Post on 23-Jun-2020
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121
Wildlife Advice Note
Wildlife Advice NoteGuidance for applicants and developers
CONTENTS
Wildlife and Planning – background 2Wildlife in the planning application process 3Types of survey 4Where to find a suitably qualified ecologist 5Species and habitats most commonly encountered in Wycombe District 5Survey constraints 11Provision for wildlife in new development (enhancements) 12Provision for wildlife in existing development 18Further information 19Glossary 21
This advice note has been prepared to provide guidance to applicants on how a development might impact on wildlife, why the Council requests ecological information, how such information might be obtained and how wildlife can be enhanced through development. This advice note should be read in conjunction with the Council’s ‘Wildlife Checklist’.
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20122
Wildlife Advice Note
Wildlife and Planning – background
Many animals and plants are protected by law because they are rare or endangered, others are referred to as priority species and habitats because they are of the highest conservation concern. Environmental legislation and planning guidance requires Local Authorities to base their planning decisions upon up-to-date information about the environmental characteristics of an area, and to ensure that planning proposals maintain, enhance, restore or add to wildlife conservation interests.
In submitting a planning application, applicants must identify protected or priority species, designated sites, priority habitats or other ecological features on or adjacent to the development site. Natural England have issued a standing advice for Protected Species that assists in this process. This advice can be found under the following address: http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
Biodiversity and Planning in Buckinghamshire gives an overview of these features in Buckinghamshire; their website can be found at the following address: www.buckinghamshirepartnership.co.uk/partnership/bmkbp/biodiversity_and_planning.page
More detailed site level information is available from the Bucks & Milton Keynes Environmental Record Centre (BMERC). Their website is located at the following address: www.buckinghamshirepartnership.co.uk/partnership/BucksMKERC/bmerc.page
Where there is a reaonable likelihood that a proposal will impact on any of these features, up-to-date wildlife information will need to be provided with the planning application. The type of wildlife information needed will vary depending on the nature of both the site and the proposed development. Discussion of wildlife survey needs at pre-application stage can help reduce the likelihood of delays resulting from requirement for survey being identified at a late stage.
If protected or priority animals or plants are present, the Council must be satisfied that any potential impacts of development are avoided, mitigated or compensated for.
Planning permission may be refused where an applicant provides inadequate information on protected or priority animals or plants because it will not be possible to assess the implications of the proposed development on those protected animals and plants.
• Badgers• Bats• Nesting birds
• Dormice• Great Crested Newts• Otters
• Reptiles• Water Voles• White-clawed crayfish
Key animals that are protected by law in Wycombe district include:
© WDC Woodland Service © WDC Woodland Service © North Bucks Bat GroupPlate 1: Natterer’s bat. Plate 2: Bullfinch. Plate 3: Slowworm.
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Wildlife in the planning application process
An ecological survey may be required when protected habitats, designated sites, protected species or priority species might be affected. Natural England’s Standing Advice on Protected Species and The Council’s ‘Wildlife Checklist’ assist in deciding whether an ecological survey is required. Depending on location and nature of the development the Council may require the completed checklist to be submitted as part of and application (www.wycombe.gov.uk/council-services/planning-and-buildings/planning-applications/apply.aspx).
The flowchart below (Figure 1) outlines the steps and responsibilities in the planning process when considering a development that could potentially impact on protected species or habitats.Figure 1: Stages of the Planning Process
Pre-application stage Application stage Post-application stageConsider potential impacts of the proposed development on Protected Species, designated sites and priority habitats and species. The Council’s “Wildlife Checklist” will assist in making this assessment together with Natural England’s (NE) Protected species advice.
Check existing ecological information (e.g. NE’s website) and/or consult appropriate bodies (e.g Bucks Milton Keynes Environmental Record Centre - BMERC)
Responsibility: Applicant
Employ suitably qualified consultant to assess the impact of the development on any protected species found to be present and to produce appropriate mitigation strategy if necessary.
Responsibility: Applicant
If necessary revise development proposals in light of ecological survey information and mitigation to reduce ecological impact.
Responsibility: Applicant
Discuss proposals with planners, including any mitigation, prior to submission of planning application.
Responsibility: Applicant
If application is not accompanied by an ecological survey assess need for ecological survey.
If application is accompanied by an ecological survey consider validity of survey findings and appropriateness of mitigation. Request additional information and negotiate any required amendments.
Agree mitigation and enhancements with applicant.
Responsibility: Local Planning Authority (LPA)
Determine application in light of information provided with regard to relevant legislation and statutory provisions.
Responsibility: LPA
Attach appropriate conditions and planning obligations to any planning permission to ensure appropriate implementation of mitigation and enhancement.
Responsibility: LPA
Obtain necessary licenses (e.g. European Protected Species license) if required.
Responsibility: Applicant
Ensure that planning conditions, mitigation mesures and enhancement measures are implemented in accordance with planning consent.
Responsibility: Applicant / LPA
Supply BMERC with survey information.
Responsibility: LPA
It is unusual for the presence of protected species to stop a development but the scheme might need modification to avoid impacts on habitats or species, require mitigation or necessitate specific demolition or construction methods.
Source: Adapted from South Oxfordshire Design Guide
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Types of survey
Choosing the right type of survey depends on both the site and the proposed development. Larger more complex developments or developments near European designated sites are likely to require an Environmental Assessment (EA) or an Appropriate Assessment (AA) respectively. Ecological surveys for smaller sites tend to comprise either an initial (general) survey or a species-specific / habitat-specific survey. General surveys provide an overview of existing wildlife interest and highlight if there are any further species-specific survey needs.
The ‘Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal’ by The Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) provide useful information on types of survey and survey methodology (http://www.ieem.net/docs/GPEA_web.pdf).
It is important to note that ecological survey should always answer the following questions:1. What is there?2. How will it be affected by the development?3. How can any adverse effects be avoided, mitigated or compensated, and what enhancements will be provided?
Where to find a suitably qualified ecologist
Surveys will have to be carried out by a suitably qualified person. Consultancies offering this advice can be found on the IEEM website (www.ieem.net/ieemdirectory.asp).
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Species & habitats most commonly encountered in Wycombe District
Wycombe District supports a diversity of wildlife habitats and species and is particularly rich in chalk grassland, beech woodlands, wood-pasture and chalk rivers. With regard to planning, habitats that are most commonly encountered in Wycombe District are:
Habitats that are most commonly encountered in Wycombe District
Table 2: Habitats in Wycombe DistrictHabitats Value BAP*
Priority Habitat
Protected species associated with habitat
Advice and references
Water courses including rivers, streams and chalk streams
Watercourses are important habitats in their own right but also important wildlife corridors that allow for the movement of species. Chalk streams are a unique habitat with a characteristic plant community. England has the principal resource of chalk rivers in Europe.
BatsBirdsOtters ReptilesWater Voles Native Crayfish
Any development which impacts on rivers or streams will require consent from the Environment Agency (EA). Early consultation with the EA is advisable.Any development which impacts on rivers or streams will almost certainly require an ecological survey.
Further information: EA - www.environment-agency.gov.uk/default.aspx
UK BAP – Rivers: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5706
AONB Conservation Board - www.chilternsaonb.org/about-chilterns/chalk-streams.html
BMKBP - www.buckinghamshirepartnership.co.uk/partnership/bmkbp/biodiversity_action_plan.page?
Ponds Ponds can have a significant ecological value, including small garden ponds or seemingly dry and derelict ponds.
BatsGreat Crested NewtsReptiles Water Voles
The loss of ponds should be avoided. If this is not possible any potential loss of ponds should be compensated for by the creation of new ponds.UK BAP – Ponds: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5706 Pond Conservation: www.pondconservation.org.uk/
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Habitats Value BAP* Priority Habitat
Protected species associated with habitat
Advice and references
Hedgerows Native hedgerows provide many important habitat functions such as winter food sources for birds, nesting sites and safe commuting routes connecting otherwise isolated habitats. Depending on age, diversity and importance of hedges the Hedgerow Regulations might apply.
BadgersBats DormiceGreat Crested NewtsNesting birdsReptiles
The loss of hedges should be avoided and existing hedges incorporated into new developments. Retained hedges should be buffered from surrounding development and not be incorporated into domestic boundaries. Where retention is not possible native species-rich hedgerows should be provided in compensation.
UK BAP – Hedgerows: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5706NE Hedgerow Regulations - www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/regulation/hedgeregs/default.aspx The Hedgerow Trust: www.hedgerows.co.uk/ WDC – Hedgerow advice note:www.wycombe.gov.uk/council-services/planning-and-buildings/planning-guidance/other.aspx
Mosaic of open habitats (brownfield sites)
This habitat often occurs on previously developed sites (also called brownfield sites) and the wildlife value of these sites is often underestimated. The habitat supports many species and some habitat types that are a priority for nature conservation, such as pioneer communities and flower-rich grasslands.
BirdsInvertebratesPlants Reptiles(worth adding ‘bats’ in here for sites with a b a n d o n e d buildings)
Due consideration should be given to the ecological value of such sites and development should aim to retain ecological features and characteristics (e.g. movement corridors).
Buglife: Planning for Brownfield Biodiversity – Best practice guide: www.buglife.org.uk/Resources/Buglife/Planning%20for%20Brownfield%20Biodiversity.pdf
Traditional orchards
Traditional orchards support a wide range of wildlife.Many traditional orchards have been lost through development, agricultural intensification or inappropriate management.
Bats Birds InvertebratesPlants Reptiles
Impacts on traditional orchards should be avoided. Larger developments can offer an opportunity for orchard creation. Appropriate management is essential to maintain the wildlife interest of such sites.
NE: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/24006?category=23034 PTES: www.ptes.org/index.php?cat=95 UK BAP – Traditional orchards:http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/Docs/UKBAP_BAPHabitats-56-TraditionalOrchards.doc
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Habitats Value BAP* Priority Habitat
Protected species associated with habitat
Advice and references
Veteran Trees
Veteran trees are a significant part of historic, cultural and ecological heritage. They are of great age, size or condition and have exceptional cultural, landscape or nature conservation value. They are threatened by felling and/or competition from new planting.
BatsBreeding birds Invertebrates
Impacts on veteran trees and their settings should be avoided and an appropriate management strategy been drawn up.
NE: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/75035?category=551045
Wildflower grassland
Chalk grasslands are one of the most species-rich habitats in the district and occur on the shallow, nutrient-poor soils of the Chilterns. Appropriate management of these areas is crucial to maintain and enhance wildlife interests.Wildflower meadows can occur on the deeper soils in the lower lying areas.
Invertebrates PlantsReptiles
Many chalk grasslands are within designated areas but there are some that are outside and are vulnerable to development. Impacts on chalk grasslands should be avoided. Larger developments in suitable locations might be able to create wildflower grassland subject to appropriate management.
UK BAP – Lowland calcareous grassland: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5706
BMKBP: www.buckinghamshirepartnership.co.uk/partnership/bmkbp/biodiversity_action_plan.page?
Woodland Ancient woodlands are irreplaceable habitats. Wycombe District is rich in woodlands, many of which are ancient.
BatsBreeding birdsBadgersDormiceInvertebratesPlants
Impact on Ancient Woodland should be avoided as the diverse nature and structure of ancient woodlands means that replacement planting is generally not considered to be adequate mitigation / compensation.
NE - Standing advice on Ancient woodland www.naturalengland.org/regions/south_east/ourwork/standingadvice/ancientwoodland/
BMKBP: www.buckinghamshirepartnership.co.uk/partnership/bmkbp/biodiversity_action_plan.page?
BAP = Biodiversity Action Plan Habitat (http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5718)
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Species that are most commonly encountered in Wycombe District
Table �: Species in Wycombe DistrictSpecies What is the issue? What does this mean? Further InformationBats The majority of applications
in Wycombe District requiring an ecological survey relate to bats. Bats occur in a variety of places, i.e. buildings, other man-made structures and trees, and can potentially be affected by large and small developments including demolitions and conversions.All species of bats are protected by European and national law making them a European Protected Species.
Bat provision can usually be designed into new developments or conversions but it is important that this is identified at an early stage of planning to avoid undue delays.Several surveys might be required to assess the presence and the potential impact on bats. The first stage is an ‘internal / external inspection survey’ at which a suitably qualified person inspects suitable trees and /or existing roof voids and looks for potential access points for bats. Based on the findings of this first survey emergence surveys might be required to ascertain the presence and exact location of bats in the trees and / or building. Depending on the impact and possible mitigation a European Protected Species license from Natural England might be required.
NE – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
BCT - www.bats.org.uk
Mitchell-Jones, A.J. (2004): Bat Mitigation Guidelines
Bat Conservation Trust (2012): Bat surveys – Good Practice Guidelineswww.bats.org.uk/pages/batsurveyguide.html
Badgers Badgers use a variety of habitats and can be found in urban and rural areas and will use woodland, pasture, farmland and gardens. They live in ‘setts’, large holes in the ground, and have large territories, in which they establish various setts and foraging routes.
Mitigation for impacts on badgers is often complex and costly and impact on badger sets is best avoided if at all possible.Interference with an active sett will require a license.
NE – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
English Nature (2002): Badgers and development
Breeding Birds
All nesting birds receive protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act. Nesting birds can occur in a variety of semi- natural and urban habitats including disused buildings.
Works that might cause disturbance should only be undertaken outside the bird breeding season, i.e. not between March and August inclusive.
The Council will expect appropriate replacement nesting opportunities where loss of nesting habitat occurs.
NE – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
BTO – www.bto.org
RSPB – www.rspb.org.uk
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 2012�
Wildlife Advice Note
Species What is the issue? What does this mean? Further InformationBarn Owls Barn owls will make use of
barns, agricultural buildings, church towers, bale stacks, disused buildings and tree holes if these are of sufficient size.They are often affected by demolition or conversion of buildings.
Barn owls must not be disturbed between April and September whilst they are nesting. Nesting and roosting sites should be protected. If this is not possible the provision of alternative nesting and roosting sites close the original nesting site will be required.
Natural England (NE) – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
English Nature (2002):
Dormice Hazel Dormice live in a wide variety of wooded habitats including woodlands, hazel coppice, species-rich scrub and hedgerows.
Mitigation for dormice is usually possible but needs to be planned well in advance of any development proposals.
Natural England (NE) – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
English Nature (2006): The dormouse conservation handbook.
Great Crested Newts
Great Crested Newts (GCN) breed in ponds but spend most of their lifecycle on land in long grass or rough vegetation up to 500m away from their breeding ponds. GCNs prefer small to medium-sized ponds with aquatic vegetation but can be found in almost any pond.GNC are protected by European and national law making them a European Protected Species.
Mitigation to avoid damage or disturbance to GCNs is usually possible. The type and cost of the mitigation is dependant on the population size and the potential impacts of the proposal.Early consultation with the Council is advised if they are likely to be any impacts on GCN.Depending on impact and mitigation a European Protected Species license from Natural England might be required.
Natural England (NE) – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
English Nature (2001): Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines.
Froglife (2001): Great Crested Newt Conservation Handbook.
Otters Otters can be found across a wide variety of still and running freshwater habitats including rivers, streams, canals, ditches, ponds and lakes. There are only a few known records of otters in Wycombe District but otter populations are generally on the rise and might expand in Wycombe District.Otters are protected by European and national lawmaking them a European
Otter mitigation is often expensive and complex. Developments that are likely to affect otter holts are unlikely to be permitted.Depending on impact and mitigation a European Protected Species license from Natural England might be required.
NE – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 201210
Wildlife Advice Note
Species What is the issue? What does this mean? Further InformationOtters (ctd) Protected Species.
Reptiles Reptiles can be found in a variety of habitats including brownfield sites, railway embankments, grasslands, allotments and scrub.Slowworms, common lizards and grass snakes are most commonly encountered in Wycombe District.All native reptiles are protected by National Law with specific species also being offered European protection.
As with all protected species it is best to avoid impacts but where this is not feasible it is often possible to mitigate or compensate any negative impacts. Mitigation often comprises translocation (on-site or off-site), which is a relatively complex and time-consuming process that will require early planning. Reptile surveys are relatively labour-intensive as they require several survey visits.
Natural England (NE) – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
English Nature (2004): Reptiles – guidelines for developers.Froglife (1999): Froglife Advice Sheet 10 – Reptile Surveys: An introduction to planning, conducting and interpreting surveys for snake and lizard conservation.
Water Voles
Water voles are associated with watercourses including canals, rivers, streams, ditches and even sometimes ponds. Water voles are fully protected. Any development that is likely to adversely impact on water voles must be accompanied an appropriate survey.
Providing mitigation and compensation measures for water voles is often expensive and time consuming and development impacts on water voles are best avoided.
Natural England (NE) – http://www.naturalengland.org/ourwork/planningtransportlocalgov/spatialplanning/standingadvice/default.aspx
Strachan, R. (1998): Water vole conservation handbook. Natural England (2008): Water voles - the law in practice: guidance for planners and developers.
© Haidrun Breith
© Haidrun Breith
© Haidrun BreithPlate 4: Snail.
Plate 5: Natterer’s bat roost in Schwegler bat box.
Plate 6: Dragonfly.
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 201211
Wildlife Advice Note
Survey constraints
Surveys for some animals and plants can only be carried out at certain times of the year. If insufficient information has been supplied, the Council will ask that further details are submitted before the planning application is formally registered.
To avoid delays and help validation of your planning application, we strongly advise to seek pre-applica-tion advice from the Council.
Table �: Survey timingsJAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Habitats / Vegetation
Badgers
Bats
Internal / external inspection
Hibernation roosts
Summer roosts, foraging/commuting
BirdsBreeding
Over-Wintering
Dormice
Great-crested newts
Terrestrial
Aquatic
Invertebrates
Otters
Reptiles
Water Voles
White-Clawed Crayfish
Active surveys
Habitat assessment
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DECSurveys recommended Sub-optimal survey period
Source: the information in this table is based on the templates for Biological and Geological Conservation Validation checklist (ALGE, 2007), Thomson’s wildlife on site handbook (Thomson Ecology, 2011) and NE guidelines on dormice, great crested newts and white-clawed crayfish.
© Biotecture
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 201212
Wildlife Advice Note
Provision for wildlife in new development (enhancements)
There are many ways how developments, large and small, can provide nature conservation benefits and help to reverse the gradual loss caused by the cumulative effects of development.
In accordance with planning policy and the Council’s emerging Delivery & Site Allocation document poli-cies, the Council will seek ecological enhancement as part of developments. This can be done success-fully by adhering to the following core principles:
Context Study: For all development proposals the first important consideration is to ensure that any existing important habitats or species are protected during the development and where possible en-hancements are incorporated into the scheme. Developers should identify existing ecological assets and the potential to enhance these as part of development and management of the site. Applicants are advised to discuss their proposals with the Local Authority.
Masterplanning: For larger developments, ecological measures should be strategically planned to link up to Green Infrastructure and the wider environment through the creation of open spaces, green linkages and the integration of landscape features such as trees. For smaller developments a variety of measures can be incorporated in both bulding design and the gardens.
Detailed design: Wildlife supporting measures can be integrated into new development proposals in a variety of ways. The following pages give an overview of ecological enhancement measures.
Plate 7: Example of a Green Wall
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note
Opp
ortu
nitie
s fo
r wild
life
enha
ncem
ents
with
in th
e bu
ilt fa
bric
The
follo
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ble
lists
act
ions
that
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r pos
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e be
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ated
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ic to
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ithin
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he re
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oth
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Opp
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nitie
s fo
r wild
life
ehna
hcm
ent w
ithin
the
built
fabr
icSp
ecie
sA
ctio
nN
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(why
, whe
re, h
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all a
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est b
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•Lo
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ay fr
om th
e di
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and
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eath
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te w
here
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pre
datio
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ts o
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ilar.
Inst
all a
ll ne
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whe
re th
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ight
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se n
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• • •S
peci
fic
bird
sp
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on
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se s
parr
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Com
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ifts
Inst
all
inte
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ropr
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tabl
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pro
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nd w
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org.
uk
• • • • • •H
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clo
se f
orag
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n sp
aces
& g
reen
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(spa
rrow
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3 m
(sta
rling
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ff th
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re to
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ch
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med
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rly is
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vatio
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• • •
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n sw
allo
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ouse
mar
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stal
l pr
e-fo
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nes
t cu
ps t
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age
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t.C
reat
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rpos
e bu
ilt le
dges
whe
re b
irds
will
be
sec
ure
from
pre
datio
n by
cat
s, ra
ts e
tc.
• •
Ope
n-si
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build
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and
stru
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or b
arn
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low
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d bu
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se p
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e an
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ear p
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dges
of s
tand
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r slo
w-fl
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ream
s as
this
is th
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mai
n ne
stin
g m
ater
ial.
• • •
Sou
rce:
Ada
pted
from
the
Exe
ter C
ity C
ounc
il D
esig
n G
uide
.
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note
Spec
ies
Act
ion
Not
es (w
hy, w
here
, how
)Le
ave
or c
reat
e sp
aces
in lo
fts, w
alls
or
behi
nd th
e cl
addi
ng.
•Lo
cate
aw
ay fr
om th
e di
rect
sun
light
and
pre
vaili
ng w
eath
er.
•
Cre
vice
-dw
ellin
g ba
ts (a
ll pi
pist
relle
bat
s, B
rand
t’s a
nd
Whi
sker
ed b
ats)
Inst
all
read
y-m
ade
bat
boxe
s in
to t
he
wal
ls o
r und
er th
e ea
ves;
Leav
e or
cre
ate
spac
es in
lofts
, wal
ls o
r be
hind
the
clad
ding
;C
reat
e sa
ndw
ich
boar
ds o
f at
lea
st 3
la
yers
with
a 1
inch
gap
to p
lace
insi
de
the
roof
voi
d, a
gain
st th
e ba
ttens
.
• • •
Cre
vice
dw
ellin
g ba
ts c
an c
raw
l int
o th
e sm
alle
st s
pace
s.S
umm
er m
ater
nity
roos
ts te
nd to
hav
e a
sout
herly
or w
este
rly a
spec
t for
sol
ar g
ain
whi
lst h
iber
natio
n ro
osts
tend
to b
e no
rth-fa
cing
.R
oost
mat
eria
ls s
houl
d be
roug
h, n
on-to
xic,
with
no
risk
of e
ntan
glem
ent.
Bre
atha
ble
mem
bran
es M
US
T be
avo
ided
and
bitu
mou
s ro
ofing
felt
/ und
er-fe
lt sh
ould
be
used
.A
cces
s po
ints
sho
uld
be lo
cate
d aw
ay fr
om a
rtific
ial l
ight
ing.
Line
ar la
ndsc
ape
feat
ures
suc
h as
tree
line
and
hed
gero
ws
shou
ld b
e m
aint
aine
d an
d en
hanc
ed to
pro
vide
cov
er a
nd fl
ight
pat
hs.
• • • • • •
Roo
f-voi
d dw
ellin
g ba
ts
(suc
h as
Noc
tule
, Ser
otin
e,
Leis
ler’s
, Dau
bent
on’s
, Gre
ater
M
ouse
-ear
ed, B
arba
stel
le a
nd
Bec
hste
in’s
)
Leav
e tim
ber
jois
ts
and/
or
beam
s ex
pose
d;In
stal
l acc
ess
poin
ts u
nder
the
eav
es,
at th
e so
ffits
or a
t spe
cial
ly-m
ade
ridge
or
roof
tile
s.
• •
Ent
ry p
oint
sho
uld
be b
etw
een
2-7m
abo
ve g
roun
d le
vel.
Sum
mer
mat
erni
ty ro
osts
tend
to h
ave
a so
uthe
rly o
r wes
terly
asp
ect f
or s
olar
gai
n w
hils
t hib
erna
tion
roos
ts te
nd to
be
north
-faci
ng.
Roo
st m
ater
ials
sho
uld
be r
ough
, no
n-to
xic,
with
no
risk
of e
ntan
glem
ent.
Bre
atha
ble
mem
bran
es m
ust
be a
void
ed a
nd b
itum
ous
roofi
ng f
elt
/ un
der-
felt
shou
ld b
e us
ed.
Acc
ess
poin
ts s
houl
d be
not
be
lit b
y ar
tifici
al li
ghtin
g.Li
near
land
scap
e fe
atur
es s
uch
as tr
ee li
ne a
nd h
edge
row
s sh
ould
be
mai
ntai
ned
and
enha
nced
to p
rovi
de c
over
and
flig
ht p
aths
.
• • • • •
Bat
s th
at n
eed
fligh
t spa
ce
(suc
h as
Bro
wn
& G
rey
Long
-ea
red
bats
and
Nat
tere
rs)
Kee
p ro
of s
pace
unt
russ
ed t
o al
low
fli
ght.
•U
ntru
ssed
roof
spa
ce s
houl
d be
2 –
2.8
m (h
) x 5
m (w
) x 5
m (l
).R
oost
mat
eria
ls s
houl
d be
rou
gh,
non-
toxi
c, w
ith n
o ris
k of
ent
angl
emen
t. B
reat
habl
e m
embr
anes
mus
t be
avo
ided
and
bitu
mou
s ro
ofing
fel
t /
unde
r-fe
lt sh
ould
be
used
.Li
near
land
scap
e fe
atur
es s
uch
as tr
ee li
ne a
nd h
edge
row
s sh
ould
be
mai
ntai
ned
and
enha
nced
to p
rovi
de c
over
and
flig
ht p
aths
.
• • •
Gre
en ro
ofs
and
wal
ls
Des
ign
in g
reen
or
brow
n ro
ofs
and
wal
ls w
here
ever
pos
sibl
e •
Gre
en /
livin
g ro
ofs
can
enha
nce
the
wild
life
of u
rban
are
as a
nd c
an a
lso
repl
ace
habi
tat l
ost a
t gro
und
leve
l to
build
ing
wor
k; e
.g. g
reen
roof
s ca
n re
crea
te s
ome
of
the
habi
tat f
eatu
res
that
are
impo
rtant
to th
e si
te’s
wild
life;
Can
be
parti
cula
rly u
sefu
l w
here
ava
ilabl
e sp
ace
is r
estri
cted
and
whe
n th
e de
velo
pmen
t si
te i
s to
o sm
all
to i
ncor
pora
te w
ildlif
e en
hanc
emen
t at
gro
und
leve
l.
• •
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note
Opp
ortu
nitie
s fo
r wild
life
enha
ncem
ents
with
in th
e la
ndsc
apin
g
App
ropr
iate
land
scap
ing
with
in d
evel
opm
ents
can
hel
p to
redu
ce fr
agm
enta
tion
of h
abita
ts b
y al
low
ing
wild
life
to li
ve w
ithin
and
mov
e th
roug
h bu
ilt
area
s to
the
wid
er c
ount
rysi
de. L
ands
capi
ng s
houl
d ai
m to
reta
in a
nd e
nhan
ce e
xist
ing
ecol
ogic
al fe
atur
es s
uch
as tr
ees,
hed
ges
or p
onds
.
Tabl
e �:
Opp
ortu
nitie
s fo
r wild
life
enha
ncem
ent w
ithin
the
land
scap
ing
Spec
ies
Act
ion
Not
es (w
hy, w
here
, how
, fur
ther
info
rmat
ion)
Bird
sP
rovi
de h
edge
s, s
hrub
s an
d tre
es,
of l
ocal
pro
vena
nce,
whi
ch w
ill
prov
ide
natu
ral n
estin
g si
tes
whe
n m
atur
e.In
stal
l bird
box
es o
n su
itabl
e tre
es a
nd b
uild
ings
, av
oidi
ng s
outh
erly
el
evat
ions
.
• •
Bird
and
bat
box
es s
houl
d be
pro
vide
d as
par
t of l
ands
cape
de
sign
pro
posa
ls.
•
Bat
sIn
stal
l bat
box
es o
n su
itabl
e tre
es a
nd b
uild
ings
, av
oidi
ng s
outh
erly
el
evat
ions
.•
Rep
tiles
Pro
vide
are
as o
f lon
g gr
ass,
inte
rspe
rsed
with
she
ltere
d su
nny
area
s of
bar
e gr
ound
and
rock
s w
here
rept
iles
can
bask
.P
rovi
de ro
cker
ies
whe
re re
ptile
s ca
n hi
bern
ate
belo
w g
roun
d.
• •
Rep
tiles
mos
t lik
ely
to e
ncou
nter
ed i
nclu
de s
low
wor
ms,
co
mm
on li
zard
, add
er a
nd g
rass
sna
ke.
•
Am
phib
ians
Pro
vide
wild
life
frien
dly
pond
s, w
ater
cha
nnel
s an
d w
etla
nd a
reas
with
as
soci
ated
veg
etat
ion.
Ens
ure
that
wat
er fe
atur
es d
on’t
dry
out.
• •
Am
phib
ians
like
ly t
o be
enc
ount
ered
incl
ude
frogs
, co
mm
on
toad
s an
d ne
wts
.P
ond
crea
tion
can
be c
ompl
ex b
ut v
ery
good
gui
danc
e is
av
aila
ble
from
The
Pon
d C
onse
rvat
ion:
w
ww
.po
nd
con
serv
ati
on
.org
.uk/
mil
lio
np
on
ds/
pond
crea
tiont
oolk
it
• •
Inve
rtebr
ates
Pro
vide
nat
ive
hedg
es, t
rees
and
shr
ubs
of lo
cal p
rove
nanc
e.P
rovi
de l
og p
iles,
wild
life
stac
ks (
stru
ctur
es m
ade
from
a v
arie
ty o
f m
ater
ials
suc
h as
bric
ks,
sand
, st
raw
etc
) or
sim
ilar
for
shel
ter
and
layi
ng e
ggs.
Ret
ain/
cr
eate
op
en
mos
aic
habi
tats
of
ba
re
grou
nd
and
early
su
cces
sion
al p
ione
er v
eget
atio
n as
they
are
ofte
n fo
und
in ‘b
row
nfiel
d’
site
s.P
rovi
de w
ildlif
e fri
endl
y po
nds
with
app
ropr
iate
pla
ntin
g an
d bu
ffer
zone
s.
• • • •
Inve
rtebr
ates
cov
er a
wid
e ra
nge
of s
peci
es in
clud
ing
bees
, bu
tterfl
ies,
m
oths
, an
ts,
flies
, be
etle
s,
spid
ers,
m
ollu
scs
etc
whi
ch h
ave
diffe
rent
hab
itat
requ
irem
ent.
Man
y re
ly o
n br
ownfi
eld
site
s an
d ga
rden
s.
•
Sm
all m
amm
als
Pro
vide
shr
ubs
and
long
gra
ss a
reas
whi
ch p
rovi
de a
var
iety
of f
ruit
and
seed
s fo
r sm
all m
amm
als.
Ens
ure
perm
eabi
lity
of g
arde
ns fo
r th
e m
ovem
ent o
f sm
all m
amm
als
by le
avin
g sm
all g
aps
belo
w fe
nces
.
• •
Sm
all m
amm
als
incl
ude
mic
e, v
oles
, shr
ews
and
hedg
ehog
s.•
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note
Spec
ies
Act
ion
Not
es (w
hy, w
here
, how
, fur
ther
info
rmat
ion)
Hed
ges
Pla
nt n
ativ
e sp
ecie
s he
dges
con
sist
ing
of a
num
ber o
f wild
life-
frien
dly
spec
ies
so th
at fr
uit,
seed
and
nec
tar w
ill b
e pr
ovid
ed th
roug
hout
mos
t of
the
year
.A
llow
suf
ficie
nt s
pace
for h
edge
s to
mat
ure.
Pla
nt n
ativ
e he
dges
in p
artic
ular
in r
ural
loca
tions
(se
e W
DC
adv
ice
note
on
nativ
e he
dger
ow p
lant
ing)
.Lo
cate
hed
ges
whe
re t
hey
will
con
tribu
te t
owar
ds f
orm
ing
a lo
cal
wild
life
habi
tat n
etw
ork
with
nei
ghbo
urin
g he
dges
, tre
es, s
hrub
s, s
crub
, w
ildflo
wer
-ric
h gr
assl
and
and
wat
er c
ours
es.
Ens
ure
appr
opria
te m
anag
emen
t of h
edge
s w
ith r
egar
d to
met
hod
of
prun
ing
and
timin
g.
• • • • •
Hed
ges
prov
ide
shel
ter,
bree
ding
, nes
ting
and
fora
ging
site
s fo
r a w
ide
varie
ty o
f spe
cies
and
act
as
wild
life
corr
idor
s.S
ee W
DC
’s ‘P
lant
ing
a na
tive
hedg
erow
’ adv
ice
note
at:
ww
w.w
ycom
be.g
ov.u
k/co
unci
l-ser
vice
s/pl
anni
ng-a
nd-
build
ings
/pla
nnin
g-gu
idan
ce/o
ther
.asp
x
• •
Tree
s an
d sh
rubs
Ret
ain
exis
ting
vege
tatio
n w
here
ver p
ossi
ble
in p
artic
ular
mat
ure
trees
an
d tre
es w
ith h
oles
and
dea
d w
ood
as th
ese
are
parti
cula
rly v
alua
ble
for w
ildlif
e su
ch a
s ba
ts, b
irds,
inse
cts
and
fung
i. In
tegr
ate
wild
life-
frien
dly
tree
and
shru
b pl
antin
g in
to s
chem
es t
o pr
ovid
e he
ight
and
stru
ctur
e. C
hoos
e pl
ant s
peci
es th
at a
re p
artic
ular
ly
good
for w
ildlif
e du
e to
thei
r stru
ctur
e, p
olle
n or
frui
t.In
tegr
ate
herb
aceo
us p
lant
s an
d gr
asse
s in
to p
lant
ing
sche
mes
to
prov
ide
furth
er w
ildlif
e in
tere
st a
nd to
mai
ntai
n m
oist
ure
unde
rnea
th.
• • •
Tree
s an
d sh
rubs
pro
vide
she
lter,
nest
ing
site
s an
d fru
it fo
r bi
rds,
and
nec
tar f
or b
ees
and
othe
r ins
ects
.D
ead
and
deca
ying
woo
d su
ppor
ts a
ran
ge o
f in
verte
brat
es
whi
ch d
epen
d up
on it
for a
ll or
par
t of t
heir
life
cycl
e.In
add
ition
, st
ruct
ural
pla
ntin
g in
par
ticul
ar t
rees
add
vis
ual
valu
e an
d he
lp to
com
bat c
limat
e ch
ange
.
• • •
Clim
bing
pla
nts
Intro
duce
clim
bing
pla
nts
alon
g w
alls
and
fenc
es to
pro
vide
a s
ourc
e fo
r foo
d an
d sh
elte
r for
inse
cts
and
bird
s.•
Clim
bing
pla
nts
such
as
ivy,
cle
mat
is a
nd h
oney
suck
le p
rovi
de
nest
ing,
she
lter a
nd b
errie
s fo
r bird
s an
d ne
ctar
for i
nsec
ts.
•
Scr
ubR
etai
n ex
istin
g ar
eas
of s
crub
and
cre
ate
new
are
as o
f scr
ub o
f nat
ive
spec
ies,
whe
reve
r po
ssib
le a
nd p
artic
ular
ly w
hen
adja
cent
to
othe
r ex
istin
g w
ildlif
e-ric
h ha
bita
t.
•
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note Sp
ecie
sA
ctio
nN
otes
(why
, whe
re, h
ow, f
urth
er in
form
atio
n)W
ildflo
wer
ric
h gr
assl
ands
Cre
ate
area
s of w
ildflo
wer
-ric
h gr
assl
and
as p
art o
f info
rmal
land
scap
ing
on a
reas
of p
oore
r soi
ls a
nd in
con
nect
ion
with
stru
ctur
al p
lant
ing.
Intro
duce
spr
ing-
flow
erin
g bu
lbs
and
seed
s (a
nd p
lugs
) of
nec
tar-
rich
flow
erin
g pl
ants
. Cho
ose
seed
s or
see
d m
ixes
of l
ocal
pro
vena
nce
and
that
are
sui
tabl
e fo
r the
loca
tion.
Man
age
gras
slan
ds in
a w
ay th
at a
llow
s pl
ants
to fl
ower
and
see
d (i.
e.
cut o
nly
once
or t
wic
e a
year
).S
hort
gras
s ar
eas
can
be e
nhan
ced
by a
ddin
g flo
wer
ing
spec
ies
tole
rant
of
frequ
ent
mow
ing
and
intro
duci
ng p
ocke
ts o
f lo
ng g
rass
al
ong
boun
darie
s.
• • • •
Wild
flow
er-r
ich
gras
slan
d pr
ovid
e pl
ant
dive
rsity
, co
ver
for
smal
l mam
mal
s an
d fo
od fo
r ins
ects
and
inve
rtebr
ates
.S
truct
ure
is c
ruci
al t
o m
ost
gras
slan
d in
verte
brat
es.
Long
gr
ass
will
ben
efit a
rang
e of
spe
cies
and
are
as o
f und
istu
rbed
gr
assl
and
will
pro
vide
add
ition
al v
alue
.
• •
Wat
erco
urse
s /
pond
sC
onse
rve
and
enha
nce
the
natu
raln
ess
of e
xist
ing
wat
er c
ours
es b
y re
mov
ing
culv
erts
, cr
eatin
g so
ft ba
nks
and
intro
duci
ng a
ppro
pria
te
buffe
r pla
ntin
g.R
etai
n an
d cr
eate
sof
t lan
dsca
pe b
uffe
rs (
10 m
wid
e) a
long
stre
ams
and
river
s fo
r w
ildlif
e bu
t al
so f
or r
iver
mai
nten
ance
. B
uffe
rs s
houl
d ta
ke a
ccou
nt o
f di
ffere
nt a
quat
ic z
ones
and
be
land
scap
ed u
sing
ap
prop
riate
met
hods
and
pla
nt s
peci
es.
Cre
ate
wild
life
pond
s w
here
app
ropr
iate
to e
nhan
ce w
ildlif
e.
• • •
Wat
er c
ours
es o
f all
type
s (in
clud
ing
ditc
hes)
and
thei
r ban
ks
are
impo
rtant
wild
life
habi
tats
but
are
ofte
n de
grad
ed in
bui
lt-up
are
as.
Wyc
ombe
Dis
trict
is ri
ch in
cha
lk s
tream
s, a
uni
que
habi
tat t
hat
supp
orts
a ra
nge
of c
hara
cter
istic
pla
nts
and
anim
als.
Fu
rther
info
rmat
ion
- Th
e P
ond
Con
serv
atio
n:
ww
w.p
on
dco
nse
rva
tio
n.o
rg.u
k/m
illi
on
po
nd
s/po
ndcr
eatio
ntoo
lkit
Nat
ural
Eng
land
: ht
tp://
publ
icat
ions
.nat
ural
engl
and.
org.
uk/p
ublic
atio
n/30
031?
cate
gory
=800
5
• • •
Gre
en
roof
s an
d w
alls
Des
ign
in g
reen
or b
row
n ro
ofs
and
wal
ls w
here
ver p
ossi
ble.
•G
reen
/ liv
ing
roof
s ca
n en
hanc
e th
e w
ildlif
e of
urb
an a
reas
and
ca
n al
so re
plac
e ha
bita
t los
t at g
roun
d le
vel t
o bu
ildin
g w
ork;
e.
g. s
uch
roof
s ca
n re
crea
te s
ome
of th
e ha
bita
t fea
ture
s th
at
are
impo
rtant
to th
e si
te’s
wild
life;
Can
be
parti
cula
rly u
sefu
l whe
re a
vaila
ble
spac
e is
rest
ricte
d an
d w
hen
the
deve
lopm
ent
site
is
too
smal
l to
inc
orpo
rate
w
ildlif
e en
hanc
emen
t at g
roun
d le
vel.
• •
Sou
rce:
Ada
pted
from
the
Exe
ter C
ity C
ounc
il D
esig
n G
uide
.
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note
Provision for wildlife in existing development
Gardens are significant contributors to urban ecology by providing habitat, food and shelter for wildlife. Wildlife-friendly management of gardens and open spaces can therefore make a significant contribution to urban ecology. In addition, green roofs and walls can offer great opportunities for enhancing both ecosystem services and wildlife in inner urban areas. At the same time, garden activities such as the use of pesticides, the planting of exotic invasive species, the removal of native vegetation, the development of back gardens and the paving over of front gardens for the creation of driveways can adversely affect urban ecology and should be avoided.
There is a lot of information available on wildlife gardening. Main improvements include:
Have a variety of native trees, shrubs, climbers or a mixed hedge to provide food and shelter for wildlife;Plant flowers in the garden to provide pollen and nectar for insects;Create a (small) pond with sloping edges to enable wildlife to move in and out of the pond;Create piles of deadwood in a shady spot to provide habitat for beetles and other mini-beasts;Build a compost heap to reduce waste and to encourage invertebrates;Provide food and water for birds all year round;Garden in a sustainable way – minimise the use of chemicals, use no-peat products, save water, buy wood from sustainable sources, recycle as much as you can and retain some less tidy areas;Retain and protect mature trees.
•
••••••
•
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 20121�
Wildlife Advice Note
Further information
Principle wildlife legislationLegislation DetailsWildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
This is the principal wildlife-protection legislation in Great Britain. It includes provisions for important habitats to be designated and protected as Site of Special Scientific Interests (SSSI), and protects individual species and the places they use for shelter and protection. All birds, their nests and eggs, are also protected.
Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010
These implement the EU Habitats Directive in Great Britain. The original Regulations came into force in 1994 but several revisisions have taken place since. The Regulations provide for the designation and protection of ‘European sites’ and the protection of ‘European Protected Species’ (EPS). The provisions also include a statutory requirement for competent authorities to undertake an Appropriate Assessment of the potential impacts of projects likely to have a significant effect on European sites.
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000
The Act increased protection for SSSIs and strengthened wildlife enforcement legislation. With regard to SSSIs, it includes provisions to extend powers for Statutory Nature Conservation Organisations (SNCOs) to enter into management agreements with landowners, and it extends the range of offences and increases the penalties for breaches of legislation. In particular, it provided for a new offence of reckless disturbance.
The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006
This places a statutory duty on all public bodies and statutory undertakers in England and Wales to have due regard to the conservation of biodiversity in all their functions. It also requires publication of a list of habitats and species of primary importance for the conservation of each country’s biodiversity (BAP Priority Habitats).
The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 This protects badgers and their setts. The Act currently precludes the use of heavy machinery within 30m of a sett.
The Hedgerow Regulations 1997 These make provision for the protection of hedgerows in England and Wales, making it an offence in certain circumstances to remove a hedgerow without notifying the local planning authority. For appeals under The Hedgerow Regulations see IH Chapter PT10.
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 201220
Wildlife Advice Note
Natural England standing advice on protected speciesFor further detailed information on protected animals or plants, please see Natural England’s detailed advice: www.naturalengland.org.uk/regions/south_east/ourwork/standingadvice/protectedspecies/species.aspx
Information provided includes the legal protection and habitat requirements of individual protected animals, as well as information to help you identify whether you may have these animals on your site and if you may need to survey for them.
Protected habitats and species in Buckinghamshire General information on wildlife in Buckinghamshire can be found in the ‘Biodiversity in Planning in Buckinghamshire’ publication, which is available on the Bucks Milton Keynes Biodiversity Partnership website:www.buckinghamshirepartnership.co.uk/sites/partnership/bmkbp/biodiversity_and_planning.page
Further detailed information on legislation, species and habitats in Buckinghamshire can be found on the Bucks County Council website: www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/biodiversity/ecology.page
Further information on nature conservation work in Wycombe District can be obtained from the WDC Woodland Service at: woodland_service@wycombe.gov.uk.
Local Environmental Record CentreYou can find out if protected animals or plants have been previously found on or near your proposed development site by contacting the Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Environment Records Centre (BMERC). BMERC collects information and recorded sightings of protected animals and plants within Buckinghamshire. You can ask for a data search by completing and sending an Information Request Form available at: www.buckinghamshirepartnership.gov.uk/partnership/BucksMKERC/bmerc.page.
Incorporating wildlife in development: Natural England: www.naturalengland.org.uk/advice/wildlifegardening/top_tip.aspx BBC: www.bbc.co.uk/nature/uk/indepth/wildlife-gardening.shtml RSPB: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/wildlifegarden/ Wildlife Trusts: www.wildlifetrusts.org/node/4061
ADV 12 Wycombe District Council, Planning & Sustainability March 201221
Wildlife Advice Note
Glossary
Term Detail AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty BCC Buckinghamshire County CouncilBBOWT Berks Bucks Oxon Wildlife Trust BCT Bat Conservation Trust BMKBP Bucks Milton Keynes Biodiversity PartnershipBTO British Trust for OrnitologyDEFRA Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Designated sites Sites that are protected by a nature conservation designation. These include:
Internationally designated sites: Special Protection Area (SPA)Special Area of Conservation (SAC)Ramsar Site
Nationally designated sites: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)National Nature Reserve (NNR)
Regionally and locally designated sites:Local Wildlife Site (LWS)Local Nature Reserve (LNR)Biological Notification Site (BNS)
EA Environment Agency European Protected Species Species (animals or plants) that receive protection under The Conservation of
Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. European Protected Species license
A requirement when European Protected Species are affected by developmentwww.naturalengland.org.uk/Images/wml-g12_tcm6-4116.pdf
Habitats An ecological or environmental area that is inhabited by specific plants, species or organisms.
IEEM Institute of Ecology and Environmental ManagementMitigation Plan / Strategy A plan and/or document that outlines how the impacts on species or habitats can be
mitigated NE Natural England Protected species Species (plants & animals) that are protected by law, e.g. the Conservation (Natural
Habitats & c) Regulations 2010PTES People’s Trust for Endangered Species Species Animals or plants UK BAP UK Biodiversity Action Plan WDC Wycombe District Council