Merlin (Falco columbarius: 1.1% of the GB breeding population (5 year mean, 1991-1995) [Status: Unfavourable as a result of nest predation, poor weather or unavailability of food (circumstantial evidence) or unidentified reasons such as nest abandonment due to possible disturbance] Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus): 1.5% of the GB breeding population (5 year mean, 1991-1995) [Status: Unfavourable as a result of nest predation, poor weather or unavailability of food (circumstantial evidence) or unidentified reasons such as nest abandonment and in occasional cases nests theft] Red Kite (Milvus milvus): 1.2% of the GB breeding population (5 year mean, 1991-1995) [Status: Unknown]


Vulnerability

The breeding habitats of the hen harrier, merlin, red kite and peregrine are threatened by inappropriate agricultural operations such as drainage and reseeding, application of fertilisers and the adoption of damaging grazing regimes. These problems are being addressed successfully by means of management agreements with owners and occupiers and through joint agreement via the Tir Cymen Scheme. The breeding productivity of the ground nesting hen harriers and merlins is vulnerable to high levels of predation by species such as fox and carrion crow. Landowners are encouraged to use appropriate measures to control pest species. All the qualifying species are vulnerable to human persecution, by disturbance or destruction of nests, eggs or young; as well as illegal killing of adult birds. Liaison with owners, the police and the RSPB, as well as improving public understanding is attempting to address this problem.




The Development Strategy The Plan directs development to existing settlements. The small area of the SPA within the National Park is high, remote and forested with no settlements and, therefore there will be no land use changes either within or adjacent to the European SIte.

Outside of existing settlements new development must conform to Development Policy 1: General Development Principles, which require good access and environmental safeguards. There are also a series of avoidance measures in Section 3 of the LDP; ‘Protecting, Enhancing and Managing the Natural Environment’ and the plan is intended to be read as a whole.

The LDP would have no impact upon the agricultural practices that pose the greatest threat to the qualifying interests. No land use changes are foreseen and therefore no impacts are predicted.

The SPA extends far beyond the boundaries of the National Park into Powys, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham, and will also be liable to impacts from spatial plans for these areas. The UDPs of the four identified local authorities all contain policies to protect the integrity of European Sites. As no impacts are predicted as a result of the LDP, there can be no in-combination effects with even minor impacts caused by these plans.





No significant in-combination effects have been identified from a review of relevant plans and projects.


No relevant policies. No mitigation required. No effects on the SPA predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


No communities are present within the area of the SPA and so there will be no land use changes that could affect the site.

No mitigation required. No effects on the SPA predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.






Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification promotes non-farming uses of agricultural land. Land uses changes near the SPA may impact upon the abundance of suitable prey for the raptors that comprise the qualifying interests. The promotion of tourism by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation may lead to increased visitor pressure in upland areas. Disturbance to ground nesting birds may result.

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes, the Sandford Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose. Tourism development will only be supported in accessible, sustainable locations and not where the Special Qualities of the National Park may be affected. Berwyn is an isolated and remote part of the National Park not subject to tourist pressure and does not meet this criterion. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.

Changes to the use of land and the development of new buildings on agricultural holdings sanctioned by Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification would have no effect upon the qualifying interests. Any changes are likely to be imperceptible in the context of the range and behaviour of the species concerned. Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the SPA predicted.

The site will be sensitive to operations by the Forestry Commission in Penllyn Forest. Conserving and enhancing biodiversity is an objective of WAG’s Woodlands for Wales Strategy. This document provides additional support for protecting the integrity of designated conservation sites in or adjacent to forested areas. The UDPs of the four previously identified local authorities all contain policies to protect the integrity of European Sites. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.

Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and, therefore, is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.





Site Names Berwyn a Mynyddoedd de Clwyd / Berwyn and the South Clwyd Mountains Type of Site SAC Size of Site 27221.21ha

Site Description Berwyn is located on the eastern side of Snowdonia. Its upland character contains the largest stands of upland European dry heath and tract of near-natural blanket bog in Wales. The site consists mainly of bogs, marshes, fens, heath, scrub, phygrana and dry grassland.


European dry heaths [Status: Unfavourable – declining due to a lack of species diversity as a result of fragmentation and overgrazing] Blanket bogs (Priority feature) [Status: Unfavourable – declining due to inappropriate grazing, burning and drainage]


Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies: on calcerous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia) [Status: Unfavourable due to the presence of nettles and thistles as a result of intensive grazing] Calcareous and calchist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii) [Status: Unfavourable due to grazing pressure] Transition mires and quaking bogs [Status: Unfavourable as inferred by an absence of positive indicator species] Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [Status: Unfavourable due to poor species diversity]

Conservation Objectives To achieve the Favourable Conservation Status of the above Habitats. Full details are given in Appendix D.

Vulnerability

The blanket bog, heaths, fens, and grasslands have been threatened by inappropriate agricultural development including drainage, reseeding, the application of fertilisers, burning, track construction and the adoption of damaging grazing regimes. Some areas of grassland and heath are also threatened by the encroachment of bracken. These problems are being addressed successfully by means of management agreements with owners and occupiers and through joint agreements with the Tir Gofal scheme. Local tourist pressure and damage by recreational vehicles can cause erosion problems. This is being addressed by visitor management and wardening as well as positive management works of vegetation reinstatement on eroded areas.




The Development Strategy The LDP directs development to existing settlements. The small area of the SAC within the National Park is high, remote and forested with no settlements and, therefore there will be no land use changes either within or adjacent to the European SIte.

Outside of existing settlements new development must conform to Development Policy 1: General Development Principles, which require good access and environmental safeguards. There are also a series of avoidance measures in Section 3 of the LDP; ‘Protecting, Enhancing and Managing the Natural Environment’ and the LDP is intended to be read as a whole.

The LDP would have no impact upon the agricultural practices that pose the greatest threat to the qualifying interests. No land use changes are foreseen and therefore no impacts are predicted.

The SAC extends far beyond the boundaries of the National Park into Powys, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham, and will also be liable to impacts from spatial plans for these areas. The UDPs of the four identified local authorities all contain policies to protect the integrity of European Sites. As no impacts are predicted as a result of the LDP, there can be no in-combination effects with even minor impacts caused by these plans.





Positive impacts on qualifying interests would be reinforced by the management agreements already in place.


No relevant policies. No mitigation required. No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


No communities are present within the area of the SAC and so there will be no land use changes that could affect the site.

No mitigation required. No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.






Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification promotes non-farming uses of agricultural land. Changes in land use or management may impact upon the health and extent of vegetation in the SAC. The promotion of tourism by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation may lead to increased visitor pressure in upland areas. Greater numbers of walkers on footpaths in the SAC may cause compaction, loss of vegetation and erosion of vulnerable soils. Off-road vehicles are a direct threat to the integrity of the site.

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes, the Sandford Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose. Tourism development will only be supported in accessible, sustainable locations and not where the Special Qualities of the National Park may be affected. Berwyn is an isolated and remote part of the National Park not subject to tourist pressure and does not meet this criterion. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.

Changes to the use of land and the development of new buildings on agricultural holdings sanctioned by Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification would have no significant impact upon the qualifying interests. Any changes are likely to be imperceptible in the context of the range and behaviour of the species concerned. Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the SAC predicted.

The site will be sensitive to operations by the Forestry Commission in Penllyn Forest. Conserving and enhancing biodiversity is an objective of WAG’s Woodlands for Wales Strategy. This document provides additional support for protecting the integrity of designated conservation sites in or adjacent to forested areas. The UDPs of the four previously identified local authorities all contain policies to protect the integrity of European Sites. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.






Site Name Cadair Idris Type of Site SAC Size of Site 3785.05ha

Site Description Located in the south-western corner of the National Park, this area is a mountainous range with lakes located in upland cwms and well-distributed vegetation on boulder scree.


Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoeto-Nanojuncetea [Condition: Favourable – unclassified] Siliceous scree of the montane to snow level (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani) [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [Condition: Favourable – maintained]


Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [Condition: Unfavourable – declining due to invasion by Molinia and Jancus squarrosus, overgrazing, burning and subsequent erosion] Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) [Condition: Unfavourable – declining as sward too high or scrub, trees or bracken present] Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Blanket bogs [Condition: Unfavourable – declining due to invasion by Eriophorum vaginatum and Jancus squarrosus] Alkaline fens [Condition: Favourable – maintained] European dry heaths [Condition: Unfavourable – declining due to low ericoid cover as a result of overgrazing] Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [Condition: Unfavourable – recovering due to the presence of conifers]


Marsh fritillary butterfly (Euphydryas (Eurodryas, Hypodryas) aurinia) [Condition: Unfavourable – declining as under-grazing failing to provide good quality habitat] Slender green feather-moss (Hamatocaulis vernicosus) [Condition: Favourable – maintained]


Vulnerability

The area is very popular for walking, with heavy visitor pressure causing localised damage to the vegetation. However this problem is being addressed by the Snowdonia Upland Path Partnership (CCW/SNPA/NT). The moorland has been grazed and burnt heavily in some areas leading to an increase in the grassland component. However CCW is discussing management agreements with owners on the site in order to reduce the grazing levels to an appropriate level, and to restrict heather burning. The National Nature Reserve section of the site is managed according to a CCW management plan, but suffers from the fact that CCW does not own the grazing rights. The high rainfall renders the site vulnerable to acidification.




The Development Strategy No settlements listed in the LDP hierarchy are located within or adjacent to the SAC. To the north, Dolgellau’s status as a Local Service Centre identifies it as a more sustainable location for new economic development, including retail, tourist and other employment sites. Conversion of rural buildings and the construction of new housing to serve an essential need to live in the countryside are sanctioned under Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy. Localised impacts on the SAC may be possible.


Dolgellau lies too far to the north for development within its boundary to impact upon the qualifying interests of the SAC. Any development in or adjacent to the SAC would not be permitted under Section 3 of the LDP. No effects on the SAC predicted.






Positive impacts on qualifying interests would be reinforced by the planned and existing management agreements.











The promotion of tourism by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation may see increases in the numbers of people accessing parts of the SAC. Walkers in particular may contribute to ground compaction, loss of vegetation and erosion of vulnerable soils that support the qualifying interests. Several campsites adjoin the SAC whose potential expansion is sanctioned under Development Policy 22: Touring and Camping Sites.

The focus of Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation is on promoting sustainable tourism that enables appreciation of the Special Qualities of the National Park. The policy specifically excludes developments that adversely impact upon European Sites. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment would also apply and would eliminate the risk of campsite expansion to the SAC.

There would be no effects on the SAC as a consequence of policies in the LDP. Strategic Policies D: Natural Environment and L: Tourism and Recreation provide sufficient protection to the SAC against indirect effects of minor development.







Site Name Coedydd Aber Type of Site SAC Size of Site 346.20ha

Site Description The site is the largest continuous area of old sessile oak wood along the North Wales coast, and gives geographic representation of the habitat between the large examples further south in Wales, and those to the north in Cumbria. The main woodland extends along a valley, rising steeply from near sea level. The site is also important for its breeding bird assemblage.

Annex I Habitats that are the primary reason for site selection Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [Status: Unfavourable due to unsuitable grazing practices]


Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) (Priority feature) [Status: Unfavourable due to a lack of native seedlings and high proportion of young Sycamore (awaiting results of 2007/8 monitoring)]

Conservation Objectives To achieve the Favourable Conservation Status of the above Habitats. Full details are given in Appendix D.

Vulnerability The woodland habitat is relatively robust, but there is scope for its enhancement through removal of conifers and other invasive species. Part of the site has recently been entered into a Tir Gofal agreement. The involvement of Forest Enterprise is necessary to ensure improved conservation management and better integration of existing and restored woodland on the higher slopes above the Aber valley and to ensure the current integrity of the site is maintained.




The Development Strategy Located less than 100m from the SAC, Abergwyngregyn is classified as a Secondary Settlement with the potential for providing new small-scale housing, employment and community facilities. 380 houses are proposed across 39 Secondary Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Abergwyngregyn is not stipulated. No direct land-take within the SAC is proposed. Housing has the potential to affect woodland habitat by increasing recreationa pressure. However, development of this scale is extremely unlikely to adversely affect the adjacent oak woodlands.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting.


The SAC lies wholly within Snowdonia National Park. No neighbouring spatial plans are relevant. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.

Protecting, Enhancing & Managing the The policies within this group, and the Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment states Positive impacts upon the European site as a No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and





Natural Environment objectives behind their creation, support the integrity of European Sites and the objectives of nature conservation.

that biodiversity resources will be protected from inappropriate development. There is a specific clause addressing the Habitats Regulations and the need for all future developments to meet their requirements.

result of measures to support nature conservation within the planning process.

hence no in-combination effects are likely.









Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Potential improvements to tourism facilities would be supported by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. These may include new buildings, extended car parking, and new walking or cycling trails. If located in the SAC woodland they could pose a threat to the SAC through compaction and erosion of qualifying interests.

The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1 which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.

Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the SAC predicted.

Conserving and enhancing biodiversity is an objective of WAG’s Woodlands for Wales Strategy. This document provides additional support for protecting the integrity of designated conservation sites in or adjacent to forested areas. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.

Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported







where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.



Site Name Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion / Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites Type of Site SAC / cSAC Size of Site 2813.02ha

Site Description The Meirionnydd Oakwoods are centred on the Ffestiniog area but comprise a large number of individual habitat units. They are a significant example of old sessile oakwoods. They stretch along a series of inter-connected valleys with a wide variety of slopes and aspects including many narrow ravines and gorges, and extend into the Rhinog SAC.

Annex I Habitats that are a primary reason for site selection

Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [Condition: Unfavourable – recovering due to lack of dead wood] Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) [Condition: Unfavourable – unclassified due to lack of dead wood (questionable)]


Watercourses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [Condition: Not assessed] European dry heaths [Condition: Unfavourable due to scrub, tree & bracken encroachment and tall. Bushy nature of heather] Bog woodland [Condition: Unfavourable – unclassified due to presence of invasive and non-native species] Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [Condition: Not assessed] Tilio-Acerion forests of slopes, screes and ravines [Condition: Favourable maintained]

Annex II Species that are a primary reason for site selection Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) [Condition: Favourable]


Vulnerability

Management of the key features of these woodlands i.e. the Atlantic bryophyte and lichen assemblages requires light grazing of the field layer vegetation, usually by sheep. This must be balanced against the requirements to allow natural regeneration of trees. There are CCW management plans for the areas declared as National Nature Reserves. In other areas there are S15 management agreements with landowners and occupiers where appropriate grazing regimes have been implemented. Within the NNRs, fencing is maintained to allow grazing regimes ranging from total exclusion to relatively heavy periodic grazing. Mosses and liverworts in gorges where recreational activities such as gorge-walking and extreme canoeing take place are threatened by over-use. A Code of Conduct is being drawn up, combined with restrictions on use. Feral goats present within some of the sites require careful control to prevent bark-stripping and browsing damage to sapling and seedling trees. CCW undertakes annual monitoring of the herds throughout the SAC and implements control measures when numbers exceed set limits. Due to the very acid nature of the soils throughout the woodlands, they are vulnerable to acidification. In the past the heathland has been threatened by inappropriate burning/grazing and afforestation. These issues are being addressed through agri-environment schemes (Tir Cymen/Tir Gofal) and S15 Management Agreements. The populations of lesser horseshoe bats are most vulnerable in their summer and winter roosts. They are also affected by a reduction in the availability of insect prey due to changes in agricultural practices and pesticide use. Roosts are most often protected through the planning system, by incorporating the bats’ requirements into the plans at an early stage. Also many roosts in mine adits have now been grilled to prevent disturbance to hibernating bats.




The Development Strategy Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy establishes a settlement hierarchy to distribute development across the National Park. The following settlements are identified for development which lie either adjacent to or in close proximity to this widely spread SAC/cSAC. Local Service Centre (225 houses spread across two settlements) employment land allocated, new or improved local facilities and retail development: Dolgellau. The allocated employment land lies within the existing built up area and is already developed land. Service Settlement (110 houses across five settlements) employment development, new or improved local facilities and retail development: Harlech. Secondary Settlements (380 houses spread across 39 settlements) employment development and new or improved local facilities: 11 settlements identified.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and

No effects on the SAC/cSAC predicted.

The SAC/cSAC lies wholly within Snowdonia National Park. No neighbouring spatial plans are relevant. A number of proposed road schemes have the potential to adversely affect the SAC/cSAC. These include: improvements to the A470 (T) at Gelligemlyn (two schemes) and Cross Foxes and also the Porthmadog bypass. However, no effects are predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects with these projects are likely.





Smaller Settlements (54 houses spread across 27 settlements) new or improved local facilities. No direct land-take within the SAC/cSAC would occur so it is not considered that such development would result in adverse effects upon the Annex I habitats identified as qualifying interests. However, taking a precautionary approach, increased levels of polluted surface run-off may occur which could find there way into the SAC/cSAC in some areas where proposals are immediately adjacent to the SAC/cSAC boundary. It is considered very unlikely that this would have a significant effect. Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy also allows conversions of rural buildings in the open countryside. This is further supported by Development Policies 7: Listed and Traditional Buildings and 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings. Locations of buildings are not specified but could viably be within the SAC/cSAC and may contain lesser horseshoe bat roosts. Conversions of these buildings have the potential to adversely affect these roosts and consequently bat populations.

Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. Furthermore, Development Policies7: Listed and Traditional Buildings and 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings would not allow such conversions if they were to result in significant adverse effects upon protected species or if significant adverse effects upon the integrity of a European Site were likely.


The policies within this group, and the objectives behind their creation, support the integrity of European Sites and the objectives of nature conservation. ‘Green wedges’ along the Ardudwy coast should aid foraging for bats in nearby units.





Development Policy 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings supports the conversion of redundant rural buildings, which may be used as roosting sites by lesser horseshoe bats. Conversions of these buildings have the potential to adversely affect these roosts and consequently bat populations. Development Policy 7: Listed and Traditional Buildings also allows conversions and changes under exceptional circumstances. Such buildings, if within the SAC/cSAC may also house lesser horseshoe bat roosts which may be affected by conversions.

In addition to the stringent requirements of Strategic Policy D, Development Policies 7 and 9 would not allow conversions if they were to result in significant adverse effects upon protected species or if significant adverse effects upon the integrity of a European Site were likely.




Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on


No effects on the SAC/cSAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.





Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exceptional sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.


Development Policy 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings supports the conversion of rural buildings for employment uses in certain circumstances. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed above.

See above. No effects on the SAC/cSAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.



No effects on the SAC predicted. A number of proposed road schemes have the potential to adversely affect the SAC/cSAC. These include: improvements to the A470 (T) at Gelligemlyn (two schemes) and Cross Foxes and also the Porthmadog bypass. However, no effects are predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects with these projects are likely.



Site Names Cors Fochno and Dyfi Type of Site Ramsar Size of Site 2492.24ha

Site Description

A bar-built estuarine complex, comprising the Dyfi estuary, two calcareous dune systems, and a large raised mire. The Dyfi is one of the best examples in north-west Europe of a small, drying, nutrient-poor estuary, which has been relatively unaffected by industrial development. A wide range of estuarine habitats are present, including rare transitions to peatland. Cors Fochno is of international importance being the type locality for estuarine raised mire and one of the largest active raised mires in the United Kingdom. The site is designated as Wales’ only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Justification for the application of each Criterion Ramsar Criterion 1: The site contains the largest expanse of primary raised mire in lowland Britain; the largest estuarine raised mire, and third-largest ‘active’ raised mire in Britain.

Conservation Objectives

Maintain the existing extent and quality of grazing marsh Rehabilitate areas which have become too dry or intensively managed Create grazing marsh from arable land in targeted areas The Conservation Objectives for the Cors Fochno SAC and Aber Dyfi SPA are also relevant to this site, and are presented in Appendix D.

Vulnerability Despite covering a much larger area, the qualifying interest for the Ramsar site is restricted to the area of the raised mire at Cors Fochno. Threats to the integrity of the Aber Dyfi SPA are described in the relevant table above, though are not directly relevant to the Ramsar site.




The Development Strategy Located on the north bank of the estuary, Aberdyfi is classified as a Service Settlement capable of absorbing developments that serve a wider area, including small scale affordable housing, retail and employment sites. 110 houses are proposed across five Service Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Aberdyfi is not stipulated. Only a small part of the European site lies within the LDP jurisdiction – the north bank of the Dyfi and part of the channel itself. No land use changes are proposed higher up the Dyfi Valley. No direct land-take within the Ramsar site is proposed. Given that no development would take place on the foreshore of the estuary and the scale of development proposed is very small, it is not considered that any adverse effects upon the sensitive features of the Ramsar site are possible.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to

No effects on the Ramsar site predicted.

The Afon Dyfi drains an area partly outside the National Park which is subject to the planning policies of Gwynedd Council and Ceredigion Council. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Furthermore: Policy B14 of the Gwynedd UDP provides strong protection for internationally designated sites of nature conservation. Proposals likely to have a significantly adverse impact, either in isolation or in combination with other plans, will be refused unless there is no alternative, an overriding public interest and a threat to public health and safety. The UDP then requires compensatory measures and enhancement of remaining features. The southern part of the estuary is subject to Policy ENV1.2 of the Ceredigion UDP which affords protection to international conservation sites similar to that outlined above.





its setting.





No significant in-combination effects have been identified from a review of relevant plans and projects.


No relevant policies. No additional mitigation required. No effects on the Ramsar site predicted. No significant in-combination effects have been identified from a review of relevant plans and projects.




No effects on the Ramsar site predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Tourism in the National Park is generally promoted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. Such activities could result in direct physical harm to sensitive features of the Ramsar site

The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.

Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the Ramsar site predicted.

No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Leisure impacts are monitored by on-site wardens as part of the RSPB/CCW management arrangements.

Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites.

Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under






Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.

the Habitats Regulations.



Site Name Corsydd Eifionydd Type of Site SAC Size of Site 144.32ha

Site Description The site embraces four isolated topogeneous peatlands situated within the upland fringe transition between Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula.

Annex I Habitats that are the primary reason for site selection Transition mires and quaking bogs [Status: Unfavourable – declining due to under-grazing, scrub encroachment and uncontrolled burning]


Marsh fritillary butterfly (Euphydryas (Eurodryas, Hypodryas) aurinia) [Condition: Unfavourable – declining due to limited good quality habitat] Slender green feather-moss (Drepanocladus vernicosus) [Status: Unfavourable – declining due to under-grazing and scrub encroachment]


Vulnerability The site is under one principal threat - scrub encroachment due to a lack of grazing, which is a reflection of the inaccessible, boggy nature of the terrain. Drainage and pollution are additional threats.




The Development Strategy The majority of the SAC lies outside the National Park and is not, therefore, directly affected by the LDP. The one unit within the National Park is not adjacent to any settlements or land use designations. Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy allows some housing or community facilities in the open countryside where there is an essential need. If such housing or facilities were proposed within the SAC then it may result in adverse effects upon the qualifying interests.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.


The remaining three units of the SAC are subject to planning policies within the Gwynedd UDP. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Furthermore: A review of the Gwynedd UDP has not raised any concerns for this European Site. Policy B14 of the Gwynedd UDP provides strong protection for internationally designated sites of nature conservation. Proposals likely to have a significantly adverse impact, either in isolation or in combination with other plans, will be refused unless there is no alternative, an overriding public interest and a threat to public health and safety. The UDP then requires compensatory measures and enhancement of remaining features.







No relevant policies. No additional mitigation required. No effects on the SAC predicted. No significant in-combination effects have been identified from a review of relevant plans and projects.


In addition to the effects of Strategic Policy C, Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exceptional sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in







adverse effects.


Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification allows non-farming uses of agricultural land. Land use changes near the SAC may affect the quality of mire and bog habitat and grazing intensity and consequently some of the qualifying species which are dependent upon it.

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes, the Sandford Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.








Site Name Craig yr Aderyn / Bird’s Rock Type of Site SPA Size of Site 89.26ha

Site Description A small site consisting mainly of dry grassland and inland rocks, screes, sands and permanent snow and ice.


During the breeding season the area regularly supports: Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax): 1.8% of the GB breeding population (1999). This increases to 8% of the GB population (1996) in winter months [Status: Favourable – maintained]


Vulnerability The chough and Wales’ only inland cormorant breeding colony are each vulnerable to disturbance, as the crags are a well known climbing site. This is being addressed by imposing restrictions on when the activity can take place. The grazing pressure is regulated by a Tir Cymen management agreement at the moment, to produce favourable chough feeding habitat.




The Development Strategy The site is a considerable distance from any identified settlements or land use designations.

None required No effects on the SPA predicted. The SPA lies wholly within the LDP boundary. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.






No relevant policies None required No effects on the SPA predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.





Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion No relevant policies None required No effects on the SPA predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.



Site Names Eryri / Snowdonia Type of Site SAC Size of Site 19737.60ha

Site Description Snowdonia is a vast and ranging area comprising grassland, rock outcrops, screes, heath, scrub, marshes, bogs and water bodies including upland corries.


Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoeto-Nanojuncetea [Status: Unfavourable – recovering] Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani) [Status: Unfavourable due to disturbance by sheep, goats and humans] Siliceous alpine and boreal grasslands [Status: Unfavourable – declining due to low cover of dwarf shrubs, decline of Racomitrium and excessive grass cover Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [Status: Unfavourable due to grazing and presence of invasive species] Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels [Status: Unfavourable as a result of grazing pressure] Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [Status: Unfavourable / Unclassified due to overgrazing and inappropriate recreational pressure. Further research required]


Alpine and subalpine calcareous grasslands [Status: Unfavourable due to Epilobium brunnescens cover and lack of flowering plants] Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [Status: Unfavourable] Alpine and Boreal heaths [Status: Unfavourable due to patchy and discontinuous extent] Alkaline fens [Status: Favourable – maintained] Species-rich Nardus grassland, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas in continental Europe) (Priority feature) [Status: Unfavourable as a result of grazing] Alpine pioneer formations of the Caricion bicoloris-atrofuscae (Priority feature) [Status: Unfavourable – declined due to dispersed and remote pockets] Blanket bogs (Priority feature) [Status: Unfavourable due to past grazing, burning and drainage] Depressions on peat substrates with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) [Status: Favourable – maintained] Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [Status: Unfavourable – recovering as the effects of past grazing diminish] European dry heaths [Status: Unfavourable for varied reasons including over- and under-grazing]

Annex II Species that are a primary reason for site selection Slender green feather-moss Drepanocladus (Hamatocaulis) vernicosus [Status: Favourable – maintained] Floating water-plantain Luronium natans [Status: Unclassified]


Vulnerability

The area is extensively grazed by sheep. In many areas, overgrazing takes place, ericaceous species are being suppressed, grass species are dominating and montane communities such as moss heath are being damaged and reduced in area. Resolution of this problem is complex, due to the breakdown of traditional shepherding, other changes in livestock management on these open mountain areas, and the economics of upland farming. This is being actively tackled by the CCW by the negotiation of management agreements. Snowdonia, which contains the highest peaks in Wales, has long been used for rock-climbing and fellwalking. It is subject to intense recreational pressures and where these are concentrated, particularly on paths and summit areas, there are severe erosion problems, despite management. However, these rarely impinge upon the special features of the area. Remedial work by SNPA, National Trust and CCW is tackling this problem. The high rainfall and extensive acidic geology/pedology renders this area, especially its watercourses and lakes, vulnerable to acidification.




The Development Strategy Nant Peris (less than 200m from the SAC) and Capel Curig (less than 500m from the SAC) are identified as Smaller Settlements. 54 houses are proposed across 27 Smaller Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses in each settlement is not stipulated. New or improved community facilities are also enabled by Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy. No direct land-take within the SAC is proposed. Given the very small scale of development proposed and the distance from the SAC, no adverse effects are considered likely. Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy allows some housing or community facilities in the open countryside where there is an essential

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites







need. If such housing or facilities were proposed within the SAC then it may result in adverse effects upon the qualifying interests.

forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.







No relevant policies None required No effects on the SAC predicted.



In addition to the effects of Strategic Policy C, Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exception sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.




Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification allows non-farming uses of agricultural land. Land uses changes near the SAC may affect the quality of mire and bog habitat and grazing intensity and consequently some of the qualifying species which are dependent upon it. Potential improvements to tourism facilities would be supported by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. These may include new buildings, extended car parking, and new walking or cycling trails. If located within the SAC they could pose a threat through erosion. However, it is unlikely that increased recreational pressure would impinge on the qualifying interests as identified in the vulnerability section of the Natura 2000 Data Form.

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes, the Sandford Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.












Site Name Glynllifon Type of Site SAC Size of Site 189.27ha

Site Description Located just outside the north-western boundary of Snowdonia National Park, this largely wooded area is both a maternity and hibernation site for a large population of lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) comprising about 6% of the UK population.

Annex II Species that are a primary reason for site selection Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) [Status: Unfavourable given the management requirements of the five roosts]


Vulnerability

The site includes the bat roost and adjacent feeding areas. The building in which the roost is located is currently on sale [June 2006], and the management of the estate grounds, including the woodlands, is being revised. A recent road improvement scheme, which has interfered with a key flightpath out of the estate and which has failed to incorporate adequate mitigation for the bats, also illustrates the pressure on this site. A management agreement exists with the current owners of the roost building but this does not extend to the feeding areas, currently excluded from the SAC. There is some scope for improving management of the site as a whole for the bats, through management agreement, agri-environment schemes and other partnership initiatives.




The Development Strategy The SAC is located outside of the National Park and is therefore not directly affected by its Development Strategy. However, Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy allows conversions of rural buildings in the open countryside. This is further supported by Development Policies 7: Listed and Traditional Buildings and 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings. Locations of buildings are not specified but could viably contain lesser horseshoe bat roosts which relate to populations within the Glynllifon SAC even though it would be outside the Park. Conversions of these buildings has the potential to adversely affect these roosts and consequently bat populations.

Development Policies 7 and 9 which relate to listed and traditional buildings and conversion of rural buildings would not allow such conversions if they were to result in significant adverse effects upon protected species or if significant adverse effects upon the integrity of a European Site were likely.









Issues associated with Development Policies 7 and 9 are discussed above.

Conversions or changes of use of rural buildings will not be permitted within European Sites or where they may have a significant adverse impact upon protected species.




No relevant policies in addition to those identified above.

None required No effects on the SAC predicted.



The LDP supports the conversion of rural buildings for employment uses.

Conversions or changes of use of rural buildings will not be permitted within European Sites or where they may have a significant adverse impact upon protected species.



Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and





development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.

makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.




Site Names Llyn Idwal Type of Site Ramsar Size of Site 13.51ha

Site Description Wholly contained within the Eryri SAC, Llyn Idwal is a small glacial lake lying above the Nant Ffrancon valley on the northern slopes of the Glydderau massif.

Justification for the application of each Criterion

Ramsar Criterion 1: A small, shallow, oligotrophic cwm lake. The semi-circular rock basin (or cwm) containing the lake is one of the finest examples in Snowdonia. Ramsar Criterion 2: Species-rich plant community, including all of the species typical of oligotrophic waters in Britain. Notable species include Elatine hexandra and Subularia aquatica (both

nationally scarce) and Pilularia globulifera (vulnerable at a European level).

Conservation Objectives No specific Conservation Objectives have been compiled for this site. The following are management objectives for all mesotrophic and oligotrophic lakes in Snowdonia National Park: Maintain diversity of flora and fauna Identify and implement effective remedial action to address nutrient enrichment Set limits of acceptable change when the trophic status is determined

Vulnerability A specific description of the vulnerability of this site has not been produced. A number of generic threats to mesotrophic and oligotrophic waters in Snowdonia National Park have been identified by the SNPA: eutrophication and associated toxic blue green algal blooms; atmospheric acid and nutrient deposition; recreational impacts; land use changes in lake catchment areas that can alter the water table, change the pollution load and degrade or remove valuable adjacent habitat; pesticide usage including sheep dip; water resources schemes; hydro-electric power schemes; climate change.




The Development Strategy The Ramsar site is located within a mountainous area remote from any potential development proposals identified in the Development Strategy.

None required No effects on the Ramsar site predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.






No relevant policies None required No effects on the Ramsar site predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


No relevant policies None required No effects on the Ramsar site predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


The area is popular with tourists. Potential improvements to tourism facilities would be supported by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. These may include new buildings and extended car parking in the area which could lead to greater numbers of tourists visiting the lake. However, it is unlikely that increased recreational pressure would impinge on the qualifying interests.

Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park.


Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport







states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.



Site Name Llyn Tegid Type of Site Ramsar Size of Site 478.08ha

Site Description A large oligotrophic lake adjacent to the town of Y Bala, Llyn Tegid is the source of the River Dee.

Justification for the application of each Criterion

Ramsar Criterion 1: Largest natural lake in Wales, lying deep in formerly glaciated trough. Ramsar Criterion 2: Plant species growing in or beside the lake are mudwort (Limosa aquatica), six-stamened waterwort (Elatine hexandra), water sedge, (Carex aquatilis) and floating water

plantain (Luronium natans), all of which are scarce in Britain. The latter species is regarded as vulnerable on a global scale. This site is also one of only six sites in Britain for whitefish (Gwyniad Coregonus lavaretus), though the Welsh population of this fish is genetically distinct. Llyn Tegid is also an unusual habitat for the normally riverine fish grayling (Thymallus thymallus). The nationally rare glutinous snail (Myxas glutinosa) has been rediscovered in the shallow gravels of the lake shore.

Conservation Objectives No specific Conservation Objectives have been compiled for this site. The following are management objectives for all mesotrophic and oligotrophic lakes in Snowdonia National Park: Maintain diversity of flora and fauna Identify and implement effective remedial action to address nutrient enrichment Set limits of acceptable change when the trophic status is determined

Vulnerability A specific description of the vulnerability of this site has not been produced. A number of generic threats to mesotrophic and oligotrophic waters in Snowdonia National Park have been identified by the SNPA: eutrophication and associated toxic blue green algal blooms; atmospheric acid and nutrient deposition; recreational impacts; land use changes in lake catchment areas that can alter the water table, change the pollution load and degrade or remove valuable adjacent habitat; pesticide usage including sheep dip; water resources schemes; hydro-electric power schemes; climate change.




The Development Strategy Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy designates Y Bala as one of two Local Service Centres in the National Park where most housing and employment development will occur. 225 houses are proposed to be spread between Y Bala and Dolgellau throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Y Bala is not stipulated. There are two housing allocations in Y Bala. However, both sites are small and neither is situated in close proximity to the European Site. One site lies within the existing development boundary, and the other lies immediately adjacent to it. Employment sites would be supported on land allocated in the proposals map. The site identified already contains significant employment development. The site lies within 100m of the European Site. Retail would be allowed close to the existing commercial areas. No direct land-take within the Ramsar site is proposed. In the absence of mitigation, effects from housing, employment and retail development of this scale is likely to be limited to an increase in surface water run-off which may contain pollutants (such as road run-off or construction materials) which could find their way into the Ramsar site. This is only likely to be of concern for the employment site where some of the site is greenfield land and is

The two housing allocations in Y Bala are very small and neither is situated in close proximity to the Ramsar site. One site lies within the existing development boundary, and the other lies immediately adjacent to it. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. As such, it is considered that if polluted run-off or discharges are predicted to occur, then appropriate mitigation measures would need to be provided as part of the design in order to comply with this LDP policy. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to

No effects on the Ramsar site predicted. Indirect impacts resulting from increased runoff or polluted discharges would be mitigated to negligible levels by the range of policy measures proposed.

No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely with respect to effects upon water quality or flow.





located nearest to the boundary of the Ramsar site.

its setting.






No relevant policies. No mitigation required. No effects on the Ramsar site predicted.



Strategic Policy Ng: Housing promotes the development of new open market and affordable housing in Y Bala. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exception sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.

Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites also states that there should be no adverse effects upon the integrity of European Sites as a result of affordable housing on exception sites. The lakeshore remains protected from development under the plan.



The Y Bala employment site is identified under The Development Strategy above. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Tourism in the National Park is generally promoted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. Such activities could result in water pollution effects upon Ramsar site qualifying interests.

The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.

Leisure and recreation activities causing an adverse impact upon the qualifying interest will not be permitted under Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation, part ii. No effects on the Ramsar site predicted.


Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not

Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection






specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.

of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.



Site Names Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt Type of Site SAC Size of Site 19968.23ha

Site Description Migneint and Dduallt mark the limits of a large upland block located along the eastern fringe of Snowdonia National Park. The site supports the largest area of blanket bog in north Wales after Berwyn and is particularly significant for the extent and quality of comparatively Sphagnum-rich M19 Calluna vulgaris – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire


European dry heaths [Status: Unfavourable as a result of inappropriate grazing, burning and presence of conifers] Blanket bogs [Status: Unfavourable due to extent of Eriophorum vaginatum, drainage, erosion of peat and presence of trees]


Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoeto-Nanojuncetea [Status: Unfavourable – recovering due to overgrazing] Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [Status: Unfavourable due to grazing, burning and drainage] Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [Status: Unfavourable due to a lack of mature tress, lack of dead wood and concerns over grazing pressure and lack of

regeneration] Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds [Status: Unfavourable – unclassified based on failures regarding water quality and forestry]


Vulnerability

The main threats to the vegetation features of this site are from inappropriate grazing/burning/drainage and consequent degradation of blanket bog and heath. Afforestation of mire and heath has also been a problem in the past. These problems are being addressed through a number of agri-environment scheme agreements (Tir Cymen/Tir Gofal) and several S15 management agreements. A joint RSPB/Forest Enterprise/CCW black grouse project has also helped restore blanket bog and heath in some areas which had previously been planted with conifers. The vegetation and lake features are vulnerable to acidification due to atmospheric pollution, which is compounded by the high rainfall and acidic geology/pedology of the site. Artificial liming of the catchment is an additional threat. In the past this site has been significantly affected by quarrying, resulting in habitat destruction.

Element of the LDP Issues & Challenges Development and Land-Use Changes and Potential Effects


The Development Strategy No development is proposed within or adjacent to this SAC through the Development Strategy. No effects are therefore likely.













Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exceptional sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.




Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification allows non-farming uses of agricultural land. Land uses changes near the

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes,






SAC may affect the quality of heath and bog habitat and grazing intensity and consequently some of the qualifying species which are dependent upon it. Potential improvements to tourism facilities would be supported by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. These may include new buildings, extended car parking, and new walking or cycling trails. If located within the SAC they could pose a threat through erosion. However, it is unlikely that increased recreational pressure would impinge on the qualifying interests as identified in the vulnerability section of the Natura 2000 Data Form.

the Sandford Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.






Site Names Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt Type of Site SPA Size of Site 19968.23ha

Site Description Migneint and Dduallt mark the limits of a large upland block located along the eastern fringe of Snowdonia National Park. The site supports the largest area of blanket bog in north Wales after Berwyn and is particularly significant for the extent and quality of comparatively Sphagnum-rich M19 Calluna vulgaris – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire


During the breeding season the area regularly supports: Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus): At least 2.1% of the GB breeding population (5 year peak mean for 1993/94 – 1997/98) [Status: Favourable] Merlin (Falco columbarius): At least 0.7% of the population in Great Britain (5 year peak mean for 1993/94 – 1997/98) [Status: Favourable] Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus): At least 1% of the population in Great Britain (5 year peak mean for 1993/94 – 1997/98) [Status: Unfavourable with low numbers of birds recorded for

reasons unknown]


Vulnerability

Inappropriate grazing/burning/drainage management has damaged the feeding/breeding habitat of hen harrier and merlin, and damaged the feeding habitat of peregrine falcon. This is being addressed in some areas through S15 Management Agreements and Tir Cymen/Tir Gofal agreements. Afforestation of blanket bog has also reduced breeding/feeding habitat in the past, but this is being addressed to some extent by a joint RSPB/Forestry Commission/CCW habitat restoration project. The feeding/breeding habitats of all three species are also vulnerable to acidification due to atmospheric pollution being compounded by the high rainfall and acidic geology/pedology of the site. This site has also been significantly affected in the past by quarrying operations which have resulted in the destruction of habitats used by breeding birds, including the three SPA species. The recreational pressure from walkers is currently fairly low and diffused across the site, but the SPA features could be affected if usage were to increase significantly close to breeding sites, for example following the implementation of the CROW Act or increased publicity through guidebooks. Persecution has been a problem in the recent past, with birds being shot at the nest. It is hoped that this threat will be reduced by greater vigilance and by raising public awareness.



The Development Strategy No development is proposed within or adjacent to this SPA through the Development Strategy. No effects are therefore likely.










No relevant policies. No mitigation required. No effects on the SPA predicted.



Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exceptional sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.




Development Policy 20: Agricultural Diversification allows non-farming uses of agricultural land. Land uses changes near the SPA may cause disturbance to qualifying bird interest or cause changes to habitat quality through different land management practices. Potential improvements to tourism facilities

The policy requires any diversification proposals to support National Park purposes. When a conflict exists between the purposes, the Sandford Principle applies that prioritises the conservation purpose. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection






would be supported by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation. These may include new buildings, extended car parking, and new walking or cycling trails. If located within the SPA they could pose a threat through erosion. However, it is unlikely that increased recreational pressure would impinge on the qualifying interests as identified in the vulnerability section of the Natura 2000 Data Form.

of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. The focus for tourism is on promoting the understanding and enjoyment of the Special Qualities of the National Park. Developments causing disturbance or generating noise or light pollution will not be permitted. New developments must comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. General Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production.

Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Tourism states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to environmental designations.





Site Name Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn Type of Site SAC Size of Site 1062.57ha

Site Description The site consists of two reserves located on the northern coast of Cardigan Bay and separated by the town of Harlech. The site is a National Nature Reserve characterised mainly by shifting dunes along the shoreline and areas of salt marsh further inland.


Embryonic shifting dunes [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Dunes with Salix repens ssp. Argentea (Salicion arenariae) [Condition: Unfavourable – declining due to cattle grazing, human disturbance and scrub encroachment] Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (‘white dunes’) [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Humid dune slacks [Condition: Unfavourable – declining due to cattle grazing, human disturbance and scrub encroachment]

Annex II Species that are a primary reason for site selection Petalwort (Petalophyllum ralfsil) has been recorded in dune slacks in the two dune systems at this site; it is most frequent at Morfa Dyffyrn. [Condition: Favourable – maintained]


Vulnerability The beaches adjacent to both dune systems are subject to heavy recreational pressure, particularly in the summer months. Access points through the dunes are actively managed to minimise dune destabilisation by visitors. Morfa Dyffryn is especially vulnerable as it is actively mobile and has a limited external sand supply.



The Development Strategy Located immediately adjacent to the SAC, Harlech is classified as a Service Settlement capable of absorbing developments that serve a wider area, including small scale affordable housing, retail and employment sites. 110 houses are proposed across five Service Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Harlech is not stipulated. Whilst no housing, employment or retail sites would directly affect the SAC, the associated population growth may contribute to increased recreational pressure on the SAC causing, for example, additional erosion of dune features or access points. However, the levels of growth proposed are so small, it is not considered to be likely to result in a perceptible effect upon the site.

No mitigation required. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.

No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. Furthermore: The Draft Final Wales Coastal Tourism Strategy (WAG, 2007) does not contain any proposals which could adversely affect this area. The North Cardigan Bay Shoreline Management Plan (Gwynedd Council, Highways and Engineering Department, Coast Protection Unit, January 2002) divides the coast between Dyfi railway bridge and Aberdaron at the tip of the Lleyn Peninsula into 13 management units, with each further subdivided according to local topography and land use. It sets the preferred management option for each sub-unit - Hold the Line, Advance the Line, Retreat or Do Nothing. • There are no Advance the Line options

within the National Park. • Retreat is the chosen option between

Aberdyfi golf course and the outskirts of Tywyn and at Llwyngwril.

• Hold the Line is selected at built up areas (Aberdyfi, Fairbourne, Barmouth, Tywyn, Llandanwg, Porthmadog), at Rola where the railway line runs close to the coast and on the south side of the Mawddach estuary.

• Do Nothing is selected everywhere else. As such, no adverse effects upon the SAC are predicted.

Protecting, Enhancing & Managing the The policies within this group, and the Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment states No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and




Natural Environment objectives behind their creation, support the integrity of European Sites and the objectives of nature conservation.

that biodiversity resources will be protected from inappropriate development. There is a specific clause addressing the Habitats Regulations and the need for all future developments to meet their requirements.



No relevant policies None required No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.


Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exceptional sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.




Expansion of neighbouring camping and caravan sites is supported within Development Policy 22: Touring and Camping Sites. The associated growth in visitor numbers may contribute to increased recreational pressure on the SAC causing, for example, additional erosion of dune features or access points. However, the levels of growth proposed are so small, it is not considered to be likely to result in a perceptible effect upon the site.

It is unlikely that these small increases in visitor numbers would have a noticeable effect upon the SAC. However, Strategic Policy D would also need to be considered which makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations.

No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. See comments regarding the Coastal Tourism Strategy and Shoreline Management Plan above.






Site Name Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir / Gwydyr Forest Mines Type of Site SAC Size of Site 39.75ha

Site Description This site consists of a large number of small habitat units within a largely coniferous forested area between the towns of Betws-y-Coed and Llanrwst.

Annex I Habitats that are the primary reason for site selection Calaminarian grasslands of the Violetalia calaminariae [Status: Unfavourable due to encroachment from higher plants, smothering by conifer needles, removal of mine spoil, recreation]


Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) [Status: Unfavourable as entrances are unsecured leading to the potential for disturbance from either natural or anthropogenic sources]


Vulnerability The component grassland sites are generally unmanaged and are not used recreationally. The SAC will require continued monitoring for purposes such as the assessment of conifer encroachment, as well as an agreement with the site owners to effect positive management.



The Development Strategy Located approximately 500m to the south of one unit of the SAC, Betws-y-Coed is classified as a Service Settlement capable of absorbing developments that serve a wider area, including small scale affordable housing, retail and employment sites. 110 houses are proposed across five Service Settlements throughout the plan period. The exact number of houses proposed for Aberdyfi is not stipulated. No direct land-take within the SAC is proposed and the distance from the site suggests that indirect impacts upon Calaminarian grasslands is very unlikely. Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy also allows conversions of rural buildings in the open countryside. This is further supported by Development Policies 7: Listed and Traditional Buildings and 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings. Locations of buildings are not specified but could viably be within the SAC and may contain lesser horseshoe bat roosts. Conversions of these buildings have the potential to adversely affect these roosts and consequently bat populations.

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting. Furthermore, Development Policies 7 and 9 which relate to listed and traditional buildings and conversion of rural buildings would not


Gwydyr Forest lies in the far north-east of the National Park. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.




allow such conversions if they were to result in significant adverse effects upon protected species or if significant adverse effects upon the integrity of a European Site were likely.







Development Policy 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings supports the conversion of redundant rural buildings, which may be used as roosting sites by lesser horseshoe bats. Conversions of these buildings have the potential to adversely affect these roosts and consequently bat populations. Development Policy 7: Listed and Traditional Buildings also allows conversions and changes under exceptional circumstances. Such buildings, if within the SAC may also house lesser horseshoe bat roosts which may be affected by conversions.

In addition to the stringent requirements of Strategic Policy D, Development Policies 7 and 9 would not allow conversions if they were to result in significant adverse effects upon protected species or if significant adverse effects upon the integrity of a European Site were likely.








Development Policy 9 supports the conversion of rural buildings for employment uses in certain circumstances. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed above.

See above. No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.

Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion The LDP does not stipulate specific transport development proposals and therefore is not specific to effects upon individual European sites. Strategic Policy LI: Accessibility and Transport states that development will be supported where changes to the road network do not damage or cause adverse effects to






environmental designations.



Site Name Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau / Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau Type of Site SAC Size of Site 146,023.48ha

Site Description A large marine area extending from Penrhyn Nefyn on the northern shore of the Lleyn Peninsula to just north of Aberystwyth in mid-Wales. It includes the shores of Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli), the Sarnau reefs in Cardigan Bay and the Glaslyn-Dwyryd, Mawddach and Dyfi estuaries.


Large shallow inlets and bays Estuaries Coastal lagoons Reefs Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time


Mud-flats and sand-flats not covered by seawater at low tide Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand Submerged or partially submerged sea caves


Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncates) Grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) Otter (Lutra lutra)


Vulnerability

Construction, e.g. of slipways, coastal defence and marinas/harbours could cause disturbance to the estuarine, intertidal mudflat and sandflat, and reef habitats and disrupt physical processes essential for maintenance of these habitats. There is an increasing demand for additional facilities and/or upgrading existing facilities. Certain reef communities are vulnerable to disturbance from specific fishing methods, in particular heavy bottom-fishing gear. The potential impacts of heavy bottom-fishing gear on the subtidal sandbank and shallow inlet and bay habitats will need to be assessed. There is the possibility of future drilling for oil and gas in Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea as well as the possibility of offshore wind power developments – CCW is advising the on potential impacts and possible ways of minimising these. Many of the marine wildlife communities in the SAC are sensitive to oil pollution. The development of oilwells and boat traffic in the Irish Sea present potential pollution sources. The North Wales Standing Environment Group is preparing a regional contingency plan to help coordinate response to try and minimise environmental impacts in the event of a pollution incident.



The Development Strategy Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy establishes a settlement hierarchy to distribute development across the National Park. The following settlements are identified for development which lie either adjacent to or in close proximity to the SAC. Service Settlement (110 houses across five settlements) employment development, new or improved local facilities and retail development: Aberdyfi – adjacent to the SAC. All proposals are within or adjacent to existing built-up areas away from the foreshore. Secondary Settlements (380 houses spread across 39 settlements) employment development and new or improved local facilities: Llanelltyd (adjacent to SAC) and

New developments to comply with Strategic Policy A: National Park Purposes and Sustainable Development and Development Policy 1: General Development Principles which seek to protect European designated sites as a priority. Development Policy 1 also states that development will only be permitted where: it will not have an unacceptable impact through discharges or emissions to air, soil, surface and ground water; and, it does not cause significant harm to the environment by way of noise, dust, vibration, odour, light pollution, hazardous materials or waste production. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment makes very strong provision for the protection

No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. The Draft Final Wales Coastal Tourism Strategy (WAG 2007) does not contain any proposals which could adversely affect this area. The North Cardigan Bay Shoreline Management Plan (Gwynedd Council, Highways and Engineering Department, Coast Protection Unit, January 2002) divides the coast between Dyfi railway bridge and Aberdaron at the tip of the Lleyn Peninsula into 13 management units, with each further subdivided according to local topography and land use. It sets the preferred management option for each sub-unit - Hold the Line,




Bont-Ddu (within 100m of the SAC). All proposals are within or adjacent to existing built-up areas away from the foreshore. Smaller Settlements (54 houses spread across 27 settlements) new or improved local facilities: Penmaenpool (adjacent to the SAC). No direct land-take within the SAC would occur and the development proposed would not be adjacent to the SAC so it is not considered that such development would result in adverse effects upon the qualifying interests. No indirect effects are considered likely.

of European Sites when bringing new sites forward referencing the responsibilities under the Habitats Regulations. Strategic Policy Ng restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Development restricts new employment development to within or adjacent to the main built up area, in existing buildings, expansion of existing buildings or new buildings only where there is no other suitable accommodation in the locality. Development Policy 23: Retail restricts new retail development to within the main built up areas and the scale should be appropriate to its setting.

Advance the Line, Retreat or Do Nothing. • There are no Advance the Line options

within the National Park. • Retreat is the chosen option between

Aberdyfi golf course and the outskirts of Tywyn and at Llwyngwril.

• Hold the Line is selected at built up areas (Aberdyfi, Fairbourne, Barmouth, Tywyn, Llandanwg, Porthmadog), at Rola where the railway line runs close to the coast and on the south side of the Mawddach estuary.

• Do Nothing is selected everywhere else. As such, no adverse effects upon the SAC are predicted.


The policies within this group, and the objectives behind their creation, support the integrity of European Sites and the objectives of nature conservation. Strategic Policy E: Climate Change also requires that coastal and protection works must have no adverse effects or that they can be satisfactorily mitigated.



North Cardigan Bay Shoreline Management Plan reinforces the conservation objectives of the SAC against inappropriate development.




Strategic Policy Ng: Housing restricts all new build housing and conversion to within the housing development boundary. The consequences of this policy for this European Site are discussed under, ‘The Development Strategy’ above. Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites allows affordable housing on exception sites outside but immediately adjoining the housing development boundary. These would be small-scale exceptional sites although they may be close to or adjoining European Sites and could therefore result in adverse effects.


No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely. North Cardigan Bay Shoreline Management Plan reinforces the conservation objectives of the SAC against inappropriate development.



Promoting Accessibility & Inclusion No relevant policies None required No effects on the SAC predicted. No effects predicted as a result of the LDP and hence no in-combination effects are likely.



Site Name Rhinog Type of Site SAC Size of Site 3144.53ha

Site Description A rugged upland massif, Rhinog is located between Morfa Harlech and Llyn Trawsfynydd. It consists of upland dry heaths on shady slopes and contains some of the best high-quality examples of old sessile oak woods in the British Isles.


European dry heaths [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [Condition: Favourable – maintained]


Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoeto-Nanojuncetea [Condition: Unfavourable – recovering due to poor water quality]

Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion [Condition: Favourable] Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Blanket bog (Priority feature) [Condition: Favourable – maintained] Alpine and Boreal heaths [Condition: Favourable – maintained]


Floating water plantain (Luronium natans) [Condition: Favourable – maintained]


Vulnerability

The area is popular for walking; however, due to the rough terrain, recreational pressures are largely confined to public rights of way and car parks, with minimal impact upon the special features. The high rainfall and extensive acidic geology/pedology renders this area, especially its watercourses and lakes, vulnerable to acidification. The lichen-rich and bryophyte-rich oceanic heathland is vulnerable to burning and over-grazing. Current general policy is to continue the traditionally low levels of sheep/feral goat grazing and to discourage burning. In the woodland areas, the vegetation requires careful management by manipulation of grazing to achieve appropriate light and humidity levels for the exceptionally rich lichen and bryophyte assemblages while ensuring adequate regeneration of the woodland. These issues are being addressed through the use of agri-environment schemes (Tir Cymen/Tir Gofal) and S15 management agreements.



The Development Strategy No settlements listed in the LDP hierarchy are located within or adjacent to the SAC. Conversion of rural buildings and the construction of new housing to serve an essential need to live in the countryside are sanctioned under Strategic Policy C: Spatial Strategy. Localised impacts on the SAC may be possible.


Dolgellau lies too far to the north for development within its boundary to impact upon the qualifying interests of the SAC. Any development in or adjacent to the SAC would not be permitted under Section 3 of the LDP. No effects on the SAC predicted.






Positive impacts on qualifying interests would be reinforced by the planned and existing management agreements.







The promotion of tourism by Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation may see increases in the numbers of people accessing parts of the SAC. Walkers in particular may contribute to

The focus of Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation is on promoting sustainable tourism that enables appreciation of the Special Qualities of the National Park. The policy

There would be no effects on the SAC as a consequence of policies in the LDP. Strategic Policies D: Natural Environment and L: Tourism and Recreation provide sufficient





ground compaction, loss of vegetation and erosion of vulnerable soils that support the qualifying interests. Several campsites adjoin the SAC whose potential expansion is sanctioned under Development Policy 22: Touring and Camping Sites.

specifically excludes developments that adversely impact upon European Sites. Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment would also apply and would eliminate the risk of campsite expansion to the SAC.

protection to the SAC against indirect effects of minor development.





Page 70Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 K:\projects\NH51128-Snowdonia-SEA\F-Reports\002-NH51128-NHR-05-HRAScreeningLDP.doc

5.4 Summary of Key Findings The assessment exercise highlighted a number of areas of potential concern that could affect the European Sites. However, in each case it has been determined that the avoidance and mitigation provisions within the LDP would be sufficient to eliminate the possibility of significant adverse impacts upon European Sites. The areas of concern are broadly similar to those identified in the Options Screening Report, but have now been addressed during the production of the Deposit Version LDP. The following summarises how this has been achieved.

Overall Level of Development The LDP plans for very modest levels of development, in keeping with National Park status requiring the highest levels of statutory protection. The requirement for new housing development during the plan period has been calculated at approximately 770-830 dwellings (around 51-55 dwellings epr year). No major developments will be permitted in the National Park e.g quarries, large industrial development, large power generating schemes, without a proven national need, and regional growth targets will be mainly accommodated in larger settlements outside the park such as Bangor, Caernarfon and Aberystwyth. The levels of growth and the identified locations for it make impacts upon European Sites unlikely. Furthermore, the LDP has to be read as a whole and Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment states that biodiversity resources will be protected from inappropriate development and it cites the requirements of the Habitats Regulations. Specific mitigation is laso included within those policies where potential risks have been identified.

Housing Growth The provision of more affordable housing is a key aim of the LDP. A settlement hierarchy is established to distribute new housing within existing settlements, and concentrates growth in the two Local Service Centres of Y Bala and Dolgellau where higher level services are already provided. Although small-scale extensions to existing settlements for affordable housing are possible within Development Policy 11: Affordable Housing on Exception Sites, Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment ensures that inappropriate development will be unable to take place on or close to European Sites. Furthermore, Development Policy 11 includes a specific mitigationclause. Collectively, these measures would ensure that significant development that could potentially harm the integrity of European Sites is not possible under the Plan.

Conversion of Rural Buildings As part of the overall aim of accommodating limited growth with minimum impact upon the landscape, Development Policy 9: Conversion and Change of Use of Rural Buildings supports the conversion of existing but redundant rural buildings for housing or employment uses. Such structures may by bats as temporary and permanent roosts, and as the Lesser Horseshoe Bat is a qualifying interest of some of the European Sites, there is the potential for adverse impacts as a result of the change of use. Following recommendations from the SA process, this policy


has been amended to ensure that there would be no significant adverse imapcts on protected species, as a .result of conversions.

Promotion of Tourism Tourism a key economic activity within the National Park and the LDP supports the growth of sustainable tourist developments. An amendment to Strategic Policy L: Tourism and Recreation specifically requires that designated conservation sites be protected. Indirect impacts of this policy may relate to increasing tourist numbers placing additional strain upon the infrastructure of the National Park, notably roads and footpaths. However, tourist numbers are influenced by a wide range of socio-economic factors and management strategies over which the LDP has no control. However, there is likely to be a role for the National Park Management Plan in helping to control tourist activities in the National Park.


6 Conclusions and Recommendations The Snowdonia National Park’s planning framework confers the highest level of statutory protection in the UK. As the planning authority, the SNPA is obliged to have full regard to the intrinsic qualities of the National Park at both the strategic planning and development control levels. The National Park’s biodiversity is one of these qualities and as such, the SNPA is committed to protecting the biodiversity within and around its borders. In addition, the SNPA is required by legislation to protect sites of international significance, of which there are many in the National Park.

The LDP identifies a growth strategy and broad locations and approaches for implementing this growth. Many of the European Sites are located near to existing settlements but the levels of growth are very low and considered to be negligible in terms of potentially affecting any European Sites. Whilst the locations of all developments are unknown and will be dependent upon the submission of individual planning applications, Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment provides clear guidance that the integrity of European Sites will be protected from potentially harmful development.

In the development of the Deposit Version LDP, the SNPA has included provisions to protect European Sites within individual policies. It has also included within Strategic Policy D: Natural Environment, the overarching aim to protect the integrity of European Sites against potentially harmful development. The LDP must be read as a whole, and it is considered that this strong provision will ensure that no significant environmental effects would be likely and that there is no need to undertake an Appropriate Assessment of the LDP.

Furthermore, in addition to considering the impacts of the LDP in isolation, it is necessary to determine whether it would have significant effects in combination with other plans. The Consultation Draft Annex to TAN5 states that if a plan has no effects in isolation then the planning authority can determine that there would be no significant effects in combination with any other plan.

In light of the results of this Screening Report, it can be concluded that the LDP will not have any significant effects upon the integrity of any of the European Sites within the National Park or in adjacent areas, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects and will, therefore, not require Appropriate Assessment.


Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited-2212959 K:\projects\NH51128-Snowdonia-SEA\F-Reports\002-NH51128-NHR-05-HRAScreeningLDP.doc

Appendix A

Preferred Strategy Options February 2008



Landscape

L1c Continue to develop programmes aimed at improving the current landscape through practical interventions, e.g. Rhaglen Tir Eryri, control of invasive weeds

L1e Designate ‘green wedges’ between settlements to avoid coalescence of settlements

Biodiversity

B1a Pursue targets for individual species in accordance with the Eryri Local Biodiversity Plan. Develop policies and programmes to increase levels of biodiversity significantly through Snowdonia, to reduce the negative impact of invasive weeds and to encourage community involvement in relevant programmes.

B1b Give the highest priority to the conservation and enhancement of the characteristic biodiversity of Snowdonia. This gives specific, yet not exclusive protection to habitats and species designated under European legislation and as such affords protection to the integrity of those sites listed within the Natura 2000 network

B1c Progress improvements to water, soil and air quality with partner organisations and identify any future changes that may occur through climate change (recognising the vital role of all three elements in reduction and mitigation)

Land Management

LM 1a Support agricultural and forestry diversification only where this is consistent with National Park purposes, allowing sensitively designed and sited development, and encouraging development which helps to conserve the National Park’s Special Qualities or provides for their understanding or enjoyment

Cultural Heritage

CH1a Take into account the desirability of conserving the cultural traditions, practices and artefacts of Snowdonia in determining planning applications and formulating programmes.

CH1b Treat vernacular barns and other buildings as important features in their own right, and encourage sensitive re-use of redundant traditional farm and other buildings to ensure their conservation.

CH1c Preserve the historic environment of Snowdonia and protect it from intrusion or dilution by change and development, primarily because Snowdonia’s cultural heritage is a cornerstone of its identity.

CH1d In conserving the historic environment and the landscape of Snowdonia recognise that new innovative high quality design, drawing on traditional or locally sourced materials may be appropriate.

CH1e Take a pro-active approach to the conservation of the historic environment of Snowdonia through:

Encouraging appreciation of its value and particular


qualities

Strict control of development which may affect it having regard to its quality, rarity and contribution to Snowdonia’s character

Promoting programmes and encouraging development which secures its future and complements it. Lobby for additional funding to support the effective application of Conservation Area status and regeneration initiatives founded on cultural heritage

Identify and promote sensitive techniques for the adaptation of buildings and settlements to meet contemporary needs

Levels of Growth

G1a The apportionment of the Welsh Assembly Government’s North Wales regional household projections proposed an annual dwelling requirement for the Snowdonia National Park of 40 dwellings per year. A total of 600 dwellings will be required over the 15 year plan period. (85 net4)

Affordable Housing

AH1b Provide an authority wide target based on results form the Local Housing Market Assessment (LHMA).

Settlement Strategy

SS1b Re-examine settlement selection based on criteria such as services, facilities, accessibility to public transport, education and population.

Local Service Centres:

Local Service Villages

Smaller Villages

Hamlets

Housing Development Boundary

HDB1a Keep the housing development boundaries predominantly the same as those in the Eryri Local Plan. Review after 4 years

Housing Development Criteria

HC1d Local Service Centres Windfall sites: Open Market allowed within development boundaries. Where evidence of need is shown a proportion of such development shall be Affordable Housing for Local Needs (AHLN). Allocated Strategic Site: Y Bala: Land to be released in phases (see plan 4). A proportion of the development shall be AHLN.

4 Taking into account estimates of 5 year housing land availability at April 2007 – 515 units


Local Service Villages and Smaller Villages: Where evidence of need is shown AHLN only (mix of intermediate and social rented). Adjoining village boundary: 100% small scale affordable housing for local needs Hamlets: No settlement boundary. Single units for AHLN. 2/ 3 across 15 year plan period

HCC 1a Consider the conversion of suitable traditional buildings outside the housing development boundary for residential purposes for AHLN. Include a set of stringent development control criteria. If agricultural workers dwelling is no longer required, dwelling should be changed to AHLN. If holiday accommodation is no longer required unit should be changed to affordable housing for local needs.

Housing Size and Type

HS1b Restrict the size of all new build AHLN in accordance with a sliding scale for different dwelling types (with e.g. a maximum of 100 square metres for a three bedroomed house)

HS1d Negotiate the appropriate mix of dwelling types for new mixed development i.e. intermediate and social rented.

Partnership Delivery Options

HPD1a Continue to work with neighbouring local housing authorities, housing associations and relevant organisations to help identify local needs and help deliver to meet the needs, including support for the Gwynedd Rural Housing Enabler and the Conwy & Denbighshire RHE. Working in partnership with partners such as Forestry Commission

HPD1b Encourage Community Land Trusts and co-operative self-build to address local affordability issues.

Community and Language

CL1b Prioritise consideration of the language as a material consideration in decision making throughout the National Park.

CL1c Focus on positive measures to maintain sustainable Welsh speaking communities by:

Providing housing and employment for local people,

Ensuring that there is adequate provision of Welsh medium education,

Supporting linguistic integration initiatives for incomers.

Economy

E1a Support business development consistent with National Park purposes, therefore encouraging:

sensitively designed and sited development,

development which helps conserve the National Park’s Special Qualities or provides for their understanding or enjoyment,


retention of existing jobs and premises

growth of new jobs through development of existing businesses

upskilling

E1b Seek to designate appropriate employment land for commerce only within local service centres (Dolgellau, Y Bala)

E1d Seek partner commitment to develop proven mechanisms to support the local economy in the long-term, giving full consideration to the emerging Convergence Funding Programme

Tourism Development

TD1a Secure a spatial approach to the development of small scale, sustainable tourism, identifying locations where development might be encouraged and locations where landscape, wildlife or cultural considerations require constraint

TD1b Foster small-scale tourism based projects with added value, founded on ‘National Park’ assets and sympathetic to National Park purposes

TD1d Encourage relatively large scale high quality developments to locations outside the National Park, where public transport infrastructure is or can be made available, developing strong links to the local economy

TD1e Seek to develop appropriately sized, innovative short term and non-permanent accommodation based on the principles of sustainable tourism in selected locations

Motorised Sport RA1a

Restrict all motorised sports due to their effects on the National Park’s tranquillity and environment

Harnessing Renewable Energy Generation in Buildings

Ey2a All buildings are designed to enable retrofitting of integrated renewables or 10% of the development’s energy needs are provided through renewable energy

Ey2b All developments over 60m² will required to incorporate renewable energy technologies to provide at least 10% of predicted requirements

Ey2d Encourage micro-generation from renewable energy sources, but retain firm control over siting and design to minimise effects on the landscape

Coast and Marine

CM1a Continue to protect Undeveloped Coastline from inappropriate development


CM1b Ensure that any development on the coastline is adaptable to, or can mitigate rising sea levels and increase in the frequency of storms

CM1c Work with partner organisations to ensure that the coastline is managed in an holistic and sustainable manner through Integrated Coastal Zone Management

CM1d Work in partnership with other organisations to improve access to the coastline

CM1e Prepare to undertake any additional requirements following the introduction of the Marine Bill, for example the preparation of a Marine Spatial Plan

Transport and Communications

TC1e Support sympathetic road improvements only where they meet environmental and landscape constraints, contribute significantly to economic and / or safety objectives and include mitigation measures to ensure high quality environmental design



Appendix B

Assessment of the Preferred Strategy Options February 2008



Introduction This section constitutes the assessment of whether or not significant effects on any of the European Sites are likely as a result of the LDP Preferred Strategy alone and/or in combination with other plans.

This section is divided into two stages:

Firstly, an initial screening is undertaken to rule out those elements of the strategy that are clearly unlikely to have any form of adverse affect on a European site.

Secondly, following on from the initial screening, those remaining elements of the strategy are looked at in more detail. The purpose of this is to establish whether or not these elements are indeed likely to have significant effects on a European site or sites and hence would require Appropriate Assessment.

Initial Screening of the Components of the Preferred Strategy The currently preferred strategy comprises a number of different options within a range of option groups. Many of these options will clearly have no adverse effect upon the European Sites and some may have potential to have an effect. Table AB-1 identifies those options which clearly will have no effect and those which are to be taken forward for further consideration (in Table AB-2) to determine whether or not they may result in likely significant effects.

Option Group Preferred Option

To be considered further?

Landscape L1c, L1e No The options relate to landscape improvement programmes (including, for example, invasive weed control) and green wedge designation. Both are expected to benefit biodiversity and conform to the principles of European site protection.

Biodiversity B1a, B1b, B1c

No All aspects of these options are designed to protect and enhance biodiversity. B1b specifically affords the highest levels of protection to European Sites.

Land management

LM1a No This option is heavily focused upon being consistent with National Park purposes and conserving its Special Qualities. Maintaining the Park’s European Sites is central to these themes.




Cultural Heritage CH1a, CH1b, CH1d, CH1e,

CH1a and CH1d – No CH1b and CH1e - Yes On the whole, these options are focussed upon the sensitive conservation of the Park’s historic environment. However, elements of CH1b and CH1e relate to sensitive conversions of buildings such as vernacular barns. Such structures may house bats which may be qualifying interests of some European Sites.

Levels of Growth G1a Yes This is a low growth option although it proposes 600 dwellings over the next 15 years. Depending upon their location these may affect European Sites.

Affordable Housing

AH1b No Affordable housing is a sub-set of the other housing options. Whether dwellings are affordable or not will not affect European Sites.

Settlement Strategy

SS1b Yes The strategy guides locations for development relating to settlements. This relates to G1a and, depending upon the locations for development, these may affect European Sites.

Housing Development Boundary

HDB1a Yes The option retains existing settlement boundaries for four years, but after that they would be reviewed. Allocated sites may also need to be larger or more numerous to meet housing targets. Depending upon location of these sites, there may be adverse effects on European Sites.

Housing Development Criteria

HC1d, HCC1a

HC1d and HCC1a - Yes HC1d allocates a strategic site at Y Bala – River Dee and Llyn Tegid SAC is within this locality. It may also result in more greenfield land being taken up on the edge of towns and villages which, depending upon location, may affect European Sites. HCC1a relates to conversions of buildings such as vernacular barns. Such structures may house bats which may be qualifying interests of some European Sites.

Housing Size and Type

HS1b, HS1d

No This is a sub-set of other housing options. Individual dwelling size and mix will not affect European Sites.

Partnership Delivery Options

HPD1a, HPD1b

No These delivery options are unlikely to have specific, adverse consequences for European Sites.




Community and Language

CL1b, CL1c

No Promotion of the Welsh language will not affect European Sites. The housing elements of CL1c are covered within the overall housing and growth options. Whether or not they are for local people will not affect European Sites.

Economic Options E1a, E1b, E1d

E1a and E1d – No E1b – Yes E1a specifically refers to business development that is consistent with National Park purposes, and as such this is assumed to include protection of European Sites. E1d relates to partner commitment and is not likely to result in specific adverse effects. E1b seeks to designate employment land. Depending upon location, these may affect European Sites.

Tourism Development Options

TD1a, TD1b. TD1d, TD1e

TD1a, TD1b and TD1e – No TD1d – Yes On the whole, these options relate to sustainable tourism that respects the environment and National Park purposes. However, TD1d encourages relatively large scale development which, depending upon location, may affect European Sites.

Motorised Sport RA1a No The option restricts motorised sport in order to protect the environment.

Harnessing renewable energy generation in buildings

Ey2a, Ey2b, Ey2d

No Energy generation devices will only relate to existing dwellings or those already covered within the housing options. As devices are expected to be small scale, they are unlikely to have adverse effects on European Sites.

Coast and marine CM1a, CM1b, CM1c, CM1d, CM1e

CM1a, CM1b, CM1c and CM1e – No CM1d - Yes On the whole, these options relate to protecting undeveloped coastline from inappropriate development. However, CM1d promotes access to the coastline which has the potential to put pressure on coastal European Sites.

Transport and Communications

TC1e No The option specifically refers to only supporting road improvements where environmental constraints are met.

Table AB-1 Initial Screening of Options


Assessing the Likelihood of Significant Effects This second stage of the screening looks at those options that are deemed to have some potential to affect European Sites and determines whether or not there is a likelihood of significant effects occurring which would require Appropriate Assessment. Note that it is considered that options G1a, SS1b, HDB1a and HC1d should be considered together as they each relate to the size and distribution of new housing with respect to settlements. Option HCC1a relates to housing outside new settlements and consequently may have different effects upon European Sites.

This process is reported in Table AB-2.


Elements of Preferred Strategy that are of Potential Concern

European Sites Which Could be Affected

Reason for Concern Are Potential Effects Considered Likely to be Significant and Why?

Is Appropriate Assessment Required?

CH1b CH1e

Meirionydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC Glynllifon SAC Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC

CH1b encourages sensitive re-use of redundant traditional and other buildings. There is concern that where these re-developments may occur either in or near to these SACs, this may damage or disturb the roosts of lesser horseshoe bats Rhinolophus hipposideros which may exist in the buildings. Lesser horseshoe bats are qualifying interests of each of these SACs and therefore adversely affecting roosts could conflict with objectives for Favourable Conservation Status. CH1e includes for the identification and promotion of sensitive techniques for the adaptation of buildings to meet contemporary needs. The same concerns surround this as with CH1b.

Options CH1b and CH1e promote sensitive re-use and adaptation which can be interpreted as meaning sensitive to ecological features as well as heritage features. Furthermore, the strategy must be read as a whole and it is considered that the provisions of option B1b provide sufficient overarching protection to all European Sites to ensure that other elements of the strategy which may have some potential to adversely affect the integrity of a European site would not be allowed if a risk was shown to exist on a case-by-case basis. It is recommended that a policy is written in the deposit LDP to reaffirm this principle.

No

G1a SS1b HDB1a HC1d

A number of European Sites are located in close proximity to some of the settlements identified within the settlement categories. These are detailed for each settlement in Table 5-3. The European Sites include: Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC Berwyn and South Clwyd Mountains

These options provide for the development of 40 new dwellings per year over 15 years. New dwellings are likely to be developed largely in existing settlements and are guided by the Settlement Strategy (SS1b), Housing Development Boundary option (HDB1a) and Housing Development Criteria (HC1d). These propose that the settlement hierarchy is as presented in Table 5-3. Settlements in

The level of new housing growth in Snowdonia is proposed to be very low with many new dwellings likely to be developed in existing settlements as guided by the Settlement Strategy, Housing Development Boundary option and Housing Development Criteria (see Table 5-3). It is anticipated that the levels of growth would be negligible in terms of physical

No






SAC Berwyn SPA Llyn Tegid and River Dee SAC Snowdonia SAC Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau SAC River Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn SAC Coedydd Aber SAC Afon Eden, Cors Goch – Trawsfynydd SAC Menai Straight and Conwy Bay SAC Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn SAC Afon Eden, Cors Goch – Trawsfynydd SAC Dyfi Estuary SPA Cors Fochno & Dyfi Ramsar site Llyn Tegid and River Dee SAC Llyn Tegid Ramsar site

each tier are located adjacent to the European Sites in the adjacent column. The Housing Development Boundary option proposes that current housing development boundaries will remain the same for four years after which they will be reviewed. Allocated sites may also need to be larger or more numerous to meet housing targets. Depending upon location, these may affect any of these European Sites. The Housing Development Criteria allocates a strategic site at Y Bala – Llyn Tegid and River Dee SAC and Ramsar site are within this locality. Option HC1d may also result in more greenfield land being taken up on the edge of towns and villages which, depending upon location, may affect any of these European Sites. There is concern that if inappropriately developed, new dwellings may be constructed in a way that could damage the integrity of any of the European Sites, potentially in the following ways: New housing development would increase the local population and could result in increased recreational activity which could have direct physical impacts on the qualifying interests of the European Sites

disturbance, toxic contamination and non-physical disturbance to qualifying interests in the European Sites. It is also anticipated that the quantities of water abstraction from surface and groundwater sources that are either designated European Sites themselves or are hydraulically linked to European Sites would be negligible with this growth scenario. Most towns/villages get their supply from small, local reservoirs – with small scale associated treatment works. Housing development boundaries will be reviewed after four years under option HDB1a and HC1d may result in the edges of settlements being redefined. It is not considered that the review or re-definitions would affect European Sites, as changes are likely to be very small and localised and, in line with option B1b and the SNPA’s obligations, they would not be allowed to result in adverse impacts upon any European Sites. The strategy must be read as a whole and the provisions of option B1b provide sufficient overarching protection to all European Sites to ensure that any new dwellings or settlement boundary changes






through abrasion and compaction. Accidental spillages during the construction process could cause toxic contamination to qualifying habitats and species. These developments could also place increasing pressure on water treatment works and there may be changes to domestic effluent outfalls which could reach habitats within the European Sites. There may also be increased requirement for ground and surface water abstractions which could directly or indirectly affect European Sites. Non-physical disturbance to qualifying species could increase as a result of noise and light pollution.

would not be allowed where they would put the integrity of a European site at risk. The same overarching protection applies with respect to option HC1d where a new strategic housing development is proposed at Y Bala, adjacent to the Llyn Tegid and River Dee SAC, and the Llyn Tegid Ramsar site. It is considered that the increased levels of water abstraction and human activity as a result of these 40 dwellings would have a negligible impact upon the qualifying habitats and species within the river and lake which are located some 300m away. It is recommended that policies are written in the Deposit LDP which affirm that no housing development would be allowed in locations that would lead to adverse effects on European Sites.

HCC1a Meirionydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC Glynllifon SAC Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC

HCC1a promotes the consideration of converting suitable traditional buildings for residential purposes outside the development boundary. There is concern that where these re-developments may occur either in or near to these SACs, this may damage or disturb the roosts of lesser horseshoe bats Rhinolophus hipposideros which may exist in the buildings. Lesser horseshoe bats are

If inappropriately developed, these rural conversions may have potential to adversely affect a European site. However, the strategy must be read as a whole and it is considered that the provisions of option B1b provide sufficient overarching protection to all European Sites to ensure that conversion of traditional buildings would not be allowed if a risk was shown to exist to the integrity of a European Site on a case-by-case basis.

No






qualifying interests of each of these SACs and therefore adversely affecting roosts could conflict with objectives for Favourable Conservation Status.

It is recommended that policies are written in the Deposit LDP which affirm that no housing conversions would be allowed in locations that would lead to adverse effects on European Sites.

E1b Llyn Tegid and River Dee SAC Llyn Tegid Ramsar site Meirionydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn SAC

The option seeks to designate appropriate employment land for commerce only within Y Bala and Dolgellau. Employment opportunities may exist at Llanbedr airfield. The principle concerns here relate to: accidental/construction spillages, effluent outfalls leading to watercourse pollution and construction activity causing toxic contamination of protected habitats and species. Non physical disturbance to habitats and species caused by noise (including during construction) which could adversely affect qualifying fauna associated with the European Sites.

The scale of employment land creation is not considered to be significant enough to result in any adverse effects on the European Sites. The types of employment activities are also considered to be low impact commercial developments and not industrial. Furthermore, brownfield sites will be favoured and so direct land take in European Sites will not be allowed. The provisions of option B1b are overarching and comprehensive. It will provide sufficient protection to all European Sites to ensure that commercial land will not be allocated if there is a risk of an adverse impact on the integrity of a European site. It is recommended that policies are written in the Deposit LDP which affirm that no commercial development would be allowed in locations that would lead to adverse effects on European Sites.

No

TD1d Potentially any or all European Sites located outside but near to, or near

The option promotes relatively large scale tourism developments outside the National

If inappropriately developed, these tourism sites may have potential to adversely affect a

No






the internal borders of the National Park. These include: Llyn Peninsula and the Sarnau SAC Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC Coedydd Aber SAC Berwyn and South Clwyd Mountains SAC & Berwyn SPA River Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn SAC Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SAC &SPA River Dee and Llyn Tegid SAC Snowdonia SAC Corsydd Eifionydd SAC Glynllifon SAC Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC Menai Strait and Conwy Bay SAC Traeth Lafan / Lavan Sands, Conwy Bay SPA Llyn Tegid Ramsar site Cors Fochno & Dyfi Ramsar site

Park where infrastructure linkages can be made to the local Snowdonia economy. The concern is that generic tourism projects could have a variety of impacts upon the qualifying interests of any of the European Sites. As the locations of the projects are not known, these impacts could potentially affect any aspect of any of the European Sites. In general terms, these impacts could include: Increased recreational activity within the European Sites which could have direct physical impacts through abrasion and compaction. Effluent/contaminated runoff from such facilities could cause toxic contamination to habitats and species within the European Sites. Non physical disturbance to habitats and species caused by noise (including during construction) which could adversely affect qualifying interests.

European site. However, the strategy must be read as a whole and it is considered that the provisions of option B1b provide sufficient overarching protection to all European Sites to ensure that other elements of the strategy which may have some potential to adversely affect the integrity of a European site would not be allowed if a risk was shown to exist on a case-by-case basis. It is recommended that policies are written in the Deposit LDP which affirm that no tourism development would be allowed in locations that would lead to adverse effects on European Sites.

CM1d Menai Strait and Conwy Bay SAC Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau SAC Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn SAC Dyfi Estuary SPA

This option aims to improve access to the coastline and there are concerns over the potential impacts that may be caused by increased recreational pressure on coastal European Sites.

This option is too broad to be able to say that adverse impacts would occur as a result of coastal erosion. The European Site most likely to be affected by any coastal access improvements would be Morfa Harlech and

No






Increased recreational activity within the European Sites which could have direct physical impacts through abrasion and compaction.

Morfa Dyffryn as it is designated primarily for its unique dune formations that could viably be affected by improved access. However, the provisions of option B1b would ensure that access to coastal European Sites would not be allowed if there was a risk that it may result in adverse impacts on a site’s integrity. It is recommended that policies are written in the Deposit LDP which affirm that no coastal access schemes would be allowed in locations that would pose a risk to European Sites.

Table AB-2 Detailed consideration of whether elements of the Preferred Strategy are likely to result in significant effects


Appendix C

European Sites located near to or adjacent to Settlements



Settlement Hierarchy

Type of Development Proposed in LDP

Settlement European Sites Near or Adjacent to Settlement

Dolgellau Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Local Service Centres

Open market housing & affordable housing for local needs.

Land allocated for new or existing employment opportunities.

Improve existing and provide new community and visitor facilities.

Retail development in close proximity to town centres.

Y Bala Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid SAC

Llyn Tegid Ramsar

Aberdyfi Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC

Cors Fochno & Dyfi Ramsar

Aber Dyfi SPA

Betws y Coed Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir SAC

Harlech Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn SAC

Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Llanberis -

Service Settlements

Small scale affordable housing for local needs.

Small scale employment development.

Improve existing and provide new community and visitor facilities.

Retail development within established centres of Aberdyfi, Harlech & Betws-y-Coed.

Trawsfynydd Afon Eden, Cors Goch – Trawsfynydd SAC

Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SAC / SPA

Abergwyngregyn Coedydd Aber SAC

Abergynolwyn -

Beddgelert Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Bontddu Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC


Brithdir Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Bryncrug -

Capel Garmon -

Dinas Mawddwy -

Dolgarrog -

Secondary Settlements

Small scale affordable housing for local needs.

Small scale employment development.

Improve existing and provide new community facilities to serve residents and rural hinterland.

Dolwyddelan -





Dwygyfylchi Y Fenai a Bae Conwy SAC

Dyffryn Ardudwy & Coed Ystumgwern

-

Friog Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Frongoch Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid SAC

Ganllwyd Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Afon Eden, Cors Goch – Trawsfynydd SAC

Garndolbenmaen -

Garreg & Llanfrothen

-

Gelliydan -

Llan Ffestiniog Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Llanbedr Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Llanegryn -

Llanelltyd Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC

Afon Eden, Cors Goch – Trawsfynydd SAC

Llanfachreth -

Llanfair Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC

Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn SAC

Llanuwchllyn -

Llwyngwril Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC

Maentwrog Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC


Nantlle -

Parc -

Penmachno

Pennal -

Rhydymain Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Rowen -





Tal y Bont Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Talsarnau Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC


Trefriw -

Ysbyty Ifan -

Aberangell -

Arthog Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC


Betws Garmon Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn SAC

Capel Curig Eryri SAC

Capelulo -

Croesor -

Cwm Penmachno -

Cwrt -

Llanbedr y Cennin -

Llandanwg Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC

Llandecwyn Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC

Llangywer Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid SAC

Llyn Tegid Ramsar

Llanllechid -

Llanymawddwy Berwyn a Mynyddoedd de Clwyd SAC

Berwyn SPA

Mallwyd -

Nant Gwynant Eryri SAC


Nant Peris Eryri SAC

Nantmor Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Nebo -

Smaller Settlements

Single units of affordable housing for local needs – 2/3 across 15 year plan period.

Improve existing and provide new community facilities for residents.

Penmaen-pŵl Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC





Penmorfa -

Prenteg Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion SAC

Rhoslefain -

Rhosygwaliau -

Rhyd -

Rhyd ddu Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn SAC

Rhyd Uchaf -

Ynys Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau SAC


Appendix D

Conservation Objectives of the European Sites



Introduction Conservation Objectives of European Sites consist of two inter-related components:

A Vision for the feature concerned which outlines in broad terms the condition of the feature and its environment that enables it to be considered in Favourable Conservation Status.

A set of Performance Indicators by which progress towards the Vision will be judged.

For the purposes of the HRA Screening Report, the Vision component is deemed sufficient to form an assessment of likely significant effects. The sensitivity of the feature to disturbance is apparent from the Vision, whereas the Performance Indicators drop into a level of detail that is not required for the purposes of this assessment.

The Vision parts of the Conservation Objectives for each European Site are presented in the following tables. These have been obtained from the current Core Management Plan for each site which is separately referenced at the end of each table. It should be noted that references and figures referred to in the following tables can be obtained from the source documents i.e the Core Management Plan for each site.


Aber Dyfi / Dyfi Estuary SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

Greenland white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The Dyfi wintering population attains national importance level (i.e.1% of the national (UK) population), annually. 2. Winter mortality levels are <1% annually. 3. Juvenile/ sub-adult birds comprise > 5% of the wintering population annually. 4. All site-specific factors affecting the achievement of these conditions (eg. avoidable disturbance), are under control

Reference

Lovering, T. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Dyfi Estuary / Aber Dyfi SPA. Countryside Council for Wales.


Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid / River Dee and Bala Lake SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Water Course (While not a feature in its own right the ecological status of the water course is a major factor in determining FCS for all of the site features)

The vision for the water course is for it to be in Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The ecological status of the water environment should be sufficient to maintain a stable or increasing population of each feature. This will include elements of water quantity and quality, physical habitat and community composition and structure (It is anticipated that these limits will concur with the relevant standards used by the Review of Consents process). 2. There will be no deterioration in water quality other than that temporarily generated by natural variations in water flow or by man made variations occurring as a result of operating the River Dee flow control regime within its normal operating parameters. 3. The Dee flow regime should remain within 10% of ‘recent actual flow’ as described by Bethune (2006). 4. The river plan-form and profile should be predominantly unmodified. Physical modifications having an adverse effect on the integrity of the SAC will be avoided. 5. Artificial factors impacting on the capability of each feature to occupy the full extent of its potential range should be modified where necessary to allow passage, eg. weirs, bridge sills, or other forms of barrier. 6. Natural limiting factors such as waterfalls, which may limit the natural range of a feature or its dispersal between naturally isolated populations, should not be modified. 7. Flow objectives for assessment points in the Dee Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy will be agreed between EA and CCW as necessary. 8. Levels for nutrients, in particular phosphate, will be agreed between EA and CCW for each Water Framework Directive water body in the River Dee and Bala Lake SAC, and measures taken to maintain nutrients below these levels (It is anticipated that these limits will concur with the standards used by the Review of Consents process). 9. The levels of water quality parameters, in addition to those deemed to be nutrients and including levels of suspended solids, that may affect the distribution and abundance of SAC features will be agreed between EA and CCW for each Water Framework Directive water body in the River Dee and Bala Lake SAC, and measures taken to maintain them below these levels (It is anticipated that these limits will concur with the standards used by the Review of Consents process). 10. Potential sources of pollution, nutrient enrichment and/or suspended solids that have not been addressed in the Review of Consents such as, but not confined to, diffuse pollution or disturbance to sediments, will be considered in assessing plans and projects.


Water courses of plain to montane levels with Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The conservation objective for the water course must be met 2. The extent of this feature within its potential range in this SAC should be stable or increasing 3. The extent of the sub-communities that are represented within this feature should be stable or increasing. 4. The conservation status of the feature’s typical species should be favourable. 5. All known, controllable factors, affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control (many factors may be unknown or beyond human control).

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The parameters defined in the vision for the water course must be met 2. The SAC feature populations will be stable or increasing over the long term. 3. The natural range of the features in the SAC is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. 4. There will be no reduction in the area or quality of habitat for the feature populations in the SAC on a long-term basis 5. All known, controllable factors, affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control (many factors may be unknown or beyond human control).

Floating water plantain (Luronium natans)

The conservation objective for the lake water body (see conservation objectives for Llyn Tegid Ramsar) must be met. The vision for this feature is for it be in Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no contraction of the current L. natans extent and distribution, and the populations will be viable throughout their current distribution & will be able to maintain themselves on a long-term basis. Each L. natans population must be able to complete sexual and/or vegetative reproduction successfully. 2. The lake will have sufficient habitat to support existing L. natans populations within their current distribution and for future expansion. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) Brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri) River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The parameters defined in the vision for the water course must be met 2. The SAC feature populations will be stable or increasing over the long term. 3. The natural range of the features in the SAC is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. 4. There will be no reduction in the area or quality of habitat for the feature populations in the SAC on a long-term basis 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Bullhead (Cottus gobio) The vision for this feature is for it to be in a Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The parameters defined in the vision for the water must be met 2. The SAC feature populations will be stable or increasing over the long term. 3. The natural range of the features in the SAC is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. 4. There will be no reduction in the area or quality of habitat for the feature


populations in the SAC on a long-term basis 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control

European otter (Lutra lutra)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a Favourable Conservation Status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The parameters defined in the vision for the water course must be met. 2. The SAC otter population is stable or increasing over the long term, both within the SAC and within its catchment. 3. There will be no loss of otter breeding or resting sites other than by natural means (such as naturally occurring river processes) within the SAC or its catchment. 4. There number of potential resting sites within the SAC will not be a factor limiting that limits the otter population’s size or extent 5. There should be no reduction of fish biomass within the SAC or its tributaries except for that attributable to natural fluctuations 6. There should be no loss of amphibian habitat likely to provide a source of prey for members of the SAC otter population. 7. The potential range of otters in the within the SAC or its catchment is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. 8. All known or potential access or dispersal routes within the catchment for otters that might be considered part of the SAC population should be maintained such that their function is not impaired including the incorporation of measures or features required to avoid disturbance. 9. Off site habitats likely to function as ‘stepping stones’ within the catchment for members of the SAC otter population will be maintained for migration, dispersal, foraging and genetic exchange purposes. 10. All man-made structures within or likely to be used by otters from the SAC population must incorporate effective measures to facilitate the safe movement and dispersal of otters. All known, controllable factors, affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control (many factors may be unknown or beyond human control).

Reference

Hatcher, D. and Garrett, H. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for River Dee and Bala Lake/Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Afon Eden, Cors Goch Trawsfynydd SAC Qualifying interest

Vision


The ecological status of the water course is a major determinant in the capacity for the habitats in the SAC to support each feature at near-natural population levels, as determined by natural ecological and hydromorphological processes and characteristics. Flow regime, water quality, quantity and physical habitat should be maintained or restored as far as possible to a near-natural state in order to support the coherence of the ecosystem structure and function. Favourable conservation status (FCS) is determined in part by the capacity of the water course to support the species for which it is considered special, so the relevant SAC features must be in FCS for the water course feature to be in FCS. FCS can be maintained or restored to favourable conservation status when all the following conditions for the water course are satisfied: 1. Water flows and water quantity shall be sufficient to support the SAC features. This shall include: • During the migration periods of each migratory fish species that their passage upstream to spawning sites is not hindered by abstraction discharges, engineering or gravel extraction activities or other impacts. • Water quantity and flows at pearl mussel beds, fish spawning sites and nursery areas will not be depleted by abstraction, discharges, engineering or gravel extraction activities or other impacts to the extent that these sites are damaged or destroyed. 2. Water quality shall be sufficient to support the SAC features. This shall include: • Levels of nutrients, in particular orthophosphate, will be agreed between EA and CCW for the Water Framework Directive water body in the Afon Eden – Cors Goch Trawsfynydd SAC, and measures taken to maintain nutrients below these levels. • Levels of suspended solids will be agreed between EA and CCW for the Water Framework Directive water body in the Afon Eden – Cors Goch Trawsfynydd SAC. Measures including, but not limited to, the control of suspended sediment generated by agriculture, forestry and engineering works, will be taken to maintain suspended solids below these levels. 3. The physical habitat and substrate quantity shall be maintained. All known breeding, spawning and nursery sites of species features should be maintained as suitable habitat except where natural processes cause them to change. Artificial factors impacting on the capability of each species feature to occupy the full extent of its natural range should be modified where necessary to allow passage, eg. leats, bridge sills etc.

Floating water-plantain (Luronium natans)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The L. natans populations will be viable throughout their current extent in the Afon Eden & will be able to maintain themselves on a long-term basis. There will be no contraction of the current L. natans distribution in the Afon Eden and each L. natans population must be able to disperse and complete sexual and/or vegetative reproduction successfully. 2. The river will have sufficient habitat to support existing L. natans populations within their current distribution and future expansion. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera

The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where


Afon Eden, Cors Goch Trawsfynydd SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

margaritifera) all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The freshwater pearl mussel population must be viable throughout its distribution in the river and maintaining itself on a long-term basis. 2. There will be no contraction of the number, age range, distribution or size of mussel beds found within the population. 3. Within the distribution of these beds there will be sufficient habitat to support a viable population. 4. The transference of pearl mussel glochidia (larvae) is facilitated by an abundant and self-sustaining Atlantic salmon population. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The Atlantic salmon population must be viable throughout its distribution in the river and maintaining itself on a long-term basis. 2. There will be no contraction of the number or age range of the salmon population. 3. There will be sufficient habitat to support a viable population. 4. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Otter (Lutra lutra) The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The population of otters in the SAC is stable or increasing over the long term and reflects the natural carrying capacity of the habitat within the SAC, as determined by natural levels of prey abundance and associated territorial behaviour. 2. The natural range of otters in the SAC is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. The natural range is taken to mean those reaches that are potentially suitable to form part of a breeding territory and/or provide routes between breeding territories. A number of potential and breeding sites have been identified (Lyles, 2006 – refer to the Management Plan for this reference) in the upper reaches of the Afon Eden. The size of breeding territories may vary depending on prey abundance. 3. The population size should not be limited by the availability of suitable undisturbed breeding sites. Where these are insufficient they should be created through habitat enhancement and where necessary the provision of artificial holts. No otter breeding site is subject to a level of disturbance that could have an adverse effect on breeding success. Where necessary, potentially harmful levels of disturbance are managed. Survey information shows that otters are widely distributed in the Mawddach catchment. 4. The safe movement and dispersal of individuals around the SAC is facilitated by the provision, where necessary, of suitable riparian habitat, and underpasses, ledges, fencing etc at road bridges and other artificial barriers. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Garrett, H. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Afon Eden and Cors Goch Trawsfynydd SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Afon Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn SAC Qualifying interest

Vision


1. The capacity of the habitats in the SAC to support each feature at near-natural population levels, as determined by predominantly unmodified ecological and hydromorphological processes and characteristics, should be maintained as far as possible, or restored where necessary. 2. The ecological status of the water environment should be sufficient to maintain a stable or increasing population of each feature. This will include elements of water quantity and quality, physical habitat and community composition and structure. It is anticipated that these limits will concur with the relevant standards agreed between CCW and the Environment Agency through the Review of Consents process. 3. Flow regime, water quality and physical habitat should be maintained in, or restored as far as possible to, a near-natural state, in order to support the coherence of ecosystem structure and function across the whole area of the SAC. 4. All known breeding, spawning and nursery sites of species features should be maintained as suitable habitat as far as possible, except where natural processes cause them to change. 5. Flows, water quality, substrate quality and quantity at fish spawning sites and nursery areas will not be depleted by abstraction, discharges, engineering or gravel extraction activities or other impacts to the extent that these sites are damaged or destroyed. 6. The river plan-form and profile should be predominantly unmodified. Physical modifications having an adverse effect on the integrity of the SAC, including, but not limited to, revetments on active alluvial river banks using stone, concrete or waste materials, unsustainable extraction of gravel, addition or release of excessive quantities of fine sediment, will be avoided. 7. River habitat SSSI features should be in favourable condition. 8. Artificial factors impacting on the capability of each species feature to occupy the full extent of its natural range should be modified where necessary to allow passage, e.g. weirs, bridge sills, acoustic barriers. 9. Natural factors such as waterfalls, which may limit the natural range of a species feature or dispersal between naturally isolated populations, should not be modified. 10. Flows during the normal migration periods of each migratory fish species feature will not be depleted by abstraction to the extent that passage upstream to spawning sites is hindered. 11. Levels of nutrients, in particular phosphate, will be agreed between the EA and CCW in the Water Framework Directive water body in the Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn SAC, and measures taken to maintain nutrients below these levels. It is anticipated that these limits will concur with the standards to be agreed between CCW and Environment Agency Wales used by the Review of Consents process. 12. Levels of water quality parameters that are known to affect the distribution and abundance of SAC features will be agreed between EA and CCW for the Water Framework Directive water body in the Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn SAC and measures taken to maintain pollution below these levels. It is anticipated that these limits will concur with the standards to be agreed between CCW and Environment Agency Wales used by the Review of Consents process. 13. Potential sources of pollution not addressed in the Review of Consents, such as contaminated land, forestry operations and improvement of riparian habitat, will be considered in assessing plans and projects. 14. Levels of suspended solids will be agreed between EA and CCW for the Water Framework Directive water body in the Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn SAC. Measures including, but not limited to, the control of suspended sediment



Vision

generated by agriculture, forestry and engineering works, will be taken to maintain suspended solids below these levels.



Vision

Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and /or of the Isoteo-Nanojuncetea

1. Water quality of the lake is within parameters which are suitable to support the characteristic flora and fauna. 2. The lake shows a characteristic vegetation zonation from the shore to the deeper water. 3. The lake has a macrophyte flora which includes many of the characteristic species including Littorella uniflora, Lobelia dortmanna, Isoetes lacustris, Luronium natans and Subularia aquatica, together with a diverse range of associates including Myriophyllum alterniflorum, Callitriche hamulata, Nitella flexilis and Potamogeton berchtoldii. 4. Nitella gracilis and Luronium natans to be present as characteristic plants.

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation

1. The conservation objective for the water course as defined in 4.1 of the Core Management Plan must be met. 2. The extent of this feature within its potential range in this SAC should be stable or increasing. 3. The extent of the sub-communities that are represented within this feature should be stable or increasing. 4. The conservation status of the feature’s typical species should be favourable. 5. All known, controllable factors, affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control (many factors may be unknown or beyond human control).

Atlantic salmon Salmo salar

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The conservation objective for the water course as defined in 4.1 above must be met 2. The population of the feature in the SAC is stable or increasing over the long term. 3. The natural range of the feature in the SAC is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. The natural range is taken to mean those reaches where predominantly suitable habitat for each life stage exists over the long term. Suitable habitat is defined in terms of near-natural hydrological and geomorphological processes and forms e.g. suitable flows to allow upstream migration, depth of water and substrate type at spawning sites, and ecosystem structure and functions. Suitable habitat need not be present throughout the SAC but where present must be secured for the foreseeable future. Natural factors such as waterfalls may limit the natural range of individual species. Existing artificial influences on natural range that cause an adverse effect on site integrity, such as physical barriers to migration, will be assessed. 4. The Gwyrfai will continue to be a sufficiently large habitat to maintain the feature’s population in the SAC on a long-term basis.

Floating water-plantain Luronium natans

The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The conservation objective for the water course as defined in 4.1 above must be met. 2. Llyn Cwellyn will continue to support a peripheral floating water-plantain assemblage, as well as a deeper water assemblage, with a characteristic zonation of vegetation from the shore at two areas of the lake. 3. Floating water-plantain will continue to flourish in the Afon Gwyrfai and will continue to occur in every selected section 4. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

European otter Lutra lutra

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The population of otters in the SAC is stable or increasing over the long



Vision

term and reflects the natural carrying capacity of the habitat within the SAC, as determined by natural levels of prey abundance and associated territorial behaviour. 2. The natural range of otters in the SAC is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. The natural range is taken to mean those reaches that are potentially suitable to form part of a breeding territory and/or provide routes between breeding territories. The size of breeding territories may vary depending on prey abundance. 3. The population size should not be limited by the availability of suitable undisturbed breeding sites. Where these are insufficient they should be created through habitat enhancement and where necessary the provision of artificial holts. No otter breeding site is subject to a level of disturbance that could have an adverse effect on breeding success. Where necessary, potentially harmful levels of disturbance are managed. 4. The safe movement and dispersal of individuals around the SAC is facilitated by the provision, where necessary, of suitable riparian habitat, and underpasses, ledges, fencing etc at road bridges and other artificial barriers. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Anon (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Afon Gwyrfai a Llyn Cwellyn SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Berwyn SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

Hen harrier (Circus cyaneus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population must be maintained at eleven breeding pairs or increased beyond this. 2. There will be sufficient appropriate habitat to support the population in the long-term including patches of tall heather available for nesting and roosting, areas grasslands, bracken of low trees/scrub for feeding with an adequate supply of prey species in the form of small birds and small mammals to maintain successful breeding. 3. Distribution of species within site is maintained. 4. Distribution and extent of habitats supporting the species is maintained. 5. Developments should not be permitted where they can be shown to have likely adverse impacts upon hen harrier. 6. Populations of legally controllable predator species, such as foxes and carrion crows, will not pose a threat to ground nesting birds. 7. Hunting territories will be managed by controlled grazing to improve structural diversity within the grasslands. This will increase seed production and maximise prey availability e.g. small passerines. 8. There will be no disturbance of any nest location. 9. Illegal human persecution of protected bird species should not occur. 10. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control

Merlin (Falco columbarius)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population must be maintained at 13 breeding pairs or increased beyond this. 2. There will be sufficient appropriate habitat to support the population in the long-term including patches of tall heather available for nesting and roosting, areas grasslands, bracken of low trees/scrub for feeding with an adequate supply of prey species in the form of small birds and small mammals to maintain successful breeding. 3. Distribution of species within site is maintained. 4. Distribution and extent of habitats supporting the species is maintained. 5. Developments should not be permitted where they can be shown to have likely adverse impacts upon merlin. 6. Populations of legally controllable predator species, such as foxes and carrion crows, should not pose a threat to ground nesting birds. 7. Adjoining hunting territories will be managed by controlled grazing to improve structural diversity within the grasslands. This will increase seed production and maximise prey availability e.g. small passerines. 8. There will be no disturbance of any nest location. 9. Illegal human persecution of protected bird species should not occur. 10. All factors affecting the achievement of theses conditions are under control

Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population must be maintained at 13 breeding pairs or increased beyond this.


Berwyn SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

2. Mountainous and moorland terrain with cliffs, crags and quarries for nesting and roosting plus grasslands, bracken of low trees/scrub for feeding with an adequate supply of prey species in the form of small birds and small mammals to maintain successful breeding. 3. The range of the population must not be contracting. 4. Distribution and extent of habitats supporting the species is maintained. 5. Developments should not be permitted where they can be shown to have likely adverse impacts upon peregrine. 6. Populations of legally controllable predator species, such as foxes and carrion crows, should not pose a threat to ground nesting birds. 7. Adjoining hunting territories will be managed by controlled grazing to improve structural diversity within the grasslands. This will increase seed production and maximise prey availability e.g. small passerines. 8. There will be no disturbance of any nest location. 9. Illegal human persecution of protected bird species should not occur. 10. All factors affecting the achievement of theses conditions are under control

Red kite (Milvus milvus) The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population must be maintained at two breeding pairs or increased beyond this. 2. Sufficient Broadleaf woodland required for nesting and roosting plus heath and rough grassland for feeding with an adequate supply of prey species in the form of carrion, small birds and small mammals to maintain successful breeding. (NOTE: Red kite do not nest within the SPA.) 3. Developments should not be permitted where they can be shown to have likely adverse impacts upon red kite. 4. Adjoining hunting territories will be managed by controlled grazing to improve structural diversity within the grasslands. This will increase seed production and maximise prey availability e.g. small passerines. 5. There will be no disturbance of any nest location. 6. Illegal human persecution of protected bird species should not occur. 7. All factors affecting the achievement of theses conditions are under control

Reference

Anon (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Berwyn & South Clwyd Mountains SAC and Berwyn SPA [DRAFT]. Countryside Council for Wales.


Berwyn a Mynyddoedd de Clwyd / Berwyn & South Clwyd Mountains SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Blanket Bogs The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no measurable decline in blanket bog; the area of the habitat must be stable or increasing. 2. Dry blanket bog on moisture shedding ridges and slopes will be defined as ericoid (typically Calluna) dominated, with clearly subordinate Erica tetralix. Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium vitis-idaea and/or V. myrtilus will be present at high frequency. Eriophorum vaginatum typically constant but sometimes only at low cover – other graminoids are typically scarce. Vaccinium oxycoccus may sprawl over the thick bryophyte mat but other elements of ‘wet’ bog such as Narthecium and Drosera are characteristically sparse. Hypnoid mosses (typically Hypnum jutlandicum and Pleurozium schreberi) often the dominant bryophyte component, and Sphagna where present most often represented by Sphagnum capillifolium. 3. Wet blanket bog on plateaux and col areas is characterised by a more even balance between ericoids and graminoids. Eriophorum vaginatum generally achieves a higher cover than in drier situations and E. angustifolium is constant. Representation of Molinia caerulea and Trichophorum cespitosum is variable according to past management and hydrology. Smaller elements such as Vaccinium oxycoccus, Narthecium and Drosera are typically present. Hypnoids and Sphagnum capillifolium may still comprise the main bryophyte element, but often joined by species of Sphagnum sect. Sphagnum. 4. All areas of blanket bog should exhibit a high water table just below the surface of the ground for the majority of the year as this is consistent with continued peat formation. 5. In areas of wet bog in particular, the vegetation should develop or retain an irregular pattern with drier hummocks and wetter hollows. 6. The quality of blanket bog (including in terms of ecological structure and function) must be maintained. 7. Areas with habitats classed as degraded or modified blanket bog and bare peat should be restored to a more sustainable state by encouraging the growth of typical blanket bog vegetation and the blocking of drainage ditches. 8. Burning blanket bog will be discouraged as it retards the development of hummock & hollows as well as the development of more sensitive Sphagna. 9. There should be no moor drains or grips draining the peat body. 10. There should be no evidence of damage caused, for example, by active drainage or burning. 11. Any typical species must also be at FCS, as defined below. 12. Non-native plant species should be absent. 13. There should be no decline in the range or abundance of characteristic plant species and vegetation communities. 14. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

European Dry Heaths The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no measurable decline of dry heath area; the area of the



Vision

habitat must be stable or increasing. 2. The European dry heath consists principally of NVC type H12 Calluna vulgaris–Vaccinium myrtillus heath, with frequent Empetrum nigrum and occasional Vaccinium vitis-idaea. Other heath vegetation present includes areas of H18 Vaccinium myrtillus–Deschampsia flexuosa heath and in some areas stands of damp H21 Calluna vulgaris–Vaccinium myrtillus–Sphagnum capillifolium heath. These latter heaths occur in an intermediate position between the drier heaths and blanket mire and support occasional plants of Listera cordat.a 3. Its quality (including in terms of ecological structure and function) must be maintained. 4. The areas of heath vegetation should be retained and where possible permitted to re-establish on areas modified or degraded as a result of agricultural improvement, or through inappropriate management. 5. The dry heathland should have a diverse age structure in the heather and other shrubby plants. 6. Management will ensure the development of a mosaic of age structures through pioneer, building, mature to degenerate heather with at least 10% identified for no-management and allowed to develop through to maturity. 7. Management will not be undertaken within sensitive habitat areas. 8. Some native scrub development will be acceptable up to 10% cover with higher densities, up to 20% within e.g. identified black grouse management zones. 9. Heather and other plants should not exhibit signs of suppressed growth forms due to grazing. 10. There should be areas of long heather providing nesting habitat for ground nesting birds such as grouse, merlin and hen harriers; and areas of lower young heather, and wet flushes where birds can feed on heather shoots and invertebrates. 11. Non-native plant species should be absent. 12. Any typical species must also be at FCS, as defined below. 13. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies: on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent of the calcareous and neutral grasslands should be maintained or increase in size at the expense of bracken, scrub and other more improved grasslands. No loss in extent is acceptable. 2. The calcareous grassland varies floristically. At low altitudes the sward of the calcareous grassland should be rich in calcicolous species such as Carlina vulgare, Briza media and Sanguisorba minor. Locally scarce species such as Gymnadenia conopsea and Blackstonia perfoliata should also be present. At higher elevations the calcareous sward has more acid species present. Along with the typical indicator species of calcareous grassland, acid loving species such as Agrostis tenuis and Potentilla erecta are regular. Within the sward, fine leaved grasses and herb species like Briza media, Carlina vulgaris and Thymus polytrichus will be regular, although due to the upland nature of the site other more typically acid-loving herbs like heath Galium saxatile and Campanula



Vision

rotundifolia may commonly occur. Though described as grasslands, more than half of the ground cover will consist of herbaceous species. 3. The limestone grassland areas will have a wide variety of plant communities with the limestone grasslands having those typical of thin, lime rich soils. 4. Grazing will be at levels that allow plants to flower and set seed whilst preventing the spread of trees and scrub. 5. Bracken will only be found in a few isolated patches at the perimeters. 6. Within the sward tree and scrub seedlings, and robust or tussock forming grasses such as Dactylis glomerata, and Deschampsia cespitosa are uncommon or at low cover. While weeds and other agriculturally favoured species such as Lolium perenne, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvensis and C. vulgare are rare or absent. 7. Introduced species should be absent and control measures should be taken if any such species becomes established. 8. High levels of grazing results in localised soil erosion on steeper parts of the escarpment, which degrades some areas. However, grazing pressure should be sufficient to open small transient patches of bare ground within the sward providing a seed bed for the vascular plant species and suitable habitat for the diminutive bryophytes, macro-lichens and short-lived vascular plant species which are particularly characteristic of limestone grassland on the steeper, more exposed slopes. 9. On deeper soils south of the quarry acid grassland develops and in places forms a mosaic of habitats with the calcareous grassland. On these soils the spread of gorse and bracken should be controlled. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Transition mires and quaking bogs

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no measurable decline in Transition mires and quaking bogs; the area of the habitat must be stable or increasing. 2. Typically characterised by a range of low-growing sedges over an extensive carpet of Sphagnum bog mosses, accompanied by other mosses, rushes and some scattered herbs. 3. The water table is above the surface of the substrate, giving rise to characteristic floating mats of vegetation. 4. The vegetation normally has intimate mixtures of species considered to be acid-lovers and others thought of as lime-lovers. 5. There should be no moor drains or grips draining the mire. 6. There will be no threats to the transition mire habitat from burning or grazing. 7. There is no significant input of nutrient-rich water from ditches and surrounding land. 8. All factors affecting the achievement of theses conditions are under control.

Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no measurable decline of habitat, the area of the habitat must be stable but due to its nature an increase in extent is unlikely.



Vision

2. The feature is typically characterised by sensitive pioneer species including maidenhair spleenwort, and bryophytes that are able to colonise the scree, as the crags and ledges provide shelter from grazing and frost action. 3. The flora representative of this feature reflects the base rich nature of the rocks including limestone, calcareous-schists and the more basic igneous rocks such as serpentine and basalt. 4. The scree community is important for the rich fern flora and acts as refugia for a number of rare species. 5. Light grazing will prevent the succession to scrub and minimise colonisation by species such as ash and hazel whilst not damaging the feature through overgrazing. 6. The scree will remain largely undisturbed by human activity and the depositional slopes will continue to accumulate small amounts of scree. The vegetation is only likely to be truly representative of this feature where it occurs on stable scree on less steep slopes where the vegetation can accumulate. 7. The existing diversity of species in each of the above communities should be maintained. 8. There will be no reduction in extent as a result of undesirable human activity such as afforestation, quarrying, climbing or civil engineering works. 9. The use of herbicides, such as Asulox to control the spread of bracken, should be restricted to areas where they will not adversely impact the feature. 10. Only native species should be present. All factors affecting the achievement of theses conditions are under control.

Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no measurable loss of habitat, the area of the habitat must be stable but due to its nature an increase in extent is unlikely. 2. The chasmophytic vegetation will consist of plant communities colonising cracks and fissures of rock faces. The type of plant communities developing will be largely determined by the base-status of the rock face. 3. The chasmophytic vegetation is usually dominated by ferns such as Asplenium ruta-muraria and small herbs such as Thymus praecox and Hieracium spp. The inaccessibility of rock habitats to grazing animals, specially rock ledges provides a refuge for many vascular plants that are sensitive to grazing, including numerous local and rare species. 4. Bryophytes and crustose lichens should form a dominant component in crevices but are also found on open rock surfaces where there is a lack of competition form vascular plants. Ledge communities are recognised as part of the feature on the site due to the spectacular stepped topography. 5. Grass benches should be floristically diverse supporting species characteristic of the feature such as Campanula rotundifolia, Centaurea nigra and Dryopteris spp. 6. The existing diversity of species in each of the above communities should be maintained. 7. Only native species should be present. 8. Chasmophytic vegetation and grass benches vegetation will not exhibit



Vision

signs of overgrazing. 9. There will be no reduction in extent as a result of undesirable activities such as quarrying. 10. Small scale excavations may enhance the interest of the site by providing additional exposures but would be deleterious to the highly vulnerable scree and clitter slopes. 11. The use of herbicides, such as Asulox, to control the spread of bracken should be restricted to areas where they will not adversely impact the feature. 12. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Anon (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Berwyn & South Clwyd Mountains SAC and Berwyn SPA [DRAFT]. Countryside Council for Wales.


Cadair Idris SAC Qualifying interest Vision Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea

The vision for the oligotrophic to mesotrophic (clear-water) lakes SAC features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the clear-water lakes shall be maintained including open water/swamp and immediate lake basin visible on air photographs. The catchments should also be maintained in at least their current condition. 2. The location of the clear-water lakes will be as shown in the Core Management Plan. 3. The typical species, as listed following, of the vegetation communities comprising the clear-water lakes SAC feature will be common. 4. The vegetation community is characterised by amphibious short perennial vegetation, with shoreweed Littorella uniflora, water lobelia Lobelia dortmanna and quillworts Isoetes spp. being the defining components. On Cadair Idris these species occur in association with bog pondweed Potamogeton polygonifolius, bulbous rush Juncus bulbosus, alternate water milfoil Myriophyllum alterniflorum, the stonewort Nitella flexilis and floating water bur-reed Sparganium angustifolium. 5. Invasive non-native species are absent 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the vegetated scree should be maintained. 2. The scree vegetation should be made up primarily of either desirable species listed in the table below or by other lichen and bryophyte dominated communities characteristic of mobile scree 3. The scree should be mobile and open and free from bracken, tree and scrub species such as birch Betula and rowan. 4. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains to and of the mountain to alpine level (Tall herb ledges)

The vision for these features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the tall herb ledge and chasmophytic vegetation should be stable or increasing. 2. The tall herb ledges, and chasmophytic vegetation should be made up primarily of the typical and desirable species listed in the table below. 3. Non-native species are absent or rare. 4. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

European dry heaths Northern Atlantic wet heath with Erica tetralix

The vision for the heath land SAC features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1 The total extent of the dry heath, approximately 1451 ha, shall at least be maintained. The currently unfavourable areas of dry heath and acid grassland capable of restoration should be managed under a restoration programme. The area of dry heath should increase at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities such as acid grassland. The total extent of the wet heath, approximately 239 ha, shall at least be


Cadair Idris SAC Qualifying interest Vision

maintained. The area of wet heath should increase overall at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities. Some areas of wet heath which are degraded blanket bog may be restored to that priority habitat provided that there is no net loss of wet heath within the SAC. 2 The distribution of the dry and wet heath will at least be as mapped in Gray (2003) and Averis (2000) and will preferably be increasing as it is restored in additional areas. 3 The typical species of the vegetation communities comprising the dry heath and wet heath will be frequent and abundant. 4 The abundance and distribution of uncommon plants will be maintained or increased. 5 The structure of the heath should be maintained and restored, to show natural regeneration by layering and seeding, and to ensure that the component vegetation communities are naturally diverse (refer also to 3 and 4 above). In practise some stands will benefit from being taller with very mature heather (e.g NVC H 21) and others including wet heath from having a medium to short structure, less than 30cms height. Signs of overgrazing, including ‘suppressed’, ‘topiary’ or ‘drumstick’ growth habits will not be apparent. 6 Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam will not be present. 7 The surface of the heath will be generally free from trees and at most have only a few individuals at a density of no more than two per hectare. Exceptions to this rule are transition zones from woodland to heath land where trees may be denser grading to open heath. Limits for woodland transition zones should be set on a unit or sub-unit basis. 8 All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Blanket Bog The vision for this priority blanket bog SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the blanket bog area is stable at some 200 ha in total of NVC blanket bog communities and some 73ha of vegetation on deep peat (Gray 2003), or increasing. Vegetation mapped as NVC M20, or not recognisable as a blanket bog community, is always considered to be unfavourable. The area of the blanket bog feature is increasing at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities or if wet heath is restored to blanket bog commensurate areas of land are gained to wet heath. 2. The location and distribution of the blanket bog is increasing at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities. 3. The typical species of the vegetation communities comprising the blanket bog SAC feature are frequent. 4. The structure of the blanket bog is maintained and restored to include bog pools, depressions, hummocks and hollows as a natural feature of the bog surface. Artificial drainage ditches or moor grips are not present as functioning drains. No significant areas of peat erosion should be present. 5. Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam are not present within the SAC and a species specific buffer area. 6. The blanket bog is free from all trees. 7. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Old Sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum

The vision for the Woodland SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable


Cadair Idris SAC Qualifying interest Vision woodlands conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied:

1. The total extent of the woodland area, including woodland canopy and scrub, woodland glades and associated dry heath, bracken and grassland, of approximately 73ha shall be stable or increasing. 2. The location of the woodland SAC feature will be at least as indicated on Map 1. The woodland covered by this feature is woodland often without clear boundary such as on Tir Stent (unit 9) and should be encouraged to spread up slope at Dol y Cae. 3. The tree canopy percentage cover within the woodland shall be no less than the current cover (excepting natural catastrophic events). 4. The canopy and shrub layer comprises locally native species. (Some areas are less oak and more birch dominated examples of this SAC feature.) 5. There shall be sufficient natural regeneration of locally native trees and shrubs to maintain the woodland canopy and shrub layer, by filling gaps, joining fragments of woodland and allowing the recruitment of young trees, and encouraging a varied age structure. 6. The typical ground layer species of the woodland SAC feature will be common. It is important that the vegetation does not become rank and overgrown with a height above 40cm and/or dominated by species such as bramble, ivy and young holly. Limits may be set on a unit or compartment basis. Typical lower plants including oceanic species should continue to be abundant and/or maintained. Dol y cae is known to support oceanic bryophytes of interest. 7. The abundance and distribution of uncommon mosses, liverworts, lichens and ferns, will be maintained or increased. 8. There will be a defined number of mature trees per hectare within the existing tree canopy on a unit basis. These are, as a guide, of c60cm diameter plus for oak and ash and/or with signs of decay, holes etc. 9. Dead wood will be present and consist of a mixture of fallen trees (minimum one per hectare), broken branches, dead branches on live trees, and standing dead trees (minimum one per hectare). Volumes of deadwood are currently at relatively low levels because the woodlands, in general, have an even-age structure and lack mature trees. Some lower plants are dead wood specialists but these woodlands tend to lack the rare dead wood invertebrate assemblage found in other parts of the UK. 10. Invasive non-native species such rhododendron, larch, sycamore, beech, ornamental broad-leaved and conifer trees are not present. 11. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the Molinia grasslands should be stable or increasing. Both upland Molinia grasslands and lowland Molinia grasslands should be represented at Tir Stent. 2. The Molinia grasslands are composed of typical species 3. Rare/uncommon species shall flourish. 4. Species indicative of agricultural modification, such as perennial rye grass Lolium perenne and white clover Trifolium repens will be absent from the Molinia grasslands. 5. Bare ground is limited. 6. The vegetation is not rank and overgrown.


Cadair Idris SAC Qualifying interest Vision

7. Tree and scrub species such as willow Salix and birch Betula will also be absent from the Molinia grasslands. 8. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Alkaline Fens The vision for the feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the alkaline fen vegetation should be stable or increasing. 2. The alkaline fens are vegetated primarily with the desirable species listed in the table 3. The alkaline fens have a low frequency/cover of Molinia caerulea and rushes. 4. Tree and scrub species such as willow Salix and birch Betula are absent. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Slender green feather moss (Drepanocladus (Hamatocaulis) vernicosus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The population of Hamatocaulis vernicosus is stable or increasing. 2. The habitats, which support the Hamatocaulis vernicosus, should be in good condition. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas, (Eurodryas, Hypodryas) aurinia)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The metapopulation of the marsh fritillary should be stable or increasing. 2. The marshy grasslands which support the marsh fritillary should be in good condition for the marsh fritillaries. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Evans, F., Williams, P. and Lewis, H. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Cadair Idris Special Area of Conservation. Countryside Council for Wales.


Coedydd Aber SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The woodland is maintained as far as possible by natural processes. 2. The location of open glades or gaps varies over time. 3. Trees and shrubs are locally native, and neither beech nor conifers are dominant anywhere in the canopy or understorey. 4. Trees and shrubs of a wide range of ages and sizes are present. 5. Tree seedlings are plentiful throughout the site and where occurring in open glades develop into viable saplings. 6. Field and ground layers are a patchwork of various vegetation communities characteristic of local soil and humidity conditions. 7. There are abundant dead and dying trees (with holes and hollows, rot columns, torn off limbs and rotten branches) with associated dead wood dependent species present. 8. Humidity levels are high enough to favour the presence of ferns, mosses and liverworts. 9. The woodland continues to support populations of birds and mammals. 10. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno – Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The woodland is maintained as far as possible by natural processes. 2. The trees and shrubs will be locally native broadleaved species with alder dominating the canopy. 3. The sparse shrub layer will comprise a scattering of hazel, willow and rowan. 4. Seedlings will be relatively sparse throughout the site with only a few native seedlings from non-self coppicing trees developing into saplings. 5. The majority of regeneration will be from the base of the alders by means of self-coppicing. 6. There will be abundant dead and dying trees with holes and hollows, rot columns, torn off limbs and rotten branches throughout the woodland. Dead wood, both standing and fallen, will be retained to provide habitats for other species. 7. Veteran trees will be favoured during any silvicultural management because they support a wide variety of species, including lichens. Old forest lichen species will be found throughout the sites, especially on well-lit trees around woodland edges and glades. 8. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Creer, J. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Coedydd Aber SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Coedydd Darw a Safloedd Ystlumod Meirion / Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC / cSAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Woodlands, including the following: Old sessile oakwoods with Ilex and Blechnum Bog woodland Tilio-Acerion forests of slopes, screes and ravines Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior

The vision for the Woodland SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the woodland area, including woodland canopy and scrub, woodland glades and associated dry heath, bracken and grassland shall be maintained as indicated on maps in Annex 2 of the Core Management Plan, some 1826 ha in total. 2. The location of the different woodland SAC features, as listed in the title above, will be as shown in Annex 2 of the Core Management Plan. The distribution of these woodland communities is largely a reflection of the topography, soils, geology and aspect and is unlikely to change. 3. The tree canopy percentage cover within the woodland area for the whole SAC shall be no less than 80%, 87% being the current canopy cover (excepting natural catastrophic events). Some units will have a lower canopy cover which is acceptable provided this is compatible with safeguard of the habitat, features and special interest. 4. The canopy and shrub layer comprises locally native species. Table 2 in the Core Management Plan gives the relevant species for each woodland SAC feature. 5. There shall be sufficient natural regeneration of locally native trees and shrubs to maintain the woodland canopy and shrub layer, by filling gaps and allowing the recruitment of young trees, and encouraging a varied age structure. 6. The typical ground layer species of each woodland SAC feature will be common. It is important for most of the woodland SAC that the vegetation does not becomes rank and overgrown with a height above 40cm and/or dominated by species such as bramble, ivy and young holly. Limits may be set on a unit or compartment basis. 7. The abundance and distribution of common and typical (Atlantic, sub-Atlantic, western, oceanic) mosses and liverworts, lichens (and slime moulds), will be maintained or increased. Indicative lists are provided in Tables 3 & 4 of the Core Management Plan. 8. The abundance and distribution of uncommon mosses and liverworts, lichens and slime moulds, will be maintained or increased. Indicative lists are provided in Tables 5 & 6 in Annex 3 of the Core Management Plan. 9. There will be a scattering of 5 mature trees per hectare within the existing tree canopy or parkland, that is trees of c60cm diameter plus for oak and ash and/or with signs of decay, holes etc. In the longer-term, by 2060 there should be 1 veteran trees per hectare that is trees of c100cm diameter plus for oak and ash and 75cms birch. 10. The volume of dead wood will exceed 30 cubic metres per hectare throughout and consist of a mixture of fallen trees (minimum one per hectare), broken branches, dead branches on live trees, and standing dead trees (minimum 1 per hectare). Volumes of deadwood are currently at relatively low levels because the woodlands, in general, have an even-age structure and lack mature trees and any quantity of deadwood because of past silvicultural management. Some lower plants are dead wood specialists but these woodlands tend to lack the rare dead wood invertebrate assemblage found in other parts of the UK. 11. Invasive non-native species such as rhododendron, Japanese knotweed



Vision

and Himalayan balsam will not be present. 12. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Lesser horseshoe bats (Rhionolphus hipposideros)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The population of lesser horseshoe bats should be maintained at its current size and encouraged where possible to increase. Supporting information is provided in the Core Management Plan. As there has been an upward trend in lesser horseshoe bats numbers in Wales it is reasonable to expect the Gwynedd population to increase. 2. There are sufficient breeding roosts (buildings, structures and trees) and hibernation roosts (mines and buildings) of appropriate quality. The other types of roost such as night, transitional, leks and swarming sites, should also be maintained as our knowledge of these often significant roosts improves. 3. Foraging or feeding habitat in the SAC and surrounding countryside, including grasslands and some gardens, is of appropriate quality, extent and connectivity across the range. 4. The range of the population within the SAC/Gwynedd is stable or increasing. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

European Dry Heaths The vision for the dry heath feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1 The total extent of the dry heath area, approximately 21 ha, shall be maintained. 2 The distribution of the dry heath will at least be as shown in the Core Management Plan 3 The typical and uncommon species of the vegetation communities comprising the dry heath will be frequent and abundant. 4 The structure of the heath should be maintained and restored, to show natural regeneration by layering and seeding, and to ensure that the component vegetation communities are naturally diverse (refer also to 3 above). 5 Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam will not be present. 6 The heath will be generally free from trees and at most have only a few individuals at a density of no more than two per hectare. Exceptions to this rule are transition zones from woodland to heath land where trees may be denser grading to open heath. Limits for woodland transition zones should be set on a unit or sub-unit basis. 7 All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation

The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent of suitable river habitat within which the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation can occur should be stable as indicated on map in Annex 2. 2. The current distribution (not known) of the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation should be stable or increasing. 3. The river with floating vegetation may be dominated by water crowfoot



Vision

species usually Ranunculus fluitans, (but this species is not recorded in Meirionnydd), Callitriche stagnalis and bryophytes. 4. Species indicative of unfavourable condition for this feature eg. filamentous algae associated with eutrophication and invasive non-native species, should be absent or below an acceptable threshold level, indicative of high ecological status, within the SAC. This attribute is considered further under factors. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these factors are under control

Reference

Clark, J, Barber, P. and Evans, F. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Cors Fochno SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Active raised bogs The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. NVC type M18 Sphagnum papillosum-Erica tetralix raised mire and M2 Sphagnum cuspidatum bog pool communities will occupy > 95% of the ‘primary’ (i.e. uncut) bog area. 2. The cover level of characteristic bog mosses (Sphagnum species) will be sufficiently high (>25%) to indicate healthy peat growth. 3. ‘Hummock and hollow’ patterning will be present across the centre of the bog dome. 4. The hollows (ie. Rhyncosporion depressions) will usually have greater sundew Drosera anglica present and will be increasing or maintaining their extent. 5. The following species will be common in the active raised bog: Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum, bog rosemary Andromeda polifolia and white-beak sedge Rhyncospora alba. 6. The rare hummock forming bog mosses Sphagnum austinii and S. fuscum will be have stable or increasing populations. 7. Purple moor grass Molinia caerulea will be largely absent from the active raised mire 8. Scrub species such as willow Salix and birch Betula will also be largely absent. 9. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. 80% of the degraded raised bog resource is restored to active raised bog, with the remainder, being hydrologically compatible with active bog. 2. Vegetation corresponding to National Vegetation Classification raised mire communities types M2 and/or M18 will be stable or increasing in extent relative to that mapped in 2003. 3. Areas/ stands of M18 vegetation will have a 20% or more cover of bog moss, and tree species and rhododendron will be rare or absent. 4. Other non-woodland semi-natural vegetation communities, including poor fen, brackish fen and swamp will have tree species not exceeding their extent in 2003. 5. Characteristic plant species of the mire margins and transitions, including alder buckthorn, black bog rush, brown beak-sedge, greater tussock sedge, lesser butterfly orchid, marsh cinquefoil, royal fern and veilwort will have stable or increasing populations. 6. Species intolerant of impeded drainage such as bracken and most grass species will be absent or rare throughout the site, together with alien invasive species such as rhododendron. 7. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference


Lovering, T. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Cors Fochno SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Corsydd Eifionydd SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Transition Mires and quaking bogs

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. Transition mire and quaking bog will be the dominant habitat at Cors Gyfelog and Cors Graianog 2. A mosaic of fen, bog, marshy grassland and swamp habitats should cover at least 80% of both sites. The habitat should be of good quality, supporting a number of scarce, rare and endangered plant species. It should also provide habitat for a wide range of birds, insects and reptiles. 3. During the driest part of the year most of the site should have water at or above the surface and when the site is walked upon, the bog shakes. This quaking bog should support wetland habitats with typical species such as cross-leaved heath, bog asphodel, sundews, bogmosses (Sphagnum spp.) and cotton grass. 4. The site should support healthy populations of rarer plants such as intermediate bladderwort, bog sedge, royal fern, oblong-leaved sundew together with rare insect populations. Habitat suitable for the marsh fritillary butterfly should be present. The blue flowered devil’s bit scabious should be common on the site because it is the food plant of marsh fritillary caterpillars. 5. Wet woodland should cover no more than 30% of Cors Gyfelog and 10% of Cors Graianog and there should be no rhododendron present. This diverse woodland community has developed over a number of years and supports a rich lichen and moss community. The woodland should continue to contain a number of different tree species and be able to support the lichen and moss communities. 6. Light grazing by cattle and ponies will occur across all accessible parts of the site during the late spring to early summer months. 7. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Slender green feather moss (Dreplanocladus (Hamatocaulis) vernicosus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The low growing fen vegetation of Cors Gyfelog and Cors Llanllyfni should continue to support a healthy population of the slender green feather-moss. Management shall ensure that the population remains stable and afford it the opportunity to expand 2. On Cors Gyfelog, H. vernicosus is confined to neutral or slightly basic flushes and runnels with an open vegetation structure of brown mosses, sedges, mixed forbs and Sphagnum spp. 3. The open vegetation needs to be maintained by seasonally light grazing and a high water table with ground conditions being wet throughout the year, the water table being at or near to the surface. 4. Under-grazing is a significant threat to the H. vernicosus sub-populations at both sites since it could lead to increased cover by rushes, forbs, sedges and scrub invasion. When the vegetation became denser, the H. vernicosus formed small sub-populations of a few scattered scrawny stems. The site is summer-grazed by ponies, which maintains the short open sward conditions favoured by the moss. 5. Nutrient enrichment of the water source is also a potential risk at both sites. Measures should be implemented to prevent, and/or reduce to a minimum,


Corsydd Eifionydd SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

sources of nutrient enrichment. 6. Certain herbs, grasses and sedges grow in close proximity to the moss populations. These plants share the habitat requirements of the moss; they include Lesser Spearwort, Sharp-flowered Rush, Purple Moor Grass, Star Sedge, Carnation Sedge, Devil’s- bit Scabious, Lesser Skullcap, Large Birdfoot Trefoil, Bogbean,, Common marsh-bedstraw, Common Cotton Sedge, Bottle Sedge, Common Sedge, Common Yellow Sedge, Velvet Bent and Flea Sedge. 7. All factors affecting the achievement of the foregoing conditions are under control

Marsh fritillary butterfly (Euphydryas aurinia)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. To ensure this, at least 80% of Cors y Wlad SSSI should be covered by habitat suitable for the marsh fritillary i.e. rushy vegetation (rhos pasture). The habitat should be of good quality (tussocky grassland at a height of 10 – 20cm) with an abundance of devil’s bit-scabious, the food plant of the marsh fritillary caterpillars. 2. The SAC supports a nationally important population of the marsh fritillary butterfly. Although, numbers of adult butterflies and larvae fluctuate annually in response to a parasitic wasp and weather conditions, the population is robust, resilient and viable in the long term. This population contributes towards the larger population of the butterfly in the general area. 3. During peak years, a visitor taking a walk through the site on a sunny day in June will see numerous adult butterflies. In these years the caterpillars, feeding communally in silken webs on their food-plant Devils Bit Scabious, will be abundant throughout those units supporting the butterfly. 4. The SAC population contributes to and is the core of the Eifionydd marsh fritillary metapopulation. The metapopulation consists of the SAC population, plus populations breeding on land outside the SAC. 5. The population breeds throughout four units, where it is a key species driving the management of each unit. 6. Rosettes of Devils Bit Scabious will be both very numerous and widespread throughout parts of those units supporting marsh fritillary (particularly Cors y Wlad SSSI), growing amongst a turf of grasses, sedges and flowering herbs with scattered tussocks of purple moor grass and rushes providing shelter for the caterpillars in wet weather. 7. Dense mixed hedges of hawthorn, hazel, mountain ash and other locally native species grow around the external and internal boundaries and offer vital shelter to the breeding adult butterflies during poor weather in what is otherwise a very exposed landscape with little shelter. 8. All factors affecting the achievement of the foregoing conditions are under control

Reference

Anon. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Corsydd Eifionydd SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Craig yr Adern / Bird’s Rock SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The breeding population of Chough is at least five pairs 2. The winter roosting population should be at least 27 birds 3. Sufficient suitable habitat is present to support the populations 4. The factors affecting the feature are under control

Reference

Anon. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Craig yr Adern (Bird’s Rock) SPA. Countryside Council for Wales.


Eryri / Snowdonia SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Siliceous alpine and boreal grasslands

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The high summits of the Carneddau (Carnedd Dafydd, Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Llewelyn, Garnedd Uchaf, Yr Aryg, Foel Grach, Llwytmor, Drosgl, Foel Fras, Pen Llythrig y Wrach and Pen yr Helgi Ddu) the Glyderau (Y Garn, Glyder Fach, Glyder Fawr, Elidir Fach, Carnedd y Ffiliast and Mynydd Perfedd), should each support summit heath vegetation which does not show signs of heavy modification by grazing and/or heavy trampling. 2. There should be no further loss of summit heath on Yr Wyddfa. The extent of the habitat at Crib y Ddysgl and Garnedd Uchaf should be retained as an absolute minimum and there should be no loss of quality. 3. The vegetation should be dominated by species typical of species of summit heath such as Racomitrium lanuginosum (woolly hair moss), Carex bigelowii (stiff sedge), shrubs dwarfed by the high altitude conditions such as Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) and Salix herbacea, lichens and montane bryophytes. 4. Grasses should not comprise a significant proportion of the vegetation. 5. The habitat should grade into montane heath at its lower level. 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Alpine and Boreal Heaths

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. Alpine and Boreal heath habitat should cover considerable areas of the Eryri SAC at high altitudes i.e. from about 600m upwards, though it may extend below this in particularly exposed areas. 2. It should grade into summit heath on the high summits and ridges, and into dry heath at its lower end. 3. This vegetation should be dominated by dwarf shrubs, typically stunted by the high altitude conditions, such as cowberry (Vaccinium vitis idea), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) and mountain crowberry (Empetrum hermaphroditum), prostrate ling (Calluna vulgaris) and in some stands dwarf juniper (Juniperus communis ssp. nana.)Other montane species such as wooley hair moss (Racomitrium lanuginosum) and other montane bryophytes and lichens should be present. 4. Although some grasses, particularly sheep’s fescue, will be present, they should not be at high cover. 5. In the long term we expect existing habitat to be retained and to improve in quality in its current locations, and also to expand into other suitable localities where the habitat now exists in a degraded state. 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control

Hydrophilous tall herb communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The area of tall herb ledge must be stable, or increasing in the long term. There will be no loss of tall herb ledge vegetation and the feature will occur in all management units in which it currently occurs 2. Tall herb ledge vegetation will develop on ledges and on damp calcareous grassland below cliffs where the potential exists but expansion is currently prevented by grazing.



Vision

3. Tall herb vegetation will consist of a number of flowering plant species such as Lady’s mantle Alchemilla spp., Meadowsweet Filipendula vulgaris, Globeflower Trollius europaeus, Welsh poppy Meconopsis cambrica, Devilsbit scabious Succisa pratensis, Ox-eye daisy Leucanthemum vulgare, Wild Angelica Angelica sylvestris, Roseroot Sedum rosea, Lesser meadow rue Thalictrum minus and Common valerian Valeriana officinalis 4. The flowering plants will be ungrazed and able to mature and set seed freely

Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The feature must be stable or increasing in the long term. There will be no loss of calcareous chasmophytic vegetation and it will continue to occur in all of management units in which it currently occurs. 2. The feature must continue to support a range of arctic alpine plant populations. 3. The plants will be ungrazed and able to mature and set seed freely, or non-flowering plants reproduce by propagules or vegetative means. 4. The feature will not be inhibited by invasive non-native plant species.

Alpine and subalpine calcareous grasslands

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. This habitat should remain in its current locations although there may be some shifts in its extent. 2. The feature should continue to support the characteristic plants including arctic alpine plant species. 3. The only acceptable losses of this habitat should be due to succession to other valuable montane communities such as tall herb ledge vegetation.

Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. This habitat should support a range of bryophytes and ferns in suitable crevices on acid rocks. 2. The feature should not be damaged by grazing. 3. It should be widespread on suitable moist acidic rock crevices on each massif.

Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The naturally mobile scree on each massif will have open vegetation on or among the boulders, with Cryptogramma crispa, Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile, Huperzia selago and an extensive and varied bryophyte flora. 2. There will not be excessive disturbance to the as a result of human or animal activity.

Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. Each of the lakes has a macrophyte flora which includes some of the characteristic species such as Littorella uniflora, Lobelia dortmanna, Isoetes lacustris, Myriophorum alterniflorum, Juncus bulbosus, Potamogeton species



Vision

and Subularia aquatica 2. The lakes which have not been dammed for use as reservoirs retain a natural profile. 3. All of the lakes show a characteristic vegetation zonation from the shore to the deeper water. 4. Water quality of each lake is within parameters which are suitable to support the characteristic flora and fauna

North Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The feature must be stable or increasing in the long term. 2. The habitat will typically comprise Erica tetralix and Calluna vulgaris and mosses on a wet peaty substrate with a range of small flowering plants such as bog asphodel Narthecium ossifragum, milkwort Polygala serpyllifolia, Common butterwort Pinguicula vulgaris, small sedges and round leaved sundew Drosera rotundifolia.

European Dry Heath The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The feature must be stable or increasing in the long term. 2. The habitat will be dominated by at least two dwarf shrub species, usually heather Calluna vulgaris and bilberry Vaccinium mytillus, but sometimes western gorse Ulex gallii or crowberry Empetrum nigrum may be prominent. 3. There will be a mixed age range of heath at an appropriate scale which includes stands of young vigorous dwarf shrubs, mature stands where the heather is becoming senescent, and all age ranges in between. 4. The heath shrubs will not exhibit forms characteristic of overgrazing. 5. There will be no signs of frequent burning or reversion to grassland. 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Blanket Bog The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent of this habitat should be of the order of 1342 ha (as notified on the N2K data form). This figure however includes a considerable amount of degraded blanket bog. At present it is unknown how much of this is capable of restoration to good quality blanket bog habitat. 2. The good quality blanket bog will support typical species e.g. oligotrophic Sphagnum spp., cotton grass Eriophourm spp, ling Calluna vulgaris, bell heather Erica cinerea, crowberry Empetrum nigrum, cow berry Vaccinium vitis-idaea, and cranberry Vaccinium oxycoccus. 3. The intact habitat will not show any signs of degradation as a result of overgrazing, drainage, or burning, such as depletion of dwarf shrubs and sphagna with increased grass cover. 4. The degraded habitat will not show any recent signs of further degradation as a result of overgrazing, drainage or burning. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent has not been fully measured because the nature of the habitat is



Vision

small scale and patchy within mosaics of blanket bog and wet heath. However the extent should be at least that which has been mapped. 2. The habitat, characterised by white beak sedge Rhynchospora alba will support a range of plant species such as bog pimpernel Anagallis tenella, ling Calluna vulgaris, round leaved sundew Drosera rotundifolia, cross-leaved heath Erica tetralix, cottongrass Eriophorum angustifolium, marsh St John’s wort Hypericum elodes, purple moor grass Molinia caerulea, bog asphodel Narthecium ossifragum, bog pondweed Potamogeton polygonifolius, Sphagnum spp., and short sedges. 3. There will be no signs of excessive grazing which would result in large areas of bare peat and possibly significant cover of rushes Juncus spp. 4. Drainage or burning would damage this habitat and neither activity should be consented where this habitat could potentially be affected. 5. At Cwmffynnon and other small areas in the Glyderau, the habitat supports the uncommon species, marsh clubmoss Lycopodiella inundata. Here we would expect to see frequent small patches of bare peat which support the species. Many of these areas may be caused by vigorous flushing of water rather than by grazing animals.

Species-rich Nardus grassland on siliceous substrates in mountain areas

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent will be at least 10 hectares of the habitat to include 5 ha on the slopes above Llyn Llydaw. 2. The grassland will support a range of plant species such as Harebell Campanula rotundifolia, Eyebright Euphrasia spp. Devilsbit scabious Succisa pratensis, Wild thyme Thymus polytrichus, Heath speedwell Veronica officinalis, Spring sedge Carex caryophyllea, Flea sedge Carex pulicaris, Carnation sedge Carex panicea, Lady’s mantle Alchemila glabr. 3. There will not be any significant cover of invasive species. New Zealand willowherb, Epilobium brunnescens is a long established alien plant on the site and is accepted at present as it doesn’t appear to adversely affect the feature. (At present CCW has no knowledge of any means of reducing or eliminating it)

Old sessile oakwoods with Ilex and Blechnum

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent is increasing. 2. The woodland comprises locally native canopy forming trees including: Quercus petraea, Betula pubescens, B. pendula, Fraxinus excelsior and Sorbus aucuparia. 3. There is a mixed age structure within the woodland. 4. Regeneration is occurring and sufficient seedlings can grow on to saplings and ultimately canopy trees. 5. There are no significant alien species.

Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneuron)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. This feature on Eryri does not form tufa but should display a dominant cover of mosses such as Cratoneuron communatum, Philonotis fontana and Bryum pseudotriquetrum with frequent characteristic forbs such as Montia fontana, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium and Saxifraga stellaris.



Vision

2. There are no significant increases in grass or rush cover

Alkaline fens The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The habitat consists of flushes, influenced by some base-enrichment, where brown mosses (such as Scorpidium scorpioides, Cratoneuron commutatum and Drepanocladus revolvens) are present. Small sedge species such as Carex viridula, C. panicea, C. dioica C. pulicaris and Eriophorum spp will be present and usually also Pinguicula vulgaris.

Alpine pioneer formations of the Caricion bicoloris-atrofuscae

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The feature consists of base rich flushes at high altitude which are flushed continuously with cold water. 2. This habitat should have a high bryophyte cover and support arctic alpines such as Saxifraga oppositifolia, S. stellaris and Thalictrum alpinum. Juncus triglumis should be present and sedges such as Carex viridula. 3. There should be no non-native species. 4. The flowering plants should be able to flower and set seed unhindered by grazing


The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. Luronium natans occurs in Llyn Cwmffynnon as a minimum

Slender green feather-moss (Drepanocladus (Hamatocaulis) vernicosus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The moss is present at Cwm Afon Llafar Flush A and Flush B. 2. The associated vegetation should be dominated by rushes and sedges, with <20% rush cover. 3. There should be less than 10% disturbed bare ground within the flushes.

Reference

Hughes, H. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Eryri SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Glynllifon SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros)

1. The natural range of lesser horseshoe bats will not be reduced, nor be likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. 2. There is, and will continue to be, sufficient habitat to maintain the lesser horseshoe bat population on a long-term basis. 3. The three maternity roosts will continue to be occupied annually by lesser horseshoe bats and their babies: Glynllifon Mansion (Unit 16), Melin y Cim (Unit 32), Pen y Bont (Unit 36). 4. There will be a sufficiently large area of suitable habitat surrounding these roosts to support the bat population, including continuous networks of sheltered, broadleaved and coniferous woodland, tree lines and hedgerows connecting the various types of roosts with areas of insect-rich grassland and open water. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Anon. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Glynllifon SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Blanket Bog The vision for this priority blanket bog SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the blanket bog area, including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated, some 8100 ha in total. Vegetation mapped as NVC M20, currently approx. 1700ha, is always considered to be unfavourable. The area of the blanket bog feature is expanding into areas of heavily modified bog currently occupied by wet heath or acid grassland. 2. The location and distribution of the blanket bog is increasing at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities. 3. The degraded areas and currently unfavourable blanket bog are managed under a restoration programme so that the area and distribution of favourable blanket bog is increasing. 4. The typical species of the vegetation communities comprising the blanket bog SAC feature are frequent. 5. The abundance and distribution of uncommon plants is maintained or increased. 6. The structure of the blanket bog is maintained and restored to include bog pools, depressions, hummocks and hollows as a natural feature of the bog surface. Artificial drainage ditches or moor grips are not present as functioning drains. Peat erosion should be under control, and limited to apparently long-established plateux erosion systems. 7. Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and bridewort (Spiraea) are not present within the SAC and a species specific buffer area. 8. The blanket bog is free from all trees. 9. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

European dry heaths and Northern Atlantic wet heath with Erica tetralix

The vision for the heath land SAC features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the dry heath area, including those areas that are ‘degraded’ (approx 2600ha) shall at least be maintained as present when designated. The degraded areas and currently unfavourable dry heath should be managed under a restoration programme. The area of dry heath should increase at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities such as acid grassland. The total extent of the wet heath area, including those areas that are ‘degraded’ (approx 400 ha) shall at least be maintained as present when designated. The area of wet heath should increase in overall at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities. Some areas of wet heath which are degraded blanket bog may be restored to that priority habitat provided that there is a net gain of wet heath within the SAC. 2. The distribution of the dry and wet heath will at least be as shown on Maps 1-4 of the Core Management Plan and will preferably be increasing as it is restored in additional areas. 3. The typical species of the vegetation communities comprising the dry heath and wet heath will be frequent and abundant. 4. The abundance and distribution of uncommon plants will be maintained or



Vision

increased. 5. The structure of the heath should be maintained and restored, to show natural regeneration by layering and seeding, and to ensure that the component vegetation communities are naturally diverse (refer also to 3 and 4 above). In practise some stands will benefit from being taller with very mature heather (eg NVC H 21) and others including wet heath from having a medium to short structure, less than 30cms height. Signs of overgrazing, including ‘suppressed’, ‘topiary’ or ‘drumstick’ growth habits will not be apparent. 6. Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and bridewort (Spiraea) will not be present. 7. The surface of the heath will be generally free from trees and at most have only a few individuals at a density of no more than 2 per hectare. Exceptions to this rule are transition zones from woodland to heath land where trees may be denser grading to open heath. Limits for woodland transition zones should be set on a unit or sub-unit basis. 8. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea and for natural dystrophic lakes and ponds

Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt has 22 lakes of more than 0.5ha in area, and many more smaller pools. Although these nominally consist of two distinct types (clear-water and peaty), in practice the water bodies on the site span the full range from very clear lakes such as Llyn Arenig Fawr, to typical peaty lakes such as Llyn y Dywarchen. Climate change and recovery from acidification is expected to lead to increased peat staining of many of these water bodies, but it is essential that this situation is not exacerbated by inappropriate land management. The vision for the oligotrophic to mesotrophic (clear-water) and dystrophic (peaty) lakes SAC features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1 The total extent of the clear-water and peaty lakes shall be maintained, as indicated on Maps 1-4 of the Core Management Plan, some x ha of open water/swamp and immediate lake basin, as visible on air photographs. The lake condition is intrinsically linked to the condition of the catchment therefore the catchments should be maintained in at least their current condition (including vegetation cover, drainage and appropriate management ie not over grazing and burning). 2 The location of the clear-water and peaty lakes will be as shown on Maps 1-4 of the Core Management Plan. 3 The typical species, as listed following, of the vegetation communities comprising the clear-water lakes SAC feature will be common. The vegetation community is characterised by amphibious short perennial vegetation, with shoreweed Littorella uniflora being considered as the defining component. This species often occurs in association with water lobelia Lobelia dortmanna, bog pondweed Potamogeton polygonifolius, quillwort Isoetes lacustris, bulbous rush Juncus bulbosus, alternate water milfoil Myriophyllum alterniflorum and floating water bur-reed Sparganium angustifolium. On Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt all the above species are present, together with yellow water-lily Nuphar lutea, white water-lily Nymphaea alba, smooth stonewort Nitella flexilis, lesser bladderwort Utricularia minor and the nationally scarce slender stonewort Nitella gracilis. In the case of peaty lakes, these water bodies are very acidic and poor in plant nutrients. Their water has a high humic acid content and is usually stained dark brown through exposure to peat. Most examples are small (less than 5 ha in



Vision

extent), shallow, and contain a limited range of flora and fauna, with the principal aquatic plants being Sphagnum, floating bur-reed and water lilies. The pools are naturally species-poor and a littoral zone is often absent. Fringing vegetation is that characteristic of the habitat in which the pools occur. 4 All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Old sessile oakwoods with Ilex and Blechnum Woodland

The vision for the Woodland SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the woodland area, including woodland canopy and scrub, woodland glades and associated dry heath, bracken and grassland shall be maintained as indicated on the map in the annex, of 67 ha plus additional areas of c.13ha (not mapped) giving a total of approx.80 ha. Broadleaved woodland and scrub currently covers about 0.4% of the site (and bracken over 2% (c. 450 ha). 2. The location of the woodland SAC feature will be as shown on Maps in annex 1 of the Core Management Plan. Woodlands include: Coed Dol- Fudr (SH 831318), Coed Gordderw (SH 838336), Coed Maen y Menyn (SH 848354) and Coed Boch-y-Rhaeadr (SH 843398). 3. The tree canopy percentage cover within the woodland area shall be no less than 85% (excepting natural catastrophic events). 4. The canopy and shrub layer comprises locally native species, as indicated in Table 2, typical of this upland woodland which is less oak and more birch dominated than more lowland examples of this SAC feature. 5. There shall be sufficient natural regeneration of locally native trees and shrubs to maintain the woodland canopy and shrub layer, by filling gaps and allowing the recruitment of young trees, and encouraging a varied age structure. 6. The typical ground layer species of the woodland SAC feature will be common. It is important for most of the woodland SAC that the vegetation does not becomes rank and overgrown with a height above 40cm and/or dominated by species such as bramble, ivy and young holly. Limits may be set on a unit or compartment basis. Typical lower plants including oceanic species (refer to Table 2 of Core Management Plan for an indicative list where known records are ticked) should continue to be abundant and/or maintained. 7. The abundance and distribution of uncommon mosses, liverworts, lichens and ferns, will be maintained or increased. 8. There will be a defined number of mature trees per hectare within the existing tree canopy on a unit basis. This will need to be defined by diameter for the upland situation where comparable trees at lower altitude are of c60cm diameter plus for oak and ash and/or with signs of decay, holes etc. 9. Dead wood will be present and consist of a mixture of fallen trees (minimum one per hectare), broken branches, dead branches on live trees, and standing dead trees (minimum one per hectare). Volumes of deadwood are currently at relatively low levels because the woodlands, in general, have an even-age structure and lack mature trees. Some lower plants are dead wood specialists but these woodlands tend to lack the rare dead wood invertebrate assemblage found in other parts of the UK. 10. Invasive non-native species such as rhododendron, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam will not be present. 11. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.


Reference

Evans, F., Young, N. and Jenkins, R. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SAC/SPA. Countryside Council for Wales.


Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

Hen harrier (Circus cyaneus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population is at least eight breeding pairs (SPA form 2003 10-12 pairs) and preferably increasing. (2007 –11 pairs) 2. Hen Harrier nesting distribution within the site is maintained or expanded, so that breeding occurs in all appropriate habitats. 3. Hen Harrier breeding success is at least one young fledged per nest. 4. There is sufficient nesting and roosting tall heather habitat to support the population in the long-term. 5. There is sufficient hunting habitat, often in mosaic and including areas of grassland, bogs, flushes, short heath and bracken with low trees/scrub present. There is an adequate supply of prey species in the form of small birds and small mammals to maintain successful breeding. Prey supply cannot be easily monitored or assessed but may be an important attribute, for research and study, if productivity is low. 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control

Merlin (Falco columbarius)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population is at least nine breeding pairs (SPA form 2003 9-12 pairs, 0.7-0.9% GB) and preferably increasing. 2. Merlin nesting distribution within the site is maintained or expanded, so that breeding occurs in all appropriate habitats. 3. Merlin breeding success is at least one young fledged per nest when sample monitoring is carried out. 4. There is sufficient nesting and roosting tall heather, individual trees often with crows’ nests and forestry edge habitat to support the population in the long-term. 5. There is sufficient hunting habitat, often in mosaic and including areas of grassland, bogs, flushes, short heath and bracken with low trees/scrub present. There is an adequate supply of prey species in the form of small birds (commonly meadow pipit and skylark) and large insects to maintain successful breeding. Prey supply cannot be easily monitored or assessed but may be an important attribute, for research and study, if productivity is low. 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control

Peregrine (Falco peregrinus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The size of the population is at least 9 breeding pairs (SPA form 2003 9-12 pairs, 0.7-0.9% GB) and preferably increasing. 2. Peregrine nesting distribution within the site is maintained or expanded, so that breeding occurs in all appropriate nest sites. 3. Peregrine breeding success is at least one young fledged per nest when sample population monitoring is carried out. 4. There are sufficient cliff and crag with ledges suitable for nesting usually known traditional nest sites to support the population in the long-term. 5. There is a sufficient hunting habitat and prey. Prey supply cannot be easily monitored or assessed but may be an important attribute, for research and study,


Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

if peregrine productivity is low. 6. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control

Reference

Evans, F., Young, N. and Jenkins, R. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SAC/SPA. Countryside Council for Wales.


Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Embryonic shifting dunes

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the embryonic shifting dunes including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated. 2. The strand line and embryonic dune vegetation should be made up of typical species listed in the table below. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the shifting dunes including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated, c.18.9 ha at Morfa Harlech which should be present both along the seaward dune ridge and inland within units 1, 3, 4 and 5 and at least 82 ha of shifting dunes at Morfa Dyffryn which should be distributed throughout units 28, 27, 26, 24, and 23. 2. The shifting dunes should be vegetated by species such as those listed in the table below. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Humid Dune Slacks Dunes with Salix repens

The vision for these features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the humid dune slacks and dunes with Salix repens including those areas that are considered unfavourable or currently degraded is maintained at the area present when designated, some 65.1 ha at Morfa Harlech and 43.6 ha at Morfa Dyffryn. 2. All successional phases of dune slack vegetation should be present at Morfa Dyffryn. 3. The humid dune slacks should be vegetated with typical and desirable species such as those outlined in the table below. 4. The dune slack vegetation should be free from scrub and should have a relatively short sward. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Petalwort (Petalophyllum ralfsii)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The population of Petalophyllum will remain stable or increase. 2. Petalophyllum should be present at Morfa Harlech should be distributed across the northern part of Morfa Dyffryn sand dune system (Units 26 and 28). 3. The successionally young dune slacks that support the Petalophyllum should be in good condition as defined in the conservation objective for features 3 and 4 above. 4. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.


Reference

Anon. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn Special Area of Conservation. Countryside Council for Wales.


Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir / Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Calaminarian grasslands of the Violetalia calaminariae

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The area of calaminarian grassland must be stable (based on the extent at the time of SAC notification), or increasing in the long term, and will occur in all management units (where previously recorded see Table 4). 2. The remainder of the management units not highlighted for calaminarian grassland will be maintained in a favourable condition for lesser horseshoe bat. 3. The calaminarian grassland can be described as either “calaminarian grassland with Ditrichum plumbicola” or ‘calaminarian grassland (metal spoil) without Ditrichum plumbicola’.

a. Calaminarian grassland with D. plumbicola will be defined as a characteristically sparse and species poor vegetation type. The substrate varies from fine scree, through fine clay to fine silt like spoil. The substrate is rich in heavy metals (notably lead and zinc) resulting in a paucity of taxa within the habitat. Mosses and liverwort (e.g. Polytrichum piliferum, Jungermanniana gracillima, Weissia controversa, Dicranella heteromalla, Pholia nutans and Cephaloziella spp.) are often the only taxa found in association with D. plumbicola. b. Calaminarian grassland (metal spoil) without D. plumbicola is characterised by lichen encrusted (often Stereocaulon species), heavy metal rich, mine spoil. Between the blocks of spoil where humus accumulates, lower and higher plants with some degree of heavy metal toxicity tolerance grow. Mosses and liverworts often dominate the vegetation, however, in areas with greater depths of humus, pteridophytes and angiosperms can dominate. The metallophytes Asplenium septentrionale (Forked Spleenwort), Silene uniflora (Sea Campion) and Thlaspi caerulescens (Alpine Penny-cress) are often found in association with other higher plants on the mine spoil.

4. Broadleaf, coniferous, exotic and scrub species should be absent from the calaminarian grassland stands, because the above plants will shade out the slower growing moss and lichen species, and in time will smother the lower plants with litter material. 5. A 10m buffer, clear of coniferous vegetation, will be maintained around the stands of calaminarian grassland with D. plumbicola. 6. Disturbance through human impact and recreation will be absent from the calaminarian grassland. 7. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The site will support a sustainable population of lesser horseshoe bats in the Gwydyr Forest area. 2. The population will viable in the long term, acknowledging the population fluctuations of the species. 3. The natural range of lesser horseshoe bats is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future. 4. Mines on the site will be in optimal condition to support the populations. 5. Sufficient foraging habitat is available, in which factors such as disturbance,


Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir / Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

interruption to flight lines, and mortality from predation or vehicle collision, changes in habitat management that would reduce the available food source are not at levels which could cause any decline in population size or range. 6. There is a sufficiently large area of suitable habitat surrounding the roosts to support the bat population, including continuous networks of sheltered broadleaved and coniferous woodland, and tree lines, connecting the various roosts with areas of insect rich grassland and open water. 7. Management of the surrounding habitats is of the appropriate type and sufficiently secure to ensure there is likely to be no reduction in population size or range, nor any decline in the extent or quality of breeding, foraging or hibernating habitat. 8. All factors affecting the achievement of the foregoing conditions are under control.

Reference

Anon. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir / Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC. Countryside Council for Wales.


Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau / Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

Reefs The conservation objective for the reefs is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The reefs feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND AREA (i) The distribution of the reef feature within the site is as indicated on the indicative feature maps ii, ii and the reef feature map 1.1 - this includes rocky intertidal and subtidal reefs, the Sarnau cobble and boulder reefs, biogenic reefs (horse mussel, Modiolus modilus, mussel reefs formed by Musculus discors and honeycomb worm reefs formed by Sabellaria alveolata) and carbonate reefs structures formed by methane gas leaking from the seabed. (ii) There is no reduction in the overall extent of the reef habitat or the extent of the different components of the reef feature (rocky intertidal and subtidal reefs, the Sarnau cobble and boulder reefs, biogenic reefs (horse mussel, Modiolus modiolus, mussel reefs formed by Musculus discors and honeycomb worm reefs formed by Sabellaria alveolata) and carbonate reefs structures formed by methane gas leaking from the seabed. STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iii) There is no change to the distribution, extent and variation of the rock types forming the reefs within the site. (iv) The geomorphology (reef morphology, topography, orientation, aspect, bathymetry) of all components of the reef feature is determined by and evolves under the influence of uninterrupted environmental processes. (v) The supply and nature (granulometry and structure) of sediment deposits on reef surfaces and influencing the reef communities is not hindered or modified (this includes sediment supply to create scour conditions and provide material for construction of reef communities (e.g. reefs formed by Sabellaria spp.). (vi) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the reefs and their associated communities operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. (vii) The nature and pattern of hydrological and hydrodynamic processes (including wave –exposures, tidal stream strengths, depth ranges, scour regimes, temperature) and the interaction and influence of these on the reefs and their associated communities continueto operate without constraint or interference. (viii) The levels of suspended particulate concentrations and water clarity/turbidity are within a range that sustains the continued presence of the communities and typical species of the reefs. (ix) The water and sediment chemistry (includes salinity, dissolved oxygen, levels of contaminants) are within ranges that sustains the continued presence of the communities and typical species of the reefs. (x) Levels of nutrients in the water column and sediments remain: - at or below existing statutory guideline concentrations - at levels within ranges that are not potentially detrimental to the long-term maintenance of the biotic assemblages and species populations of the reef TYPICAL SPECIES



Vision

(xi) The species richness, population dynamics, biomass and range of typical species of the reefs including assemblages of mobile species are determined by and sustained in response to the prevailing physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes. (xii) The large variety of biological communities (as categorised by intertidal and subtidal biotopes) includes, but is not limited to that listed in Appendix 4.1.1 of the Management Plan. (xiii) The distribution of the biological communities of the reefs reflects the range of physiographic conditions throughout the site (including a broad spectrum of rocky substrata, wave exposure, tidal stream strengths, depth ranges, turbidity and scour regimes). (xiv) The communities within the 7 different groupings of communities listed in Appendix 4.1.2 and shown on map 1.2 are present and there is no reduction in their extent, distribution and quality is as described. (xv) The seaweed communities of the Sarnau are representative/characteristic of disturbed and scoured habitat and conditions (as indicated by the presence of extensive examples of a limited number of specific communities) (xvi) There is no reduction in the extent of the Horse mussel Modiolus modiolus community off the north Llŷn coast or the quality of this community in terms of its structural integrity (age structure, density of live Modiolus), community composition and species richness (epibiota and infuana). (xvii) The potential for expansion of the Horse mussel Modiolus modiolus community off the north Llŷn coast is not inhibited. (xviii) There is no reduction in the extent and distribution of the honeycomb worm reef Sabellaria alveolata in the intertidal and shallow infralittoral) or the quality of this community in terms of its community composition and species richness and the presence of honeycomb worm reefs in varying stages of development and maturity. (xix) There is no reduction in the extent of the Carbonate reef structure formed by gas leaking from seabed or the quality of this habitat in terms of its species community (epibiota) and assemblage of mobile species. (xx) The 20 notable species listed in Appendix 4.1.3 are present within, but not limited to, the reefs. (xxi) The assemblages of fish species and other mobile species supported by and associated with the reefs are present. SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xxii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Large shallow inlets and bays

The conservation objective for the large shallow inlet and bay is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The large shallow inlet and bay feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND AREA (i) The distribution of the large shallow inlet and bay within the site is as indicated on the indicative features maps ii and iii (ii) There is no reduction in the area (extent) of the large shallow inlet and bay STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION



Vision

(iii) The structure of the bay (the sediments of the seashore and seabed, their topography and the bathymetry of the bay) are determined by and continue to evolve under the influence of uninterrupted environmental processes. (iv) There is no reduction in the variety and relative extent of the various sediment types within the bay. (v) The structure of the shingle shore at Pwllheli is suitable to support the population of Pectenogammarus planicrurus. (vi) The supply and nature of the sediments and material forming and sustaining the large shallow inlet and bay feature and its associated communities are not hindered or modified. (vii) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the large shallow inlet and bay and its associated communities continue to operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature (viii) The nature and pattern of hydrodynamic processes and the interaction and influence of these on the patterns of sediment movement that form and sustain the varied habitats of the large shallow inlet and bay and their associated communities continue to operate without constraint or interference. (ix) The pattern and range of seabed surface and surface water temperatures sustains the continued presence of the communities and typical species of the large shallow inlet and bay. (x) Levels of nutrients in the water column and sediments remain: - at or below existing statutory guideline concentrations - at levels within ranges that are not potentially detrimental to the long-term maintenance of the biotic assemblages and species populations of the large shallow inlet and bay TYPICAL SPECIES (xi) The species richness, population dynamics, biomass and range of typical species of the large shallow inlet and bay are determined by and sustained in response to the prevailing physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes. (xii) The variety of the biological communities of the large shallow inlet and bay (as categorised by intertidal and subtidal biotopes) includes, but is not limited to that listed in Appendix 4.2.1 of the Management Plan. (xiii) The distribution of the biological communities of the large shallow inlet and bay reflects the range of physiographic conditions present within the bay (a summary description of this distribution is provided in Appendix 4.2.2 of the Management Plan) (xiv) No reduction in the extent and quality of the 9 communities listed in Appendix 4.2.3 of the Management Plan. (xv) The 11 notable species listed in Appendix 4.2.4 of the Management Plan are present within, but not limited to, the large shallow inlet and bay. (xvi) The bay functions as a nursery area for crustaceans and fish species without interference and/or constraint SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xvii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is



Vision

secure in the long term.

Subtidal sandbanks The conservation objective for the sandbanks which are slightly covered by seawater all the time is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The ‘subtidal sandbanks’ feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: RANGE AND EXTENT (i) The distribution of the sandbanks within the site is as indicated on the indicative features maps ii and iii (ii) The overall extent of sandbank habitat is as indicated in the indicative feature maps ii and iii . STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iii) The supply and nature of sediment forming and sustaining the sandbanks structures is not hindered or modified (iv) The relative proportions of sediment types on each sandbanks are as listed in Appendix 4.3.1 (v) The topography of each sandbank is maintained within the relative proportions described in Appendix 4.3.2 (vi) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the sandbanks and their associated communities operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. (vii) The dynamic nature and pattern of hydrodynamic processes and the interaction and influence of these on the patterns of sediment movement that form and sustain the sandbanks and their associated communities continue to operate without constraint or interference (viii) Levels of nutrients in the water column and sediments remain: - at or below existing statutory guideline concentrations - at levels within ranges that are not potentially detrimental to the long-term maintenance of the biotic assemblages and species populations of the sandbanks CONSERVATION OF TYPICAL SPECIES (ix) The variety and distribution of infaunal communities of the sandbanks should include, but is not limited to that listed in Appendix 4.3.3 (x) The species richness, population dynamics, biomass and range of typical species of the sandbanks are determined by and sustained in response to the prevailing physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes. (xi) The species richness of infauna at the base of the Tripods, Bastram Shoal and Devil’s Ridge sandbanks is no lower than, and contains the species listed in Appendix 4.3.4 (xii) The assemblages (and their populations) of mobile species associated with the sandbanks (on the sediment surface and in the water column) are present SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xiii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Estuaries The conservation objective for the estuaries is to achieve the favourable



Vision

conservation status of the feature. The estuaries feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: RANGE AND EXTENT (i) The distribution of the estuaries of the SAC is as indicated on the indicative features maps ii and iii. (ii) There is no reduction in the extent of each of the estuaries that comprise the feature within the site (iii) Additional land which should form an integral part of the estuarine ecosystem is restored STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iv) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the estuaries and their associated communities operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. (v) The geomorphological processes operating within the estuaries are not constrained or modified (vi) The supply and nature of sediment forming and sustaining the estuaries is not hindered or modified (vii) The pattern and rate of sediment movement within the estuaries, and between the estuaries and coastal and inshore areas are not hindered or modified (viii) There is no increase in the background levels of riverine sediment input into each estuary (ix) The dynamic evolution of the spit at the mouth of each estuary continues and there is no reduction in the size of the ebb tide delta at mouth of (x) The current range of bathymetric horizons present in each estuary is retained such that the majority of estuarine sediment in each estuary is exposed at low water. (xi) Each estuary is in a state of dynamic equilibrium (xii) The dynamic process of channel movement within each estuary continues without constraint or hindrance (xiii) There is a relatively higher proportion of sandy sediments to muddy sediments in each estuary. (xiv) The hydrological and hydrodynamic processes (including the characteristic flood hydrograph) & salinity regime within each estuary are within ranges that sustain the continued presence of the communities and typical species of the estuary. (xv) There is no increase in the background nutrient levels within the water and sediments of each estuary. (xvi) The water and sediment chemistry (e.g. dissolved oxygen, temperature and levels of contaminants) are within ranges that sustain the continued presence of the communities and typical species of the estuaries. (xvii) The structure and functions of the estuaries that have been damaged/degraded by the constraints of artificial structures (e.g. flood banks) are restored CONSERVATION OF TYPICAL SPECIES (xviii) The variety of typical plant and animal species within viable populations



Vision

continue to be present (xix) The variety of biological communities supported by the estuary feature reflects the gradient of estuarine physio-chemical conditions and includes, but is not limited to, the communities listed in Appendix 4.4.1 of the Management Plan. (xx) The following communities are present and their extent, distribution and quality is as described: • The distribution of the intertidal mudflat and sandflat communities present in estuarine conditions reflects the gradient of sediment and salinity conditions typical of estuarine conditions is as indicated in map 4.1 of the Management Plan. • The proportion of sand to mud and muddy sand communities within the estuaries is as indicated in Appendix 4.4.2 of the Management Plan. • There is no reduction in the extent of intertidal rock habitat suitable to support the variety of rocky shore intertidal communities, as indicated on map 4.2 of the Management Plan. • The extent, distribution and quality of the variable salinity rocky and mixed substrate communities is as indicated in map 4.3 and listed in Appendix 4.4.3 of the Management Plan. • There is no reduction in the extent, quality and distribution of, saltmarsh, transition and sand dune communities. (xxi) The assemblages of marine and terrestrial invertebrates, fish and birds supported by and associated with the estuaries are present. See appendix 4.4.4 of the Management Plan. (xxii) The estuaries continue to function effectively as nursery areas for bass Dicentrarchus labrax and other fish species and as a migratory route for salmon Salmo salar, sea trout Salmo trutta and eels Anguilla anguilla. SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xxiii) The management of activites or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

The conservation objective for the mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The “intertidal mudflats and sandflats” feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND EXTENT (i) The distribution of the intertidal mudflats and sandflats within the site is as indicated on the indicative feature maps ii and iii (ii) There is no reduction in the extent of the intertidal mudflats and sandflats in estuarine conditions (as indicated in map 4.1) (iii) There is no reduction in the extent of the intertidal mudflats and sandflats in open coast situations (as indicated in map 5.1) STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iv) The supply and nature of sediment forming and sustaining the intertidal mudflats and sandflats are not hindered or modified (v) The geomorphology, topography and sediment characteristics of the mudflats and sandflats support the extent and distribution of the feature and its variety and



Vision

populations of typical species (vi) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the inertidal mudflats and sandflats and their associated communities operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature (vii) The nature and pattern of hydrological and hydrodynamic processes (includes sediment transport patterns & processes; wave exposure; tidal range; tidal currents; temperature) and the interaction and influence of these on the intertidal mudflats and sandflats and their associated communities continue to operate without constraint or interference. (viii) The water and sediment chemistry (e.g. salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, levels of contaminants) are within ranges that sustain the continued presence of the communities and typical species of the intertidal mudflats and sandflats (ix) There is no increase in the levels of nutrients in the water column and sediments of the estuaries (x) Levels of nutrients in the water column and sediments of the open coast areas remain: - at or below existing statutory guideline concentrations - at levels within the ranges that are not potentially detrimental to the long-term maintenance of the biotic assemblages and species populations of the open coast intertidal mudflats and sandflats CONSERVATION OF TYPICAL SPECIES (xi) The range of typical infaunal, epifaunal and mobile species (including their population dynamics and biomass) continue to be associated with the intertidal mudflats and sandflats. (xii) The variety of biological communities (as categorised by intertidal biotopes) supported by the intertidal mudflats and sandflats in estuarine conditions reflects the gradient of sediment and salinity conditions typical of estuarine conditions and includes, but is not limited to the communities listed in Appendix 4.5.1. (xiii) The distribution of the intertidal mudflat and sandflat communities present in estuarine conditions reflects the gradient of sediment and salinity conditions typical of estuarine conditions is as indicated in map 4.1 (xiv) The variety of biological communities (as categorised by intertidal biotopes) supported by the intertidal mudflats and sandflats in open coast conditions reflects the gradients of differing exposure to wave action and aspect and includes, but is not limited, to the communities listed in Appendix 4.5.2. (xv) The distribution of the intertidal mudflat and sandflat communities present in open coast conditions reflects the gradients of differing exposure to wave action and aspect as is indicated in map 5.1 (xvi) The following communities are present and their extent, distribution and quality is as described: • The proportion of sand to mud and muddy sand communities within the estuaries is as indicated in Appendix 4.5.3 • There is no reduction in the geographical distribution of the nationally important community of Mya arenaria and polychaetes in muddy gravel gravel as indicated in map 5.2. • There is no reduction in the extent, distribution and quality (in terms of blade density) of eel grass Zostera marina (see map 5.3 for indication of location of



Vision

intertidal eel grass beds). • The extent and overall community of species associated with the muddy gullies in the Mawddach estuary is as described in Appendix 4.5.4 (xvii) The extent and community composition of examples of sediment zonation is as described in Appendix 4.5.5. SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xviii) The management of activites or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae)

The conservation objective for the Atlantic salt meadow (Glauco-Puccinellietalia) is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The “Atlantic salt meadow” feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND EXTENT (i) The distribution of the Atlantic salt meadow of the SAC is as indicated on the indicative features maps ii and iii (ii) There is no reduction in the overall extent of the Atlantic saltmeadow. STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iii) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the Atlantic salt meadow and its associated communities operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. (Also see structural and functional components under estuaries) (iv) A variety of geomorphological components are present within the Atlantic salt meadow, e.g. saltmarsh creeks, saltpans and erosional cliffs. (v) The morphology of the saltmarsh creeks and pans within the Atlantic salt meadow continues to evolve in response to the influence of uninterrupted environmental processes. THE CONSERVATION OF TYPICAL SPECIES (vi) The variety of typical plant and animal species within viable populations continue to be present. (vii) The variety of the saltmarsh communities that form the Atlantic salt meadow includes the communities listed in Appendix 4.6.1. (viii) The distribution and quality of the saltmarsh communities that form the Atlantic salt meadow is as described in Appendix 4.6.2 and shown on map 6.1. (ix) No reduction in the extent and quality of the transitions between the Atlantic salt meadow and other communities as described in Appendix 4.6.3 (x) The nationally rare and scarce communities listed in Appendix 4.6.4 are present and there is no reduction in their extent and quality. (xi) The nationally rare, scarce and uncommon species listed in Appendix 4.6.5 are present and there is no reduction in their populations. SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.



Vision

Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand

The conservation objective for the Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The “Salicornia” feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND EXTENT (i) The distribution of the Salicornia communities of the SAC is as indicated on map 7.1 (ii) There is no reduction in the overall extent of the Salicornia and other annuals feature. STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iii) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the Salicornia and other annuals feature operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. (Also see structural and functional components under estuaries). (iv) A variety of geomorphological components are present within the Salicornia communities, e.g. saltmarsh creeks, saltpans and erosional cliffs. THE CONSERVATION OF TYPICAL SPECIES (v) The variety of typical plant and animal species within viable populations continue to be present. (vi) The variety of the saltmarsh communities that form the Salicornia and other annuals feature includes the communities listed in Appendix 4.7.1. (vii) The distribution and quality of the saltmarsh communities that form the Salicornia feature is as described in Appendix 4.7.2 (viii) The nationally scarce community characterised by the species Sarcocornia perennis is present and there is no reduction in its extent and quality (ix) The notable plant species listed in Appendix 4.7.3 are present in the Salicornia and other annuals communities and there is no reduction in their populations. SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (x) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Submerged or partly submerged sea caves

The conservation objective for the submerged or partially submerged sea caves is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The “sea caves” feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND EXTENT (i) There is no reduction in the geographical distribution of the different types and sizes of sea caves present within the site (ii) There is no reduction in the overall area (extent and number) of the sea caves within the site (see maps ii and iii for an indication of the areas where sea caves are present within the SAC) STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iii) There is no change to the distribution, extent and variation of the rock types where the sea caves are present within the site. (iv) The morphology, topography, orientation, aspect and bathymetry of the sea



Vision

caves is determined by and evolves under the influence of uninterrupted environmental processes. (v) There is a variety of sediment / rock deposits in base of sea caves determined by and evolving under the influence of uninterrupted environmental processes (vi) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the sea caves and their associated communities operate witin the range of dynamic fluctuaion that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. TYPICAL SPECIES (vii) The sea caves support a variety and distribution of biological communities that includes, but is not limited to that described in Appendix 4.8.1 (viii) The species richness, population dynamics, biomass and range of typical species of the sea caves are determined by and sustained in response to the prevailing physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes. (ix) There are extensive examples of sea cave communities (as categorised by biotopes) present in, but not limited to, certain caves as described in Appendix 4.8.2 (x) The larger caves near Hell’s Mouth, St. Tudwal’s Islands and Pen y Cil (Trwyn y Fulfran cave, Two-levels cave and Pen y Cil tunnel (Bunker & Holt 2003) continue to support a relatively high species and habitat richness and well-developed zonation of sea cave communities. (xi) The notable species listed in Appendix 4.8.3 are present within, but not limited to, the sea caves listed. SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term

Coastal lagoon The conservation objective for the coastal lagoons is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The coastal lagoons feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: NATURAL RANGE AND EXTENT (i) The distribution of the lagoon within the site is as shown on the indicative features maps ii and iii (ii) There is no reduction in the area (extent) of the lagoon STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (iii) There is no modification to the physical structure of the lagoon (iv) There is no modification to the structure of the supporting/impounding shingle spit, bank and beach (v) The patterns of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes that form and sustain the lagoon and its associated community operate within the range of dynamic fluctuation that would be expected to satisfy the ecological requirements of the feature. (vi) There is no interruption to the input of seawater through percolation and input of freshwater through percolation and rainfall. (vii) The salinity regime is within the range to support the lagoonal specialist



Vision

species (10‰ - 40‰) (viii) The temperature regime is within the range to support the lagoonal specialist species (ix) Levels of nutrients in the water column and sediments remain: - at or below existing statutory guideline concentrations - at levels within ranges that are not potentially detrimental to the long-term maintenance of the lagoonal specialist species and the biotic assemblage of the lagoon (x) The level of dissolved oxygen in the water and sediments is within the range to support the lagoonal specialist species CONSERVATION OF TYPICAL SPECIES (xi) The lagoon supports a community of species that is determined by and sustained in response to the prevailing physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes. (xii) The lagoon supports a community of species that includes a minimum of three lagoonal specialist species and a variety of other species including, but not limited to the species listed in Annex/Appendix 4.9.1 SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (xiii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

The conservation objective for the Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncates) to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The “bottlenose dolphin” feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: POPULATION DYNAMICS (i) The number of bottlenose dolphins within the SAC is stable or increasing (ii) The number of bottlenose dolphin calves produced in the SAC and beyond is sufficient to sustain the population (iii) There is a balance between the relative proportions of immature, mature, male and female bottlenose dolphins within the SAC and beyond (iv) The physiological health of bottlenose dolphins within the SAC is good NATURAL RANGE (v) The range of the bottlenose dolphin within the SAC and their contribution to the SW UK and Ireland population is not constrained or hindered SUPPORTING HABITAT (vi) There are appropriate and adequate food sources for the bottlenose dolphins within the SAC and beyond. (vii) The amount of supporting habitat for the bottlenose dolphins is stable or increasing SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (viii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Grey seal (Halichoerus The conservation objective for the Grey seal Halichoerus grypus is to achieve the



Vision

grypus) favourable conservation status of the feature. The ‘grey seal’ feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: POUPLATION DYNAMICS (i) The number of grey seals within the site is stable or increasing and there is a balance between the relative proportions of immature, mature, male, female components (ii) The level of pup production within the SAC is stable or increasing (iii) The physiological health of grey seals within the SAC is good NATURAL RANGE (iv) The range and distribution of grey seals within the SAC and beyond is not constrained or hindered SUPPORTING HABITATS (v) Sites used by grey seals are accessible to them and the extent and appropriate quality of supporting habitats are stable or increasing. (vi) There are appropriate and sufficient food sources for grey seals within the SAC and beyond SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (vii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.

Otter (Lutra lutra) The conservation objective for the Otter Lutra lutra is to achieve the favourable conservation status of the feature. The ‘otter’ feature will be considered to be in favourable conservation status when: POPULATION DYNAMICS (i) The number of otters within the SAC is stable or increasing (ii) The number of otter cubs produced in the SAC and beyond is sufficient to sustain the population (iii) The physiological health of otters within the SAC is good NATURAL RANGE (iv) The range of otters within the SAC and adjacent inter-connected areas is not constrained or hindered SUPPORTING HABITAT (v) Supporting habitats used by otters (e.g. for safe breeding, feeding, resting and travelling) are accessible to them, and the extent and quality of these habitats is stable or increasing. (vi) There are appropriate and sufficient food sources for otters within the SAC and beyond (vii) There are sufficient sources within the SAC and beyond of high quality freshwater for otter drinking and bathing SECURITY OF THE FEATURE IN THE LONG TERM (viii) The management of activities or operations likely to damage or degrade the distribution, extent, structure, function or typical species populations of the feature, is appropriate for maintaining favourable conservation status and is secure in the long term.


Reference

Anon. (2008). Draft advice provided by the Countryside Council for Wales in fulfilment of Regulation 33 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 for Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau / Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau European Marine Site. Countryside Council for Wales.


Rhinog SAC Qualifying interest

Vision

European dry heaths and Northern Atlantic wet heath with Erica tetralix

The vision for the heath land SAC features is for them to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1 The total extent of the dry heath area, approximately 1419 ha, shall be maintained. The area of dry heath should increase at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities such as acid grassland where appropriate. The total extent of the wet heath area, approximately 324ha, shall be maintained. The area of wet heath should increase in overall at the expense of less desirable vegetation communities. Some areas of wet heath which are degraded blanket bog may be restored to that priority habitat provided that there is a net gain of wet heath within the SAC. 2 The distribution of the dry and wet heath will at least be as at its present extent and will preferably be increasing as it is restored in additional areas. 3 The typical and uncommon species of the vegetation communities comprising the dry heath and wet heath, including lower plants, will be frequent and abundant. See Table 1. The nationally rare liverwort Welsh notchwort Gymnocolia acutiloba should continue to flourish at its known locations within the humid rocky heath. 4 The structure of the heath should be maintained and restored, to show natural regeneration by layering and seeding, and to ensure that the component vegetation communities are naturally diverse (refer also to 3 above). Wet heath will often benefit from having a medium to short structure, less than 30cms height. Signs of overgrazing, including ‘suppressed’, ‘topiary’ or ‘drumstick’ growth habits will not be apparent. 5 Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and bridewort (Spiraea) will not be present. 6 The surface of the heath will be generally free from trees and at most have only a few individuals at a density of no more than two per hectare. Exceptions to this rule are transition zones from woodland to heath land where trees may be denser grading to open heath. Limits for woodland transition zones should be set on a unit or sub-unit basis. 7 All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Old sessile oakwoods with Ilex and Blechnum Woodland

The vision for the Woodland SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the woodland area, including woodland canopy and scrub, woodland glades and associated dry heath, bracken and grassland shall be maintained as at present, of some 42 ha plus. The woodland feature is broadly in five interconnecting ‘zones’ to the west and south-west of Llyn Cwm Bychan. 2. The location of the woodland SAC feature will be as at present. Most of the woodland within Rhinog SSSI is excluded from Rhinog SAC and is included within Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC (refer to that SAC plan). The woodland covered by this feature is woodland generally without clear boundary between the heath, bog, acid grassland and bracken. Indeed these transitions between the habitats to woodland, which make measuring woodland extent difficult, are of interest in their own right. 3. The tree canopy percentage cover within the woodland area shall be no less than the current cover (excepting natural catastrophic events).



Vision

4. The canopy and shrub layer comprises locally native species, as indicated in Table 2, typical of this upland woodland which tends to be less oak and more birch dominated than more lowland examples of this SAC feature. 5. There shall be sufficient natural regeneration of locally native trees and shrubs to maintain the woodland canopy and shrub layer, by filling gaps, joining fragments of woodland and allowing the recruitment of young trees, and encouraging a varied age structure. 6. The typical ground layer species of the woodland SAC feature will be common, see Table 2. It is important that the vegetation does not become rank and overgrown with a height above 40cm and/or dominated by species such as bramble, ivy and young holly. Limits may be set on a unit or compartment basis. Typical lower plants including oceanic species (refer to Table 1 below for an indicative list) should continue to be abundant and/or maintained. 7. The abundance and distribution of uncommon mosses, liverworts, lichens and ferns, will be maintained or increased. 8. There will be a defined number of mature trees per hectare within the existing tree canopy on a unit basis. This will need to be defined by diameter for the upland situation where comparable trees at lower altitude are of c60cm diameter plus for oak and ash and/or with signs of decay, holes etc. 9. Dead wood will be present and consist of a mixture of fallen trees (minimum 1 per hectare), broken branches, dead branches on live trees, and standing dead trees (minimum one per hectare). Volumes of deadwood are currently at relatively low levels because the woodlands, in general, have an even-age structure and lack mature trees. Some lower plants are dead wood specialists but these woodlands tend to lack the rare dead wood invertebrate assemblage found in other parts of the UK. 10. Invasive non-native species such as rhododendron, conifers, sweet chestnut, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam will not be present. 11. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Blanket Bog The vision for this priority blanket bog SAC feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The total extent of the blanket bog area of approximately 231ha, is maintained. 2. The location and distribution of the blanket bog is maintained. 3. The typical species of the vegetation communities comprising the blanket bog SAC feature are frequent. The bulk of the blanket bog is referable to Trichophorum- Eriophorum bog (M17) with more localised stands of Calluna – Eriophorum bog (M19). See Table 1. 4. The abundance and distribution of uncommon plants, often indicative of good quality, is maintained or increased. 5. The structure of the blanket bog is maintained and restored where appropriate to include bog pools, depressions, hummocks and hollows as a natural feature of the bog surface. Artificial drainage ditches or moor grips are not present as functioning drains. No significant areas of peat erosion should be present. 6. Invasive non-native species such as conifers, rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and bridewort (Spirea) are not present within the SAC and a species-specific buffer area 7. The blanket bog is free from all trees.



Vision

8. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Alpine and sub-Alpine heaths

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The extent of alpine and sub-alpine heath (currently 5.1ha of NVC H14 and possibly less than 1 ha of U10a –not measured) is maintained to be as large as possible such that it occupies all the area suitable for its development. The extent is unlikely to increase significantly here as most suitable areas are already NVC H14. 2. The location and range of the alpine and sub-alpine shall be the summits of Rhinog Fawr, Rhinog Fach and currently fragmentary stands around Craig Wion as well as Y Llethr, which currently supports small patches of moss heath (U10a) within the acid grassland NVC U4e. 3. Vegetation composition: The following characteristic plants will be common in the NVC H14 heath: Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, V.vitis-idaea, Empetrum nigrum, Racomitrium lanuginosum,Hypnum jutlandicum,Cladonia sps. This NVC community also has a less mossy form on Rhinog which is considered to be the most common form of this montane heath in Wales. Typical montane clubmosses, sedges and grasses. Moss-heath NVC U10a here on y Llethr is “an almost continuous carpet of Racomitrium lanuginosum studded with small plants such as Salix herbacea, Vaccinium myrtillus,V.vitis-idaea, Carex bigelowii and Diphasiastrum alpinum” (Averis 2004) . Typical montane clubmosses, sedges and grasses will also be present. 4. Non-native species are not present. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.Performance indicators for the alpine heath Feature

Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

The vision for this feature at Rhinog is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. Extent: The feature occupies all the area suitable for its development within a complex mosaic of mires, wet heaths and bog pools. From a partial survey in 2007 this feature is currently thought to cover about 1 ha. 2. Location: 3. Vegetation composition: The following plants will be common in the ‘depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion’: Rhyncospora alba, Sphagnum papillosum, Molinia caerulea, Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia, Eriophorum angustifolium. Extensive mats of Sphagum mosses will also be present locally, and Menyanthes trifoliata and Carex echinata also feature frequently. Other than Myrica gale, dwarf shrubs will be sparse. There will be no non native species present. 4. Uncommon species continue to be present including Sphagnum magellanicum, Drosera intermediaand the nationally scarce marsh clubmoss Lycopodiella inundata. 5. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae

The vision for the oligotrophic to mesotrophic (clear-water) lakes SAC feature is where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1 The total extent of the clear-water lakes shall be maintained. The catchments should also be maintained in at least their current condition.



Vision

and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea

2 The location of the clear-water lakes will be as shown on and as referred to by name in the table below. 3 The typical species, as listed following, of the vegetation communities comprising the clear-water lakes SAC feature will be common. The vegetation community is characterised by amphibious short perennial vegetation, with shoreweed Littorella uniflora and quillworts Isoetes spp. being considered as the defining components. On Rhinog, this species often grows in association with water lobelia Lobelia dortmanna, awlwort Subularia aquatica, bog pondweed Potamogeton polygonifolius, bulbous rush Juncus bulbosus, floating club-rush Eleogiton fluitans,alternate water-milfoil Myriophyllum alterniflorum and floating bur-reed Sparganium angustifolium, small pondweed Potamogeton berchtoldii and bladderworts Utricularia spp. 4 All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.


The conservation objective for the Oligotrophic lakes feature must be met. The vision for this feature is for it to be in favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. There will be no contraction of the current L. natans extent and distribution from Llyn Cwm Bychan. L. natans populations in sections 1 and 2 of the lake will be viable & will be able to maintain themselves on a long-term basis. L. natans must be able to complete sexual and/or vegetative reproduction successfully. 2. The lake will have sufficient habitat to support existing L. natans populations within their current distribution and for future expansion. 3. All factors affecting the achievement of these conditions are under control.

Reference

Williams, P., Evans, F. and Lewis, H. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Rhinog Special Area of Conservation (ACA) [sic]. Countryside Council for Wales.


Traeth Lafan / Lavan Sands, Conwy Bay SPA Qualifying interest

Vision

Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)

The vision for this feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The 5 year mean peak of the number of wintering oystercatchers is at least 4,000. 2. The abundance and distribution of cockles of 15mm or larger and other suitable food are maintained at levels sufficient to support the population with a 5 year mean peak of 4,000 individuals. 3. Oystercatchers are not disturbed in ways that prevent them spending enough time feeding for survival. 4. Roost sites, including high tide roost sites, remain suitable for oystercatchers to roost undisturbed. 5. The management and control of activities or operations likely to adversely affect the oystercatchers, is appropriate for maintaining the feature in favourable condition and is secure in the long term.

Reference

Anon. (2008). Core Management Plan including Conservation Objectives for Traeth Lafan/Lavan Sands, Conway Bay SPA. Countryside Council for Wales.



Figure 1

Location of European Sites


Dolgellau

Harlech

Llanuwchllyn

Mallwyd

Porthmadog

Beddgelert

Capel Curig

Trawsfynydd

Betws-y-coed

Notes:

SPECIAL AREA OF

CONSERVATION (SAC)

RAMSAR SITE

SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK

SPECIAL PROTECTION

AREA (SPA)

C Copyright reserved

Original

Size

Drawn by

Global Scale

Checked by

Approved by

Date

Designed by

Datum/Grid

Status:

1 : 250000

K:\projects\NH51128-Snowdonia-SEA\B-Incoming-Data\GIS\

HRA of the SNP Local Development Plan

A2A2A2A2

SP

DH

AS

FINALClient:

National Park Office

Tel: (01766) 770274


Penrhyndeudraeth Gwynedd

LL48 6LF

Fax: (01766) 771211 Issue

02

Date

FEB 09Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Snowdonia National Park Local Development Plan Update

Disclaimer:

Crown copyright. All rights reserved. Countryside Council for Wales 1000018813 (2007).Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on Behalf of HMSO © Crown copyright and

database right (2006). All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey No: 100023387

Project Code IssueDrawing No.

Hyder Consulting (UK) Limited

330 Firecrest Court, Centre Park, Warrington, WA1 1RG.

+44 (0)870 000 3908+44 (0)870 000 3008Tel: Fax:

FIGURE 1NH51128 2

Horizontal Scale

Vertical Scale

SP

FEB 09

Filename:

Title

Project

Habitats Regulations

Assessment of the

Snowdonia National Park

Local Development Plan

Location of

European Sites

Shadow Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Snowdonia National Park Authority

Revised Local Development Plan 2016-2031

HRA ADDENDUM MAY 2017

DRAFTED FOR Snowdonia National Park Authority

STATUS: FNAL CONSULTATION VERSION

BY

DTA ECOLOGY

Rectory Farm

Finchampstead

Wokingham

Berkshire

RG40 4JY

Tel 0118 973 4700

[email protected]

Website: www.dt-a.co.uk

Doc. Ref. 1031 SNPA LDP HRA Date: 17th May 2017

1

Contents

Contents .................................................................................................................................................. 1

1 Relevant background and introduction .......................................................................................... 2

1.1 Relevant background .............................................................................................................. 2

1.2 HRA of Land use plans generally ............................................................................................. 2

1.3 Introduction and approach ..................................................................................................... 5

1.4 The Defra guidance on competent authority co-ordination................................................... 9

2 The changes which have been proposed since the earlier 2007-2022 LDP and accompanying

Habitats Regulations Assessment ......................................................................................................... 12

2.1 The key issues changes compared to the 2007-2022 LDP .................................................... 12

3 European Site potentially affected ............................................................................................... 13

3.1 Sites identified as relevant March 2009 HRA........................................................................ 13

4 Preliminary consideration of the changes to the LDP .................................................................. 14

4.1 Summary of the findings from the October 2016 AA ........................................................... 14

5 Preliminary screening for likely significant effects ....................................................................... 16

5.1 Approach to screening the revisions .................................................................................... 16

5.2 Screening outcomes .............................................................................................................. 16

5.3 Conclusions ........................................................................................................................... 17

6 Appropriate Assessment of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone ....................................................... 18

6.1 The scope of the assessment ................................................................................................ 18

6.2 Assessing the LDP revisions .................................................................................................. 23

6.3 Summary ............................................................................................................................... 28

7 Assessment of the proposed development ‘in combination’ with other plans and projects ...... 31

7.1 Approach to the in combination requirements .................................................................... 31

Appendix 1…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 32

2

1 Relevant background and introduction

1.1 Relevant background

1.1.1 The background to this addendum to the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) work

already undertaken in respect of the 2007-2022 Local Development Plan (LDP) is important

to a correct reading and interpretation of this report. The purpose of this section 1.1 is to

capture the key steps in what is an iterative approach to the assessment of the Local

Development Plan under the Habitats Regulations.

1.1.2 The current LDP for the national park (2007-2022) was adopted in July 2011 and was subject

to a full HRA1. As part of the later short form revision process SNPA drafted a Review Report

in July 20162 which outlined how the LDP had performed over the past 5 years and

considered whether there was a need for any changes. This Review identified the need for

some key changes to the LDP which are currently being progressed.

1.1.3 DTA Ecology has been commissioned by Snowdonia National Park Authority (SNPA) to

undertake a ‘shadow’ HRA in respect of the proposed review of the LDP. This work has been

approached by way of an addendum to the March 2009 HRA which was undertaken in

respect of the original LDP. The focus of this addendum is therefore to assess the changes

which were identified through the review report and to update the findings of the earlier

HRA accordingly.

1.1.4 The In order to avoid a duplication of assessment effort, and to ensure a clear and logical

audit trail this document therefore forms an addendum to the March 2009 HRA. The

majority of the LDP is unchanged from the earlier 2007-2022 version such that most of the

earlier HRA work remains fit for purpose and can simply be ‘adopted’ for the purpose of the

updated LDP. This addendum follows chronologically, and sets out in a transparent manner

how the changes to the LDP have been subject to assessment under the Habitats

Regulations.

1.2 HRA of Land use plans generally

1.2.1 In the case of the EC v UK3 the European Court of Justice (now the Court of Justice of the

European Union) required the UK Government to secure the assessment of Britain’s land use

plans under the provisions of the Habitats Directive. In that judgment the Advocate General

and the Court itself recognised that although they considered Britain’s land use plans could

potentially have significant effects on European sites, despite the subsequent need for

planning permission at ‘project’ level stage, the assessment of plans had to be tailored to the

stage in plan making.

1.2.2 The Advocate General’s opinion4 which informed the judgment of the court acknowledged

the difficulties associated with an assessment of the early stages of a plan (such as a pre-

1 Snowdonia National Park Authority Local Development Plan HRA, Hyder Consulting, March 2009. 2 Eryri Local Development Plan Revision Review Report, SNPA, July 2016. 3 Case C-6/04: Commission of the European Communities v United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland judgment of the Court 20 October 2005. 4 Opinion of advocate general Kokott, 9th June 2005, Case C-6/04. Commission of the European Communities v United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

3

deposit proposals paper informing the preparation of a Deposit Plan). In paragraph 49 of

her opinion Advocate General Kokott stated that adverse effects:

“...must be assessed at every relevant stage of the procedure to the extent possible

on the basis of the precision of the plan. This assessment is to be updated with

increasing specificity in subsequent stages of the procedure”

1.2.3 Consistently, in the High Court case of Feeney5, in respect of the Oxford City Council Core

Strategy in England, the judge said:

“Each appropriate assessment must be commensurate to the relative precision of the

plans at any particular stage and no more. There does have to be an appropriate

assessment at the Core Strategy stage, but such an assessment cannot do more than

the level of detail of the strategy at that stage permits”

1.2.4 It is therefore important, even adopting a precautionary approach, not to assign a ‘likely

significant effect’ to policies and proposals that could not, realistically, have such an effect,

because of their general nature. It is important to apply the precautionary principle in the

‘likely significant effect test’ in the Regulations, but the European Commission in its own

guidance on the application of the test6, accepts that policies in a plan that are no more than

general policy statements or which express the general political will of an authority cannot

be likely to have a significant effect on a site.

1.2.5 To include such policies or general proposals in a formal ‘appropriate assessment’ is likely to

generate a considerable amount of abortive or unnecessary work. It could even lead to the

plan failing the ‘integrity test’. Not because, in practice, any policy or proposal might

adversely affect the integrity of any European site, but because policies have been ‘screened

in’ which generate no more than theoretical risks, or vague or hypothetical effects, and for

which no meaningful assessment can be made at this stage, because no particular significant

effect on any particular European site can actually be identified. Such an approach is not

believed to be in the interests of the plan or the European sites. In the Boggis judgment7,

the Court of Appeal ruled that there should be “credible evidence that there was a real,

rather than a hypothetical, risk”. What the assessment needs to concentrate on are those

aspects of the plan that could, realistically, be likely to have a significant effect.

1.2.6 Too lenient a view however can be equally problematic. For example, in respect of proposed

mitigation measures, the intention to simply rely on a general European ‘site protection

policy in the LDP would not form a compliant basis for the HRA.

1.2.7 Reliance on a general European site safeguard policy as the ‘mitigation measure’ is

insufficient to resolve any tensions or conflicts in the LDP between site protection and

policies or proposals which could significantly affect European sites. In the EC v UK, the ECJ

found that it was the requirement to determine planning applications in accordance with the

development plan (unless material considerations indicate otherwise) that made Britain’s

land use plans capable of significantly affecting European sites. Consequently, policies or

5 Sean Feeney v Oxford City Council and the Secretary of State CLG para 92 of the judgment dated 24 October 2011 Case No CO/3797/2011, Neutral Citation [2011] EWHC 2699 Admin 6 European Commission, 2000, Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC

section 4.3.2 at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/art6/provision_of_art6_en.pdf 7 Peter Charles Boggis and Easton Bavants Conservation v Natural England and Waveney District Council, High Court of

Justice Court of Appeal case C1/2009/0041/QBACF Citation No [2009] EWCA Civ. 1061 20th October 2009

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/art6/provision_of_art6_en.pdf

4

proposals which could have a high potential for significant adverse effects on European sites

should be removed from the plan (or dropped at option selection stage); or policy-specific,

or proposal-specific, mitigation measures must be introduced to the plan. This is in

preference to a general protection policy which merely creates an internal conflict between

plan policies, rather than avoiding the potentially significant effects. Any tension in the plan

must be resolved in favour of protecting the European sites from harm which may be caused

by the effects of the policies or proposals in the plan8.

1.2.8 Consequently, a general policy cannot form a mitigation measure in order for the park

authority to ascertain no adverse effects on the integrity of any European sites. A safeguard

condition or policy qualifying a particular proposal in the plan would however be

permissible, because it would refer to specific details of future particular development9.

There is nothing wrong in adopting something in principle which may not happen in the

future if the condition or qualification is not satisfied10. But this principle cannot be

stretched so far that the condition or qualification is merely a general policy aspiring to

protect all European sites from all and any effects of the plan.

1.2.9 The inherent problems with an intention to rely on a general policy as appropriate mitigation

in the HRA of the LDP is what underpins the need to consider the requirements of the

Habitats Regulations at the earlier stages in the plan development process. Where possible,

the elimination of the likelihood of significant effects at this early stage can be particularly

important to the overall assessment. This can be done by removing any policies or proposals

that may have such an effect or by introducing case-specific measures to mitigate them.

1.2.10 With specific reference to mitigation measures in the context of a strategic land use plan, it

is important to recognise the extent to which it is necessary to set out every detail of

proposed mitigation measures at the plan making stage. An approach which potentially

relies upon the detailed aspects of mitigation matters being finalised after the adoption of

the plan was specifically endorsed by the High Court in the case of Abbotskerswell v

Teignbridge (2014)11. In this case the Inspector ‘did not consider that safeguards proposed in

the plan – the strategic mitigation strategy, settlement and site mitigation plans – had to be

in place in advance of adoption of the Local Plan’. The Court ruled in para 84 that ‘the

Inspector was entitled to conclude that the Local Plan met the statutory requirements and

was sound’.

1.2.11 More recently, in the case of NANT v Suffolk Coastal District Council (2015)12, the Court of

Appeal ruled that ‘the important question… is not whether mitigation measures were

considered at the stage of Core Strategy in as much detail as the available information

permitted, but whether there was sufficient information at that stage to enable the Council

to be duly satisfied that the proposed mitigation measures could be achieved in practice’.

These cases should not be read to suggest that the consideration of mitigation measures can

be put aside at the plan making stage, but that it is not necessary (or reasonable) to require

all the detailed elements of proposed mitigation measures to be identified and agreed.

8 Feeney paragraph 97 9 Feeney paragraphs 88, 90 and 92 10 Feeney paragraph 96 11 Abbotskerswell Parish Council v Teignbridge District Council [2014] EWHC 4166 (Admin) 12 No Adastral New Town v Suffolk Coastal District Council [2015 ] EWCA Civ 88

5

1.3 Introduction and approach

1.3.1 This addendum is drafted to fulfil the brief from SNPA and is provided as a ‘shadow’ HRA

addendum as, strictly speaking, in accordance with the Habitats Regulations it is for SNPA as

the competent authority to undertake the assessment as required by regulation 102, and

make the necessary decisions in respect of the findings of that assessment. This shadow HRA

addendum is therefore provided to SNPA, as the competent authority, who must then

consider whether they will ‘adopt’ the reasoning and findings for the purposes of their own

assessment.

1.3.2 This assessment adopts the methodology for the assessment of the planning application that

is set out in Part F of The Habitats Regulations Assessment Handbook13 (hereafter referred

to as ‘the HRA Handbook’). This method was considered by Natural Resources Wales

specialists in HRA during a period of ‘guest access’ to the Handbook on line before it was

made available to subscribers in September 2013. Following consideration of the

Handbook’s recommended method, and the consideration of the Handbook’s 180 principles

to be applied in HRA drawn from case law, EC and Government guidance, Natural Resources

Wales did not request any changes to be made to the text of the Handbook and proceeded

to take out a multiple user subscription to make it available for all staff.

1.3.3 Current subscribers to the Handbook include Government (England and Wales), Natural

England, Marine Management Organisation, the Planning Inspectorate, the Environment

Agency, Natural Resources Wales, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, all Welsh Local

Planning Authorities and a growing number of local planning authorities in England, together

with lawyers, consultants and NGOs. This methodology is accepted by the statutory nature

conservation body and the Planning Inspectorate as appropriate for their own staff to

follow. As such, the approach set out in the Handbook is considered to represent current

best practice. The process and method of assessment is summarised in the following three

diagrams. Figure 1.1 illustrates the statutory procedures required by the regulations. Figure

1.2 is an outline of the four stage approach to the HRA of plans. Figure 1.3 illustrates how

the HRA process is integrated into the plan making process.

13 Tyldesley, D., and Chapman C. (2013) The Habitats Regulations Assessment Handbook, September

2016 edition UK: DTA Publications Limited.(see website at www.dtapublications.co.uk)

http://www.dtapublications.co.uk/


6

Figure 1.1: Procedures required by regulations 61 and 102 of the Habitats Regulations

7

Figure 1.2: Outline of the four stage approach to the assessment of plans under the Habitats

Regulations

8

Figure 1.3: Relationship of steps in the Habitats Regulations Assessment with a typical plan making

process

9

1.4 The Defra guidance on competent authority co-ordination

1.4.1 An important, but frequently overlooked, provision within the Habitats Regulations can be

found at regulation 65 which reads as follows:

1.4.2 In light of the significance of this provision for minimising duplication of assessment effort,

Defra issued guidance on regulation 65 under the provisions of 65(3) and competent

authorities in England are obliged to have regard to this guidance under the provisions of

regulation 65(4). Whilst the guidance is relevant to England, in the absence of equivalent

guidance for Wales, the Welsh Government have endorsed the use Defra guidance by Welsh

Planning Authorities as ‘best available information’, In considering the extent to which the

HRA work already undertaken in respect of the 2009 HRA of the original Local Development

Plan is relevant to this HRA of Revision Review LDP, SNPA should therefore be mindful of

provisions of this Defra guidance an competent authority co-ordination14.

1.4.3 Whilst, strictly speaking, the provisions of regulation 65 do not apply as a matter of law to

the current assessment requirements, as the reviewed ’plan’ does not meet either of the

three scenarios in regulation 65(1), it is generally accepted15 that paragraphs 5-7 of the Defra

guidance (which comprise the guidance issued under regulation 65(3)) can be applied widely

as a matter of good practice. Paragraph 4 of the guidance refers to two situations where

competent authorities might ‘co-ordinate’ their assessment requirements. The first scenario

is of relevance to the current HRA as it states that ‘where previous decisions have been taken

in relation to the appropriate assessment requirements for a plan or project, competent

authorities should adopt the parts of the earlier assessment that are robust and have not

become outdated by further information or developments’.

1.4.4 Having introduced the concept of ‘adopting’ earlier decisions in order to ‘simplify the

assessment process and reduce its time and costs for both the applicant and the competent

authorities involved’16, paragraphs 5-7 then provide specific further guidance on how and

when a competent authority might adopt the reasoning or conclusions from an earlier

assessment; they read as follows:

14 Habitats Directive: Guidance on competent authority co-ordination under the Habitats Regulations, July 2012 (Defra) www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-competent-authority-coordination-under-the-habitats-regulations 15 Refer section C.12 of The Habitats Regulations Assessment Handbook (ibid) 16 Refer para 2 of the Defra guidance

Co-ordination where more than one competent authority involved

65. (1) This regulation applies where a plan or project— (a) is undertaken by more than one competent authority; (b) requires the consent, permission or other authorisation of more than one

competent authority; or (c) is undertaken by one or more competent authorities and requires the

consent, permission or other authorisation of one or more other competent authorities.

(2) Nothing in regulation 61(1) or 63(2) requires a competent authority to assess any implications of a plan or project which would be more appropriately assessed under that provision by another competent authority.

http://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-competent-authority-coordination-under-the-habitats-regulations

http://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-competent-authority-coordination-under-the-habitats-regulations

10

5. The Regulations transposing the Habitats Directive enable competent authorities

to adopt the reasoning or conclusions of another competent authority as to whether

a plan or project is likely to have a significant effect on a European site, or will

adversely affect the integrity of a European site. They also provide that a competent

authority is not required to assess any implications of a plan or project that would be

more appropriately assessed by another competent authority’.

6. Competent authorities should adopt the reasoning, conclusion or assessment of

another competent authority in relation to the appropriate assessment requirements

for a plan or project, if they can. This can happen when all or part of the appropriate

assessment requirements have already been met by another competent authority. It

could also happen if one competent authority is completing all or part of the

appropriate assessment requirements on behalf of others. Competent authorities

remain responsible for ensuring their decisions are consistent with the Habitats

Directive, so must be satisfied:

No additional material information has emerged, such as new environmental

evidence or changes or developments to the plan or project, that means the

reasoning, conclusion or assessment they are adopting has become out of

date

The analysis underpinning the reasoning, conclusion or assessment they are

adopting is sufficiently rigorous and robust. This condition can be assumed to

be met for a plan or project involving the consideration of technical matters

if the reasoning, conclusion or assessment was undertaken or made by a

competent authority with the necessary technical expertise.

‘7. Due to these conditions there may be cases where it is not appropriate to adopt

the reasoning, conclusions or assessment of another competent authority, or it is

only appropriate to adopt some elements of an earlier assessment. In addition, even

where the conditions are met, a competent authority may need to undertake

additional work to supplement the assessment they have adopted in order to meet

the full appropriate assessment requirements.’

1.4.5 The application and implications of the Defra guidance has been considered in detail within

Part C12 of the HRA Handbook which refers to a ‘common sense’ approach at C.12.3 and

states that:

‘In respect of ‘earlier decisions’ that relate to a separate plan or project, the

competent authorities do not need to ‘coordinate’, because only one authority has a

decision to take... However, the principles set out in the Defra statutory guidance,

about adopting the reasoning and conclusions of another authority may be

applicable and should be adopted as good practice. ‘Earlier decisions’ that relate to

a separate plan or project could be separated by short, or relatively long, periods of

time. The point is that the earlier decision is made before the later competent

authority embarks on its assessment’

1.4.6 In the context of the HRA which needs to be undertaken in respect of the LDP Revision

Review HRA therefore, in recognition of the Welsh Government having advised that the

Defra guidance should be referred to as ‘best available information’, and in order to avoid

unnecessary duplication of assessment effort, this assessment ‘adopts’ the reasoning,

11

conclusion or assessment of earlier HRA work where it is appropriate to do so. SNPA will

seek to ‘adopt’ the reasoning, conclusion or assessment of the earlier HRA findings if they

can. Before they do so they must be satisfied that a) no additional material information has

emerged which might render the earlier decision ‘out of date’ and b) that the analysis

underpinning the reasoning, conclusion or assessment is sufficiently rigorous and robust.

12

2 The changes which have been proposed since the earlier 2007-

2022 LDP and accompanying Habitats Regulations Assessment

2.1 The key issues changes compared to the 2007-2022 LDP

2.1.1 The key changes to the current LDP are summarised below:

1) To roll forward the end date to 2031

2) To decide on a new plan housing requirement and how this can be met through

the allocation of new sites, amendments to housing development boundaries and

the contribution from windfall sites. This is likely to have a small impact on the

distribution of housing development in the settlement hierarchy.

3) To amend Housing Policies as required along with associated text.

4) To reference existing policies and text with Supplementary Planning Guidance

prepared since adoption

5) To consider the implications of any policies and proposals with a spatial

component and update proposals map accordingly

6) To show the designation of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone on the Proposals Map

and introduce a new positive and enabling policy to manage new development

within the Zone

7) To review policies dealing with types of tourism accommodation and related

contextual policies

8) To amend retail policy to provide more flexibility on alternative uses

9) To recognise the designation of the Dark Sky Reserve

10) Minor inconsequential updates to policies and supporting text.

2.1.2 With reference to the Defra guidance on competent authority co-ordination. It is the opinion

of DTA Ecology that: a) in the absence of additional material information which might render

the earlier findings ‘out of date’, and b) on the basis that the analysis underpinning the

earlier March 2009 HRA is considered to be ‘rigorous and robust’, the findings of the March

2009 HRA can be adopted by the SNPA in respect of all other aspects of the LDP which are

unchanged by the revision review. To subject the entire LDP to HRA would represent an

unnecessary duplication of assessment effort.

2.1.3 This addendum to the March 2009 HRA therefore focuses on the effects of the changes as

outlined in points (1-10) above.

13

3 European Site potentially affected

3.1 Sites identified as relevant March 2009 HRA

3.1.1 Section 4 of the 2009 HRA identified the European sites which are potentially affected by the

LDP. Table 4.1 identified a list of European sites which were subject to screening in respect

of effects associated with the LDP as a whole including:

European Sites identified in respect of the earlier March 2009 HRA

Aber Dyfi / Dyfi Estuary SAC

Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid / River Dee and Bala Lake SAC

Afon Eden -Cors Goch Trawsfynydd SAC

Afon Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn / River Gwyrfai and Llyn Cwellyn SAC

Berwyn SPA

Berwyn a Mynyddoedd de Clwyd / Berwyn and South Clwyd Mountains SAC

Cadair Idris SAC

Coedydd Aber SAC

Coedydd Derw a Safleodd Ystlumod Meirion / Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat Sites SAC

Cors Fochno SAC

Corsydd Eifionydd SAC

Craig yr Aderyn / Bird’s Rock

Eryri / Snowdonia SAC

Glynllifon SAC

Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt SAC

Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC

Mwyngloddiau Fforest Gwydir / Gwydyr Forest Mines SAC

Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau / Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau SAC

Rhinog SAC

3.1.2 Details concerning all these sites are available within the March 2009 addendum and are not

repeated here.

3.1.3 This addendum does not seek to subject the entire revised LDP to HRA as this would

generate unnecessary duplication of assessment effort already undertaken. Instead it

focuses on the effects which might arise from the changes listed as (a-j) in 3.1.1 above. The

implications of these changes will be considered in view of the sites identified as potentially

relevant to the HRA of the earlier LDP and will also consider the inclusion of additional sites

if necessary and appropriate to do so.

14

4 Preliminary consideration of the changes to the LDP

4.1 Summary of the findings from the October 2016 AA

4.1.1 As explained in para 1.3.2, this assessment adopts the approach set out in Part F of the

Habitats Regulations Assessment Handbook ‘Practical Guidance for the Assessment of

Plans’. With reference to F.3.4 of the HRA Handbook, when considering the changes

identified, it is first appropriate to consider if any of the changes can be ‘eliminated’ from

further assessment on the basis that they have no conceivable effect upon a European site.

Table 4.1 below considers each of the changes identified at para 2.1.1 above in turn and asks

whether they could have any conceivable effect upon a European site.

Table 4.1: Can the changes be eliminated from further assessment?

Proposed change Eliminate? Justification

1) to roll forward end date to 2031

Yes The extension of the end date for the LDP will have no conceivable effect on any European sites and is eliminated from further assessment.

2) to decide on a new plan housing requirement and how this can be met through the allocation of new sites

No This change could have conceivable effects which might undermine the conservation objectives for European sites and should be subject to further consideration

3) amend Housing Policies as required along with associated text

Yes It is the allocations themselves which generate the potential for effects upon a European site. These are taken forward through (b) above. These consequent wording alterations will have no conceivable effect on any European site.

4) to reference existing policies and text with Supplementary Planning Guidance prepared since adoption

Yes These wording alterations will have no conceivable effect on any European site and is eliminated from further assessment

5) consider the implications of any policies and proposals with a spatial component and update proposals map accordingly

Yes Likewise, these improvements will have no conceivable effect on any European site and is eliminated from further assessment

6) to show the designation of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone on the Proposals Map and introduce a new positive and enabling policy to manage new development within the Zone


7) to review policies dealing with types of tourism accommodation and related contextual policies


8) to amend retail policy to provide more flexibility on alternative uses


15

9) to recognise the designation of the Dark Sky Reserve

Yes This change will have no conceivable effect on any European sites and is eliminated from further assessment.

10) minor and inconsequential updates to policies and supporting text

Yes The tracked change version has been subject to review and all minor editing changes have no conceivable effect on any European site and can be eliminated from further assessment.

4.1.2 Following the initial pre-screening step, changes 1, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 10 are all eliminated from

any further assessment. Changes 2, 6, 7 and 8 have been identified as potentially giving rise

to effects which could conceivably undermine the conservation objectives for European

sites. These changes are therefore taken forward for screening as to whether they have a

likely significant effect.

16

5 Preliminary screening for likely significant effects

5.1 Approach to screening the revisions

5.1.1 Having eliminated the changes which have no conceivable effect on the site, Section F.6.3 of

the HRA Handbook introduces ‘screening categories’. It is relevant to note that these

screening categories are intended for use against individual plan policies rather than the

types of generic ‘changes’ as listed in 2.2.1. As such, a proportionate approach to screening

the changes has been adopted whereby each chapter of the updated LDP is considered in

light of the four ‘changes’ identified above which could conceivably have an effect upon a

European site. Any revisions to policies or supporting text which are driven by changes 2, 6,

7 and 8 are screened against the screening categories. The screening categories in the HRA

Handbook are as follows:

A. General statement of policy / general aspiration (screened out). B. Policy listing general criteria for testing the acceptability / sustainability of proposals

(screened out). C. Proposal referred to but not proposed by the plan (screened out). D. Environmental protection / site safeguarding policy (screened out). E. Policies or proposals which steer change in such a way as to protect European sites from

adverse effects (screened out). F. Policy that cannot lead to development or other change (screened out). G. Policy or proposal that could not have any conceivable effect on a site (screened out). H. Policy or proposal the (actual or theoretical) effects of which cannot undermine the

conservation objectives (either alone or in combination with other aspects of this or other plans or projects) (screened out).

I. Policy or proposal with a likely significant effect on a site alone (screened in). J. Policy or proposal with an effect on a site but not likely to be significant ‘alone’, so need

to check for likely significant effects in combination. K. Policy or proposal not likely to have a significant effect either alone or in combination

(screened out after the in combination test). L. Policy or proposal likely to have a significant effect in combination (screened in after the

in combination test).

5.2 Screening outcomes

5.2.1 Appendix 1 provides the detailed assessment outcomes whereby revisions to each Chapter

were subject to review and those driven by changes 2, 6, 7 and 8 were screened for likely

significant effects. All changes driven by changes 2, 7 and 8 were screened out as having no

likely significant effects with full justification provided in Appendix 1. All the revisions driven

by these changes were screened out against categories B, F and G. The generic nature of the

text and the lack of any spatial specificity mean that the revisions can be considered to have

no likely significant effects at all. As such, the revisions have no residual effects which might

combine with the effects from other proposals and do not require assessment in

combination with other plans and projects.

5.2.2 As such the revisions to the LDP arising from these changes (as listed below)are excluded

from further assessment:

New plan housing requirement and how this can be met through the allocation of new

sites (change 2),

17

A review of policies dealing with types of tourism accommodation and related

contextual policies (change 7),

Amendments to retail policy to provide more flexibility on alternative uses (change 8)

5.2.3 The revisions to the LDP driven by change 6 were identified as having a likely significant

effect. The relevant text within the revised LDP is found in Chapter 6 at paragraphs 6.14-6.27

including Development Policy 27. Likely significant effects have been identified in respect of

the following qualifying features of five European sites.

Table 5.1: European sites for which a likely significant effect from the Enterprise Zone has been identified

EZ location European Sites and qualifying features affected

Trawsfynydd Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC (lesser horseshoe bat feature only)

Llanbedr Morfa Harlech Dunes SAC (all features) Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC (lesser horseshoe bat feature only)

Abardaron Coast and Bardsey Island SPA (all features) Lleyn Peninsula and the Sarnau SAC (grey seal feature only) Cardigan Bay (grey seal feature only)

5.3 Conclusions

5.3.1 This revised text at paragraphs 6.14-6.2,7 as a result of change 6 ‘the designation of the

Snowdonia Enterprise Zone on the Proposals Map and introduce a new positive and enabling

policy to manage new development within the Zone’ is taken forwards for appropriate

assessment. All remaining revisions to the LDP been screened out as having no likely

significant effect, either alone or in combination with other plans and projects.

5.3.2 With the exception of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone, the absence of any likely significant

effects arising from the LDP revisions is not unsurprising given:

The statutory purpose of the National Park and its Local Development Framework

The statutory obligations of the National Park Authority

The low level of development expected and provided for in the National Park; and

The exceptionally high development management standards applied by the National

Park Authority

18

6 Appropriate Assessment of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone

6.1 The scope of the assessment

6.1.1 The Snowdonia Enterprise Zone is based on two distinct geographic locations. The first is on

the site of the former Magnox nuclear power station in Trawsfynydd (figure 6.1) and the

second relates to the Llanbedr airfield (figure 6.2)

Figures 6.1 and 6.2 Snowdonia Enterprise Zone at Trawsfynydd and Llanbedr

6.1.2 Para 6.25 of the LDP refers to the Llanbedr airfield providing access to 7,100km of

segregated airspace. The segregated airspace is worthy of further consideration due to the

potential for disturbance to birds arising from associated aircraft movements. Figure 6.3

shows the segregated airspace. The Aberdaron Coast and Bardsey Island SPA is located

within area D201 and D201C and the Cardigan Bay SAC is located within D201 and D201E.

Potential disturbance effects to populations for which the SPA has been classified therefore

need to be considered. By way of clarification use of the airspace is not considered to

represent and credible disturbance risk to marine mammals such as harbour porpoise and

dolphins, but SACs designated for seals (who spend significant periods out of the water)

have been identified for further consideration.

19

Figure 6.3: Segregated airspace accessible from Llanbedr

6.1.3 The appropriate assessment will therefore consider the potential effects on qualifying

features as listed in table 5.1. The assessment is limited to the specific effects and qualifying

features for which a likely significant effect has been identified:

6.1.4 When considering how the Enterprise Zone might adversely affect the European sites it is it

is first relevant to set out further information about the qualifying features which have been

identified as potentially at risk. Table 6.1 below summarises the information which is

available in respect of the qualifying features which are potentially at risk.

20

Table 6.1: Further information on European site qualifying features for which likely significant effects have been identified

Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC

Qualifying Feature identified as being at risk

Lesser horseshoe bat Rhinolophus hipposideros

Potential effects from Enterprise Zone The SAC in located some 1.6km from Trawsfynydd site and 1km from the Llanbedr site. The wide foraging range of the lesser horseshoe bat raises the potential for development to impact upon strategic flight lines in land which is functionally connected to the SAC and potentially important to supporting the population for which the SAC has been designated.

Further information on lesser horseshoe bat from SAC management plan With reference to the conservation objectives listed on page 17 of the management plan performance indicator F3 ‘Bat navigation flight lines’ and F4 ‘Roads and Development’ are of most relevance to the potential effects from the Enterprise Zone. F3 reads as follows ‘Bats use linear and other features including hedges, walls, lines of trees, scrub, ditches streams etc. between roosts and feeding areas’… the operational limit states ‘There should be no loss or decline in the quality of physical features used as flight lines’. F4 reads ‘Roads, particularly new widened routes, can cause increased mortality through collision with vehicles. This may also be through interruption to flight lines, by removal of traditional safe flight lines along linear features or by lighting. Lighting of roosts can have similar effects’… the operational limit states ‘Maintain closed canopy crossings over roads with connectivity to hedges and tree lines to foraging sites and roosts. Lighting should be avoided’. Further information in respect of F3 and F4 is provided in the conservation status section of the management plan which reads: ‘Flight lines: Lesser horseshoe bats use linear vegetation features, (hedgerows, lines of trees, areas of scrub, ditches, streams and rivers) for navigation between roosts and feeding grounds and these should be maintained, particularly in the vicinity of roost entrances. It is also important to ensure that access points and flight lines to nearby foraging habitat are not illuminated. Roads/Development: Roads, particularly new widened routes, can cause increased mortality through collision with vehicles. This may also be through interruption to flight lines by removal of traditional safe flight lines along linear features or by lighting. Lighting of roosts can have similar effects. Other developments, particularly those with tree and vegetation clearance and lighting could have Similar effects to roads within and adjacent to the SAC.’

Morfa Harlech Dunes SAC

Qualifying Features identified as being at risk • Embryonic shifting dunes • Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (‘white dunes’) • Humid dune slacks • Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea (Salicion arinarea) • Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii

21

Potential effects from the Enterprise Zone The area of the Llanbedr site allocated for physical infrastructure is limited to that within the hatched area as seen on figure 7.1. Significant development within the vicinity of the existing runways is not envisaged. The area allocated for development raises potential risks associated with site hydrology, drainage and impacts associated with increased recreational activities should access be provided from any new development to the dunes.

Further information from SAC management plan Map 2 of the site shows that the area of the SAC which might be affected management by development within the EZ is limited to units 23-28. Table 4 of the Management plan shows that embryonic shifting dunes are not present in any of the management units and this feature can therefore be excluded from further assessment. The management plan provides information on the vision in terms of population, distribution and extent of qualifying features. In addition, with reference to the potential effects identified above the management plan states: Shifting dunes F5 Vehicle or visitor damage: Pressure from trampling or vehicles can cause damage to vegetation and erosion and that vehicle or visitor damage should be absent or rare. Humid dune slacks and Dunes with salix F3 Hydrological regime: The slack vegetation is maintained by a high water table. As such –

Within Units 26, 27, 28, 35, 37, and 38 at Morfa Dyffryn or land adjacent to the SAC boundaries, there should be no drainage ditches or water abstraction or pumping which could cause a lowering of the water table.

There should be no tracks created which would disrupt the hydrological regime. F4 Vehicle or visitor damage: Vehicles or pressure from visitors including camping can cause damage or loss of slack vegetation, compaction and erosion. Camping is a particular problem at Morfa Dyffryn. As such:

Vehicle or visitor damage should be absent or rare at vulnerable locations

No camping or car parking should occur on the dune slack vegetation.

There should be no new tracks, hard standing or car parking areas created within the dunes slacks.

Petalwort F1 vehicle or visitor damage: Physical damage by vehicles or visitors could cause the loss of Petalophyllum colonies and damage or loss of to the dune slack habitat of Petalophyllum including, compaction and erosion. 4x4 tracks originating from unit 28 were noted within Petalophyllum area A (Unit 26) in 2007. As such:

• Vehicle or visitor damage should be absent within areas A, B, C and D (within Units 26 and 28) on map 8.

• There should be no camping within areas A, B, C or D marked on map 8.

• No new tracks should be created.

22

F2 Hydrological regime: Petalophyllum favours the slacks with a high water table where seasonal flooding is common. As such within Units 26, 27, 28, 35, 37, and 38 or land adjacent to the SAC boundaries at Morfa Dyffryn, there should be no drainage ditches or water abstraction or pumping which could cause a lowering of the water table.

Aberdaron Coast and Bardsey Island SPA

Qualifying Features breeding Manx shearwater Puffinus puffinus breeding and non-breeding chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

Potential effects from Enterprise Zone The distance between the SPA and the Llanbedr site is such that potential effects are limited to those which might be associated with disturbance from the use of the segregated airspace

Further information from SPA management plan The management plan provides information on the vision in terms of population size and extent and supporting habitat. In addition, with reference to the potential effects from disturbance identified above the plan states: Chough 4.1 Conservation objectives: ‘The vision for the feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied….. disturbance of breeding chough is minimal’ F2 Disturbance: Nest and roost sites are considered to be subject to few direct threats, as climbing near known nest sites is effectively controlled by voluntary codes of conduct. As such, no upper and lower limits have been set in terms of disturbance. 5.1 Management requirements: Human Disturbance Breeding birds are vulnerable to human disturbance during the breeding season. Disturbance may be by informal scrambling close to nest sites. Most nest sites are naturally protected from disturbance as they are in inaccessible cliff areas. Birds at the nest could potentially be disturbed by boating or diving activity in the immediate vicinity of the cliffs. Feeding birds may also be disturbed by walkers, although chough seem generally unperturbed by passers by unless directly approached. Increases in visitor pressure may prove a cause for concern, and monitoring should be undertaken with necessary mitigation where problems exist. Manx shearwater 2.3 The Manx shearwater population on Ynys Enlli is largely self-maintaining, and requires little in the way of active management. They simply require suitable nesting locations which are available in abundance on Enlli, access to fish in the open sea, and minimal disturbance. 4.2 Conservation objectives: The vision for the feature is for it to be in a favourable conservation status, where all of the following conditions are satisfied….. nesting birds are not disturbed by restoration works on boundary walls or recreational activities’

23

F7 Human disturbance/trampling: Human disturbance can be through erosion or collapse of shearwater burrows or by disturbing individuals on and at night. Collapse of burrows during the breeding season would be particularly detrimental to breeding success and that all promoted paths should avoid Manx shearwater burrows. All visitors to be advised of sensitive areas. 5.2 Management requirements: Human Disturbance - Human disturbance can be through erosion or collapse of shearwater burrows or by disturbing individuals on land at night. Collapse of burrows during the breeding season would be particularly detrimental to breeding success. Boating and diving activity in the vicinity of the island may lead to the disturbance of feeding Manx shearwater. There are currently no official constraints on any vessels operating around the island, either in terms of speed restrictions or exclusion zones/periods.

• Visitors and new residents should be informed of the presence of Manx shearwaters and the importance of the island’s population. They should be advised to avoid sensitive areas and to avoid disturbance.

• Paths should be diverted away from sensitive areas.

• Visitors should be advised not to walk on burrows or field boundary walls.

Cardigan Bay SAC

Qualifying Features Grey seal

Potential effects from Enterprise Zone The distance between the SAC and the Llanbedr site is such that potential effects are limited to those which might be associated with disturbance from the use of the segregated airspace

Further information from Regulation 35 report The Regulation 35 report identifies grey seals as potentially sensitive to physical disturbance (noise and visual) from military aircraft activity. It is therefore reasonable to assume that they are likewise potentially sensitive to aircraft movements that might be associated with use of the segregated airspace.

6.2 Assessing the LDP revisions

6.2.1 Reviewing the information contained in table 6.1 above, the Enterprise Zone may provide for

development which could cause:

• degradation to flight lines which support the population of lesser horseshoe

bats for which the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC has been designated.

The SAC management plan states that There should be no loss or decline in the

quality of physical features used as flight lines’

• Hydrological regime changes or trampling to habitats for which the Morfa Harlech a

Morfa Dyffryn SAC has been designated. The SAC management plan states that there

should be no drainage ditches or tracks which might disrupt the hydrology of the site. It

is implicit that other types of development which might disrupt the hydrological regime

should also be avoided.

24

• Visual and noise disturbance to the bird populations for which the Aberdaron Coast

and Bardsey Island SPA has been classified. The SPA management plan does not

identify any concerns over disturbance from aircraft activities but the potential for

disturbance remains.

• Visual and noise disturbance to the grey seal populations for which the Cardigan Bay

SAC has been classified. The Regulation 35 advice recognises grey seals as potentially

sensitive to physical disturbance (noise and visual) from military aircraft activity.

6.2.2 Having identified these potential risks, in undertaking an appropriate assessment, it is

recognised that the level of detail provided in respect of the nature of the development

proposals which might come forwards through the LDP within Enterprise Zone does not

allow these potential effects to be assessed in a meaningful manner. The LDP simply

recognises the designation of the Enterprise Zone by the Welsh Government and provides

an enabling policy. The LDP document refers to:

• Business and employment uses with a focus on development within the low-

carbon energy, ICT or aerospace sectors (6.14).

• Employment opportunities to support sustainable local communities (6.17).

• The SNPA expectation for an outline ‘masterplan’ to be in place before any

significant development commences on site (6.19).

• The SEZ designation at Trawsfynydd which recognises the importance of the lake

as an integral part of the opportunity presented at the site, particularly for

energy development (6.23)

• The Llanbedr airfield which has three runways providing access to 7,100km2 of

segregated airspace with significant development being limited to the north east

area of the site (6.25).

• Policy 27 which sets out criteria to be met including ‘no significant effects on the

features, functionality and integrity of neighbouring Natura 2000 sites’.

6.2.3 Looking at the policy wording and supporting text, in the absence of more specific proposals

as to what type of development proposals might ultimately come forwards, in considering

how best to ‘assess’ the potential effects identified in an appropriate manner, the options

are limited.

6.2.4 Firstly, with regards potential degradation of flight lines for bats, whilst this effect cannot be

excluded on the basis of objective information, it is entirely possible that a proposal might

come forwards which avoids any degradation of strategic flight lines. Likewise, depending on

the development proposals which come forwards it is also possible that the construction

works associated with development at Llanbedr might have no adverse effects on local

hydrological conditions within the dune habitats at Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC.

6.2.5 In a similar manner, until the nature and frequency of aircraft movements which might be

associated with the use of the segregated airspace are understood, it is also reasonable to

anticipate that disturbance effects to bird populations within the SPA and grey seals

associated with the Cardigan Bay SAC might not represent any adverse effect to the integrity

of the sites concerned.

6.2.6 The policy restriction provided by the specific Natura 2000 criteria in policy 27 does provide

a degree of protection to European sites but, before this wording can be relied upon, it is

25

necessary to ensure that this does not create an internal conflict within the LDP (see para

1.2.7). By way of example, such a conflict might arise if it were obvious at this stage that

options to avoid potentially adverse effects from the development provided for were

limited, or if securing the necessary mitigation measures might be problematic. The purpose

of the AA is therefore to consider whether the policy 27 criteria can be relied upon to avoid

adverse effects from the development opportunities provided for.

6.2.7 The HRA Handbook recognises the potential for such difficulties in plan based HRA at F.10.1

which includes the following text box:

6.2.8 The Handbook continues at F.10.1.1 to refer to the ‘need to address the tension between the

plan’s effects and the precautionary approach of the assessment process’. The Handbook

sets out a list of potential mitigation options which might be relevant in the case of a plan

HRA but none of those options would be appropriate to the assessment of effects

potentially identified from the Enterprise Zone. Section F.10.1.2 of the Handbook continues:

‘In some plans, despite the application of the kinds of mitigation measures listed

above, in order to ascertain no adverse effects on site integrity, other kinds of

mitigation measures may be required at this stage. These are listed and discussed in

more detail below.

Further mitigation measures that may be introduced during or after the ‘appropriate

assessment’ stage may be:

• Case-specific policy restrictions;

• Case-specific policy caveats;

• Prescribing how adverse effects on site integrity will be avoided by mitigation

measures in a lower level or more detailed plan, to be confirmed by a more

detailed Habitats Regulations Assessment at that level;

• Deleting aspects of the plan that will probably fail the tests of the Directive at

project application stage;

• Ensuring that there are no proposals that could adversely affect the integrity of a

European site that if retained in the plan may lead to a case for the proposal to

be permitted, using the incorporation in the plan as the imperative reason of

overriding public interest in its favour, because the plan relies on it being, or

assumes that it will be, implemented;

6.2.9 Considering the list above, policy 27 already includes a policy restriction but the nature and

scale of the Enterprise Zone means that this generic restriction cannot be regarded as ‘case

specific’. As referred to at para 1.2.7 and 6.2.6 above, such generic wording merely risks

creating an internal conflict within the LDP.

6.2.10 Likewise, the lack of any details as to the nature and scale of development potentially

provided for by the Enterprise Zone is such that ‘case specific’ policy caveats are also

Because the integrity test incorporates the application of the precautionary principle as a

matter of law, and because plan assessments are, by their nature, less precise than project

assessments, it is important for the assessment process to eliminate the prospect of adverse

effects on site integrity in so far as that is possible at the level of specificity inherent in the

nature and purpose of the particular plan.

26

difficult. There is no suggestion at this stage that the Enterprise Zone will ‘probably’ fail the

tests of the Habitats Directive and deleting the policy (bullet point 4) is not a reasonable

option.

6.2.11 In considering bullet point 5, the LDP does not ‘rely’ on the Enterprise Zone being

implemented, or ‘assume’ that it will be so implemented. As such it is unlikely that the plan

itself would ever be argued as an over-riding public interest as to why a development

proposal should go ahead.

6.2.12 This leaves bullet point 3 ‘relying on mitigation measures in a lower tier plan’ and this option

warrants further consideration. Section F.10.1.5 is relevant here. Key extracts are pasted

below:

‘It may be difficult to assess the potential effects of ‘higher level plans’ where there

are ‘tiers’ of plan-making and higher level plans make provisions which lower level

plans must take forward to implement in detail. However, the assessment of lower

level plans could protect the sites that may potentially be affected before they are

assessed at project application stage. The Advocate General’s opinion in the

European Court of Justice case C-6/04 European Commission v United Kingdom

confirmed the progression of assessment that must take place either from higher

level to lower level plans, or as the plan becomes more specific. In her opinion

Advocate General Kokott said (paragraph 49):

‘adverse effects on areas of conservation must be assessed at every relevant

stage of the procedure to the extent possible on the basis of the precision of

the plan. This assessment is to be updated with increasing specificity in

subsequent stages of the procedure.’

The following paragraphs set out an approach to mitigation which can allow an

appropriate assessment to be completed in some cases of uncertainty…

…This way of ascertaining no adverse effect on site integrity is not a way of deferring

or delaying the assessment process, but a way of securing mitigation measures in a

lower level plan, or later stage of a plan, where they cannot be secured in detail in

the higher level plan or early in the plan making process.

The following are proposed as criteria for the consideration of whether it would be

appropriate to rely on a more detailed Habitats Regulations Assessment, with more

detailed mitigation measures, at a later stage or lower level of plan making. This will

be where all three of the criteria are met. In such a case, subject to appropriate

adjustments to the plan itself, the plan-making body can reasonably ascertain that

there would be no adverse effect on the integrity of the European site arising from

the policy or proposal.

In order to ascertain that there would be no adverse effect on the integrity of a

European site, a plan-making body may only rely on mitigation measures in a later

stage or lower level of plan making if the following three criteria are all met:

a) The earlier stage or higher level plan assessment cannot reasonably predict

any effect on a European site in a meaningful way; whereas

b) The later stage or lower level plan, which will identify more precisely the

nature, timing, duration, scale or location of development, and thus its

27

potential effects, will have the necessary flexibility over the exact nature,

timing, duration, scale and location of the proposal to enable an adverse

effect on site integrity to be avoided; and

c) The Habitats Regulations Assessment of the plan at the later stage or lower

level is required as a matter of law or Government policy.

It may be possible and appropriate for the higher level plan to outline some aspects

of mitigation measures, which must be provided at the later stage or lower level

plan, in order to be able to conclude that there would be no adverse effects on site

integrity.

6.2.13 The three criteria setting out when reliance on a lower tier HRA would be appropriate are

considered to be met in respect of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone. Firstly, an assessment

based on the current level of information available within the LDP cannot reasonably predict

effects in a meaningful way.

6.2.14 Secondly, para 6.19 of the LDP is explicit in the expectation that an outline masterplan will

be produced in respect of the Enterprise Zone. This masterplan will identify more precisely

the nature, timing, duration and scale of development and will provide sufficient flexibility to

enable adverse effects to be assessed in a more meaningful manner.

6.2.15 The publication of a masterplan for the Enterprise Zone will be a ‘plan’ for the purpose of

regulation 61 and assessment under the Habitats Regulations will be required as a matter of

law. Furthermore, project level HRA will also be required in respect of any development

applications which ultimately come forward under policy 27.

6.2.16 The final paragraph of the guidance quoted above is of relevance to this HRA and it is

considered appropriate, in relying on the criteria in policy 27 alongside the securing of

mitigation measures in a lower tier plan or project, to outline some aspects of mitigation

measures which might be relied upon if later assessment identify that they are necessary.

The park authority can have greater confidence in policy 27 if they consider that mitigation

which might be necessary ‘can be achieved in practice’17. Table 6.2 below sets out mitigation

options in respect of the potential effects identified in table 6.1 above:

Table 6.2: mitigation options in respect of the potential likely significant effects

Potential effects Mitigation options

degradation to flight lines which support the population of lesser horseshoe bats for which the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC has

been designated

Various mitigation options exist involving the use of underpasses, hop overs or vegetation enhancements if potential effects upon strategic flight lines are identified.

Hydrological regime changes or trampling to habitats for which the Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC has been designated

Options to mitigation for changes to the hydrological regime include drainage solutions, SUDS and the use of permeable surfaces.

Visual and noise disturbance to the bird populations

for which the Aberdaron Coast and Bardsey Island SPA has been classified

Mitigation options include restricting location, extent, scale, frequency, timing or duration of associated flight activity.

Visual and noise disturbance to the grey seal

populations for which the Cardigan Bay SAC has

been classified

Mitigation options include restricting location, extent, scale, frequency, timing or duration of associated flight activity.

17 Refer para 72 in NANT v Suffolk Coastal DC [2015] EWCA (Civ) 88, 17th February 2015.

28

6.2.17 In considering mitigation options and the reliance on policy 27 to avoid adverse effects from

arising it is also noted that, arguably, the wording of policy 27 goes beyond the provisions as

set out in the Habitats Regulations. The application of Policy 27 as currently written would

appear to exclude any development within the Enterprise Zone which was considered to

have a significant effect on the features, functionality and integrity of neighbouring Natura

2000 sites. There are three observations in respect of this current wording.

6.2.18 Firstly, strictly speaking regulation 61 only restricts development where it cannot be

ascertained that there would be no adverse effect on the integrity of a European site.

Introducing phrasing such as ‘features, functionality and integrity’ confuses the correct

interpretation and application of the Regulations.

6.2.19 Secondly, the criteria applies to ‘neighbouring’ Natura 2000 sites. This HRA has identified the

potential for effects on European sites at some distance to the Enterprise Zone due to the

extensive segregated airspace associated with the Llanbedr site. Furthermore, flight lines of

strategic importance to the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC might be located

beyond the site boundary and not be regarded as ‘neighbouring’.

6.2.20 Thirdly, the wording does not make any allowance for the potential application of regulation

62 and the consideration of imperative reasons of overriding public interest. In this manner

it goes beyond the provision of the Regulations which explicitly allow for development which

might adversely affect the integrity of European sites, in the absence of alternative solutions

where the proposal can be justified in terms of imperative reasons of overriding public

interest. The fact that the Enterprise Zone has been designated to provide employment

opportunities to support sustainable local communities (para 6.17) and to improve

Meirionydd’s economic prospects provides a potential basis upon which development

proposals which might represent a risk of adverse effects to the integrity of a European site

could, nevertheless, be acceptable under the provisions of regulation 62. Compensatory

measures would need to be delivered under regulation 66 in such a scenario.

6.2.21 As such, it is recommended that the wording of criteria (iii) of policy 27 should be

amended. It is for the park authority to agree the final form of words but the following

options are provided by way of suggestion:

• Option 1 (concise but less specific): Development proposals have been considered in

view of the requirements of the Habitats Regulations and found to be compliant.

• Option 2 (more specific but more wordy) ‘Development proposals will be considered in

view of the requirements the Habitats Regulations. Development will not be permitted

unless it can be ascertained that there will be no adverse effects on the integrity of any

European sites, unless there are no alternative solutions and the development must be

carried out for reasons of overriding public interest.’

6.3 Summary

6.3.1 Having considered the likely significant effects identified in the preliminary screening stage,

an appropriate assessment has been undertaken. This assessment has considered

potentially adverse effects ‘to the extent possible on the basis of the precision of the plan’

6.3.2 The potential for effects to arise from development proposals has been identified as follows:

29

• degradation to flight lines which support the population of lesser horseshoe bats for

which the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC has been designated. The SAC

management plan states that There should be no loss or decline in the quality of

physical features used as flight lines’

• Hydrological regime changes or trampling to habitats for which the Morfa Harlech a

Morfa Dyffryn SAC has been designated. The SAC management plan states that there

should be no drainage ditches or tracks which might disrupt the hydrology of the site.

It is implicit that other types of development which might disrupt the hydrological

regime should also be avoided.

• Visual and noise disturbance to the bird populations for which the Aberdaron Coast

and Bardsey Island SPA has been classified. The SPA management plan does not

identify any concerns over disturbance from aircraft activities but the potential for

disturbance remains.

• Visual and noise disturbance to the grey seal populations for which the Cardigan Bay

SAC has been classified. The Regulation 35 advice recognises grey seals as potentially

sensitive to physical disturbance (noise and visual) from military aircraft activity

6.3.3 This assessment has considered whether the protective policy 27 can be relied upon to avoid

adverse effects on European sites as a result of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone. The generic

nature of the wording in criteria (iii) raised the potential for an internal conflict within the

policy if it becomes apparent (at a later stage) that mitigation in respect of proposals cannot

be identified or secured.

6.3.4 Having identified the potential effects, the absence of an outline masterplan for the

Enterprise Zone or any specific information concerning the type of development proposals

which might come forward, assessment at this time ‘cannot reasonably predict any effect on

a European site in a meaningful way’. However, having identified that potential mitigation

options exist in respect of the impact mechanisms identified above (see table 6.2), the park

authority can be satisfied that the necessary mitigation measures to avoid adverse effects

can be achieved in practice. This provides a degree of reassurance that the Natura 2000

caveat in policy 27 is unlikely to create an internal conflict within the plan.

6.3.5 Furthermore, should challenges in securing the necessary mitigation measures nevertheless

arise as a result of a particularly large scale proposal coming forwards, the proposed wording

changes to criteria (iii) of policy 27 would ensure that the requirements of the Habitats

Regulations can be satisfied. Development proposals which generate a risk of adverse effects

to the integrity of a European site will only be permitted where there are no alternative

solutions and imperative reasons of overriding public interest.

6.3.6 With reference to the approach set out in section F.10.1.5 of the HRA Handbook, this

assessment concludes that it is possible to ascertain that there will be no adverse effect on

the integrity of any European site as a result of the revision to the LDP to provide for the

Snowdonia Enterprise Zone through reliance on HRA assessment obligations which will arise

in respect of the outline masterplan for the Enterprise Zone and subsequent project level

HRA.

6.3.7 It is therefore advised that the wording of policy 27 be amended as outlined in para 7.2.21

above. With such amendments it can be ascertain that the LDP will have no adverse effect

on the integrity of any European sites.

30

• Assessment at this stage cannot reasonably predict actual effect on a European site in a

meaningful way; whereas

• The anticipated outline masterplan will identify more precisely the nature, timing,

duration, scale or location of development, and thus its potential effects. The

masterplan will have the necessary flexibility over the exact nature, timing, duration,

scale and location of the proposal to enable an adverse effect on site integrity to be

avoided; or to justify why a proposal should nevertheless process in the absence of

alternative solutions for reasons of overriding public interest.

• The Habitats Regulations Assessment of the outline masterplan and subsequent project

applications is required as a matter of law.

31

7 Assessment of the proposed development ‘in combination’ with

other plans and projects

7.1 Approach to the in combination requirements

7.1.1 It has been concluded that an assessment of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone cannot assess

effects in a meaningful manner on the basis of the detail currently available. The anticipated

outline masterplan will provide greater specificity and will be subject to HRA at a later stage.

7.1.2 Attempts to undertake in-combination assessments too early in the assessment process can

often lead to unnecessary or abortive work. The Regulations require a plan to be assessed

‘either alone OR in-combination with other plans or projects’ as a result an in-combination

assessment is normally regarded as meaning the following:

7.1.3 Firstly that the test is only therefore applied to plans or projects, that is, to proposals, not to

existing developments which should be treated as part of the baseline and whose effects are

already part of the existing environmental conditions.

7.1.4 Secondly, that if a plan or project would be likely to have a significant effect ‘alone’ it is

assessed alone. If it would have some effect on the site, which on its own would not be

significant, it must then be assessed with the effects of other plans or projects, to see if their

cumulative effects would be significant. Where a plan or project is likely to have a significant

effect alone therefore, an in-combination assessment is not required until such a time as the

project is no longer considered to have such an effect ‘alone’.

7.1.5 It is not possible to pre-determine which other plans or projects would need to be assessed

in combination until the effects of the subject plan are properly understood. This is because

there may be a wide range of plans and projects potentially applicable, but if they would not

add in some way to the effects of the subject plan, so as to make the subject plan’s effects

either more likely and / or more significant, they are irrelevant to the in combination test.

7.1.6 At the current stage in the strategic planning for the Enterprise Zone, where neither the

actual effects of the ‘plan’ or the scope of suitable mitigation measures are yet fully

understood, it is not considered appropriate to undertake an in-combination assessment.

Such an assessment would be so speculative in nature that there is little to be gained in

terms of informing the further stages of the HRA.

7.1.7 Furthermore, it is not known at what time actual development proposals will come

forwards. The nature and type of ‘other plans and projects’ to be included within an in-

combination assessment reflect the situation at the time an application is made. An in

combination assessment on the basis of the plans and projects currently ‘on the table’ will

be of little relevance to an in combination assessment that will need to be undertaken at the

time that any detailed proposals come forwards.

7.1.8 Only when the further details as to the nature, scale and timing of development proposals is

decided, such that the credible effects on European sites becomes apparent can a focussed

and proportionate in-combination assessment be undertaken.

Dr Caroline Chapman MCIEEM (Director, DTA Ecology Ltd)

17th May 2017

32

Appendix 1: Screening of revisions to the LDP which are related to changes 2, 6, 7 and 8 at para 2.1.1.

Each LDP chapter has been subject to review. Any revisions which are related to a change that might have a conceivable effect upon a European site are

identified in the table below. Other revisions in the chapters which are not identified in the table below are considered to relate to the changes which

would have no conceivable effect upon any European site. For ease of reference the changes identified as conceivably affecting European sites are those

referred to in para 2.1.1 of the main addendum as 2, 6, 7 and 8 as follows:

2. new plan housing requirement and how this can be met through the allocation of new sites

6. the designation of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone on the Proposals Map and introduction of a new positive and enabling policy to manage

new development within the Zone

7. to review of policies dealing with types of tourism accommodation and related contextual policies

8. to amend retail policy to provide more flexibility on alternative uses

Revision Change? (2, 6, 7 or 8))

Screening category

Justification

Chapter 1

Para 1.57 refers to the designation of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone and new employment opportunities

6 F (screen out)

This text does not in itself lead to development

Chapter 2

No revisions which relate to changes b, f, g or h None N/A N/A

Chapter 3

Revision to paragraphs 3.34-3.37 and updated policy E(1) text.

None F (screen out)

Whilst this revision does not relate to changes b, f, g and h per se. It is also not specifically included in the list of revisions identified at 3.1.1 so by way of completion it has been screened out here to avoid any confusion. The changes relate to safeguarding of mineral resources and cannot lead to development which would have any effect on European sites.

Chapter 4


Chapter 5

Housing requirements and revisions to paras 5.4 – 5.12 inclusive.

2 F (screen out)

The revisions to the LDP reduce the number of houses provided for. As the original figures were deemed acceptable in the March 2009 HRA the reduction of housing provision cannot lead to additional development

33

over and above that already found to be compliant with the Habitats Regulations. Screened out through adoption of the earlier HRA conclusions.

Affordable housing target and revisions to paras 5.14 – 5.16 inclusive

2 F (screen out)

The revisions reduce the number of houses provided for. As the original figures were deemed acceptable in the March 2009 HRA the reduction of housing provision cannot lead to additional development over and above that already found to be compliant with the Habitats Regulations. Screened out through adoption of the earlier HRA conclusions.

The provision of new housing and revisions to paras 5.17 – 5.27 inclusive

2 F (screen out)

The revisions reduce the number of houses provided for. As the original figures were deemed acceptable in the March 2009 HRA the reduction of housing provision cannot lead to additional development over and above that already found to be compliant with the Habitats Regulations. Screened out through adoption of the earlier HRA conclusions.

Chapter 6

Para 6.6 refer to the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone 6 F (screen out)

This text does not in itself lead to development

The Snowdonia Enterprise Zone - Paras 6.14 – 6.27 inclusive and Development Policy 27.

6 I (screen in) The proposed Snowdonia Enterprise Zone include 2 geographically distinct sites. The Trawsfynydd site is located in close proximity to Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC and Afon Eden Cors Gocg Trawsfynydd SAC. The distance and lack of hydraulic continuity between the lake and the Afon Eden Cors Gocg site means that likely significant effects can be excluded on this SAC. However the proximity to the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC and the wide foraging ranges of bats means that this SAC requires further consideration. The Llanbedr site is adjacent to the Morfa Harlech Dunes SAC and is also close to the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC. The close proximity to the Dunes means that further investigation is necessary and, whilst the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC is 1km distant, the wide foraging ranges of bats means that this SAC also requires further consideration. Finally the use of the extensive segregated airspace associated with this site raises potential disturbance issues in respect of nearby SPA sites and SAC sites which are designated for seals. The Enterprise Zone represents a potentially significant scale of development in close proximity to European sites. It is not possible to

34

exclude potential effects which might undermine the conservation objectives on the basis of objective information. The Enterprise Zone has a likely significant effect ‘alone’ and should be subject to appropriate assessment.

Para 6.39 and Development Policy 22 refers to the replacement of static caravans with appropriately designed chalets.

7 G (screen out)

The replacement of existing accommodation will not lead to any increase in effects upon European sites. Occupation numbers and associated tourism related impacts will be the same whether accommodation is provided in static caravans of chalets. Screened out through adoption of the earlier HRA conclusions.

Alternative low impact holiday accommodation, paras 6.42-6.51 and Development Policy 29

7 B (screen out)

There is no spatial provision within this policy for where such development might take place. As such strategic policy D can be relied upon to avoid adverse impacts upon European sites should applications come forward for such accommodation in locations where potential adverse effects might arise.

Retail, paras 6.52-6.57 and Development Policy 24 8 G (screen out)

The different retail use classes will not lead to any increased effects upon European sites. Furthermore there is no spatial provision within this policy for where such development might take place. As such strategic policy D can be relied upon to avoid adverse impacts upon European sites

Chapter 7


Supporting Proposals Maps and Inset Maps

As set out in the updated draft deposit version Spring 2017

2 G (screen out)

In terms of housing numbers, the revisions reduce the number of houses provided for. As stated above, the original figures were deemed acceptable in the March 2009 HRA so the reduction of housing provision cannot lead to additional development over and above that already found to be compliant with the Habitats Regulations. In view of the geographic location of development all maps have been checked and none relate to development which might have a conceivable effect on any European site. Allocation 22/02 is in close proximity to the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC (separated from only by a tree lined track) but the scale of the development and the availability of sensitive design options to avoid light pollution are such that it is unlikely that development will undermine the conservation objectives for the site. Strategic Policy D can be relied upon to avoid likely significant effects.



HRA ADDENDUM: Assessment of Focussed Changes

MARCH 2018

BY

DTA ECOLOGY

Rectory Farm

Finchampstead

Wokingham

Berkshire

RG40 4JY

Tel 0118 973 4700

[email protected]

Website: www.dt-a.co.uk

Doc. Ref. 1031b SNPA HRA Addendum Date: 12th March 2018

1

Contents

Contents .................................................................................................................................................. 1

1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 2

1.1 Relevant background .............................................................................................................. 2

1.2 The approach to this review ................................................................................................... 2

1.3 Focussed changes relevant to HRA ......................................................................................... 3

2 Screening the changes from table 1.1 ............................................................................................ 4

2.1 Screening conclusions ............................................................................................................. 4

2

1 Introduction

1.1 Relevant background

1.1.1 The background to this addendum to the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) work

already undertaken in respect of the 2007-2022 Local Development Plan (LDP) is important

to a correct reading and interpretation of this report. The purpose of this section 1.1 is to

capture the key steps in what is an iterative approach to the assessment of the Local

Development Plan under the Habitats Regulations.

1.1.2 The current LDP for the national park (2007-2022) was adopted in July 2011 and was subject

to a full HRA1. As part of the later short form revision process SNPA drafted a Review Report

in July 20162 which outlined how the LDP had performed over the previous 5 years and

considered whether there was a need for any changes. This Review identified the need for

some key changes to the LDP which were progressed.

1.1.3 DTA Ecology was commissioned by Snowdonia National Park Authority (SNPA) to undertake

a ‘shadow’ HRA in respect of the proposed review of the LDP. This work was undertaken by

way of an Addendum to the March 2009 HRA which was completed in respect of the original

LDP. The focus of the May 20173 work was therefore to assess the changes which were

identified through the review report and detailed revisions within the Deposit Local

Development Plan to update the findings of the earlier HRA accordingly.

1.1.4 Following consultation on the deposit LDP and the representation received, the Authority

have proposed some changes to the Deposit Plan. At the request of the Inspector these

need to be subject to public consultation. The purpose of this further addendum is to set out

in a transparent manner how these ‘focussed changes’ to the LDP have been subject to

assessment under the Habitats Regulations. This addendum should therefore be read in

conjunction with the proposed focussed change document.

1.2 The approach to this review

1.2.1 This review follows the approach adopted for the more substantial May 2017 HRA work.

Readers are referred to sections 1.3, 1.4 of that report for further detail. The list of European

sites potentially affected is unchanged and reflects that referred to in section 3.1 of the May

2017 report. The approach taken to the screening for likely significant effects is set out in

section 5.1 and the screening categories form the HRA Handbook are used as set out below:



adverse effects (screened out).

1 Snowdonia National Park Authority Local Development Plan HRA, Hyder Consulting, March 2009. 2 Eryri Local Development Plan Revision Review Report, SNPA, July 2016. 3 Shadow HRA of the Snowdonia National Park Revised Local Development Plan 2016-2031 HRA Addendum May 2017.

3

F. Policy that cannot lead to development or other change (screened out).G. Policy or proposal that could not have any conceivable effect on a site (screened out).H. Policy or proposal the (actual or theoretical) effects of which cannot undermine the

conservation objectives (either alone or in combination with other aspects of this orother plans or projects) (screened out).

I. Policy or proposal with a likely significant effect on a site alone (screened in).J. Policy or proposal with an effect on a site but not likely to be significant ‘alone’, so need

to check for likely significant effects in combination.K. Policy or proposal not likely to have a significant effect either alone or in combination

(screened out after the in combination test).L. Policy or proposal likely to have a significant effect in combination (screened in after the


1.3 Focussed changes relevant to HRA

1.3.1 Table 1.1 below summarises the ‘focussed changes’ which have been made which are

considered to be potentially relevant for review under the Habitats Regulations.

Table 1.1: Focussed changes considered to be relevant to HRA

FC

number

What policy Brief outline of the change

NFf06 Strategic Policy C:

Spatial Development

Strategy

Some new wording to refer to that, in exceptional

circumstances new small scale development will be permitted

in line with Development Policy 19

NFf11 Development Policy

3 – Energy

More significant amendments with regards to renewable

energy

NFf12 Strategic Policy E1 –

Minerals

Additional minor wording

NFf14 Development policy

4 waste

Added the requirement for a waste planning assessment to be

submitted with an application

NFf20 Strategic Policy G:

Housing

Added some wording and the list of all the housing allocations

NFf21 Strategic Policy H:

A Sustainable Rural

Economy

Some additional wording to refer to safeguarding existing key

employment sites


19

Wording has been added to ensure consistency with National

Planning Policy – development in exceptional circumstances

may be permitted in open countryside subject to strict criteria

NFf27 Explanatory text

around

Development Policy

27 – Enterprise Zone

Minor changes to site areas

4

Table 1.1: Focussed changes considered to be relevant to HRA

FC

number

What policy Brief outline of the change


27 Enterprise Zone

Additional text asking for landscape led Masterplan to be

produced and outlining that parts of the wider enterprise zone

are in flood risk and any new development should incorporate

appropriate and acceptable risk mitigation measures.


22:Chalet and Static

Caravan Sites

Minor edit to correct a typing error

NFf36 Allocation Map The change here is that the focus area for development is

smaller due to flood risk. Some small developments may occur

outside of the focus area on a case by case basis in line with

the policy but the focus will be in the blue allocation.

2 Screening the changes from table 1.1

2.1 Screening conclusions

2.1.1 The focussed changes identified in Table 1.1 were subject to screening against the HRA

Handbook categories listed at 1.2. The screening conclusions are provided in Appendix 1 and

all changes are screened out under either category G ‘no conceivable impact on a site’ or

category H ‘effects cannot undermine the conservation objectives’.

2.1.2 No further assessment is required under the Habitats Regulations as all focussed changes

considered to be relevant to the HRA have been identified as having no likely significant

effect at all. As such, the revisions have no residual effects which might combine with the

effects from other proposals and do not require assessment in combination with other plans

and projects.

5

Appendix 1: Screening the focussed changes

Revision Policy amended and summary of change Screening category

Justification

NFf06 Strategic Policy C: Spatial Development Strategy Some new wording to refer to that, in exceptional circumstances new small scale development will be permitted in line with Development Policy 19

G The proposed changes have no conceivable impact on any European site.

NFf11 Development Policy 3: Energy Minor wording changes to existing wording and inclusion of new Renewable Energy policy wording

H The new wording refers to the SPG on Renewable Energy which, in turn, directs readers to the SPG 6 on Nature Conservation and Biodiversity. Strategic Policy D and the supporting SPG provide sufficient policy provision to ensure that any renewable schemes proposed under this policy cannot undermine the conservation objectives for any European sites.

NFf12 Strategic Policy E (1): Minerals Minor wording

H Strategic Policy D and the supporting SPG 6 provide sufficient policy provision to ensure that any proposals under this policy cannot undermine the conservation objectives for any European sites.

NFf14 Development Policy 4: Waste Added the requirement for a waste planning assessment to be submitted with an application


NFf20 Strategic Policy G: Housing Added some wording and the list of all the housing allocations

G The proposed changes have no conceivable impact on any European site. No new allocations are proposed.

NFf21 Strategic Policy H: A Sustainable Rural Economy Some wording to refer to safeguarding existing key employment sites


NFf22 Development Policy 19: New Employment and Training Dev. Wording has been added to ensure consistency with National Planning Policy – development in exceptional circumstances may be permitted in open countryside subject to strict criteria


6

NFf27 Development Policy 27: Enterprise Zone Minor changes to site area


NFf28 Development Policy 27: Enterprise Zone Additional text asking for landscape led master plan to be produced and outlining that parts of the wider enterprise zone are in flood risk

G The HRA conclusions recorded in May 2017 in respect of policy 27 generally remain valid. This screening considers the proposed changes only which will have no conceivable impact on any European site.

NFf31 Development Policy 22: Chalet and Static Caravan Sites Minor edit to correct typing error


NFf36 Allocation Map The focus area for development within Llanbedr Enterprise Zone is smaller due to flood risk. Some small developments may occur outside of the focus area on a case by case basis in line with the policy but the focus will be in the blue allocation


1

ADVICE TO SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY



ADDENDUM – HRA UPDATE FOLLOWING MAC REVIEW

STATUS: FINAL CONSULTATION VERSION BY

DTA ECOLOGY

Rectory Farm Finchampstead

Wokingham Berkshire RG40 4JY

Tel 0118 973 4700

[email protected] Website: www.dt-a.co.uk

Doc. Ref. 1031 SNPA HRA MAC Addendum Date: 3rd September 2018

2

Contents

Contents .................................................................................................................................................. 2

1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Background ............................................................................................................................. 3

1.2 Context .................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Screening of MACs identified as potentially relevant ..................................................................... 4

2.1 Findings of the main HRA ........................................................................................................ 4

2.2 Approach to screening of the MACs identified as relevant to the HRA .................................. 5

2.3 Overall Conclusion .................................................................................................................. 6

3

1 Introduction 1.1 Background

1.1.1 The Snowdonia National Park Authority is preparing a revised Local Development Plan. This report is an addendum to the shadow Habitats Regulations Assessment1 (hereafter referred to as ‘the main HRA’) which has already been carried out in respect of the revised LDP, as required under Regulation 105 of the Habitats Regulations2.

1.1.2 The addendum is necessary to take account of the Matters Arising Changes (MACs). As an addendum to the main HRA, this report should be read and interpreted alongside that document.

1.2 Context

1.2.1 This report is a further addendum to the main HRA which was required under regulation 105 of the Habitats Regulations. It is the responsibility of the Park Authority as the competent authority to undertake the assessment and to make the decisions which are required to be taken. The Authority must decide whether to adopt the findings of this report for the purpose of their own assessment, or not.

1.2.2 The MACs to the Revised LDP are detailed but the majority of the changes are irrelevant to the HRA work which has already been completed. By way of example, many changes relate to minor wording amendments or deletions which are of no consequence to any European site. In their role as competent authority the Park Authority have identified the MACs which they consider to be potentially relevant to their obligations under the Habitats Regulations. This list is assumed to be correct and this addendum only reviews those MACs as identified by the Authority.

1.2.3 The list of MACs identified as potentially relevant are set out in table 1.1 below.

Table 1.1: MACs identified as relevant to HRA addendum MAC Policy Title Notes 5 Strategic policy G and

proposed Development policy 30

The housing provision has been increased by 75 such that the overall provision has gone from 810 to 885 over the plan period

8 Development Policy 13 To conform with new government guidance it has been necessary to remove the requirement to produce an evidence of need

12&13 Development policy 27: Snowdonia Enterprise Zone

Various amendments to the text of the policy. Proposals map now shows Llanbedr in its totality.

23 Proposals map Amend the proposals map to show the Welsh Government’s Enterprise Zone designation at Trawsfynydd in its totality.

1 Shadow Habitats Regulations Assessment of Snowdonia National Park Revised Local Development Plan 2016-2031 (HRA Addendum May 2017), DTA Ecology, Final consultation version. 2 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 SI No 1012

4

2 Screening of MACs identified as potentially relevant 2.1 Findings of the main HRA

2.1.1 The main HRA of the original revised LDP identified a potential for likely significant effects in respect of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone. An appropriate assessment was undertaken which considered potentially adverse effects ‘to the extent possible on the basis of the precision of the plan’.

2.1.2 The appropriate assessment identified the potential for effects arising from:

• Degradation to flight lines which support the population of lesser horseshoe bats for which the Meirionnydd Oakwoods and Bat sites SAC has been designated.

• Hydrological regime changes or trampling to habitats for which the Morfa Harlech a Morfa Dyffryn SAC has been designated.

• Visual and noise disturbance to the bird populations for which the Aberdaron Coast and Bardsey Island SPA has been classified.

• Visual and noise disturbance to the grey seal populations for which the Cardigan Bay SAC has been designated.

2.1.3 Having identified these potential effects, in the absence of an outline masterplan for the Enterprise Zone or any specific information concerning the type of development proposals which might come forward, it was recognised that assessment at this time ‘cannot reasonably predict any effect on a European site in a meaningful way’.

2.1.4 With reference to the approach set out in section F.10.1.5 of the HRA Handbook, this assessment concluded that it is possible to ascertain that there will be no adverse effect on the integrity of any European site as a result of the revision to the LDP to provide for the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone through reliance on HRA assessment obligations which will arise in respect of the outline masterplan for the Enterprise Zone and subsequent project level HRA3. Amendments to the policy wording were suggested at para 6.2.21 and have since been incorporated as point A(iii) in policy 27.

2.1.5 With reference to the findings of the main HRA, MACs are only likely to be relevant if they:

• Introduce new policies not previously subject to any screening;

• Fundamentally change a policy in a manner which may result in new potential effects not considered in the main HRA;

• Increase the overall quantum of development provided for;

• Fundamentally alter the policy in respect of the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone such that reliance on HRA assessment obligations which will arise in respect of the outline masterplan for the Enterprise Zone and subsequent project level applications is no longer appropriate.

2.1.6 The Authority, in their role as the relevant competent authority under the Habitats Regulations have identified any such MACs (refer table 1.1 above).

3 Refer para 6.3.6 of the main HRA

5

2.2 Approach to screening of the MACs identified as relevant to the HRA

2.2.1 As set out in section 1.3 of the main HRA, the HRA approach follows the guidance on the assessment of plans available through the Habitats Regulations Assessment Handbook4. Current subscribers to the Handbook include Natural Resources Wales and the Planning Inspectorate and the ‘Practical Guidance for the Assessment of Plans under the Regulations’ contained in Part F is considered to represent best practice as it is accepted by both these bodies as appropriate for their own staff to follow.

2.2.2 In screening the MACs identified in table 1.1 the screening categories from section F.6.3 of the HRA Handbook have been applied. These are listed in section 5 of the main HRA report and are copied below for ease of reference:



adverse effects (screened out). F. Policy that cannot lead to development or other change (screened out). G. Policy or proposal that could not have any conceivable effect on a site (screened out). H. Policy or proposal the (actual or theoretical) effects of which cannot undermine the

conservation objectives (either alone or in combination with other aspects of this or other plans or projects) (screened out).

I. Policy or proposal with a likely significant effect on a site alone (screened in). J. Policy or proposal with an effect on a site but not likely to be significant ‘alone’, so need

to check for likely significant effects in combination. K. Policy or proposal not likely to have a significant effect either alone or in combination

(screened out after the in combination test). L. Policy or proposal likely to have a significant effect in combination (screened in after the


2.2.3 The findings of the screening are captured below:

MAC Policy Title Notes Category Justification 5 Strategic policy G

and proposed Development policy 30

Increase housing provision by 75

G The overall scale of development across the plan area is very modest and the inclusion of an additional 75 properties through windfall sites (location yet to be determined) will have no conceivable effect on any European sites.

8 Development Policy 13

deletion G This deletion will have no conceivable effect on any European sites.

12 & 13

Development policy 27: Snowdonia Enterprise Zone

changes G The changes will have no conceivable effect on the conclusions reached in the main HRA and it remains appropriate to rely on HRA assessment obligations which will arise in respect of the outline masterplan for the

4 Tyldesley, D. and Chapman, C. (2013) The Habitats Regulations Assessment Handbook, May 2016 edition UK: DTA Publications Ltd (see www.dtapublications.co.uk)


6

MAC Policy Title Notes Category Justification Enterprise Zone and subsequent project level applications.

23 Proposals map replace G This replacement will have no conceivable effect on any European sites.

2.2.4 All relevant MACs identified for review have been screened out as having no likely significant effect on any European site. The changes are all minor and will have no conceivable effect on the conclusions as recorded in the main HRA work already undertaken.

2.3 Overall Conclusion

2.3.1 The Authority have identified a list of MACs which are regarded as relevant to the HRA of the revised LDP. These have been subject to screening under the Habitats Regulations and all have been screened out of further assessment according to the categories referred to in the HRA Handbook.

2.3.2 All policies are assigned to a screening category which allows them to be screened out as unlikely to have a significant effects either alone or in-combination. With reference to the list of categories at 2.2.2 only category J would require further assessment of the potential for effects ‘in combination’.

2.3.3 As such, no further assessment ‘in combination’ is required and there is no requirement to progress to an appropriate assessment.

Documents

Eryri Local Development Plan 2016 2031 · The Habitats Regulations Assessment consists of a number of documents which detail the HRA that was carried out at every stage of the LDP’s