Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre Cwmbran Torfaenplanapps.torfaen.gov.uk/Former_Llantarnam_School_16_P...BSc (Hons) Survey Assistant (TE) A recent graduate of Swansea University

Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre Cwmbran Torfaen

A report following a survey for bats and birds by:

On behalf of:

November 2014

Client Torfaen County Borough Council

Project Name Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre, Cwmbran, Torfaen

Report Title A survey for bats and birds

File Reference BAT6714

Status Signed Name Position Date

Author

Diane Morgan BA (Hons) ACIEEM

Senior Ecologist

25th November 2014

Reviewer/Checker

Phillip L Morgan CEnv MCIEEM

Principal Ecologist

2nd December 2014

Members: Phillip Morgan CEnv MCIEEM Diane Morgan BA (Hons) ACIEEM Web Site: www.justmammals.com E-Mail: [email protected] Telephone: 0845 634 6077

Registered in: Cardiff No: OC345272 Registered Address: Llys Newydd, Llanfihangel Talyllyn, Brecon LD3 7TG

Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre, Cwmbran, Torfaen NP44 3XB Torfaen County Borough Council

Just Mammals Consultancy LLP i November 2014

Contents Page No.

1 Executive Summary 1

2 Introduction 1

3 Survey Team Experience 1 – 2

4 Survey Methodology 3

5 Site Description 3 – 4

6 Survey Constraints 4

7 Survey Results 4 – 8

8 Discussion and Conclusions 8 – 9

9 Recommendations 9

10 References 9

11 Site Location Plan 10

12 Site Building Plan 11

13 Description of Site Buildings 12 – 14

14 Site Photographs 15 – 16

15 Appendix I – Ecology of British Bats 17

16 Appendix II – Relevant Legislation 18


Just Mammals Consultancy LLP 1 November 2014

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Within a programme to improve the education facilities in Cwmbran, it is proposed to close the existing school facilities at Llantarnam High School and Leisure Centre, off Llantarnam Road, in Cwmbran. Staff and pupils will transfer to the refurbished campus at Fairwater High School, and the existing school and leisure centre buildings at the Llantarnam site will be demolished.

1.2 In order to check for the presence of protected species, a bat and nesting bird survey was carried out on both the School buildings, and the Sixth Form Block. A thorough daytime internal and external inspection was undertaken, which was followed by four dusk bat emergence/activity observations.

1.3 The daytime inspection, in August 2014, found no evidence for the presence of bats, but gaps and small slots around the external features of the buildings, led to the conclusion that the structures had moderate potential to be used by bats. As noted above, four dusk observations were carried out in good weather conditions, during September 2014, at an optimal time of year, and in compliance with national bat survey guidelines, by a team of experienced observers. No bats were seen to emerge, and therefore the School and Sixth Form Block, are not considered to be bat roost locations. The Leisure Centre was considered not to offer any potential to be used.

1.4 Although no bird activity was observed during the bat surveys, there were several remnants of birds’ nests found on site, indicating locations are used by breeding birds. Guidance is provided below concerning the legal status afforded to breeding birds, and it is recommended that if the demolition work occurs during the bird nesting season (March – mid-August), then the buildings must be checked immediately in advance of this, to ensure no active bird nests are present in, or on, the structures. As the presence of bird nests can delay demolition work it is best to plan such work to avoid the nesting season.

2 Introduction

2.1 Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre lies to the south of Llantarnam Road, at National Grid Reference (NGR) ST 3038 9349, at an altitude of approximately 45m Above Ordnance Datum. The campus is currently still in use, however the plans are to close down both the School, and Leisure Centre, and to demolish all of the buildings on the site. Future plans for the re-development of the site are not known at the time of writing but the potential for development is evident.

2.2 To inform the local authority’s plans for the site, and the proposed demolition of the buildings, the Just Mammals Consultancy LLP was engaged to carry out a bat survey. The objectives of the summer 2014 bat activity survey were to:

determine if bats or nesting birds are present in the School buildings and Leisure Centre;

determine the species of bat or bird present, and consider their behaviour;

identify any important bat flight lines;

identify potential impacts, if any, from the development proposals; and

gather sufficient information to be able to make appropriate recommendations in order to minimise any impacts.

2.3 This report sets out the findings of the survey effort and makes appropriate recommendations in the light of the findings. The survey was undertaken by a small team of experienced ecologists in suitable weather conditions and at a time of year in compliance with national guidelines.

3 Survey Team Experience

3.1 Lead surveyor was Robert Morgan, and assistant surveyor, and author of this report, was Diane Morgan. Assisting with the survey work was a team of ecologists and support staff and details of their experience and the bat equipment used is shown in Table 1 below.

Table 1 – Survey Team Name/Position/Detector NRW Licences Experience

Robert Morgan Ecologist (TE)

50364:OTH:CSAB:2013 expiry 30th November 2015

Eight years’ experience with bats, carrying out roost surveys – both in buildings and trees, emergence surveys, radio tracking of lesser horseshoes, ringing of Daubenton’s bats and monitoring of important maternity sites. Robert’s



licence covers disturbance of all bat species in all parts of Wales. Robert has thousands of hours of experience of analysing bat sonograms using a variety of sound analysis software packages. Also expertise in respect of dormice (NRW licence holder), great crested newts, and slow-worms

Diane Morgan BA (Hons) ACIEEM Senior Ecologist (TE)

49980:OTH:CSAB:2013 valid until 30th November 2015

Considerable experience (20 years) of surveying built structures for bats and has carried out ringing of Daubenton’s bat as part of a multi-year project on the species. She has undertaken monitoring work on several important lesser horseshoe bat roosts and assisted in radio tracking projects on the same species. She holds a City & Guilds Level 2 award for working in High Risk Confined Spaces. Prior to her work as a consultant ecologist, Diane was the Director of Brecknock Wildlife Trust and was involved in a wide range of nature conservation work including species and habitat protection and conservation land management. Other areas of interest include otter, dormice, water voles, reptiles, amphibians, fungi and crayfish

Phil Morgan CEnv MCIEEM Principal Ecologist (TE)

50269:OTH:CSAB:2013, valid until 30th November 2015

Over 30 years’ experience of undertaking building, tree and cave surveys for all bat species. In addition he has undertaken foraging and flight line surveys using heterodyne and other echo location equipment and in 1991 made a significant contribution to a Bristol University run project, which established the methodology used in the National Bat Monitoring Programme. Phil has also undertaken numerous radio tracking exercises on both lesser horseshoe and Daubenton’s bats. He holds NRW licence for other protected species including dormice, otter, water vole and great crested newt

Mo Tillotson Senior Survey Assistant (HE, D-230)

41312:OTH:CSAB:2012 valid until 31st of October 2014

Surveyor with eight years’ experience, undertaking emergence monitoring of lesser horseshoe bats as well as hibernation surveys for the same species. She has been involved in hundreds of emergence observations and has considerable expertise in surveying built structures for bats

Nigel Isaksson Senior Survey Assistant (TE)

51581:OTH:CSAB:2014, valid until 28th February 2015

Surveyor with six years experience undertaking bat surveys, flight line observations, census counts

Rachel Price BSc (Hons) ACIEEM Senior Survey Assistant (TE)

Seven years’ experience with bats, undertaking bat surveys, emergence/flight line observations, census counts

Carola Dallmeier BA (Hons) MSc Grad CIEEM Ecologist (TE)

Current work is contributing towards licence training

Holds an MSc in Environmental Conservation Management and has practical expertise with bats, birds, botanical assessments, mammalian and reptile surveys. As well as assisting in conservation-based research, she has carried out biodiversity audits and ecological enquiries. Carola has completed a study of water voles and is currently assisting with bird ringing

Jenny Gatward BSc (Hons) MSc Grad CIEEM Trainee Ecologist (TE)

A recent graduate of the University of Bristol, having studied for an MSc in Ecology and Management of the Natural Environment. Practical expertise includes survey work for badgers, dormice and great crested newts, whilst obtaining a ‘working towards your great crested newt licence’ certificate. Jenny is a Graduate member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (Grad CIEEM) and is currently on a Trainee Ecologist placement with Just Mammals Consultancy LLP

James Hoskins Survey Assistant (TE)

James is currently a student gaining experience of ecological field work

Emma Higgins BSc (Hons) Ecological Survey Assistant (TE)

Following completion of a BSc Biology degree at the University of South Wales, Emma is currently studying for an MSc in Conservation and GIS. She has experience in carrying out small mammal, vegetation and habitat surveys as well as completing a study on hedgerows in South Wales. She is gaining further practical experience of ecology through a Go Wales placement with Just Mammals Consultancy LLP

Ben Rees BSc (Hons) Survey Assistant (TE)

A recent graduate of Swansea University with a first class degree in zoology. Modules studied included Physical Ecology of Vertebrates, Animal Behaviour in Conservation and Welfare, Behaviour and Ecology and Practical fieldwork. A third year dissertation assessed the abundance and distribution of bats (Pipistrellus spp.) over 3 fresh water sites in Swansea and examined the factors that influence their activity

Note – Detection equipment used: TE = Time expansion (Pettersson D-240X) HE = Heterodyne (Pettersson D-230, Skye SBR2100, Skye SBR1200)



4 Survey Methodology

4.1 A daytime internal and external visual assessment of the School buildings, Sixth Form Block, and Leisure Centre, was carried out. The external search of the structures, and their immediate surroundings, involved seeking signs of the presence of bats and nesting birds, by examining all outer surfaces from the ground looking for bat and bird faeces (droppings) on ledges, and walls. A high powered lamp was used to illuminate potential access and roosting areas. Any gaps or crevices in the structures were inspected as closely as possible. The context of the buildings within the surrounding landscape was also assessed at this time.

4.2 The internal survey of a small number of the buildings searched for the presence of bats or the remains of dead bats (including dead juveniles and babies, which might indicate the presence of a maternity site) and signs of bats including bat faeces (droppings) on floors, stored items and other surfaces. Staining on timbers caused by oil from bat fur was also searched for as well as discarded fragments of insects such as moth wings. The ridge area, which is a favoured roost location, was checked for live bats. Beneath this line, a careful search for droppings and insect parts was conducted. At the same time as the buildings were examined for the presence of bats, other protected species were considered.

4.3 Four dusk emergence/activity observations were undertaken by a small team of ecologists on each occasion. The surveyors were each equipped with Pettersson D-240X machines, and a Pettersson D-230. These devices are particularly sensitive and excellent at separating species which employ the middle range frequencies for foraging (45 – 55 kHz). It is therefore very good at identifying the different pipistrelle species (Pipistrellus sp.) and the different myotid bats* (Myotis sp.) (*myotid bat is a collective term used where the species could not be specifically identified beyond this broad group). The myotid group encompasses seven species of British bat including Alcathoe’s (Myotis alcathoe); Bechstein’s (M. bechsteinii); Brandt’s (M. brandtii); Daubenton’s (M. daubentonii); Mouse-eared (M. myotis); Natterer’s (M. nattereri); and the whiskered bat (M. mystacinus).

4.4 The Pettersson D-240X machine can be used in heterodyne or time expansion modes and for the purposes of this survey, only the time expansion facility was used. The received signals were then recorded to Panasonic SJ-MR220 mini discs for later analysis. The time expansion method is similar to making a high speed tape recording of a bat’s ultrasonic call and then playing it back at a slower speed. Digital technology is used to make the recording and slow it down for play back. Since the signal is stretched out in time, it is possible to hear details of the sound not audible with other types of detector. The D-230 can make frequency division recordings but in this instance was used in heterodyne mode only.

4.5 Time expansion is also the only technique which preserves all characteristics of the original signal, which makes time expanded signals ideal for sound analysis. In addition to the simple echo location calls which can be used for commuting, enabling the bat to find its way about, bats will also produce feeding ‘buzzes’ when foraging. These buzzes occur when the bat closes in on its prey and are a consequence of the Doppler Effect, which results in a feeding ‘buzz’ as the reflected signal shortens when the animal approaches its prey. Such buzzes are used to assess the importance of an area for foraging. The recorded echo location calls are then interpreted using BatSound sound analysis software. By use of the software it is possible to separate the different species by analysis of the sonograms produced.

5 Site Description

5.1 Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre is approached from a gated entrance, via a long drive, and school bus area, off Llantarnam Road in Cwmbran. Surrounding land use consists primarily of residential housing, but there are also commercial shop premises and restaurants present on Llantarnam Road, to the north of the site. There is a small industrial estate to the south-west of the site.

5.2 The school site is complex, consisting of numerous buildings which are of different ages designs, materials and roof structures. There are both flat and pitched roof buildings, some of which are interconnected. The Sixth Form Block stands a short distance to the south-east of the school, and it has a flat roof with both one and two storey sections. For the purposes of this report only, a plan of the site showing the location of each building and marking each with a reference name or letter is provided in Section 12. Details of the features and materials of each of the buildings present are summarised in Section 13.



5.3 Surrounding the buildings are tarmac car parks and foot paths, as well as several courtyards. To the south of the buildings are extensive grassland recreation/playing fields, and an area of hard surfaced playing courts. The southern boundary of the site has a dense tree line and hedgerow present, there are also hedgerows present along the western boundaries of the site. In addition there is a small area of woodland to the south of the site.

5.4 No part of the site is designated for nature conservation purposes. A search of a 2km radius of the site for designated sites found no sites designated for nature conservation interest.

6 Survey Constraints

6.1 Due to the presence of suspended ceilings in several of the pitched roof buildings on site, the roof voids could not be comprehensively inspected during the internal examination. However, this limitation was, to an extent, mitigated by the undertaking of the dusk emergence/activity observations

6.2 Access to the western end of the site was via locked gates, and a limited inspection of Block A was achieved due to this constraint on access.

6.3 External security lights on some parts of the School, but chiefly on the Leisure Centre, made it difficult to observe bats activity around the illuminated areas. However as the bats tend to avoid the brightly lit parts of the site, there was very little bat activity heard on the bat detector. This constraint is not considered to have affected the validity of the survey results.

7 Survey Results

7.1 Details of the survey activities and weather conditions are summarised in Table 2 below. Sunset times were ascertained in all cases by use of a geo positioning system (GPS). Wind speeds indicated employ the Beaufort scale.

Table 2 – Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre – Survey Type and Weather Conditions Survey Type Date Timing Conditions

Day time internal and external inspection (RM, EH)

29/08/2014 09.30 – 13.40 hours British Summer Time (BST)

Air temperature: 12°C Cloud cover: 6/8 oktas Wind speed: F2, light breeze Conditions: Rain

Dusk activity/emergence observation (RM, JG, EH, JH, BR)

04/09/2014

19.35 – 21.15 hours (BST) (Sunset 19.55 hours)

Air temperature: 17.5°C – 17°C Cloud cover: 5/8 oktas Wind speed: F1, calm Conditions: Dry

Dusk emergence/activity observation (RM, CD, RP, BR, JH)

10/09/2014

19.15 – 21.00 hours BST (Sunset 19.41 hours)

Air temperature: 16°C Cloud cover: 1/8 oktas Wind speed: F1, calm Conditions: Dry

Dusk emergence/activity observation (DM, RM, JH, NI, EH)

15/09/2014 19.10 – 20.40 hours (BST) (Sunset 19.30 hours)

Air temperature: 16°C – 14.5°C Cloud cover: 1/8 oktas Wind speed: F2, light Breeze Conditions: Dry

Dusk emergence/activity observation (PM, DM, EH, MT, BR)

18/09/2014 18.50 – 20.25 hours BST (Sunset 19.23 hours)

Air temperature: 21°C – 20°C Cloud cover: 8/8 oktas Wind speed: F2, light breeze Conditions: Humid (no rain)

Surveyors Carola Dallmeier (CD), Jenny Gatward (JG), Emma Higgins (EH), Jim Hoskins (JH), Nigel Isaksson (NI), Diane Morgan (DM), Phil Morgan (PM), Robert Morgan (RM) Rachel Price (RP), Ben Rees (BR), Mo Tillotson (MT)

7.2 Examination of the roof voids, where they were accessible, found no evidence for the presence of bats. Droppings of rodents were identified, but no insect remains or other features associated with bat roosts were noted. When the exteriors were examined, no droppings were found on exterior walls, and no urine staining was noted on glass or painted surfaces. The majority of the site’s buildings were well-maintained and sealed, however there were a small number of gaps and slots around the metal sills, above and below windows, in the brickwork, around door frames, at the tops of walls, and beside and behind building trims. The growth of ivy (Hedera helix), in several areas, was also noted, as it can be used by roosting bats.

7.3 Following the day time visual inspection the ecologist drew up a schedule for further survey of the buildings, based on their potential to be used by bats for roosting. This resulted in the table in Section 13. By this means, certain buildings were excluded from further assessment, the



structures offering no potential to be used, and survey effort therefore focussed on those buildings showing low or moderate potential for use. However, this was further refined on site, once the extent of lighting used on site had been ascertained. Certain features, determined to offer low potential during the day time visual inspection, subsequently had no potential for use, due to the high levels of artificial light being shed on them.

7.4 Details of the first dusk activity observation, carried out on the evening of Thursday, the 4th of September 2014, are shown below in Table 3. This observation focused on the features identified to offer potential to be bat roosts locations on the north elevation and the eastern section of the School buildings.

Table 3 – Llantarnam School, Torfaen – Dusk Observation, 4th September 2014 Time (24

Hour Clock)

Species (Common

Name)

Recording

No.

Observed Activity

20.08 hours Common pipistrelle 173 JG Commuting north to south along hedgerow to west of the Clock Tower

20.10 hours Soprano pipistrelle 12 BR Commuting from north to south along western elevation of Science Block

20.15 hours Common pipistrelle 88 EH Bat came from north, and foraged in garden area north of Sixth Form Block before flying back north-west

20.16 hours Common pipistrelle 89 EH Bat came from north, and foraged in garden area to the north of Sixth Form Block before flying back north-west

20.16 hours Common pipistrelle 13 BR Commuting from west to east along northern elevation of the Science Block

20.18 hours Common pipistrelle 85 JH Commuting along the fence to south of Science Block

20.18 hours Common pipistrelle 187 RM Foraging over garden area south of Learning Centre

20.20 hours Soprano pipistrelle 14 BR Bat commuting from east to south-west along northern elevation of Science Block

20.21 hours Common pipistrelle 188 RM Bat foraging over garden area south of Learning Centre

20.25 hours Soprano pipistrelle 174 JG Bat commuting south to north along hedgerow to west of Clock Tower

20.30 hours Common pipistrelle 90 EH Commuting east to west over roof of Sixth Form Block

20.32 hours Common pipistrelle 189 RM Bat foraging heading west around eastern gable end of Learning Centre

20.33 hours Noctule 86 JH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from south-east corner of Science Block

20.34 hours Common pipistrelle 91 EH Bat foraging in the garden area north of Sixth Form Block

20.34 hours Common pipistrelle 175 JG Foraging in front of eastern elevation of the Clock Tower

20.37 hours Common pipistrelle 15 BR Bat commuting from east to west along northern elevation of the Science Block

20.38 hours Common pipistrelle Not recorded EH

Commuting from south to north over Sixth Form Block

20.41 hours Common pipistrelle 176 JG Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the north-east corner of the clock tower

20.42 hours Soprano pipistrelle 87 JH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the south-east corner of the Science Block

20.44 hours Myotis sp. 177 JG Foraging along hedgerow to the west of Clock Tower

20.44 hours Common pipistrelle 190 RM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from courtyard to east of Usk Block

20.45 hours Common pipistrelle 16 BR Bat commuting from west to east along the northern elevation of the Science Block

20.49 hours Common pipistrelle Not recorded EH

Heard not seen by observer, recorded from within the garden area to the north of the Sixth Form Block

20.54 hours Soprano pipistrelle 17 BR Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the north-west corner of the Science Block

Note: Highlighted records indicate emergence or re-entry activity from the buildings

7.5 No bats were seen to emerge from any of the structures being observed. Bat activity was generally light, with only occasional commuting and foraging activity. There was no bat behaviour noted which indicated the buildings were used as resting places by bats. Common pipistrelle bats (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), and soprano pipistrelle bats (P. pygmaeus), as well as an unidentified myotid species, were recorded, and a pass by a noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula), was also noted.

7.6 The second dusk observation followed six days later, on Wednesday, the 10th of September 2014. Details of the findings from this observation are set out in Table 4 below. This survey focused on the central band of School buildings, as well as the Science Block at the southern corner of the complex of buildings.




Hour Clock)

Species (Common

Name)

Recording

No.

Observed Activity

19.44 hours Soprano pipistrelle 137 CD Commuting north-east to south over roof of Science Block

19.50 hours Soprano pipistrelle 138 CD Bat commuting from north to south over the Science Block towards the tree line

20.04 hours Common pipistrelle 28 BR Bat commuting from north to south-west across site

20.04 hours Common pipistrelle (x2)

200 RM One bat foraging above connecting section of Blocks B and C; other foraging in courtyard to the east of Block C

20.11 hours Common pipistrelle 63 RP Commuting from south to north across roof of Sixth Form Block

20.13 hours Soprano pipistrelle 139 CD Bat commuting from north-east to south along the western elevation of the Science Block

20.14 hours Common pipistrelle 64 RP Bat came from north and began foraging in garden north of Sixth Form Block before flying south over roof of Sixth Form Block

20.15 hours Common pipistrelle 140 CD Commuting along fence to south of the Science Block

20.15 hours Common pipistrelle 65 RP Bat came from south over the roof of the Sixth Form Block and began foraging in garden to the north of the Sixth Form Block before flying north

20.15 hours Common pipistrelle and noctule

201 RM Bat foraging above connecting section of Blocks B and C, noctule recorded in background

20.18 hours Common pipistrelle 29 BR Heard not seen by observer, recorded from between the Learning Centre and Block D

20.20 hours Common pipistrelle 66 RP Bat came from north and began foraging in garden to the north of the Sixth Form Block before heading back north

20.35 hours Common pipistrelle 30 BR Heard not seen by observer, recorded from between Learning Centre and Block D

20.35 hours Common pipistrelle 202 RM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from courtyard to east of Block C

20.26 hours Soprano pipistrelle 127 JH Bat foraging along hedgerow to west of the Clock Tower

20.28 hours Common pipistrelle 128 JH Bat foraging along hedgerow to west of Clock Tower

20.34 hours Common pipistrelle 67 RP Bat came from north and began foraging in garden to north of Sixth Form Block before heading back north


7.7 The second dusk observation followed a similar pattern, with low levels of bat activity noted, as during the first session. A consistent light level of bat activity occurred, with occasional foraging laps by a small number of animals. A general trend of bats activity was commuting from the north across the site, heading south towards the woodland and tree lines, located to the south of the school. Bats were also recorded to be foraging along the hedgerow to the west of the site, and occasionally within the courtyard areas. During this dusk session, common and soprano pipistrelle bats were recorded and just one noctule call was heard.

7.8 A third dusk observation session was carried out on Monday, the 15th September 2014, details of this observation can be seen below in Table 5. This focused on the Sixth Form Block, and the southern band of the School buildings.


Hour Clock)

Species (Common

Name)

Recording

No.

Observed Activity

19.36 hours Soprano pipistrelle 217 RM Commuting from north to south into fields south of the site, recorded from south-west corner of Science Block


64 NI Two bats commuting north to south along the eastern elevation of Block C

19.45 hours Soprano pipistrelle 218 RM Commuting from north to south into fields south of the site, recorded from south-west corner of Science Block

19.46 hours Noctule 219 RM Commuting from north to south into fields south of the site, recorded from south-west corner of Science Block

19.50 hours Common pipistrelle 105 EH Foraging in front of north-east side of Sixth Form Block

19.51 hours Common pipistrelle 106 EH Foraging in front of north-east side of Sixth Form Block

19.53 hours Soprano pipistrelle 107 EH Foraging in front of north-east side of Sixth Form Block

19.55 hours Soprano pipistrelle 108 EH Foraging in front of north-east side of Sixth Form Block


109 EH Two bats commuting over the houses tot eh east of the Sixth Form Block , heading east

19.59 hours Common pipistrelle 110 EH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from eastern corner of Sixth Form Block

20.01 hours Common pipistrelle 129 JH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from near boiler room at the southern elevation of the Sixth Form Block

20.01 hours Common pipistrelle 111 EH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from eastern corner of the Sixth Form Block

20.03 hours Common pipistrelle 130 JH Foraging in the fields to south of the Sixth Form Block




20.10 hours Bat Not recorded EH

Bat came from the trees to the north-east of the Sixth Form Block before commuting south across the field

20.11 hours Common pipistrelle 185 DM Bat foraging coming from north-west, circling over the Learning Centre before returning north-west


20.20 hours Noctule 186 DM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the south east corner of the Learning Centre

20.28 hours Soprano pipistrelle 187 DM Heard not seen by observer, believed to be located at the southern end of the site

20.28 hours Soprano pipistrelle and noctule

220 RM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the south-west corner of Science Block

20.29 hours Soprano pipistrelle 221 RM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the south-west corner of Science Block


222 RM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the south-west corner of Science Block

20.31 hours Bat Not recorded EH

Heard not seen by observer, recorded from eastern corner of the Sixth Form Block


188 DM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from near the northern elevation of the learning centre

20.36 hours Noctule Not recorded JH

Heard not seen by observer, recorded from near boiler room at the southern elevation of the Sixth Form Block


114 EH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from eastern corner of the Sixth Form Block


7.9 The third dusk observation had similar results to the previous two observations with bat activity being generally light with only occasional commuting and foraging activity. Again no bats were seen to emerge from any of the buildings, and regular commuting towards the treeline at the south of the site was noted. Bats were also recorded to be foraging along the hedgerows located on site, especially to the west, and to the north-east, of the Sixth Form Block. Common and soprano pipistrelle bats were regularly recorded, along with the occasional noctule commuting over the site. Noctule activity was however, notably increased over previous observations

7.10 A fourth, and final dusk bat emergence/activity observation was carried out on Thursday, the 18th September 2014. Details of the observation can be seen in Table 6.


Hour Clock)

Species

(Common Name)

Recording

No.

Observed Activity

19.30 hours Noctule Not recorded MT

Bat commuting along hedgerow to west of Clock Tower, heading south


Bat commuting across north of site

19.55 hours Common pipistrelle 148 EH Foraging, heading west to east and back, along the northern elevation of the Science Block

19.55 hours Common pipistrelle Not recorded MT

Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the north east corner of the Boiler Room

19.56 hours Common pipistrelle 149 EH Bat foraging, heading west to east and back, along the northern elevation of the Science Block

19.57 hours Common pipistrelle 150 EH Foraging, heading west to east and back, along northern elevation of Science Block, before flying back west

19.58 hours Common pipistrelle 151 EH Foraging along pathway that runs along south elevation of Block D, circling back and forth from east to west, before heading east

19.59 hours Soprano pipistrelle 152 EH Foraging along pathway that runs along south elevation of Block D circling back and forth from east to west, before heading west

20.01 hours Soprano pipistrelle 153 EH Foraging over pathway at south elevation of Block D, circling back and forth from east to west, before heading west

20.01 hours Soprano pipistrelle 154 EH Bat came from west and was foraging along pathway that runs along the south elevation of Block D circling back and forth from east to west, before heading south

20.02 hours Common pipistrelle 155 EH Bat commuting from west to east along the pathway to the south of Block D

20.03 hours Soprano pipistrelle (x2)

156 EH Two bats foraging along pathway that runs along the south elevation of Block D circling back and forth from east to west, before heading back west

20.04 hours Common pipistrelle 43 BR Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the car park to the west of the Leisure Centre



20.05 hours Common pipistrelle 157 EH Two bats foraging along pathway that runs along the south elevation of Block D circling back and forth from east to west, before heading north-east

20.07 – 20.11 hours

Soprano pipistrelle (x2)

158 EH Foraging along pathway that runs along south elevation of Block D circling back and forth from east to west, before heading back west



45 BR Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the car park to the west of the Leisure Centre


Bat commuting across the northern portion of the site

20.12 hours Noctule 207 DM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from courtyard to the west of Usk Block

20.16 hours Common pipistrelle 208 DM Bat foraging in the courtyard to the west of Usk block coming from the north-west and circling back

20.16 hours Common pipistrelle 156 PM Heard not seen by observer, recorded from north-east corner of Block F


159 EH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from north-west corner of the Science Block

20.19 hours Soprano pipistrelle 160 EH Bat commuting from west to east along pathway to the south of Block D

20.19 hours Common pipistrelle 161 EH Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the north-west corner of the Science Block


20.19 hours Common pipistrelle Not recorded MT

Bat commuting from north to east along car park to the north of the school

20.20 – 20.24 hours

Common pipistrelle 162 EH Foraging over pathway that runs along south elevation of Block D circling back and forth from east to west, before heading south


20.21 hours Myotis sp. 209 DM Bat foraging in the courtyard to the west of Usk Block coming from the north-west and circling back

20.21 hours Myotis sp. Not recorded MT

Heard not seen by observer, recorded from the north east corner of the Boiler Room



7.11 The fourth dusk observation followed the same pattern as previous observations, with no bats seen to emerge from the buildings, and no behaviour was exhibited by the bats to suggest that a roost was located on site. Again the activity consisted mainly of commuting and foraging along hedgerows, and towards the treeline and woodland to the south of the site. Common and soprano pipistrelle bats were again the most frequently recorded on site, commuting noctule bats, and an unidentified foraging myotid species were also recorded on site. Again noctule activity was notably increased over the initial observations. The myotid activity is probably attributable for whiskered bats, but this could not be confirmed from the sonogram recordings.

7.12 It can be concluded from the observations conducted that the buildings at the site of Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre are not currently being used by bats for roosting purposes. The main bat activity recorded showed that foraging and commuting is taking place across the site. The hedgerows, treeline, and small woodland located on site, are used by a small number of animals as foraging and commuting features.

8 Discussion and Conclusions

8.1 The daytime inspection of the School and Leisure Centre noted that the structures present had some features which might be exploited by bats, and used as roost locations. Potential was assessed as low to moderate on some structures, and non-existent on others, and this visit was followed-up with four dusk activity observations. On site assessment also excluded some features, which could potentially be used by bats, due to the high levels of security lighting present. An appropriate number of observers were utilised, to ensure good visual cover of the buildings being surveyed. No bats were observed to exit the buildings, and there was no behaviour which could be associated with possible roosting activity. It is concluded that the Llantarnam School buildings, and Leisure Centre, do not contain bat roosts.

8.2 During the dusk observations, only light bat activity occurred. Commuting and foraging was mainly restricted to occasional passes by a small number of common pipistrelle and soprano pipistrelle bats, as well as some noctule bats, and unidentified myotid species – thought to be



whiskered bats, but not confirmed from the recorded sonograms. The dominant species on site was found to be the common and soprano pipistrelle bats, which is unsurprising for an urban environment.

8.3 Regular commuting, towards the treeline at the south of the site, was conducted by bats, as well as regular foraging, along the hedgerows located on site. These features are therefore important to the bats, as well as to other wildlife present, and recommendations are made below concerning the importance of these linear habitats in any future proposals for the site.

8.4 During the external inspection of the buildings, a number of remnant bird nest were noted, particularly that of house martin (Delichon urbicum), indicating the site is used by breeding birds. All breeding birds are legally protected and once a nest is established it is an offence to disturb or destroy the nest. Advice concerning breeding birds is given below.

9 Recommendations

9.1 It is appropriate for the building to be demolished within a short time frame after the closure of such structures, so as to avoid the potential of wildlife species such as bats and birds from taking an interest in the structure, and taking up occupation.

9.2 Bats can be encountered unexpectedly during demolition work, and if this occurs, it is important to stop activity in the vicinity of the bat(s). It is possible that a bat will be in a torpid state and unable to fly off for several minutes or even up to 20 minutes. Advice must be sought from Natural Resources Wales or if this is not possible, then from a bat ecologist who holds a licence to disturb bats. To proceed without taking advice would be an offence under the provisions of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

9.3 The hedgerows, treeline and mature trees on site are important features for both the bats as well as other wildlife utilising the site. These features must be retained to support biodiversity as part of any future proposals for the site. Future proposals for the site must include an element of tree and shrub planting to provide additional foraging opportunities for bats.

9.4 Breeding birds are protected under the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and active bird nests cannot legally be disturbed or destroyed. It is best to plan demolition work to the winter period to avoid the bird nesting season. If the demolition work commences within the bird nesting period of March to mid-August, there is a risk of encountering an active nest. To avoid an offence occurring, it is recommended that the buildings are checked for the presence of nesting birds before the demolition work begins. If an active nest is found, this part of the building must remain intact with sufficient cover and protection around the nest area so that the birds do not abandon the nest or become exposed to predation. If the timetable for the project cannot avoid the bird nesting season, it may be appropriate to apply netting over features before the start of the breeding period, and thus prevent the birds from gaining access to these parts. This reduces the risk of costly delays which can occur when nesting birds are present.

10 References

Hundt L. (2012). ‘Bat Surveys – Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd Edition’. Bat Conservation Trust, London.

Mitchell-Jones, A.J. (1992). ‘Focus on Bats’. English Nature, Peterborough.

Mitchell-Jones A.J. and McLeish A.P. (2004). ‘The Bat Workers Manual, 3rd Edition’. English Nature, Peterborough.

Russ, J. (2012). ‘British Bat Calls: A Guide to Species Identification’. Pelagic Publishing, Exeter.



11 Site Location Plan



12 Site Building Plan



13 Description of Site Buildings

Building

Name

Roof

Structure

Roof

Materials

Insulation Building

Materials

Observations Evidence of

Bats or

Potential

Main Hall Pitched Steel framed with preformed metal roof panels

Fibre glass on top of the walls and thin wool on roof void floor

Brick built walls Metal framed windows

Gaps present in brick mortar Suspended ceiling

None/low

Caretaker Building

Flat Felt with concrete slabs on top of wall plate

Not observable

Brick built walls Metal framed windows Metal guttering

- None/none

Sixth Form Block

Pitched Steel Framed with preformed metal roof panels No roof lining

Fibre glass Brick built walls uPVC Windows Copper flashing on windows Metal guttering

Suspended ceiling Connected to Usk Block Gaps in lead flashing Dense ivy present on north-east corner of building Gaps in brickwork and in soffits Remains of house martin nest at apex of western gable end

None/ moderate

Clock Tower Pitched Steel Framed with preformed metal roof panels

Not observable

Brick built walls Metal framed windows Concrete wall plates Metal guttering

Two storeys with a wooden floor and empty metal water tank on first then leading straight up to roof apex Three vents present on the western elevation with gaps above them Roller shutter doors on western elevation

None/low

Boiler Room Flat Concrete beams with heat resistant concrete tiling

Not observable

Brick built walls Metal framed windows now covered with louvers

Connected to the clock tower Duct on eastern end running all the way to the Sports Hall building Two vents present one on north and one on south sides

None/low

Block A Flat Poured concrete with metal cladding

Not observable

Brick built walls uPVC windows uPVC cladding

None/none

Block B Pitched Steel Framed with preformed metal roof panels

Not observable

Brick built walls uPVC and metal framed windows Wooden framed doors

Connects to Block C through a flat roofed connecting section Both ivy growth

None/ moderate



and gap in soffit at south-east corner House martin nest at ridge of eastern gable end

Block C Flat Poured concrete with metal cladding

Not observable

Brick built and also with metal frames and boarding Metal cladding on top of walls uPVC Windows Metal guttering

Connected to Block B Central courtyard present Large vent present on top of building

None/low

Usk Block Pitched Steel framed metal roof with copper roof tiles

Compressed straw composite insulation, also fibreglass

Concrete block internal walls Outside walls brick built Both metal and uPVC windows Copper flashing on windows Metal guttering

Connected to Main Hall and Sixth Form Block Suspended ceilings Gaps in led flashing between adjoining buildings Gaps at soffits due to water damage Mouse droppings

Caretaker reported finding a bat inside, presumed trapped inside having flown in an open window, otherwise none/low

Learning Centre

Pitched

Steel framed with preformed metal roof panels

Roof void partly covered with fibre glass

Brick built walls One internal wall is concrete block

Suspended ceilings throughout Partitioning wall present in roof void Wasp nest at roof apex of eastern elevation

None/low

Science Block

Pitched Preformed wooden truss roof with concrete tiles and breathable lining membrane No ridge board present

Fibreglass throughout

Brick built outer skin Concrete block internal walls Metal framed windows and doors Some wooden framed internal doors

Suspended ceiling Boiler room at eastern end Central corridor of roof has wooden panels Damaged roof tile at eastern end with birds nest present

None/low

Block D Pitched Steel framed with preformed metal roof panels

Not observable

Brick built walls uPVC windows metal guttering

Gap in soffit at south-eastern corner of building

None/low

Block E Flat Poured concrete with metal cladding

Not observable

Brick built walls Metal and uPVC framed windows

Connected to Block D Minor gaps at soffits at eastern elevation

None/low

Block F Flat Poured concrete roof with tiles underneath

Not observable

Brick built with metal frames and lightweight boarding uPVC and metal framed windows

Connected to Block D by Stairwell at southern elevation Stairwell had wooden and metal fascia boards Dense ivy at north-west

None/ moderate



corner

Sports Hall Pitched Steel Framed with preformed metal roof panels

Not observable

Brick built walls Metal framed doors and windows

Single level with open Roof Space Connected to Block G

None/none

Block G Flat Felt with concrete slabs on top of wall plate

Not observable

Brick built Metal framed windows

Gaps in lead flashing where building connects to Usk Block and Sports Hall

None/low

Leisure Centre

Flat Poured concrete with metal cladding

Bot observable

Brick built uPVC windows and door frames Boiler room doors were wooden framed

Wooden doors of boiler room had significant gaps between slats Vents present in boiler room, but covered with mesh Two bright outdoor lights

None/low



14 Site Photographs Figure 1 – Looking south towards clock tower Figure 2 – Ivy on north elevation of Sixth Form Block Figure 3 – Garden to the north of Sixth Form Block Figure 4 – North elevation of Boiler Room Figure 5 – Vents on western elevation of Clock Tower Figure 6 – Remnants of bird nest Figure 7 – Courtyard between Block C and Sixth Form Figure 8 – Courtyard to the west of Usk Block



Figure 9 – Eastern elevation of block C Figure 10 – Garden to south of Learning Centre Figure 11 – Southern elevation of Block B Figure 12 – Looking west towards Block E Figure 13 – Eastern elevation of Science Block Figure 14 – Pathway to the north of Science Block Figure 15 –Looking east towards the Leisure Centre Figure 16 – Boiler Room of Leisure Centre



15 Appendix I – Ecology of British Bats

15.1 There are at least 18 species of bats breeding in the United Kingdom. Most of them are regarded as threatened due to a variety of factors including habitat loss, intolerance and disturbance/damage or loss of roosts. Of these species a number regularly use buildings at certain times of year in order to find safe secure roost sites. Often several different species can use a building over the course of the year, and not all species are present at the same time, making assessment of their presence complex.

15.2 Bats are highly mobile flying mammals, which in the United Kingdom, feed entirely on insects. They have evolved over seventy million years and have developed sophisticated mechanisms to allow them to effectively ‘see’ in the dark by using sound waves. This system is called echo-location which enables them to track and hunt down small moving insects whilst in flight, rather like radar does in a modern military fighter aircraft. It is possible to record this sound, and because each species of bat echo-locates in a different way, determine what the species is without actually handling the animal which made the call.

15.3 In winter, when their prey is scarce, British bats hibernate or enter torpor, in cool parts of caves, buildings (cavity walls), and tree cavities. They may wake occasionally and will feed if evening temperatures are greater than 7°C, when flying insects can be active. Generally however, activity during cold winters is very limited and bats only become fully active in spring, with late March and early April being a critical time for animals desperately trying to save energy whilst gaining weight. Disturbance during these months can therefore be more devastating to bats than at other times of year.

15.4 By late spring female bats will gather together in maternity roosts in order to give birth and rear their single baby in June. Such maternity roosts are often near to important foraging areas in order to save energy as flight requires vast energy resources. Flight routes to and from such roosts can therefore also be important and some bats are extremely light averse preferring dark locations without street or security lamps which can force them to take complex routes to reach foraging areas. Such lighting can also badly degrade foraging areas where they occur close to buildings and hedgerows and tree lines can be particularly important areas for bat foraging to take place particularly when close to the roost building.

15.5 Whilst females form maternity colonies, usually in warmer roofs or trees, male bats tend to seek out cooler sites which may not be so close to the foraging areas. Males are often solitary and do not exhibit the social behaviour that marks out females during the birthing period. Non-breeding females will also roost in this way, when they have no need to spend energy on raising a single baby.

15.6 Several British bat species are known to rely heavily on buildings to roost. Of these species, the most likely are the soprano pipistrelle bat and the common pipistrelle. Other bat species regularly found in buildings are the brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus); Natterer’s bat; Brandt’s bat and whiskered bat. Pipistrelle species and the small myotid or mouse-eared species (Brandt’s, whiskered etc) often favour locations at the ridge or around the exterior shell of the structure. Brown long-eared and Natterer’s tend to prefer living within the roof area of a building – large lofts being popular.

15.7 Other species that are known to use the internal areas of built structures such as barns include the two horseshoe species, the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) as well as barbastelle bats (Barbastella barbastellus).



16 Appendix II – Relevant Legislation

16.1 All species of bat in the United Kingdom, and their places of rest are protected under the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA), Section 9(1), 9(4)(a) and 9(4)(b) as amended by Schedule 12 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Further protection is afforded by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). In relation to structures used by bats for shelter or protection (i.e. roosts), this legislation makes it an offence to either intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any site used by bats, whether bats are present at the time or not, or to intentionally or recklessly disturb bats within a roost.

16.2 Infringements under this legislation include building demolition, removal of hollow trees, blocking, filling or installing grills over old mines or tunnels, building alteration or maintenance work, re-pointing of stone walls, getting rid of unwanted bat colonies, re-roofing, remedial timber treatment, re-wiring or plumbing in roofs, treatment of wasps, bees or cluster flies (Mitchell-Jones, 1992; Childs, 2001). Greater horseshoe bat, lesser horseshoe bat, Bechstein’s bat, greater mouse eared bat and barbastelle are included in Annex II of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended) and hence require special protection.

16.3 Maximum penalties for committing offences relating to bats or their roosts can amount to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or to fines of up to Level 5 on the standard scale under the Criminal Justice Act 1982/1991 (i.e. £5000 in April 2001) per roost or bat disturbed or killed, or to both. Bodies corporate and their directors/secretaries are liable for offences under the 2010 Regulations and the WCA.

16.4 It is sensible to assess as soon as possible if bats are present at potential sites for development – preferable before the land is acquired. In some cases the period required for adequate survey work may span more than one calendar year. If a development, including demolition or change of use, is likely to impact on bats and their roosts then a licence will usually be required. Adequate survey results are a necessary input to any licence application. If bats are not found until late in the development stage this may result in delays while a licence is sought and even in offences being committed.

16.5 The law with respect to dwelling houses and other structures is applied equally. Where disturbance is deemed likely to have a significant effect on bats to survive, breed and rear their young or will affect the local distribution and abundance of the species, a European Protected Species licence issued by Natural Resources Wales. A licence application must demonstrate that the development will not be detrimental to the maintenance and conservation status of the species concerned.

16.6 This explanation must be regarded only as a guide to the law. For further details, reference should be made to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended), and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

This document has been produced by the Just Mammals Consultancy LLP for Torfaen County Borough Council solely. It may not be used by any person for any other purpose other than that specified without the express written permission of Just Mammals. Any liability arising out of use by a third party of this document for purposes not wholly connected with the above shall be the responsibility of that party who shall indemnify the Just Mammals Consultancy LLP against all claims costs damages and losses arising out of such use.

Unless specifically assigned or transferred within the terms of agreement, the consultant asserts and retains all Copyright, and other Intellectual Property Rights, in and over the document and its contents.

We confirm that in preparing this document we have exercised reasonable skill and care, taking into account the project objectives, the agreed scope of the work, prevailing site conditions and the degree of manpower and resources allocated to the project.

This document is valid for a period of two years from the front cover date.

Just Mammals Consultancy is an ecological consultancy based in Mid-Wales. Specialising in legally protected mammal, reptile and amphibian species, but providing a wide range of ecological services, it provides appropriate expertise on behalf of a range of clients.

Clients include government departments, local and regional authorities, development agencies, commercial and industrial enterprises as well as statutory nature conservation organisations, wildlife trusts and other charitable bodies.

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Natural Problem Solvers Just Mammals Consultancy LLP, Suite E, Unit 4, Talgarth Business Park, Trefecca Road, Talgarth, Brecon LD3 0PQ. Tel/Fax: 0845 634 6077

Documents

Llantarnam School and Leisure Centre Cwmbran Torfaenplanapps.torfaen.gov.uk/Former_Llantarnam_School_16_P...BSc (Hons) Survey Assistant (TE) A recent graduate of Swansea University