Local Development Plan - Monmouthshire · Site specific evaluations were required by MCC to address the requirements and the best practice recommendations relating to statutory development

LDP Ecological Site Assessments in Monmouthshire Page 1 of 1604 Gwent Ecology

Local Development Plan Ecological Site Assessments

in Monmouthshire

February 2010

Gwent Ecology Seddon House

Monmouth Gwent NP25 4DY

Tel: 01600 740600 www.gwentwildlife.org

Reg. Charity No. 242619 Ltd Liability Co. No. 812535

http://www.gwentwildlife.org/�


Report to Monmouthshire County Council Local Development Plan Ecological Site Assessments in Monmouthshire, February 2010 This report has been prepared by Gwent Ecology, with all reasonable care, skill and attention to detail as set within the terms of the Contract with Monmouthshire County Council. We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope of the above. This is a confidential report to the client and we accept no responsibility of whatsoever nature to third parties to whom this report, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such parties rely on the report at their own risk. In particular Gwent Ecology (and consequently Gwent Wildlife Trust) recognises the need to maintain confidentiality with regard to some of the information detailed in this report, particularly with respect to the location of Protected Species. We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect to this information being made known to the general public.

For and on behalf of Gwent Ecology (GE) Approved by: Dr Richard Park

Signed: Position: Chief Executive, Gwent Wildlife Trust Date: 17.02.2010


Table of Contents

1 Executive Summary ........................................................................................................... 12

2 Introduction......................................................................................................................... 14

3 Requirements for LDP Candidate Site Assessment ....................................................... 15

3.1 Site Priority in LDP Process.................................................................................... 15

3.2 Desk-Based Study .................................................................................................... 15

3.3 Field Assessments ................................................................................................... 16

3.4 Biodiversity Assessment......................................................................................... 16

3.5 SINC Designation...................................................................................................... 17

4 Summary of Outputs .......................................................................................................... 18

4.1 Detailed Site Assessments...................................................................................... 18

� Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value Layer - Overall value for biodiversity ................. 18

� Layer 2: Biodiversity Features Layer - Detailed areas of importance for biodiversity 18

� Layer 3: Habitat Coding Layer - Phase 1 survey habitat coding ................................. 18

4.2 Site Values................................................................................................................. 18

4.3 SINC Quality .............................................................................................................. 18

4.4 A Detailed Report of the LDP Site Assessment .................................................... 18

5 Methods ............................................................................................................................... 19

5.1 Desk-Based Assessment......................................................................................... 19

5.2 Field Assessment ..................................................................................................... 20

5.3 Evaluation Criteria.................................................................................................... 21

5.4 GIS Information Layers ............................................................................................ 22

5.4.1 Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value ....................................................................... 22

5.4.2 Layer 2: Biodiversity Features ................................................................................ 22

5.5 Layer 3: Phase 1 Survey .......................................................................................... 23

5.6 Site Detail Form ........................................................................................................ 23

5.7 SINC Recommendations.......................................................................................... 24

6 Caveats and Constraints ................................................................................................... 24

6.1 Survey Limitations ................................................................................................... 24

6.2 Assessment Limitations .......................................................................................... 25


6.3 Information Limitations............................................................................................ 26

7 Results................................................................................................................................. 28

7.1 SINC Recommendations.......................................................................................... 28

7.2 Candidate Strategic Sites ............................................................................................... 35

CS/0004................................................................................................................................... 35

CS/0023................................................................................................................................... 43

CS/0025................................................................................................................................... 51

CS/0033................................................................................................................................... 59

CS/0047................................................................................................................................... 68

CS/0049................................................................................................................................... 76

CS/0063................................................................................................................................... 84

CS/0071................................................................................................................................... 92

CS/0076................................................................................................................................. 100

CS/0082................................................................................................................................. 108

CS/0092................................................................................................................................. 116

CS/0096................................................................................................................................. 125

CS/0098................................................................................................................................. 133

CS/0099................................................................................................................................. 141

CS/0100................................................................................................................................. 150

CS/0106................................................................................................................................. 158

CS/0108................................................................................................................................. 166

CS/0111................................................................................................................................. 175

CS/0113................................................................................................................................. 184

CS/0121................................................................................................................................. 192

CS/0138................................................................................................................................. 201

CS/0158................................................................................................................................. 209

CS/0162................................................................................................................................. 218

CS/0168................................................................................................................................. 227

CS/0169................................................................................................................................. 235

CS/0176................................................................................................................................. 243


CS/0177................................................................................................................................. 252

CS/0193................................................................................................................................. 260

CS/0196................................................................................................................................. 268

CS/0198................................................................................................................................. 277

CS/0199................................................................................................................................. 286

CS/0201................................................................................................................................. 295

CS/0207................................................................................................................................. 304

CS/0213................................................................................................................................. 312

CS/0214................................................................................................................................. 321

CS/0219................................................................................................................................. 329

CS/0227................................................................................................................................. 338

CS/0229................................................................................................................................. 346

CS/0230................................................................................................................................. 354

CS/0244................................................................................................................................. 362

CS/0245................................................................................................................................. 370

CS/0248................................................................................................................................. 379

CS/0249................................................................................................................................. 387

CS/0253................................................................................................................................. 396

CS/0260................................................................................................................................. 404

CS/0266................................................................................................................................. 413

CS/0267................................................................................................................................. 422

7.3 Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy...................................................... 431

7.3.1 Abergavenny & Llanfoist ........................................................................................... 431

CS/0015................................................................................................................................. 431

CS/0017................................................................................................................................. 439

CS/0028................................................................................................................................. 447

CS/0054................................................................................................................................. 455

CS/0105................................................................................................................................. 463

CS/0107................................................................................................................................. 471

CS/0110................................................................................................................................. 480


CS/0119................................................................................................................................. 488

CS/0120................................................................................................................................. 497

CS/0191................................................................................................................................. 505

CS/0195................................................................................................................................. 513

CS/0208................................................................................................................................. 521

CS/0215................................................................................................................................. 529

CS/0216................................................................................................................................. 538

CS/0268................................................................................................................................. 546

CS/0272................................................................................................................................. 555

7.3.2 Caldicot and Portskewett........................................................................................... 563

CS/0066................................................................................................................................. 563

CS/0080................................................................................................................................. 571

CS/0104................................................................................................................................. 579

CS/0122................................................................................................................................. 587

CS/0192................................................................................................................................. 595

CS/0241................................................................................................................................. 603

CS/0242................................................................................................................................. 611

CS/0252................................................................................................................................. 619

CS/0257................................................................................................................................. 627

CS/0258................................................................................................................................. 635

7.3.3 Caerwent...................................................................................................................... 643

CS/0078................................................................................................................................. 643

CS/0256................................................................................................................................. 651

7.3.4 Chepstow..................................................................................................................... 659

CS/0029................................................................................................................................. 659

CS/0097................................................................................................................................. 668

CS/0102................................................................................................................................. 676

CS/0103................................................................................................................................. 684

CS/0141................................................................................................................................. 692

CS/0142................................................................................................................................. 700


CS/0190................................................................................................................................. 708

CS/0231................................................................................................................................. 716

7.3.5 Devauden..................................................................................................................... 724

CS/0024................................................................................................................................. 724

CS/0032................................................................................................................................. 732

CS/0064................................................................................................................................. 740

7.3.6 Dingestow.................................................................................................................... 748

CS/0134................................................................................................................................. 748

CS/0135................................................................................................................................. 756

CS/0136................................................................................................................................. 764

CS/0183................................................................................................................................. 772

CS/0184................................................................................................................................. 780

7.3.7 Grosmont..................................................................................................................... 788

CS/0147................................................................................................................................. 788

CS/0212................................................................................................................................. 796

7.3.8 Little Mill ...................................................................................................................... 804

CS/0101................................................................................................................................. 804

CS/0277................................................................................................................................. 812

7.3.9 Llangybi ....................................................................................................................... 820

CS/0053................................................................................................................................. 820

CS/0055................................................................................................................................. 828

CS/0057................................................................................................................................. 836

CS/0058................................................................................................................................. 844

CS/0059................................................................................................................................. 852

CS/0060................................................................................................................................. 860

CS/0061................................................................................................................................. 868

7.3.10 Llanishen................................................................................................................... 876

CS/0014................................................................................................................................. 876

CS/0189................................................................................................................................. 884

CS/0254................................................................................................................................. 892


7.3.11 Llanvapley ................................................................................................................. 900

CS/0041................................................................................................................................. 900

7.3.12 Magor and Undy ....................................................................................................... 908

CS/0021................................................................................................................................. 908

CS/0085................................................................................................................................. 916

CS/0139................................................................................................................................. 924

CS/0140................................................................................................................................. 932

CS/0232................................................................................................................................. 940

7.3.13 Mathern...................................................................................................................... 948

CS/0046................................................................................................................................. 948

CS/0163................................................................................................................................. 956

CS/0164................................................................................................................................. 964

CS/0165................................................................................................................................. 972

CS/0167................................................................................................................................. 981

CS/0172................................................................................................................................. 989

7.3.14 Mitchel Troy............................................................................................................... 997

CS/0069................................................................................................................................. 997

CS/0115............................................................................................................................... 1005

CS/0117............................................................................................................................... 1014

7.3.15 Monmouth ............................................................................................................... 1022

CS/0008............................................................................................................................... 1022

CS/0018............................................................................................................................... 1030

CS/0074............................................................................................................................... 1038

CS/0079............................................................................................................................... 1047

CS/0083............................................................................................................................... 1055

CS/0089............................................................................................................................... 1063

CS/0090............................................................................................................................... 1071

CS/0091............................................................................................................................... 1079

CS/0093............................................................................................................................... 1088

CS/0094............................................................................................................................... 1096


CS/0132............................................................................................................................... 1104

CS/0144............................................................................................................................... 1113

CS/0145............................................................................................................................... 1121

CS/0148............................................................................................................................... 1129

CS/0150............................................................................................................................... 1137

CS/0153............................................................................................................................... 1145

CS/0200............................................................................................................................... 1153

CS/0202............................................................................................................................... 1162

CS/0203............................................................................................................................... 1171

CS/0209............................................................................................................................... 1180

CS/0238............................................................................................................................... 1188

CS/0269............................................................................................................................... 1196

CS/0270............................................................................................................................... 1204

7.3.16 Penalt ....................................................................................................................... 1212

CS/0050............................................................................................................................... 1212

7.3.17 Penperlleni .............................................................................................................. 1220

CS/0031............................................................................................................................... 1220

CS/0197............................................................................................................................... 1228

7.3.18 Pwllmeyric ............................................................................................................... 1237

CS/0159............................................................................................................................... 1237

CS/0166............................................................................................................................... 1245

CS/0222............................................................................................................................... 1253

7.3. 19 Raglan..................................................................................................................... 1261

CS/0137............................................................................................................................... 1261

CS/0170............................................................................................................................... 1269

CS/0171............................................................................................................................... 1277

CS/0246............................................................................................................................... 1285

CS/0247............................................................................................................................... 1293

7.3.20 Rogiet....................................................................................................................... 1301

CS/0040............................................................................................................................... 1301


CS/0048............................................................................................................................... 1309

CS/0228............................................................................................................................... 1317

CS/0233............................................................................................................................... 1325

CS/0259............................................................................................................................... 1333

7.3.21 Shirenewton/Mynyddbach ..................................................................................... 1341

CS/0022............................................................................................................................... 1341

CS/0073............................................................................................................................... 1349

CS/0075............................................................................................................................... 1357

7.3.22 St Arvans................................................................................................................. 1365

CS/0007............................................................................................................................... 1365

CS/0034............................................................................................................................... 1373

CS/0221............................................................................................................................... 1381

7.3.23 The Bryn .................................................................................................................. 1389

CS/0114............................................................................................................................... 1389

7.3.24 Tintern...................................................................................................................... 1397

CS/0011............................................................................................................................... 1397

7.3.25 Trellech .................................................................................................................... 1405

CS/0026............................................................................................................................... 1405

CS/0027............................................................................................................................... 1414

CS/0036............................................................................................................................... 1423

CS/0081............................................................................................................................... 1431

CS/0223............................................................................................................................... 1439

CS/0224............................................................................................................................... 1447

CS/0251............................................................................................................................... 1455

CS/0265............................................................................................................................... 1463

7.3.26 Usk ........................................................................................................................... 1471

CS/0146............................................................................................................................... 1471

CS/0149............................................................................................................................... 1479

CS/0157............................................................................................................................... 1488

CS/0161............................................................................................................................... 1496


CS/0236............................................................................................................................... 1504

7.3.27 Werngifford/Pandy ................................................................................................. 1513

CS/0125............................................................................................................................... 1513

CS/0126............................................................................................................................... 1521

CS/0127............................................................................................................................... 1529

7.4 Candidate Non Residential Sites - Overall Biodiversity Values ...................... 1537

7.5 Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy - Overall Biodiversity Values 1538

8 Further Surveys .............................................................................................................. 1541

8.1 General Ecological Survey .................................................................................. 1541

8.2 Species Surveys ................................................................................................... 1542

9 Potential Impacts of Development on Biodiversity..................................................... 1543

10 Mitigation and Enhancement....................................................................................... 1544

11 Bibliography.................................................................................................................. 1546

12 Annexes......................................................................................................................... 1549

12.1 Annex 1: List of Sites ................................................................................................ 1549

12.2 Annex 2: Glossary ................................................................................................ 1557

12.3 Annex 3: Glossary of Habitats ............................................................................ 1560

12.4 Annex 4: Species Glossary ................................................................................. 1574

12.5 Annex 5: Policy and Legislation ......................................................................... 1585

12.6 Annex 6: Site Detail Form.................................................................................... 1590

12.7 Annex 7: Notes to Accompany Site Detail Form............................................... 1598

12.8 Annex 8: Hedgerow Classification...................................................................... 1603

12.9 Annex 7: Veteran and Mature Tree Classification............................................. 1603

12.10 Annex 9: MapInfo Coding Key............................................................................. 1604


1 Executive Summary

This report details the broad nature conservation value of sites in

Monmouthshire which informs the new Monmouthshire LDP process through

reference to site detail forms, summary tables, interpretative text and GIS

layer files. This report concludes the evaluation of all the candidate sites put

forward in MCC’s LDP1.

Ecological assessments were undertaken to various degrees at 275 sites that

were designated as:

• Candidate Strategic Sites (47 sites)

• Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy (137 sites)

• Candidate Non Residential Sites (18 sites)

• Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy (73 sites)

The methodology and evaluation techniques used in the assessments are

defined within this report. The LDP Ecological Site Assessments were

undertaken by Gwent Ecology (GE)2 under contract to MCC.

All sites were subject to a desk-based assessment using information from

various sources including historical records and aerial photographs.

Information regarding protected species and sites was derived from South

East Wales Biological Records Centre (SEWBReC) and input into the Site

Detail Report by MCC.

At Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy, extended Phase 1 ecological surveys were undertaken and

recommendations for SINC designation made with respect to qualifying

features. Ecological surveys were completed during the months of April -

August. When possible, Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate

1 Three reports have already been submitted to Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) 2 Gwent Ecology is a consultancy arm of Gwent Wildlife Trust (GWT)


Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy were subject to a brief walk-

over survey before the end of August 2009.

From desk-based and field assessments an evaluation of status or potential

impact on the biodiversity of the site was made and classified as either: High,

Medium or Low value. In addition to this, geographic information system layer

files were produced to provide visual representation of the ecological status of

each site as follows:

• Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value - illustrates the overall biodiversity value of each site

• Layer 2: Biodiversity Features - illustrates the value of detailed features

on Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy

• Layer 3: Phase 1 layers - summarises the results of the habitat surveys

in standard Phase 1 format on Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy

This assessment of the nature conservation value of sites within

Monmouthshire was subject to a number of inherent constraints that are

summarised as a list of caveats. The results are summarised in individual site

detail forms within the report to facilitate the evaluation of the status of any

site.

It is recommended that all sites be subject to a reassessment of condition

when under particular consideration under the planning process. Advice on

further survey requirements is provided. The potential impacts of development

on biodiversity are discussed with respect to the potential for mitigation and

enhancement initiatives.


2 Introduction

Site specific evaluations were required by MCC to address the requirements

and the best practice recommendations relating to statutory development plan

production and biodiversity policy. These assessments provide an initial

baseline of ecological data to inform the preparation, appraisal and

examination of the LDP by MCC.

This work considers the existing ecological value of the proposed LDP sites,

principally based on botanical survey but with consideration of other potential

Protected or Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) species that may be present (e.g.

otter, dormouse, great crested newt and horseshoe bat). Sites were also

assessed for their potential to qualify as Sites of Importance for Nature

Conservation (SINCs) using the Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites

in South Wales.3

The Site Specific Assessments complement the LDP Ecological Connectivity

Assessments of Settlements that was also undertaken in 2009 by GE under a

separate contract with MCC. Information gathered from this Connectivity

Assessment has been used to help inform the overall value of the proposed

LDP Candidate Sites.

This contract was managed by the Chief Executive of Gwent Wildlife Trust

(GWT)4 who jointly developed the scope of the assessment programme.

Project management, initial fieldwork and desk studies were undertaken by

the Conservation Manager of GWT. Some desk research, such as SEWBReC

searches, was carried out by MCC. The majority of the fieldwork was carried

out by another experienced surveyor subcontracted by GE with substantial

(20 years) local knowledge, particularly on the botanical interests of the sites.

Quality assurance was completed internally within GE through the support of

GWT volunteers experienced in ecosystem assessment.

3 South Wales Wildlife Sites Partnership, 2004 (as amended) 4 Julian Branscombe and subsequently Richard Park


3 Requirements for LDP Candidate Site Assessment The requirements for this assessment programme were laid out in the

document Monmouthshire Local Development Plan – Biodiversity Proposal

under the heading: ‘Detailed LDP Candidate Site Assessments’. The contract

brief was refined through discussion between MCC and GE leading to the

following requirements for each LDP Candidate Site assessment.

3.1 Site Priority in LDP Process

LDP Candidate Sites were grouped by priority by MCC with respect to their

status within the Monmouthshire Local Development Plan process (see Annex

2, Glossary). The level and method of assessment applied to a site was

dependent on its priority as follows:

• LDP Candidate Strategic Sites - Desk-based and field survey

assessment

• LDP Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy - Desk-based

and field survey assessment

• LDP Candidate Non Residential Sites - Desk-based site review and

brief field survey where possible

• LDP Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy -

Desk-based site review and brief field survey where possible

3.2 Desk-Based Study

Each site was subject to a desk-based assessment using information from

various sources (historical records and aerial photographs). Information

regarding records of protected species was obtained from the South East

Wales Biological Records Centre (SEWBReC) and interpreted by MCC.


These were supplied and copied onto the Site Detail Reports MCC’s

Biodiversity and Ecology Officer.

3.3 Field Assessments

For Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy, extended Phase 1 surveys were undertaken, applying

the following criteria:

• Habitats present and features of nature conservation interest

• Presence of protected or BAP species

• Condition of the site with respect to its potential to qualify as SINC

• Present land use (where discernable)

• Consideration of all hedgerows in the context of the Hedgerow

Regulations

• Requirement for further ecological survey

• Qualitative assessment of adjoining areas to identify land use

When it was possible (see section 6) to survey Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy, these

were subject to a walk-over survey to provide a general assessment of nature

conservation value.

3.4 Biodiversity Assessment

Using the results of the desk-based survey and field assessments, an

evaluation of status or impact of the biodiversity of the site was made and

classified as either: High, Medium or Low value.

For Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy, the existing species or habitat features that should be


retained or protected were identified. Further surveys, mitigation and

enhancement issues were also defined for each site.

3.5 SINC Designation Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy were assessed against the criteria in the ‘Guidelines for the

Selection of Wildlife Sites in South East Wales’5. Note that the SINC

Guidelines criterion has been revised for Monmouthshire6. These revised

guidelines were used in conjunction with the Guidelines for the Selection of

Wildlife Sites in South East Wales. Recommendations for SINC designation

were made on the basis of the field assessment of qualifying features. Where

field assessments were not possible, further survey is recommended for sites

judged as likely to meet the criteria.

5 South Wales Wildlife Sites Partnership, 2004 (as amended) 6 Review of the Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales, to ensure special regard for Monmouthshire, January 2009


4 Summary of Outputs

4.1 Detailed Site Assessments

For Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy, the following features were defined and illustrated in GIS

Information Layer files:

• Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value Layer - Overall value for

biodiversity

• Layer 2: Biodiversity Features Layer - Detailed areas of importance

for biodiversity

• Layer 3: Habitat Coding Layer - Phase 1 survey habitat coding

The Information Layer Files are described in more detail within section 5.4.

4.2 Site Values

For all sites, the overall value for biodiversity was defined.

4.3 SINC Quality

Sites that were of SINC quality or potentially of SINC quality were identified

(see Annex 7).

4.4 A Detailed Report of the LDP Site Assessment

A paper and digital copy of a report detailing the nature conservation value of

Local Development Plan (LDP) Candidate Sites in Monmouthshire.


5 Methods

The prioritisation and division of the 275 Local Development Plan (LDP)

Candidate Sites was as follows:

• LDP Candidate Strategic Sites - 47 sites

• LDP Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy - 137 sites

• LDP Candidate Non Residential Sites - 18 sites

• LDP Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy - 73

sites

A list of these sites is detailed in Annex 1.

5.1 Desk-Based Assessment

Desk-based assessments for all LDP Candidate Sites used the following

sources of information:

• Local Wildlife Site/SINC information: GIS layer, assessed and

interpreted by MCC

• Protected species search within 250m from SEWBReC: assessed

and interpreted by MCC

• Protected site search within 250m from SEWBReC: assessed and

interpreted by MCC

• 1991 CCW Phase 1 Survey: GIS layer

• Ancient Woodland Inventory: GIS layer

• Aerial Photos: web based images

• Gwent Grassland Initiative work 2005-8

Each site was initially assessed by the Biodiversity and Ecology Officer at

MCC relating to SEWBReC data and the information recorded on the Site

Detail Form. This was supplemented by further desk-based review.


5.2 Field Assessment

Because of the need to survey during the optimum period for the assessment

of biodiversity and habitats, all the Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy were assessed during the months of

April - July 2009. Sites were surveyed according to the methodology detailed

in the ‘Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey’7. The following details and

features were also noted:

• Nature conservation interest - features

• Protected or BAP species - signs indicating presence

• Site of Importance for Nature Conservation - condition of the site

with respect to its potential to qualify as a SINC

• Hedgerows - condition and length

• Veteran trees - presence of mature trees

• Use of the site - present use

• Adjoining land uses or habitats

• Requirement for further ecological survey

As many Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy as possible were surveyed in the remainder

of the survey season (up to the end of August). These were subject to a brief

walk-over survey, where the overall condition and value of the site was

assessed.

7 JNCC, 2003


5.3 Evaluation Criteria

Sites were evaluated using the following criteria. This was drawn together

using the Ratcliffe Criteria8 and Local Wildlife Site guidelines9.

HIGH (Red)

o Site already designated as SSSI/LWS/ANSW o Site assessed and of Local Wildlife Site quality o Protected species recorded on site o Site of great value for connecting semi-natural habitats in

the landscape

MEDIUM (Orange) o Site close to Local Wildlife Site but threshold for

designation not reached, based on the limited data that could be gathered through this survey contract

o Presence of UKBAP habitat o Local Wildlife Site present within site of lower biodiversity

value o Veteran mature tree/s present o Important hedgerow/s present o Possible chance of protected species on site or very near

to site o Site adjacent to a SSSI/LWS/ANSW o Site of value for connecting semi-natural habitats in the

landscape

LOW (Green) o Site assessed as not of Local Wildlife Site quality o Limited or no features of biodiversity interest o No protected species on or near site o Site not near any protected sites/ANSW o Site of very limited current value for connecting semi-

natural habitats in the landscape

8 Ratcliffe, 1977 9 South Wales Wildlife Sites Partnership, 2004 (as amended)


5.4 GIS Information Layers

5.4.1 Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value Based on the desk-based assessment and any field survey results, each site

was assessed for overall biodiversity value based on the above criteria (see

section 5.3) and coloured accordingly. This layer includes and illustrates the

margins of the habitat under consideration and its associated biodiversity

value, regardless of site priority.

5.4.2 Layer 2: Biodiversity Features

Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy were mapped in more detail according to the presence of

biodiversity and habitat features including:

Hedgerows: The value of hedgerows on each site was assessed using a

simplified version of the Hedgerow Regulations10 in liaison with MCC. This

abbreviation of the Hedgerow assessment was necessary to reduce survey

time. A hedgerow was classed as high (red), medium (orange) or low (green)

biodiversity value based on these criteria (stated on the site detail form, Annex

6). The hedgerows were then coloured accordingly as to their value and

mapped on the GIS layer.

Veteran trees: The value of all trees on each site was assessed using criteria

based on the Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales11.

Trees classed as veteran or mature trees are identified on this layer (red

circles).

Habitats: Habitats within the margins of the site are further identified and

evaluated. For example a field of improved grassland would be coloured with

green hatching but the marshy grassland area located at one corner,

10 DEFRA, 1997 11 South Wales Wildlife Sites Partnership, 2004 (as amended)


characterised by a diversity of plant species, would be coloured with orange

hatching.

Additional Features: that were unusual and of biodiversity or habitat interest

are identified (red stars) with supporting details added to the layer file (using

the info tool in MapInfo). Features include: badger setts, rare plants, and

important features that were not captured in Layers 1 or 3.

Note: These data above form three layers (habitats, linear features and

symbols) that should be viewed simultaneously.

5.5 Layer 3: Phase 1 Survey

Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy were mapped using the Phase 1 Habitat Survey codes12 on a GIS

layer according to the findings of the field survey. Further ecological detail

within each site was then recorded using the info tool in MapInfo. A key to

show the Phase 1 colour coding using MapInfo is found in Annex 9.

5.6 Site Detail Form

A Site Detail Form13 was completed for each Candidate Strategic Site and

Candidate Site that meets the Preferred Strategy based on both field

survey and desk-based assessments14. A blank Site Detail Form and

accompanying explanatory notes are provided in Annexes 6 & 7.

12 JNCC, 1990 13 Site Detail Form was designed by MCC in consultation with GWT 14 It should be noted that some of this information may be sensitive and should remain confidential in order to protect habitats and species. We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect to this information being made known to the general public.


5.7 SINC Recommendations

Sites meeting the criteria in the ‘Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in

South East Wales’ are recommended for SINC designation15. A summary list

of recommended sites is provided in section 7.1. Spatial definition of SINC

boundaries was beyond the scope of this study (see note in section 6.2).

6 Caveats and Constraints

This assessment of nature conservation value of sites within Monmouthshire

is subject to a number of inherent constraints that are summarised in this

section of the report. These caveats do not necessarily limit the value of the

assessments undertaken but should be evaluated and understood within the

LDP process to ensure that information within the report, survey forms and

information layer files are correctly interpreted.

6.1 Survey Limitations

All ecological surveys are subject to certain limitations:

Information gathered by survey is a standing, one-off assessment of

status whereas species abundance, diversity and habitats may differ by

season and through time and may be altered from this original

recorded status.

Habitat assessments focused on the botanical features of the site.

However, consideration was given to all wildlife groups (mammals,

amphibians, reptiles, fish, invertebrates and birds) and included an

assessment of presence of all listed and protected species.

Areas such as cliffs, rivers, impenetrable bushes and bramble patches

were assessed from the margins.

15 A recommended SINC must be approved by the SINC panel before it can be designated.


Direct sightings or field signs on a site were interpreted as definitive

evidence of the occurrence of a species or habitat and recorded as

such.

6.2 Assessment Limitations Only a proportion of the Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy (see summary in sections 7.4

& 7.5) were surveyed. Those without the benefit of a site visit were therefore

evaluated on the basis of a desk-based assessment using sources of

information detailed in section 5.1. This was due to the following factors:

Initial delays in the commencement of the survey programme had a

knock-on effect resulting in some Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy being surveyed later than planned (July and

August). This was due primarily to the development of the Site Detail

Form and the need for meetings and debate on the scope of the

assessment at the onset of the programme. This was undertaken jointly

by MCC and GE and delayed survey work by about two weeks.

The planned temporal window (July and August) for completion of

Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy was constricted by the need to finalise

some of the outstanding Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy site assessments.

Local land management issues limited access to a number of sites,

particularly the cutting of hay. Poor weather conditions limited the number of days when surveys

could be completed within the planned survey-window.

The risk assessment at some sites precluded lone working (presence

of dangerous livestock, urban risk to lone workers, dangerous

materials, deep water etc). In these instances, only cursory survey of

the site was undertaken using binoculars.


A few surveys of the Candidate Non Residential Sites and

Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy, planned

for the last few weeks of the survey-window, were not completed due to

staffing constraints within GE.

6.3 Information Limitations

A number of factors affected the scope of the information available for

Candidate Strategic Sites, Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy, Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy:

Some of the data and information provided by MCC at the start of the

project was not in a consistent format (e.g. site reference numbers

referring to a block area with no designated boundaries). Similarly there

were some initial delays in the provision of relevant maps, SEWBReC

data and clarification on the number and status of sites that

compounded some of the delays with respect to the commencement of

survey work.

Data and information from SEWBReC or other anecdotal sources are

clearly historic and often records from a single season. It is important

to acknowledge that habitats and species vary significantly with season

and may be altered from this original recorded status.

Sites were assessed for their potential to qualify as Sites of Importance

for Nature Conservation (SINCs) based on an abbreviated protocol.

This was a pragmatic solution to the assessment of a large number of

sites within a limited time and resource framework – with limited effect

on data quality. Species are listed under their highest level of protection. E.g. bats

receive protection from both European and UK legislation, but are listed

under European Protected Species only.


Boundaries of recommended SINCs are deliberately not defined

(although their boundary would approximate to orange and red areas of

the Biodiversity Features GIS Layer). This is because the SINC

boundary must be informed by the species present, the appropriate

habitat, and the relationships to adjoining areas. This is decided by the

SINC panel.


7 Results

The following is a summary of the results for the:

• LDP Candidate Strategic Sites

• LDP Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy

• LDP Candidate Non Residential Sites

• LDP Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy

For assessment details relating to Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy, reference should be made to the

Site Detail Forms which are enclosed in their entirety within this report. Visual

summaries of the results can also be viewed in the GIS layer Files.

SINC recommendations for all sites are listed in section 7.1. The Site Detail

Forms within sections 7.2 and 7.3 represent the results for Candidate Strategic Sites and Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy.

Sections 7.4 and 7.5 represent all the results for Candidate Non Residential Sites and Candidate Sites that do not meet the Preferred Strategy:

7.1 SINC Recommendations Sites meeting the criteria in the ‘Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in

South East Wales’ are recommended for SINC designation.

The following table summarises all the sites recommended for SINC

designation:


Sites Recommended for SINC (Whole Site) Candidate Strategic Sites Candidate site ref:

Site Name: Grid Reference:

Qualifying feature:

CS/0100

Chapel Ed Lane,

Penperlleni

SO 325045394 Woodlands, neutral

grasslands, marshy

grasslands, watercourses,

other features (anthills)

and vascular plants

CS/0168 Land north of Piercefield

Avenue Chepstow

ST 5270694466 Woodlands

CS/0207 Crossways Green,

Chepstow

ST 5205094343 Woodland

Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy Candidate site ref:

Site Name and Location:

Grid Reference:

Qualifying feature:

CS/0024 Land west of B4295 and

north of Devauden,

Chepstow

ST 4823799271 Neutral grassland,

hedgerows

CS/0036

Hillcrest, Catbrook

Road, Trellech

SO 5008104980 Neutral grassland

CS/0050 Babington Meadow,

Penallt

SO 5209408955 Neutral grassland,

hedgerows

CS/0054 Land at Ross Road,

Abergavenny

SO 3098515365 Watercourse, mosaic

habitats

CS/0073 Land off Usk Road,

Mynyddbach,

Shirenewton


hedgerows

CS/0078 Caldicot Road,

Caerwent


hedgerows

CS/0241 Land opposite Pill Farm

Ind. Est, Caldicot

ST 4900187443 Neutral grassland

CS/0257

Land at Longfellow

Road, Caldicot



Sites Recommended for SINC (Part or Borderline) Candidate Strategic Sites Candidate site ref:


Grid Reference:

Qualifying feature:

CS/0033 Land north /northeast

Castle Oaks, Usk


hedgerows (part /

borderline)

CS/0049 Land east of Rogiet,

Rogiet


(part)

CS/0096 Bayfield, Chepstow ST 5215194062 Neutral grassland

(part)

CS/0106 Maindiff Court

Hospital, Abergavenny

SO 3159915324 Parklands, orchards and

veteran trees, neutral

grasslands (part /

borderline)

CS/0108 Nevill Hall Hospital,

Abergavenny

SO 2883614390 Standing open water,


grasslands (part)

CS/0158 Fairfield Mabey,

Station Road,

Chepstow

ST 5378893548 Mosaic habitats

(part)

CS/0169 Land at Crossway

Green, Chepstow


hedgerows (borderline)

CS/0177 The Hill, Abergavenny SO 2951615532 Woodland, veteran trees

(borderline)

CS/0198 Llanellen Court Farm,

Llanellen

SO 3025710523 Standing open water, watercourses, swamps and orchards (part)

CS/0227 Land adjoining Old

Hereford Road,

Abergavenny


hedgerows (borderline)

CS/0244 Rockfield Farm, The

Elms, Undy

ST 4379987691 Scrub communities

(part)

CS/0249 Land at Grange Road,

Magor

ST 4277687699 Neutral grassland (part /

borderline)


CS/0260 Former paper mill,

Sudbrook

ST 5001087459 Mosaic habitats (part /

borderline)

CS/0266 Rockfield Farm, Magor ST 4429387568 Scrub communities,

grasslands, hedgerows,

mosaic habitats (part)

Candidate Sites that meet the Preferred Strategy Candidate site ref:


Grid Reference: Qualifying feature:

CS/0014 Field adjacent

Llanishen Village Hall,

Llanishen

SO 4754703069 Woodlands (part /

extension to existing

SINC)

CS/0015 Land at Waterloo

Court, The Cutting,

Llanfoist


(part)

CS/0021 Land at Magor, Magor ST 4090287300 Vascular plants, standing

open water (part)

CS/0026 Land adj Spring Villa,

Trellech

SO 5016605231 Marshy grasslands

(part)

CS/0027 Land adj Spring Villa,

Trellech

SO 5016605231 Marshy grasslands

(part)

CS/0029 Chepstow

Racecourse,

Chepstow

ST 5257895640 Woodlands, parkland,

veteran trees, standing

open water, other

features (part - extension

to existing SINC)

CS/0069 Land adj to

Greenacres &

Brambles, Mitchel

Troy


(borderline)

CS/0105 Maindiff Court

Hospital, Ross Road

SO 3151515316 Parklands, orchards and


grasslands (part /

borderline)

CS/0107 Nevill Hall Hospital,

Abergavenny

SO 2883614390 Standing open water,



grassland (part)

CS/0125 Land adjacent Wern

Gifford, Pandy


(borderline)


Gifford, Pandy


(part / borderline)


Gifford, Pandy


(part / borderline)

CS/0132 Forge Paddocks,

Osbaston Road,

Monmouth

SO 5033013847

Woodland, watercourses

(borderline)

CS/0164 Area B2 (1) Wyelands

Estate, Mathern


marshy grasslands,

mosaic habitats (part /

borderline)

CS/0202 Land at Croft-y-Bwla,

Monmouth

SO 4867513218

Woodland, watercourses,

grassland (part)

CS/0203 Land at Croft-y-Bwla,

Monmouth

SO 4867513218

Woodland, watercourses,

grassland (part)

CS/0208 Orchard house lands,

Abergavenny

SO 2855915327

Neutral grassland,

orchard (borderline)

CS/0216 Land west of

Monmouth Road,

Abergavenny

SO 3023213387 Woodland, watercourse

(part)

CS/0231 Land rear of St Annes

Nursing Home, Welsh

Street

ST 260094603 Woodland and scrub

mosaic

(borderline)

CS/0232 Land rear of Woodland

House, Magor

ST 4204587699 Neutral Grasslands

(whole / borderline)

CS/0252 Land adj. to Dewstone

Road, Caldicot


(borderline)


Sites Identified as Potentially Meeting SINC Criteria, Subject to Further Survey Candidate site ref:

Site Name and Location: Potential qualifying feature:

CS/0001 Tredegar Farm, Earlswood Woodland, open water, neutral

grassland

CS/0002 Wentwood Mill grounds,

Earlswood

Mosaic habitats, scrub communities

CS/0003 Land adj. Falcon Lodge, The

Narth

Neutral grassland (part designated)

CS/0009 Land off Usk Road, Llanhennock Neutral grassland

CS/0052 Catbrook Football Fields Neutral grassland

CS/0042 Rock Cottage, Lydart Neutral grassland

CS/0044 Black Rock Farm, Portskewett Mosaic habitat, scrub communities

CS/0045 Land adj. Conamore, Cuckoo’s

Row

Neutral grassland

CS/0065 Field NW of The Grove House Neutral grassland, watercourses

CS/0068 Land adj. Thorncroft, The Narth Neutral grassland (part designated)

CS/0070 Land adj. The Grove, Catbrook Neutral grassland, watercourses

CS/0086 Land south of Betholey House,

Tredunnock

Mosaic habitats, watercourses

CS/0143 High Glanau,

Lydart

Woodland

CS/0187 Charteris,

Nantyderry

Neutral grassland

CS/0188 The Patch, Elms Road, Raglan Neutral grassland (already

designated)

CS/0204 Southeast fringes of The Narth Woodland


CS/0205 Land at Itton Common Woodland

CS/0206 Eastern fringes of Llandogo Woodland

CS/0234 Land adjoining The Rectory,

Bettws Newydd

Mature trees, possible species-rich

grassland


7.2 Candidate Strategic Sites Reference No:

CS/0004

Site General Information

Name: Major’s Barn, Old Hereford

Road Location Abergavenny Grid Ref: SO 2993115774 Site Area (ha): 8.08 Proposed Development: Housing (private and affordable) Current Use: grazed pastures, 2 fields General Features:

• semi-improved species-rich grassland

• semi-improved species-poor grassland

• marshy/wetland feature • species-rich hedgerows • mature and veteran trees

Identified Biodiversity Value

MEDIUM

Are biodiversity constraints significant enough to prevent development of:

The whole site? YES NO

Part of the site? YES NO


Protected Species Are there European Protected Species issues for this site?

Yes Potential No

List Species:

SEWBReC record Evidence of presence on site (seen directly or field signs)

Potential to be present on site (habitat and location mean that it is likely)

Bats Dormouse Otter Great crested newt Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding birds Badger Slow worm Grass snake


Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Polecat Hedgehog Brown hare UKBAP fungi UKBAP invertebrates Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:




Designated Sites Is the site within or adjacent to an International or European Designated Site?

(Special Protection Area, RAMSAR Site or Special Area of Conservation) (Underline the relevant designation)

Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer

Within 500m buffer No

Is the site within or adjacent to a Nationally Designated Site?

(National Nature Reserve or Site of Special Scientific Interest) (Underline the relevant designation)



Is the site within a Locally Designated Site?

(Local Nature Reserve or Site of Importance for Nature Conservation)

Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer No

SAC: Sugar Loaf Woodlands SSSI: Sugar Loaf Woodlands


Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality? (underline whole or part as appropriate)

Yes

Notification form in site file

Qualifying criteria Borderline No


Habitats and Important Features On Site Habitat

UK Priority Habitat

Wales Priority Habitat

LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-rich 48 SNG species-poor 38 Hedgerows <5 Mature/Veteran trees

<4

Marshy grassland <5 Adjacent land use School and housing to the south. Semi-improved grassland to north and east. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue. Site overlaps with CS/0047.

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright and database right 2005. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey License number: 100016400. CCW designations data: © Crown copyright. All rights reserved.

0047/0177

0004

0227

0047


Is the site or part of the site designated ancient woodland? (to be shown on site map)

Yes Part Adjacent to No Are there any veteran or mature trees on site?

(to be shown on site map)

Yes No If ‘Yes’ how many and what species? Does the site have any hedgerows?

(to be shown on site map) Species-rich (high) potential Hedgerow Regs Quality

Length 1010m

Species-poor (medium) Has some potential Length m

Species-poor (low) Single species dominant. Gappy

Length m

No

Does the site have any water features present?

Ponds Steams Ditches Other: spring

No

Does the site have any connectivity value to either adjacent habitat or the wider landscape? Yes Some No

English Oak x1 English Oak (dead standing) x1


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead/veteran trees. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Spring and marshy grassland Hedgerows Species-rich grassland Mature and veteran trees Connectivity features SAC: Sugar Loaf Woodlands SSSI: Sugar Loaf Woodlands Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Wetland and Watercourses Fence around the wetland area at the spring. Use soft engineering techniques. Control pollution from development site. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0023


Name: Adjacent Langley Villa, St.

Brides Road Location Magor Grid Ref: ST 4239287722 Site Area (ha): 0.48 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: grazed pasture, 1 field General Features:

• unimproved species-rich grassland

• species-rich hedgerows

• broad-leaved woodland on road embankment

• scrub • garden

The site is included within the large site of CS/0266


MEDIUM






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bat (unspecified species)

Bats

Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Eurasian hobby Badger Redwing Breeding birds Fieldfare Slow worm



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hawfinch Hedgehog European turtle dove Polecat Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:














SINC: Upper Grange Farm Field.



Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-rich 85 Species-rich hedgerows

<5

Scrub <5 Garden <5 Adjacent land use Road embankment, broad-leaved woodland to north. Houses to south. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue. Site overlaps withCS/0266


0023 0249/ 0266







Length 152m



Length m

No


Ponds Steams Ditches Other: No



Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Species-rich grassland Scrub Connectivity features SINC: Upper Grange Farm Field Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Grassland Fence off areas of species-rich grassland prior to and during construction. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0025


Name: Ifton Quarry, Caldicot Road Location Rogiet Grid Ref: ST 4641388156 Site Area (ha): 0.55 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: industrial General Features:

• brownfield • semi-improved species-poor grassland • deciduous woodland • buildings and tarmac


LOW Are biodiversity constraints significant enough to prevent development of:





Yes Potential No

List Species:



Lesser horseshoe bat Bats Dormice Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding birds Badger Slow worm



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hedgehog Polecat Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:















Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-poor 30 Woodland 20 Industrial (buildings and tarmac)

50

Adjacent land use M48 and scrubby banks to north. Housing and roads to west and south. Garage to east. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low)


0025

0049/ 0229

0230/0259







Length m



Length m

No


Ponds Streams Ditches Other: No



Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees and buildings. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Scrub and woodland Connectivity feature Recommended measures Woodlands Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0033


Name: Land north/northeast Castle

Oaks Location Usk Grid Ref: SO 3798501587 Site Area (ha): 5.12 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: grazed pasture and unmanaged meadow, 5 fields General Features: 8 semi-improved species-poor

grassland 9 semi-improved species-rich

grassland

10 species-rich hedgerows 11 stream 12 mature trees 13 deciduous woodland


MEDIUM Are biodiversity constraints significant enough to prevent development of:





Yes Potential No

List Species:



Great crested newt Bats Pipistrelle bat species Dormice Whiskered/Brandt’s bat Great crested newt Noctule bat Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Badger Breeding birds Slow worm White-clawed crayfish



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hedgehog Polecat Hedgehog UKBAP fungi UKBAP invertebrates Common toad Harvest mouse Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:






Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer

No




No




Within 500m buffer

No

SAC: River Usk SSSI: River Usk (Lower Usk) SINC: Olway Brook, Cockshoot Wood, Park Wood, Park Wood Strip Cwm Cayo and Newbarn Farm Wood



Yes



To be verified by SINC panel

H4) Neutral Grasslands H17) Hedgerows



UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-rich 55 SNG species-poor

30

Woodland <5 Stream <1 Hedgerows <5 Mature trees <4 Adjacent land use Ancient woodland to north. Improved grassland to north. Semi-improved grassland to east. Housing to south. Improved grassland to west. Site Habitat Quality Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low)


0033

0063

0033

0161/0162







Length 1433m



Length m

No


Ponds Steams

Ditches Other: No


English Oak x 1 Common Ash x 1


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees. Assessment of riparian habitat for potential for water voles and otters. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt. Depending on development details, Habitat Regulations Assessment may be required due to proximity to the River Usk SAC and the Olway Brook SINC as a tributary of the River Usk SAC. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Species-rich grassland Mature and veteran trees Woodland Water features Connectivity features SAC: River Usk SSSI: River Usk (Lower Usk) Adjacent woodland SINC Borderline SINC value Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Grassland Fence off areas of species-rich grassland prior to and during construction. Watercourse Fence around watercourse. Use soft engineering techniques and avoid culverting. Control pollution from development site. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses).


Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0047


Name: Land off Old Hereford Road Location Abergavenny Grid Ref: SO 2986515725 Site Area (ha): 10.97 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: grazed pasture, 3 fields General Features:

• semi-improved species-rich grassland


• improved grassland

• marshy/wetland feature • scrub • deciduous woodland • mature and veteran trees • species-rich hedgerows







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bats Dormice Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Polecat Hedgehog UKBAP invertebrates UKBAP fungi Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:















SAC: Sugar Loaf Woodlands. SSSI: Sugar Loaf Woodlands.



Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-poor 43 SNG species-rich 34 Neutral grassland 5 Improved grassland 5 Woodland 3 Dense scrub 5 Species-rich hedgerows

3

Veteran trees 2 Adjacent land use School and housing to the south. Semi-improved grassland to north and east. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue. Note that this site overlaps with CS/0004 and CS/0177.


0047

0177

0227


Is the site or part of the site designated ancient woodland?

(to be shown on site map) Yes Part Adjacent to No Are there any veteran or mature trees on site?




Length 1170m



Length m

No


Ponds Streams Ditches Other: Spring

No


English Oak x 4


Conclusions

What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees. Assessment of woodland and hedgerows for potential for dormice. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Species-rich grassland Mature and veteran trees Marshy/wetland features and running water feature Woodland SAC: Sugar Loaf Woodlands SSSI: Sugar Loaf Woodlands Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Wetland Protect the wetland area around the spring. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0049


Name: Land East of Rogiet Location: Rogiet Grid Ref: ST 4674588564 Site Area (ha): 33.12 Proposed Development: Mixed use Current Use: mixed use/general agricultural (a large site which overlaps with CS/0071 and CS/0230 and is split by the M48) General Features:


• improved grassland • unimproved species-rich

grassland • species-rich hay meadow

• amenity - playing field • mature/veteran trees • scrub • overgrown species-poor

hedgerows with gaps • species-rich hedgerows







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Lesser horseshoe bat Bats Bat (unspecified species)

Dormouse

Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Grayling Hedgehog Stag beetle Polecat UKBAP fungi UKBAP invertebrates Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:












Within

Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer No

SINC: See below for details



Yes




H4) Neutral Grasslands



UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-rich 5 SNG species-poor 38 Improved grassland 38 Amenity 5 Scrub <4 Hedgerows <4 Tarmac <3 Woodland <3 Adjacent land use Housing to east. Parkland to north, Ifton quarry to north west. Improved grassland to west. Railway to south. Site Habitat Quality Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue. Note that this site overlaps with CS/0229, CS/0230 and CS/0071.


0049

0049

0230

0071

0025







Length 1176m

Species-poor (medium) Has some potential

Length 669 m


Length 984 m

No




Common Ash x 2


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead hollowed trees and disused lime kiln. Assessment of hedgerows and woodland for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Disused lime kiln Hedgerows Species-rich grassland Mature and veteran trees Woodland Candidate SINC Connectivity features Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Grassland Fence off areas of species-rich grassland prior to and during construction. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0063


Name: Little Castle Farm Location: Usk Grid Ref: SO 3824001663 Site Area (ha): 1 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: general agriculture, fields General Features:

• improved grassland • stream

• riparian deciduous woodland

• species-rich hedgerows







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Great crested newt Otter Pipistrelle bat species Bats Noctule bat Great crested newt Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hedgehog Hedgehog Polecat Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:















Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Improved grassland

94

Woodland 2 Stream 2 Species-rich hedgerow

2

Adjacent land use Improved grassland to north. Ancient woodland to north. Semi-improved grassland to south and west. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.


0063

0033

0033







Length 180m



Length m

No


Ponds Streams

Ditches Other: No



Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Assessment of riparian habitat for potential for water voles and otters. Bat survey of mature/dead trees. Assessment of hedgerows and woodland for potential for dormice. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows On site and adjacent woodland Watercourse Connectivity feature Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837.

Watercourse Retain habitat on either side of watercourse and fence off prior to and during development. Use soft engineering techniques. Avoid use of culverts. Control pollution from development site. Woodland Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of the individual surveys required. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourse). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0071


Name: Land at Garthalan Drive Location: Caldicot Grid Ref: ST 4714187656 Site Area (ha): 3.4 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: derelict General Features:

• hardstanding (tarmac) • deciduous woodland

• scrub • species-rich hedgerow







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bat (unspecified species)

Bats

Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding birds Badger Slow worm Common lizard



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Grayling Hedgehog Stag beetle Common linnet Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:















Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Scrub 45 Woodland/scrub 10 Tarmac and scattered scrub

40

Species-rich hedgerow

5

Adjacent land use Improved grassland to north. Houses to east. Railway to south. Scrub to west. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low) Site boundary is shown in blue. Note that this site overlaps with CS/0049.


0071

0230/0049







Length 450m



Length m

No





Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of wooded lane to the north. Dormouse survey of scrub and woodland. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerow Woodland and scrub Connectivity feature Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Woodland Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0076

Site General Information Name: Wyelands Estate Location: Chepstow Grid Ref: ST 5225692932 Site Area (ha): 20.36 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: general agriculture, 4 fields General Features:

• arable (3 fields) • improved grassland (1 field) • species-rich hedgerows • plantation deciduous woodland • mature and veteran trees







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Lesser Horseshoe bat Bats Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Badger (Sett) Breeding birds Slow worm



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Lapwing Hedgehog Hedgehog Polecat Lapwing Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:














Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality? (underline whole or part as appropriate) Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Improved grassland

12

Arable 64 Plantation woodland

20

Mature/veteran trees

1

Species-rich hedgerows

3

Adjacent land use Arable to north. Improved grassland to south. Woodland to west. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low)


0214

0076







Length 1,758m



Length m

No




Sweet Chestnut x1


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees. Assessment of hedgerow and woodland for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Mature and veteran trees Connectivity feature Hedgerows Woodland Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837.

Woodland Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0082


Name: Ambulance Station, Union West Location: Abergavenny Grid Ref: SO 2900814422 Site Area (ha): 0.31 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: ambulance station General Features:

• buildings/hardstanding • amenity grassland • mature trees (conifers)


LOW Are biodiversity constraints significant enough to prevent development of:





Yes Potential No

List Species:



Daubenton’s bat Bats Common pipistrelle bat Soprano pipistrelle bat Noctule bat Otter Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Grass snake Breeding birds Slow worm Grass snake



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hedgehog Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:







No




No




SAC: River Usk. SSSI: River Usk (Upper Usk).



Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Amenity grassland 35 Mature trees - conifers 10 Buildings/hardstanding 55 Adjacent land use Neville Hall hospital site, housing Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary is shown in blue. This site overlaps with CS/0107 and CS/0108.


0082

0107/0108







Length m



Length m

No





Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees and any buildings. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Mature trees Connectivity features SAC: River Usk SSSI: River Usk (Upper Usk) Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect trees during construction according to BS 5837. Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0092


Name: Vauxhall Location: Monmouth Grid Ref: SO 5018613151 Site Area (ha): 9.2 Proposed Development: Mixed use.

Residential/Employment Current Use: pasture, 2 fields General Features:


• species-rich hedgerows • species-poor hedgerows

• species-poor hedgerows

with gaps • riparian habitat (ditch) • mature trees along ditch • veteran trees (in fields

and by ditch)


LOW






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Great crested newt Great crested newt Daubenton’s bat Bats Whiskered/Brandt’s bat Dormouse Noctule bat Common pipistrelle bat Soprano pipistrelle bat Brown long-eared bat Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding birds Badger Grass snake Slow worm



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Polecat Hedgehog UKBAP invertebrates UKBAP fungi Common toad Harvest mouse Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:













No

SINC: River Monnow



Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-poor 89 Species-rich hedgerows

4

Mature/veteran trees

3

Ditch 4 Adjacent land use Housing to west. Improved grassland to north. Semi-improved grassland to east and south. Poultry houses to south. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary is shown in blue.


0092

0121

0196

0091







Length 760m



Length 130m

No


Ponds Steams Ditches

Other: No


English Oak x2 Field Maple x1


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead/veteran trees. Horseshoe bat foraging must be considered – Habitats Regulations Assessment may be required. Assessment of hedgerows and riparian woodland for potential for dormice. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Mature and veteran trees Water features Connectivity feature SINC: River Monnow Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837.

Watercourses Retain habitat on either side of ditch and fence off prior to and during development. Use soft engineering techniques. Avoid use of culverts. Control pollution from development site. Maintain and protect water source. Woodlands and Groups of Trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows


and watercourses). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0096


Name: Bayfield Location: Chepstow Grid Ref: ST 5215194062 Site Area (ha): 12.82 Proposed Development: Residential with open space and

landscaping Current Use: pasture, 2 large fields General Features:

• species-rich hedgerows • species-poor hedgerows

with some gaps • improved pasture • hardstanding (car park)

• unimproved species-rich

grassland • species-poor grassland • young, mature and

veteran trees







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Common pipistrelle bat Bats Noctule bat Dormouse Natterer’s bat Whiskered/Brandt’s bat Bat (unspecified species)

Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Pretty chalk carpet Hedgehog Hedgehog Polecat UKBAP invertebrates UKBAP fungi Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:












Within

Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer


SINC: Parc Penterry Meadow SINC: Part of Bishop’s Barnets Wood SINC: See below for details



Yes




H4) Neutral grasslands



UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

SNG species-rich 5 SNG species-poor 5 Improved grassland

78

Young trees 6 Car park 3 Species-rich hedgerows

2

Mature trees 1 Adjacent land use Ancient woodland to west. Houses to east and south. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.


0096

0207 0169







Length 647m

Species-poor (medium) Has some potential

Length 49m


Length 46m

No




English Oak x 2


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead/veteran trees. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Species-rich grassland Mature and veteran trees Neighbouring ancient woodland Connectivity features SINC: Parc Penterry Meadow SINC: Part of Bishop’s Barnets Wood Candidate SINC Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837.

Grassland Fence off the area of species-rich grassland prior to and during construction. Groups of Trees Retain area around veteran and mature trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0098


Name: Ifton Manor Location: Rogiet Grid Ref: ST 4655287946 Site Area (ha): 0.51 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: farm buildings, private house and garden General Features:

• buildings/hardstanding • garden • scrub

• deciduous woodland • improved grassland







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bats Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding birds Slow worm



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Grayling Hedgehog Stag beetle UKBAP invertebrates Common linnet Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:















Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Deciduous woodland

50

Improved grassland

5

House, garden 25 Tarmac 10 Old buildings 10 Adjacent land use To north improved grassland and Bramble scrub. To east improved grassland. To west and south housing. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.


0098

0230/0259







Length m



Length m

No





Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees and any buildings. Assessment of woodland for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Woodland Connectivity feature Recommended measures Woodland and Groups of Trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features. Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0099


Name: Deri Farm, Hereford Road Location: Abergavenny Grid Ref: SO 3084716275 Site Area (ha): 8.53 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: grazed pasture, 5 fields General Features:

• improved grassland • semi-improved grassland • species-rich hedgerows

• mature and veteran trees • stream







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Common pipistrelle bat Other bats Soprano pipistrelle bat Otter Noctule bat Dormouse Whiskered/Brandt’s bat Great crested newt Bat (unspecified species)

Bullhead Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding birds Badger Slow worm Grass snake Water vole



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Brown trout Polecat Eel Hedgehog Brown hare Common toad Harvest mouse Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:














SINC: River Gavenny.



Yes





UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Improved grassland

47

SNG species-poor 47 Stream 2 Species-rich hedgerows

3

Mature trees 1 Adjacent land use Broad-leaved woodland, mature gardens to north and east, and the River Gavenny further east. Housing to the south, semi-improved pasture to the west. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low)


0099







Length 1180m



Length m

No


Ponds Streams

Ditches Other: No


English Oak x3


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Assessment of riparian habitat for potential for water voles and otters. Bat survey of veteran/mature/dead trees. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt and white-clawed crayfish species. Depending on development details, Habitat Regulations Assessment may be required due to proximity to the River Gavenny as a tributary of the River Usk SAC. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Mature and veteran trees Stream and water features Connectivity features SINC: River Gavenny Recommended measures Watercourse Retain habitat on either side of stream and fence off prior to and during development. Use soft engineering techniques. Avoid use of culverts and seek to open existing ones. Control pollution from development site. Maintain and protect water source. Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Groups of Trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further


surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0100


Name: Chapel Ed Lane Location: Penperlleni Grid Ref: SO 325045394 Site Area (ha): 9.86 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: mixed use/general agriculture with public footpath through the site General Features:

• deciduous woodland (wet) • marshy grassland • unimproved acid

grassland (with bracken and scattered trees)

• conifer plantation

• unimproved neutral

grassland • scrub • anthills • streams • greater spearwort


HIGH






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Marsh fritillary Bats Myotis bat sp. Dormouse Noctule bat Otter Natterer’s bat Great crested newt Daubenton’s bat Marsh fritillary Common pipistrelle bat Soprano pipistrelle bat Long-eared bat Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bluebell Breeding birds Badger Badger Slow worm Adder Grass snake



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Polecat Hedgehog Polecat Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:












Within

Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer


SINC: See below for details SINC: Chapel Lane Meadow. SINC: Land West of Fairfield, Penperlleni.



Yes




H1) Woodlands H4) Neutral grasslands H7) Marshy grasslands H15) Watercourses H22) Other features (anthills) S7) Vascular plants



UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Deciduous woodland (wet) 55 Neutral grassland 10 Marshy grassland 10 Scrub <1 SNG species- rich 5 Acid grassland with bracken and scattered trees

12

Conifer plantation 7 Adjacent land use Plantation and semi-natural woodland to north. Species-rich semi-improved grassland and SINC site SO30/02 to west. Houses to south. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low)


0100

0113







Length m



Length m

No


Ponds Streams

Ditches Other: No



Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? This site is of SINC quality, development should be avoided. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Habitats of SINC quality including species-rich grassland and wet woodland Notable species identified Connectivity Feature SINC: Chapel Lane Meadow SINC: Land West of Fairfield, Penperlleni Candidate SINC Recommended measures Development of this site should be avoided.


Reference No:

CS/0106


Name: Maindiff Court Hospital, Ross

Road Location: Abergavenny Grid Ref: SO 3159915324 Site Area (ha): 8.04 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: grounds surrounding Maindiff Court Hospital General Features:

• mature (planted broadleaved and coniferous) trees • amenity grassland • semi-improved species-rich grassland • buildings/hardstanding

Note: This site overlaps with CS/0105







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Noctule bat Bats Common pipistrelle bat Dormouse Whiskered/Brandt bat Natterer’s bat Soprano pipistrelle bat Lesser horseshoe bat Bullhead Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Breeding bird Badger Slow worm Common lizard



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Dead hedgehog – seen in southern field

Hedgehog

UKBAP invertebrates UKBAP fungi Polecat Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:















SSSI: Cwm Mill Section, Mardy SINC: River Gavenny



Yes




H2) Parklands, Orchards and Veteran Trees H4) Neutral Grasslands



UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Mature (parkland) trees

20

Amenity grassland 30 SNG species-rich 15 Buildings 35 Adjacent land use Improved farmland to east, south and west. B4521 to north. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary is shown in blue. Note that sites overlaps with CS/0105.


0106

0105







Length m



Length m

No




Numerous mature trees (native & non native species) throughout site. This includes English Oak x1 and Silver Birch x2.


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees and buildings. Depending on development details, Habitat Regulations Assessment may be required due to proximity to the River Gavenny as a tributary of the River Usk SAC. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Species-rich grassland Mature trees Borderline SINC value Connectivity features SSSI: Cwm Mill Section, Mardy SINC: River Gavenny Recommended measures Grassland Fence off areas of species-rich grassland prior to and during construction Trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0108


Name: Neville Hall Hospital Location: Abergavenny Grid Ref: SO 2883614390 Site Area (ha): 13.44 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: Neville Hall hospital grounds General Features:

• buildings/hardstanding • amenity grassland • semi-improved species-

rich grassland

• mature and veteran trees • ponds • watercourse







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Daubenton’s bat Great crested newt Common pipistrelle bat Otter Soprano pipistrellebat Bat Natterer’s bat Whiskered/Brandt’s bat Bat (unspecified species)

Brown long-eared bat Otter Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Grass snake Breeding birds Badger Slow worm Grass snake



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hedgehog Hedgehog Polecat UKBAP fungi UKBAP invertebrates Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:














Within

Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer No

SAC: River Usk SSSI: River Usk (Upper Usk) SINC: See below for details



Yes




H16) Standing open water H2) Veteran trees H4) Neutral Grasslands



UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Amenity grassland 20 SNG species-rich 7 Pond 2 Veteran tree 2 Mature trees/plantation

4

Buildings, tarmac 65 Adjacent land use Improved and semi-improved grassland to west and south. Housing and industrial estate to north and east. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue. This site overlaps with CS/0082 and CS/0107.


0108

0107

0138







Length m



Length m

No


Ponds

Streams

Ditches Other: No


Black Poplar x 1


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Assessment of ponds and watercourse for potential for water voles and otters.Bat survey of mature/dead trees and buildings. Ecological survey of ponds. Assessment for presence/absence of great crested newt. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Adjacent habitats The black poplar by the larger pond Species-rich grassland Mature and veteran trees Water features SAC: River Usk SSSI: River Usk (Upper Usk) Candidate SINC Connectivity features Recommended measures Grassland Fence off the area of species-rich grassland prior to and during construction. Wetlands and Watercourses Retain habitat on either side of watercourses and fence off prior to and during development. Use soft engineering techniques. Avoid use of culverts. Control pollution from development site. Retain area around ponds as a buffer and fence off during development. Create additional ponds as biodiversity enhancement. Maintain and protect water source. Groups of Trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys.


Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).


Reference No:

CS/0111


Name: Land at Drewen Farm Location: Monmouth Grid Ref: SO 4896212468 Site Area (ha): 18.03 Proposed Development: Residential Current Use: general agriculture, 5 fields General Features:

• improved species-poor pastures

• arable land • species-rich hedgerows

• mature and veteran trees • ditch (on western and

northern boundary)







Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bats Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included

above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Goshawk Breeding birds Wood white Badger Slow worm



Yes Potential No

List Species:



Polecat Hedgehog Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:













SINC: Wonastow Field SINC: Part of Ash Wood



Yes




Habitats and Important Features Habitat

UK Priority Habitat


LBAP Habitat

% of whole site

Improved grassland

50

Arable fields 40 Hedgerows 4 Mature trees 4 Ditch 2 Adjacent land use To the north arable. To the west ancient woodland. To the south semi-improved neutral grassland. Housing to the east. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.


0111

0201, 0202, 0203

0219







Length 3320m



Length m

No


Ponds Streams Ditches

Other: No


English Oak x 11 1 dead standing European Pear x 2


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead/veteran trees and a bunker on northern edge. Horseshoe bat foraging must be considered – Habitats Regulations Assessment may be required. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Notable species identified Hedgerows Mature and veteran trees Water features Adjacent grassland SINC Connectivity feature SINC: Wonastow Field SINC: Part of Ash Wood Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837.

Watercourses Retain habitat on either side of watercourses and fence off prior to and during development. Use soft engineering techniques. Avoid use of culverts and seek to open existing ones. Control pollution from development site. Maintain and protect water source. Groups of Trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows and watercourses).


Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).

Documents

Local Development Plan - Monmouthshire · Site specific evaluations were required by MCC to address the requirements and the best practice recommendations relating to statutory development