SEC8047 New Cumnock Phase 1 Survey Report Final 30.03.15...EXECUTIVE SUMMARY RPS was commissioned by Ayrshire Roads Alliance to undertake an Extended Phase 1 habitat survey at the

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30 March 2015

Project Number: SEC8047 RPS Ocean Point One 4th Floor 94 Ocean Drive Edinburgh EH6 6JH Tel: 0131 555 5011 Fax: 0131 555 4911 Email: [email protected]

New Cumnock Flood Defence Scheme Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Report 2015


QUALITY MANAGEMENT

Prepared by: Name: Tony Marshall Title: Ecologist

Signature:

Authorised by: Name: Stephen Lockwood Title: Senior Ecologist

Signature:

Current Status: Final

Issue Date: 30 March 2015 Revision Number: -

Revision Notes: -

Project File Path: W:\8047SEC - RPS Belfast, New Cumnock Flood Defences, Phase 1\admin\Reports\SEC8047_New Cumnock Phase 1 Survey Report_Final 30.03.15.docx

This report has been prepared within the RPS Planning and Development Quality Management System to British Standard EN ISO 9001 : 2008

COPYRIGHT © RPS

The material presented in this report is confidential. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Ayrshire Roads Alliance and shall not be distributed or made available to any other company or person without the knowledge and written consent of Ayrshire Roads Alliance or RPS.

REPORT TEMPLATE TYPE: Technical

ISSUE DATE: 18 May 2011 REVISION NUMBER: 1

REVISION DATE: 26 April 2012


CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..............................................................................................................................1

1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................................2 1.1 Background ....................................................................................................................................2 1.2 Relevant Legislation.......................................................................................................................2 1.2.1 The Habitats Directive ...................................................................................................................... 2 1.2.2 The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) ....................................... 2 1.2.3 The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) ....................................................................... 2 1.2.4 The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 ................................................................................................. 3 1.3 Terms, Conditions of Use & Limitations .......................................................................................3

2 METHODS .......................................................................................................................................4 2.1 Desk Study .....................................................................................................................................4 2.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey .................................................................................................4 2.2.1 Habitats and Vegetation ................................................................................................................... 4 2.2.2 Protected Species ............................................................................................................................ 4

3 RESULTS ........................................................................................................................................8 3.1 Desk Study .....................................................................................................................................8 3.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey .................................................................................................8 3.2.1 Habitats and Vegetation ................................................................................................................... 8 3.2.2 Protected Species .......................................................................................................................... 12

4 DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR FURTHER SURVEY ............................................ 14

5 REFERENCES............................................................................................................................... 16

FIGURES Figure 1 – Survey Area Overview Figure 2 – Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Results Map 2015

APPENDIX 1 – TARGET NOTE RECORD

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

RPS was commissioned by Ayrshire Roads Alliance to undertake an Extended Phase 1 habitat survey at the proposed locations of flood defence scheme works in and around the town of New Cumnock (central Ordnance Survey (OS) grid reference NS 618 131). The key objectives of the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey are: • to identify the broad habitat types and dominant floral communities within and immediately adjacent to the

proposed development areas; • to identify the presence of any legally protected habitats listed within European or UK legislation; • to identify the presence of habitats which might offer suitable niche requirements for legally protected

fauna; • to identify the presence of invasive plant species subject to legal control; and, • to identify any requirement for further ecological survey work to inform the development process. A desktop study was undertaken prior to carrying out the field survey, with records of protected species made within the last 15 years in OS 10 km grid square NS61 obtained from the National Biodiversity Network Gateway (NBNG) database. The Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) SiteLink website was also consulted to identify the presence of protected areas within 2 km of the proposed development footprint. Records of a number of bat species and red squirrels were returned from the NBNG database search. There are no areas covered by statutory designations within 2 km of the development boundary. Much of the survey area is built up and covered by buildings, roads and other hard-standings such as car parks. There are several narrow strips of semi-natural broadleaved woodland situated along the Afton Water and Connel Burn, with further small patches of plantation broadleaved woodland also present across the survey area. A number of mature trees exist in parkland areas and in association with scrub and hedgerow habitats. The grassland habitats are predominantly used for amenity or have been improved and are heavily grazed, although some small patches of relatively biodiverse marshy grassland do exist adjacent to the Afton Water and River Nith. Therefore, in general, the habitats within the survey area are generally of low ecological value, with only small areas and individual trees which may provide greater opportunities for protected species or for species of conservation concern. None of the habitats within the survey area (excluding the watercourses) are covered by European or UK legislation. Although the purpose of the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey was not to carry out targeted searches for protected species, no evidence of their presence was incidentally identified during the course of field work. Suitable habitat for otter foraging, commuting and resting exists along the three main watercourses within the survey area. Similarly, these watercourses provide good foraging and commuting potential for a range of bat species. Several of the mature trees were also deemed to possess structures or features which may be suitable for supporting roosting bats. Although not closely inspected, several buildings and bridges may also provide roosting habitat for bat species. Although the habitat within the survey area is likely to be of limited value to badgers, the wider countryside around New Cumnock could be used by the species for foraging and there is some potential for setts to be present in the vicinity of proposed works areas. Habitat suitability was deemed to be poor for water voles and red squirrels, and it is not anticipated that these species will be present in the area. Similarly, although some features were identified which could be used by reptiles (e.g. rubble piles), the area is likely to be of limited value to such species. Based on the results of the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey it is recommended that further field surveys are undertaken for otters and badgers. Furthermore, detailed inspections of the mature trees and buildings and bridges in proximity to the development footprint for roosting bats are also likely to be required, in conjunction with dusk emergence and dawn re-entry surveys. This will be particularly necessary if trees or structures are required to be removed or disturbed during the development process. Dusk and dawn activity transects are also recommended across the site to ascertain the use of features for foraging and commuting bats, ensuring all the potential effects of the development can be suitably assessed. No further survey is recommended for water voles, red squirrels or reptiles.


1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background RPS was commissioned by Ayrshire Roads Alliance to undertake an Extended Phase 1 habitat survey at the proposed locations of flood defence scheme works in and around the town of New Cumnock (central Ordnance Survey (OS) grid reference NS 618 131). The location of the site is shown in Figure 1. The key objectives of the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey are: • to identify the broad habitat types and dominant floral communities within and immediately

adjacent to the proposed development areas; • to identify the presence of any legally protected habitats listed within European or UK

legislation; • to identify the presence of habitats which might offer suitable niche requirements for legally

protected fauna; • to identify the presence of invasive plant species subject to legal control; and, • to identify any requirement of further ecological survey work to inform the development

process.

1.2 Relevant Legislation The following European and UK legislation was taken into consideration in planning and undertaking the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey.

1.2.1 The Habitats Directive European Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (the ‘Habitats Directive’) was adopted in 1992 in response to the Bern Convention. The Habitats Directive requires Member States to maintain habitats listed on Annex I at favourable conservation status through the creation of a network of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

1.2.2 The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) The Habitats Directive is transposed into law in Scotland through the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended). This legislation makes it an offence to deliberately or recklessly disturb European Protected Species (EPS). Their places of shelter are fully protected, and it is an offence to damage, destroy or obstruct access to or otherwise deny the animal use of a breeding site or resting site, whether deliberately or not. It is also an offence to disturb in a manner that is, or in circumstances which are, likely to significantly affect the local distribution or abundance of the species, disturb in a manner, or circumstances which are, likely to impair its ability to survive, breed or reproduce, or rear or otherwise care for its young. Any activity which is likely to affect these species requires prior consultation with the relevant statutory nature conservation organisation (i.e. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)) and may require a licence to be issued before they can be carried out.

1.2.3 The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended by the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004, provides protection to a range of species and habitats (e.g. water voles (Arvicola amphibius)). Enhanced protection is provided for species listed on Schedule 5 making it an offence to kill, injure or take such an animal. It is also an offence to damage, destroy or obstruct access to any place used for shelter or breeding. Schedule 6 of the Act provides protection to listed animals


from prohibited forms of capture. Any works which may potentially cause disturbance to these species requires prior consultation with SNH.

1.2.4 The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 Badgers (Meles meles) are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, which makes it an offence to recklessly take, injure or kill a badger, or to destroy or cause disturbance to its sett. In addition, badgers are afforded protection from cruel ill-treatment. This includes preventing a badger from accessing its sett, as well as causing the loss of significant foraging resources within a badger territory.

1.3 Terms, Conditions of Use & Limitations

Despite the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey being completed outside the optimal time of year in terms of identifying plant species, it was still possible to determine and map the dominant habitat types present. It was not the purpose of the survey to carry out targeted search for the presence of protected species or their resting places. The results of the survey are designed to inform the requirement for further survey for these species and should be treated as such. It is not considered that there were any significant limitations which will have affected the results of the survey.


2 METHODS

2.1 Desk Study No formal consultation was conducted prior to undertaking the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey. However, information was collected from the following sources: • The National Biodiversity Network Gateway (NBNG) database1 was searched for records of

protected species made in the last 15 years in OS 10 km grid square NS61; • Aerial imagery was studied prior to carrying out field work to identify any areas of high

sensitivity which might require additional survey effort during the site visit; and, • SNH’s SiteLink website2 was consulted to identify the presence of any protected areas

within 2 km of the site boundary (e.g. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or Special Areas of Conservation).

2.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

The Extended Phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken on 11 March 2015 by an experienced RPS ecologist. A working corridor of 25m surrounding all proposed areas of construction formed the survey area; this area is shown in Figure 1. The methods of the various aspects of the survey are described in detail below. Any signs of the presence of protected species or species of conservation interest were recorded as Target Notes (TN) and are referenced as such (e.g. TNxx) throughout this report, with a detailed Target Note Record presented in Appendix 1 which includes all GPS locations.

2.2.1 Habitats and Vegetation The habitats within the survey area were mapped following the methodology described in the Joint Nature Conservation Committee’s (JNCC) Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey: a technique for environmental audit (JNCC, 2010). The aim of the survey was to identify broad habitat types and, where possible, the dominant floral communities. Furthermore, the survey also aimed to identify the presence of invasive species subject to legal control such as Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). Botanical nomenclature in this report follows that of Stace (2010).

2.2.2 Protected Species Otters All waterbodies, watercourses, and minor ditches within the survey area were assessed for their potential to support otters (where access permitted and where it was safe to do so). Otter field signs are described in Bang & DahlstrØm (2001) and include resting sites (e.g. holts and couches), spraints, prints and feeding remains. Descriptions of these and other field evidence terms are summarised below: • Holts: these are underground features where otters live. They can be tunnels within

banksides, underneath rootplates or boulder piles, and even man-made structures such as disused drains. Holts are used by otters to rest up during the day, and are the usual site of natal or breeding sites. Otters may use holts permanently or temporarily.

• Couches: these are above ground resting sites. They may be partially sheltered, or fully exposed. Couches may be regularly used, especially in reedbeds and on in-stream islands. They have been known to be used as natal and breeding sites. Couches can be very difficult to identify, sometimes consisting of no more than an area of flattened grass or earth, and

1 https://data.nbn.org.uk/ 2 http://gateway.snh.gov.uk/sitelink


are best identified by the presence of other field signs (e.g. spraints). Where rocks or rock armour are used as couches, these can be almost impossible to identify without observing the otter in-situ.

• Prints: otters have characteristic footprints that can be found in soft ground and muddy areas.

• Spraints: otter faeces can be used to mark territories, often on in-stream boulders. They can be present within or outside the entrances of holts and couches. Spraints have a characteristic smell and often contain fish remains.

• Feeding signs: the remains of prey items may be found at preferred feeding stations. Remains of fish, crabs or skinned amphibians can indicate the presence of otters.

• Paths: these are terrestrial routes that otters take when moving between resting-up sites and watercourses, or at high flow conditions when they will travel along bank sides in preference to swimming.

• Slides and play areas: slides are typically worn areas on steep slopes where otters slide on their bellies, often found between holts/couches and watercourses. Play areas are used by juvenile otters in play, and are often evident by trampled vegetation and the presence of slides. These are often positioned in sheltered areas adjacent to the natal holt.

Any of these field signs are diagnostic of the presence of otters although spraints are the most reliably identifiable evidence. Where resting sites are discovered, then an indication of their importance is recorded. This is done by evaluating spraint freshness, prints and paths or niche availability and quality of the feature. Bats The Extended Phase 1 habitat survey included an assessment of the potential of habitats and structures to support bat species for roosting, foraging or commuting bats. Habitats were categorised to be of high, medium or low suitability based on the roosting, foraging or commuting suitability criteria outlined in Table 1. Thus, potential bat roosts (buildings, bridges, mature trees), commuting routes (linear features such as hedgerows and lines of trees) and foraging habitat (waterbodies, marshy grassland, cow fields) were classed to be of low, medium or high value and inform the requirement for follow up surveys. Photos, target notes and GPS coordinates were taken to support recordings made on maps.

TABLE 1 – BAT HABITAT SUITABILITY CRITERIA Potential Habitat Suitability

Roosting Habitat Foraging Habitat Commuting Habitat

High Woodlands: any trees with roost potential – cracks, crevices and other gaps. Diverse choice of roosts. Caves, tunnels, mines and ice houses with humid atmospheres and sheltered, stable temperature conditions. Low disturbance.

High insect abundance. Native woodland, trees and hedgerows offering abundant shelter and diverse edge habitat. Slow flowing or still freshwater features with sheltered, vegetated edges. Low disturbance from lighting, pollutants and human activity. Pasture fields with cows.

Continuous, unbroken linear features (with little or no artificial lighting present) providing shelter and/or foraging opportunities and connectivity with other landscape features including roosting and foraging habitat. Includes tree lines, woodland edge, hedgerows, waterways, walls, woodland tracks, road and drainage networks and buildings.

Medium Roost sites and access points in cracks, crevices and gaps present, but not ideal due to size, disturbance, exposure.

Moderate insect abundance. Native woodland, trees and hedgerows offering some shelter and edge habitat. Fast flowing freshwater features offering some sheltered edges.

Partly discontinuous features offering some shelter and/or foraging opportunities. Continuous features with some form of artificial lighting.

Low No suitable roost sites or access points visible. Less than one tree in 100 has roost potential due to age or species. High disturbance. Direct lighting on features.

Coniferous woodland, improved agriculture and built-up areas with low plant diversity and/or insect abundance. Lack of shelter, poorly connected to roost sites and commuting routes. High disturbance levels from lighting, pollutants and human activity.

Discontinuous features offering no shelter and/or isolated from potential roosting and/or foraging areas. Abundant artificial lighting.

Notes: Table informed by Hundt (2012).


Badgers Areas of suitable badger habitat (e.g. woodland and scrub) were identified within the working corridor survey area of the proposed development. Badger field signs are described in Neal & Cheeseman (1996), Bang & Dahlstrøm (2001) and SNH (2001) and include: • setts (including main, subsidiary and outlier setts); • latrines (dung pits used as territorial markers); • prints; • foraging signs; and, • guard hairs snagged on wire fencing.

Any of the above signs (with the exception of foraging signs) can be taken as diagnostic evidence of the presence of badger. Definitions of the different classes of setts are shown in Table 2 below.

TABLE 2 – SETT TYPES AND THEIR ASSOCIATED DESCRIPTIONS Sett Type Description Main The largest and most active sett within a clan’s territory. The sett may have in excess of 20 entrances,

however, 6 -12 is more typical. Annex Small than the main sett and particularly active during spring months when it may be used for breeding.

The sett may have up to 10 entrances, although not all of them will show use of activity during the sett’s occupation.

Subsidiary A smaller sett within the clan’s territory which usually comprises of 3-5 entrance holes. Outlier These typically have only 1-2 entrance holes and are usually found some distance from the main sett.

These setts are generally only occupied on a seasonal basis and are not linked to the main sett by any obvious paths.

Notes: Table information is taken from Bang & Dahlstrøm (2001).

Water Voles All watercourses, minor ditches and small waterbodies within the survey area, which could be accessed safely, were assessed for their potential to support water voles. Habitat suitability criteria were based on information given in Strachan et al (2011) and included the species’ known preference for: • slow flowing water; • low water level fluctuation; • banks suitable for burrowing; • lush bankside vegetation to provide food and shelter; and, • an absence of American mink (Neovison vison), a successful predator of water voles. Field signs which are indicative of the presence of water voles include: • Droppings: recognisable by their size, shape and content; • Latrines: containing water vole droppings; • Feeding stations: recognisable by the presence of neat piles of chewed vegetation; • Burrows; round entranced holes approximately the diameter of a tennis ball; • Lawns: of grazed vegetation in front of burrows; • Nests: which may be constructed above ground in places where the water table is high; • Footprints; and • Runways. However, the purpose of the survey was only to highlight potential habitat suitability and full searches for indicative signs of the species presence were not undertaken.


Red Squirrel Preferential habitat for red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) includes:

• areas of mature coniferous or broadleaved woodland that are capable of producing an

annual seed crop; and, • an absence of grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in the surrounding area. Indicative field signs of squirrel presence include:

• dreys (tree-top resting sites); and, • feeding remains (chewed pine cones, particularly at traditional feeding stations such as on

top of tree stumps).

It should be noted, however, that it is not possible to distinguish red squirrel dreys and feeding remains from those of grey squirrels. The most reliable method of confirming the species presence is the sighting of an actual animal. Given the relatively low likelihood of seeing a red squirrel during the survey the main aim was to identify whether the site was capable of supporting squirrels to ascertain whether additional survey effort with regards to the species is required. Reptiles Reptiles require dry habitats with areas of refugia and basking such as rock piles, crags, scree, and drystone walls. Any features such as these were assessed for their potential to support reptile species (e.g. adder (Vipera berus) and slow worm (Anguis fragilis).


3 RESULTS

3.1 Desk Study Table 3 below details the results of the desk study conducted prior to the site visit. Results were collated from the NBNG database which holds records from a number of statutory and non-statutory bodies, along with historical records from individual recorders. The results are presented for each species as returned records of presence within OS 10km grid squares.

TABLE 3 – HISTORICAL RECORDS OF PROTECTED SPECIES PRESENCE WITHIN OS GRID SQUARE NS61 BETWEEN 2000 AND 2015 Species Historical Record Otter No records of otters were returned from the NBNG database search. Badger No records of badgers were returned from the NBNG database search. Water vole No records of water voles were returned from the NBNG database search. Red squirrel There are a number of records of red squirrels within OS grid square NS61, dated

between 2006 and 2013. Bat species Records of Daubenton’s bat (Myotis daunbentonii), Natterer’s bat (Myotis nattereri),

and brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus) have all been made within OS grid square NS61. All but one of the records relate to a hibernation survey undertaken by the Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) in 2000. The other record is dated 2001.

Reptiles No records of reptiles were returned from the NBNG database search.

No SSSIs, SACs or other protected areas were identified within 2km of the site using the SiteLink website.

3.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey The following section details the results of the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey. These results are also presented in Figure 2.

3.2.1 Habitats and Vegetation A list of the habitats present within the survey area and the total area they occupy is shown in Table 4 below. None of the habitats encountered within the survey area are covered by European or UK legislation.

TABLE 4 – HABITATS PRESENT WITHIN THE SURVEY AREA Phase 1 Habitat Type Area (ha) Cultivated/disturbed land - amenity grassland 2.92 Improved grassland 1.71 Broadleaved woodland - semi-natural 1.37 Running water 0.73 Marsh/marshy grassland 0.50 Road 0.41 Other tall herb and fern - ruderal 0.17 Cultivated/disturbed land - ephemeral/short perennial 0.12 Poor semi-improved grassland 0.11 Bare ground 0.10 Broadleaved woodland - plantation 0.08 Mixed woodland - plantation 0.07 Standing water 0.04 Introduced shrub 0.04 Notes: The total area surveyed was 13.44ha. Within the 25m wide corridor 5.06ha of ground was covered by buildings or private gardens which were not accessed. As such, the area is not accounted for in the above table. These areas are mapped within Figure 2.

Individual habitat types are described in detail below, with the dominant species present listed along with their location within the survey area.


Woodlands Narrow strips of semi-natural broadleaved woodland, comprising a mixture of alder (Alnus glutinosa), birch (Betula spp.) and willow (Salix spp.) exist along the edge of the Afton Water at TN9 and TN13 and alongside the Connel Burn at TN16 (Photos 01 - 03). In addition, there is a small area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland adjacent to the Afton Water and an area of amenity grassland at TN14 (Photo 04). This area of woodland is similarly comprised of birch and willow species, with an understorey which includes blackthorn (Prunus spinosa).

Photo 01. Narrow strip of broadleaved woodland at TN9. Photo 02. Riparian trees at TN13.

Photo 03. Riparian woodland along the banks of the Connel Burn at TN16.

Photo 04. Area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland at TN14.

There are also several areas of broadleaved and mixed plantation woodland, for example adjacent to the River Nith at TN2 (Photo 05) and beside the recreational ground at TN5 (Photo 06). The stands at both locations are comprised of young trees dominated by birch, with occasional alder, willow and ash (Fraxinus excelsior).

Photo 05. Small area of young broadleaved trees adjacent to the River Nith at TN2.

Photo 06. Stand of young broadleaved trees adjacent to the recreational ground at TN5.


Several scattered mature ash and beech (Fagus sylvatica) trees are present in parkland and in association with scrub habitat and a hedgerow across the survey area (Photos 07 – 10).

Photo 07. Mature ash trees beside a car park at TN7. Photo 08. Mature ash and beech trees at TN8.

Photo 09. Mature beech trees associated with a patch of scrub habitat at TN11.

Photo 10. Mature beech trees in association with a hedge at TN12.

Grasslands The majority of the grasslands within the survey area are ecologically poor; being either amenity grassland dominated by perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) or improved grassland which is heavily grazed. More ecologically valuable and biodiverse marshy grassland exists in small patches adjacent to the Afton Water and the River Nith and beside a small tributary of the River Nith at Mill Lade. Ruderal Herbs Ruderal herbs, primarily rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium), exist in several locations along the watercourses within the survey area (e.g. TN2, photo 11).


Photo 11. An area of habitat classed as tall ruderal on the banks of the River Nith at TN2.

Standing Water There are two large areas of standing water which lie to the west of the Connel Burn towards the southern end of the survey area (TN16). They are artificial lagoons with steep concrete sides which are likely to be deep (Photos 12 and 13). Neither lagoon contains a significant amount of aquatic vegetation and they are considered to be of very limited ecological value. The habitat surrounding the ponds is improved grassland with some broom (Cytisus scoparius) scrub and young trees.

Photo 12. One of the two areas of open water at TN16. Photo 13. The second artificial lagoon at TN16.

Running Water The River Afton, a tributary of the River Nith, runs north through the survey area and is approximately 6 meters wide with a narrow strip of broadleaved woodland as noted in TN9. The banks vary from 0.5m to over 2m in height. The river has earth and stone sides with a rocky base and no noticeable aquatic vegetation. At the time of the survey the water was relatively shallow less than 1m deep and relatively fast flowing through the built up areas but slower moving to the south. The Connel Burn, also a tributary of the River Nith, runs north through the survey area and is approximately 5m wide with a narrow strip of broadleaved woodland and grasses noted along its banks. At time of survey the water was relatively fast flowing and approximately 1m deep with no noticeable aquatic vegetation. The banks of the Connel Burn varied with a brick wall noted (TN15) otherwise the banks consist of an earth and stone with a rocky bed. A very small section of the River Nith falls within the northern most boundary of the survey area. The River Nith is approximately 10m wide, the depth could not be assessed. The banks of the


river adjacent to the survey area are earth and are dominated by reeds and rosebay willowherb, No emergent aquatic vegetation was seen along the stretch of the watercourse adjacent to the survey area. Mill Lade located on the western edge of the survey area is a small water way varying from approximately 1 to 2m in width and less than 0.5m in depth. It flows to the north through heavily grazed grassland into a very small section of broadleaved woodland. Buildings, Roads and Hard-standings Much of the survey area is built up and covered by buildings, roads and other hard-standings such as car parks. Non-native Invasive Species No non-native invasive species were identified during the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey.

3.2.2 Protected Species Otters The Afton Water, River Nith and Connel Burn are all considered to provide good foraging and commuting habitat for otters. Furthermore, in areas with riparian tree cover, including mature trees and scrub habitat, there is also potential for otter resting sites (e.g. couches and holts) to occur. Although no targeted search was carried out, no evidence of otters was identified during the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey. Bats Several of the mature beech and ash trees located across the site were identified as possessing structures or features which may be suitable for roosting bats. In addition, a number of buildings and the Afton Bridge and the Connel Bridge, which were not closely inspected during the survey, may present roosting opportunities for bat species. The watercourses, in particular where there are areas of riparian woodland, are also likely to be used by commuting and foraging bat species. Badgers It is unlikely that there are any badger setts within the built up area of New Cumnock. Furthermore, the habitat within the survey area is likely to be of limited value to badgers. However, the wider countryside around New Cumnock could be used by the species for foraging and there is some potential for setts to be present in the vicinity of proposed works areas. Water Voles The habitat along the three main watercourses (the Afton Water, River Nith and Connel Burn) appears to be sub-optimal for water voles. Their banks are steep sided and rocky, with stretches where there are no natural banks at all. Furthermore, they are fast flowing and have little aquatic vegetation. There is very limited habitat suitability for this species elsewhere within the survey area, although there could be some potential for water voles to be present at the Knockshinnock Lagoons nature reserve, which is managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) and is located in the vicinity of proposed development works.


Red Squirrels Although several records of red squirrel presence were returned from the NBNG database for OS grid square NS61, there is very limited habitat suitability within the survey area for this species as the woodland patches are small, composed of young trees and are poorly connected. Reptiles The suitability of the habitat within the survey area for reptiles is considered to be generally low. Some small areas of higher potential exist, for example around a derelict building at TN1 where there are piles of brash and scattered rubble and debris which could provide possible refugia sites. A large south-facing grassy bank and a stone wall at this same location could also be used by basking reptiles (Photos 14 and 15). However, these features are isolated and do not connect to an extensive area of suitable habitat for reptiles.

Photo 14. Scattered brash, rubble and building debris which could provide refugia for reptile species.

Photo 15. Grassy south facing bank which could provide basking opportunities for reptile species.


4 DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR FURTHER SURVEY

Much of the survey area is built up and covered by buildings, roads and other hard-standings such as car parks. There are several narrow strips of semi-natural broadleaved woodland situated along the Afton Water and Connel Burn, with further small patches of plantation broadleaved woodland also present across the survey area. A number of mature trees exist in parkland areas and in association with scrub and hedgerow habitats. The grassland habitats are predominantly used for amenity or have been improved and are heavily grazed, although some patches of relatively biodiverse marshy grassland do exist adjacent to the Afton Water and River Nith. Therefore, in general, the habitats within the survey area are generally of low ecological value, with only small areas and individual trees which may provide greater opportunities for protected species or for species of conservation concern. It is not considered that any of the habitats within the survey area are of sufficient importance or size to require more detailed survey (e.g. National Vegetation Classification (NVC)) and it is considered that the results of the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey provide adequate information on the vegetation communities present. While no evidence of protected species was found during this survey, there is suitable habitat for otter foraging, commuting and resting along the Afton Water, River Nith and Connel Burn. With proposed works directly affecting these watercourses, it is recommended that further survey be undertaken to ascertain their usage by otters and to identify any resting places which may be present in proximity to works areas. The three watercourses also provide suitable foraging and commuting habitat for a range of bat species. Furthermore, several of the mature trees identified across the survey area were also deemed to possess structures or features which may be suitable for supporting roosting bats. Although not closely inspected, several buildings and bridges may also provide roosting habitat for bats. Bat roosts are protected by UK legislation which makes it an offence not only to destroy the roost structures but also to disturb bats while they are using them. Detailed investigations of all structures with the potential to support roosting bats are therefore recommended. This could involve an external inspection of the mature trees on site being undertaken, with those deemed to have moderate to high potential of supporting roosting bats then being subject to further investigation. This can be done by accessing the trees using ropes and harnesses to fully search all suitable roost structures (e.g. holes, cavities, cracks, loose bark etc.) for the presence of bats. In some cases, dusk emergence / dawn re-entry surveys may also be required. Similarly, an external inspection of buildings and bridges can be carried out, with dusk emergence / dawn re-entry surveys likely to be the most appropriate method of providing further investigation of these features for roosting bats. Activity transects across the site are also proposed to quantify the utilisation of the site by foraging and commuting bat species. This will ensure that any important habitat features are maintained, limiting the effect of the development to these species. SNH typically require a disturbance licence to be obtained for any potentially disturbing activities which are proposed to take place within 30 m of a badger sett, although this can rise to 100 m for particularly disturbing works (e.g. piling operations) (SNH, 2001). Therefore, while no evidence of badgers was found during the Extended Phase 1 habitat survey, given the potential for this species to occur in the wider area it is recommended that a targeted badger be undertaken. In addition to locating any setts, this will also serve to identify any important areas of habitat which may be used, for example, by foraging badgers or for marking territories (using latrines). This will allow for these areas to either be avoided or for suitable mitigation measures to be developed and implemented. The suitability of the habitat within the both the survey buffer and surrounding area is considered to be low for water voles, red squirrels and reptiles. No further survey is therefore suggested for these species. Finally, it is recommended that consultation with SNH is undertaken prior to conducting any of the above surveys to ensure that they are satisfied with the scale of survey effort to be


implemented and that the results will provide them with sufficient information to make a decision on the proposed development application and any applications for protected species disturbance licences.


5 REFERENCES

• Bang P and DahlstrØm P (2001), Animal Tracks and Signs, Oxford University Press, Oxford • Hundt (2012), Bat Survey: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd Edition, Bat Conservation Trust • Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2010), Handbook for phase 1 habitat survey - a

technique for environmental audit, available at http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-2468 • SNH SiteLink v3, https://gateway.snh.gov.uk/sitelink/ • National Biodiversity Network Gateway database, https://data.nbn.org.uk/ • SNH (2001), Scotland’s Wildlife: Badgers and Development, available at

http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/wildlife/badger.pdf • Neal E and Cheeseman C (1996), Badgers, Poyser Natural History, London • Stace C. A (2010), New Flora of the British Isles, 3rd Edition, Cambridge University Press • Strachan R, Moorhouse T and Gelling M (2011), Water Vole Conservation Handbook, 3rd

Edition, Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Oxford


FIGURES

List of Figures: Figure 1 – Survey Area Overview Figure 2 – Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Results Map 2015

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Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Results Map 2015

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APPENDIX 1 – TARGET NOTE RECORD

TABLE A1 – TARGET NOTE RECORD DETAILING ALL FEATURES OF INTEREST NOTED DURING THE 2015 SURVEYS Number Easting Northing Details

1 261927 614097 The building present at this location is surrounded by rough ground, piles of rubble, and branches. Earthen banks on eastern and southern boundaries are also present. Some short/ephemeral perennials including perennial rye grass, buttercup species, dock species and plantain species were noted. Marshy grassland is present to the east of the area and contains patches of bare ground. No obvious sign of the drain marked on the map were found despite the areas of marshy grassland. A single mature alder is located in a garden in proximity to this location.

2 261862 614037 A stand of young silver birch with some alder, ash, an understory dominated by grasses, and rosebay willowherb is present at this location. The banks of river at this point are dominated by reeds and rosebay willowherb. Some sections of the banks are free from vegetation and no obvious emergent vegetation was seen along this stretch of the watercourse.

3 261845 614048 A stand of young alder with a semi-mature ash tree was noted at this location.

4 261767 613921 Tall ruderal vegetation dominated by rosebay willowherb, some hogweed species and grasses was present throughout this location.

5 261862 613930 A stand of young silver birch, alder and willow species was found at this location.

6 261914 613918 As per Target Note 5 with the addition of Scots pine found within the stand.

7 261869 613675 Four mature ash trees are present at this location. These contain medium potential for roosting bats given their size and the possibility of the presence of cavities and rot holes in the upper canopy.

8 261858 613634 Two mature ash trees covered in ivy along with four mature beech trees are present at this location. The trees all contain the possibly of cavities being present in the trunk and therefore have medium bat roost potential. An understory of self-seeded beech and ash saplings was present beneath the larger trees.

9 261832 613405 A narrow strip of woodland continues along both sides of river Afton Water at this location comprising willow species, ash, alder and sycamore. The river has earth/stone sides with a rocky base and no noticeable aquatic vegetation.

10 261865 613424 A small area of tall ruderal vegetation was noted along the bankside. This predominately comprised of reeds and rosebay willow herb. Some more mature beech trees were noted which contain medium potential for roosting bats. Building rubble and corrugated tin sheeting was noted in the undergrowth which might provide suitable refugia for reptile species.

11 261831 613336 A small patch scrub of scrub containing a number of mature beech trees was present at this location. Obvious damage to bark of the large beech trees was noted and cavities are likely to be present providing bat roost potential.

12 261783 613122 A species poor beech hedge with mature beech trees was noted at this location. The hedge would supply foraging and commuting habitat for bats, and the mature beech may contain cavities and the potential for roosting bats.

13 261760 613054 A strip of alder woodland is present along the river edge at this location. Improved grassland with obvious signs of grazing surrounded the watercourse at this location.

14 261689 612845 A strip of woodland between the mapped amenity grassland and river was noted. Species present include blackthorn, birch and willow species. Understory of purple moor-grass was noted beneath the higher woodland species. Birds such as blue tits and chaffinch were very active within this area and the woodland would provide suitable nesting habitat for these species. A number of


TABLE A1 – TARGET NOTE RECORD DETAILING ALL FEATURES OF INTEREST NOTED DURING THE 2015 SURVEYS Number Easting Northing Details

individual oak species also noted.

15 260805 612806 Connel Burn at the mapped location runs through a built up birck wall on eastern edge and an earth / stony bank on western edge. A narrow strip of riparian woodland containing alder, willow and birch species was present in this location.

16 260780 612739 Two large areas of standing water are present at this location. Deep, stone sides surrounded by semi improved grassland and scrub dominated by broom are present. Young tree species as noted in Target Note 15 are present.

17 260783 612484 The burn at this location travels through area of improved grassland and woodland. Species present include alder, birch and willow species.

Documents

SEC8047 New Cumnock Phase 1 Survey Report Final 30.03.15...EXECUTIVE SUMMARY RPS was commissioned by Ayrshire Roads Alliance to undertake an Extended Phase 1 habitat survey at the