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Velindre Cancer Centre

National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Survey Report

16 February 2017

Velindre NHS Trust

364561 ES05 B http://pims01/pims/llisapi.dll?func=ll&objId=2106257060&objAction=viewheader Mott MacDonald

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Velindre NHS Trust Unit 2 Charnwood Court Heol Bellingsley Parc Nantgarw Nantgarw Cardiff CF15 7QZ

Velindre Cancer Centre

National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Survey Report

16 February 2017

Velindre NHS Trust

Mott MacDonald | Velindre Cancer Centre National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Survey Report

364561 | ES05 | B | 16 February2017 http://pims01/pims/llisapi.dll?func=ll&objId=2106257060&objAction=viewheader

Issue and Revision Record

Revision Date Originator Checker Approver Description

A 25 January 2017

J. Stephenson

J. Brown M. Phillips First Issue

B 16 February 2017

M. Hemmings J. Brown M. Phillips

Document reference: 364561 | ES05 | B

Information class: Standard

This document is issued for the party which commissioned it and for specific purposes connected with the above-captioned project only. It should not be relied upon by any other party or used for any other purpose.

We accept no responsibility for the consequences of this document being relied upon by any other party, or being used for any other purpose, or containing any error or omission which is due to an error or omission in data supplied to us by other parties.

This document contains confidential information and proprietary intellectual property. It should not be shown to other parties without consent from us and from the party which commissioned it.

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Forecasts presented i n this document were pr epared usi ng Data and the report is dependent or based on D ata. Inevitabl y, some of the assumptions used to develop the for ecasts will not be realised and unantici pated events and circumstances may occur. C onsequentl y M ott MacDonal d does not guarantee or warr ant the concl usi ons contained i n the repor t as there are li kel y to be differ ences between the for ecas ts and the ac tual results and those di ffer ences may be material. Whil e we consi der that the infor mation and opini ons gi ven i n this r eport are sound all parti es must rel y on their own skill and j udgement when making use of it .

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Comments addressed



Contents

Executive summary 1

1 Introduction 2

1.1 Background 2

1.2 Site Options 2

1.2.1 Site A 2

1.2.2 Site B 2

1.2.3 Site C 2

1.2.4 Site D 3

1.2.5 Site E 3

1.3 Planning Context 3

1.3.1 Regional Policy Context 3

1.3.2 Local Policy Context 4

2 Methodology 5

2.1 Field Survey 5

2.2 Assessment of Conservation Importance and Likely Impacts 6

2.3 Limitations 6

3 Results 7

3.1 Field Study 7

3.2 Plant Community A (Quadrats 1 – 5) 8

3.3 Plant community B (Quadrats 6 – 10) 9

3.4 Plan community C (Quadrat 11-15) 10

3.5 Plant community D (Quadrats 16-20) 11

3.6 Assessment of Conservation Importance 11

3.7 Assessment of Likely Impacts 12

4 Mitigation and Recommendations 13

4.1 Mitigation 13

4.1.1 Enhancement 13

4.1.2 Protecting retaining habitat 13

4.1.3 Replacement of lost habitat 13

4.1.4 Landscaping 14

5 References 15

Appendices 16



A. SINC citation 17

B. Site Options 20

C. Habitat Survey Map 22

D. Plant Community Tables 24

D.1 Plant Community A 24

D.2 Plant Community B 25

D.3 Plant Community C 26

D.4 Plant Community D 26

E. Photographs 28

Mott MacDonald | Velindre Cancer Centre 1 National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Survey Report


Executive summary

Mott MacDonald Limited was commissioned by Velindre NHS Trust to undertake a National

Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey on the habitats within the Whitchurch Green Fields Site

of Important Nature Conservation (SINC) only, near the Whitchurch Hospital Campus located in

the northwest of Cardiff, south Wales. The purpose of the assessment is to undertake a review

of the current habitats to assess the potential impact the development may have on important

floristic communities.

The NVC grassland survey was undertaken within an approximate 8ha area located north of the

main Whitchurch hospital campus at National Grid Reference ST145805. The survey was

undertaken by a Mott MacDonald Ecologist on the 8th and 9th of June 2016, in fair weather

conditions.

Four plant communities within the survey area were identified:

● Plant community A, MG9: (Holcus lanatus - Deschampsia cespitosa grasslands).

● Plant community B, MG1: (Arrhenatherum elatius grassland).

● Plant community C, W22: (Prunus spinosa - Rubus fruticosus scrub).

● Plant community D, W25: (Pteridium aquilinum - Rubus fruticosus scrub).

Plant community A and B are characteristic of species poor semi-improved mesotrophic

grassland habitat and can be accorded with moderate (district) conservation value due to the

SINC designation.

Plant community C is characteristic of dense continuous scrub habitat and can be accorded with

very low (local) conservation value.

Plant community D is characteristic of dense bracken habitat and can be accorded with very low

(local) conservation value.

Impacts on these plant communities are certain, given that there will be a permanent loss of

grassland habitat under the footprint of the proposed works. There will also be temporary loss of

habitat under any temporary areas such as work compounds or materials storage areas.

Measures to minimise the impacts of the proposed works on the plant community A and B

grassland that are to be retained should include protecting the grassland using plastic panels in

areas where temporary working is to occur.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrhenatherum_elatius

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grassland

https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=British_NVC_community_W22_(Prunus_spinosa_-_Rubus_fruticosus_scrub)&action=edit&redlink=1

https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=British_NVC_community_W25_(Pteridium_aquilinum_-_Rubus_fruticosus_underscrub)&action=edit&redlink=1



1 Introduction

1.1 Background

Mott MacDonald Limited has been commissioned by NHS Wales to undertake a National

Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey on the habitats within the Whitchurch Green Fields Site

of Important Nature Conservation (SINC) near the Whitchurch Hospital Campus located in the

northwest of Cardiff, south Wales (see Appendix A for SINC citation). The purpose of the

assessment is to undertake a review of the current habitats to access the potential impact the

development may have on importance floristic communities.

Whitchurch Hospital is located in the northern suburbs of Cardiff, south Wales and the centre of

the site is located at National Grid Reference ST145805. The site covers an area of

approximately 46 hectares (ha) and lies in a semi urban setting. The hospital campus is

bounded to the south by Velindre Road and residential properties, to the east by Park Road

(A4054) and residential housing, to the north by a disused railway line which is part of a Local

Nature Reserve and a supermarket and to the west by a Site of Special Scientific Interest and

Nature Reserve, dropping down in level to Forest Park Road, the River Taff and the Glamorgan

Canal with residential housing beyond.

1.2 Site Options

This report presents the results for the original options for the new Velindre Cancer Centre

within the Whitchurch Hospital Campus. A brief description of each site and options are

provided below, and are shown on the site location plan drawing, see Appendix B.

1.2.1 Site A

Located in the south eastern corner of the overall site and contains buildings from the existing

Velindre Cancer Centre. It is unlikely that this area of the site will be developed.

1.2.2 Site B

Located in the central southern section of the overall site and comprises of Whitchurch Hospital.

The hospital was built in the early 1900’s as a psychiatric asylum and became the main centre

for mental health services in Cardiff. The hospital buildings are Grade II listed. Access is from

Park Road. The buildings are generally two storey in height with a prominent water tower. The

rear grounds are Registered Parks and Gardens and exhibit a parkland character of lawns and

mature planting. The gardens feature six Grade II listed timber shelters. The site is accessed

from Park Road via a formal gateway and Gatehouse. It is unlikely that this area of the site will

be developed.

1.2.3 Site C

Located directly to the north of Whitchurch Hospital, the northern frontage of Whitchurch

Hospital comprises an open area of green space laid out for bowls, football/ rugby and cricket

with associated facilities including a cricket pavilion. An access road provides a circulatory

access road around the greenspace with a large central car park and further areas of grass and

parkland trees.



1.2.4 Site D

Located in the southwestern corner of the Whitchurch Hospital campus and previously the site

of a country house “Velindre”. Formerly proposed as the site for a new Mental Health Hospital

the site was cleared of several healthcare buildings and has remained vacant since the hospital

scheme was cancelled.

1.2.5 Site E

Located within and beyond the northern extents of the Whitchurch Hospital campus. Previously

grazing land the fields are now populated by long grass and scrub vegetation. Site E is the

preferred option. The survey area also included options for a northern access road and

emergency access that cuts through an area of woodland as part of the Local Nature Reserve.

This site is part of a Non-Statutory Designated Site, and is adjacent a Statutory Designated Site.

1.3 Planning Context

The following policy and guidance document is considered to be relevant for the assessment

reported in this document and this is detailed below:

1.3.1 Regional Policy Context

Planning Policy Wales (PPW) sets out the land use planning policies of the Welsh Assembly

Government. It is supplemented by a series of Technical Advice Notes (TAN). The TANs along

with the Ministerial Interim Planning Policy Statements comprise national planning policy to

which local planning authorities in Wales must have regard in the preparation of development

plans. TAN 5 (2009) provides advice about how the land use planning system should contribute

to protecting and enhancing biodiversity and geological conservation.

Relevant Key Principles of Positive Planning for Nature Conservation:

● work to achieve nature conservation objectives through a partnership between local planning

authorities, Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the Environment Agency Wales, voluntary

organisations, developers, landowners and other key stakeholders;

● integrate nature conservation into all planning decisions looking for development to deliver

social, economic and environmental objectives together over time;

● ensure that the UK’s international and national obligations for site, species and habitat

protection are fully met in all planning decisions; and

● look for development to provide a net benefit for biodiversity conservation with no significant

loss of habitats or populations of species, locally or nationally.

In practical policy terms, the TAN sets out the type of actions needed to deliver biodiversity

conservation; it states:

“When considering policies and proposals in local development plans and when deciding

planning applications that may affect nature conservation, local planning authorities should:

● pay particular attention to the principles of sustainable development, including respect for

environmental limits, applying the precautionary principle, using scientific knowledge to aid

decision making and taking account of the full range of costs and benefits in a long term

perspective;

● contribute to the protection and improvement of the environment, so as to improve the

quality of life and protect local and global ecosystems, seeking to avoid irreversible harmful

effects on the natural environment;



● promote the conservation and enhancement of statutorily designated areas and

undeveloped coast;

● ensure that appropriate weight is attached to designated sites of international, national and

local importance;

● ensure that all material considerations are taken into account and decisions are informed by

adequate information about the potential effects of development on nature conservation; and

● adopt a step-wise approach to avoid harm to nature conservation, minimise unavoidable

harm by mitigation measures, offset residual harm by compensation measures and look for

new opportunities to enhance nature conservation; where there may be significant harmful

effects local planning authorities will need to be satisfied that any reasonable alternative

sites that would result in less or no harm have been fully considered.”

1.3.2 Local Policy Context

The Cardiff Local Development Plan (LDP) (2010) visions recognise economic, social,

environmental and sustainability issues. The aim of the LDP objectives to respond to the

evidenced economic and social needs but in a way that is co-ordinated respects and enhances

Cardiff’s environment and sets out a framework for delivering the sustainable neighbourhoods of

the future. This is delivering sustainable development locally: Improving the long term economic,

social and environmental wellbeing of people and communities in Cardiff. In this way, the LDP

can help create sustainable neighbourhoods that form part of a sustainable city that lies at the

heart of a sustainable city region.



2 Methodology

2.1 Field Survey

The field survey was undertaken on the 8th and 9th of June 2016 by two experienced ecologists.

The survey followed standard methodology devised by Joint Nature Conservation Committee

(JNCC) NVC Users Handbook (Rodwell, 2006). Plant species observed within each habitat type

and survey square were recorded in accordance with plant species nomenclature in (Stace,

2010).

The surveyors walked the entire survey area and identified the different areas of homogenous

vegetation present. The extents of these areas were then mapped and the location areas

subject to detailed sample were decided (see Appendix C).

Five 2 x 2m ground flora quadrat samples were marked out for each representative type of

vegetation present; in this case 4 visually different habitat swards were present. The size of the

quadrat sample was chosen based on the NVC standard methodology for short herbaceous

vegetation, where 2 x 2m is the recommended quadrat size. Five samples (or multiples of five)

were chosen as this is the lowest number of samples that can be taken to make further

calculations easy. This is explained in more detail below.

The presence and percentage cover for each plant species was then recorded within each

quadrat. The cover / abundance is a measure of the vertical projection on to the ground of the

extent of the living parts of a species. In the NVC this is estimated using the Domin Scale by

which a Domin score is attributed to different ranges of cover / abundance as summarised in

Table 1 below:

Table 1: Domin Scale

Cover Domin Score

91-100% 10

76-90% 9

51-75% 8

34-50% 7

26-33% 6

11-25% 5

4-10% 4

<4% (many individuals) 3

<4% (several individuals) 2

<4% (few individuals) 1

Source: JNCC 2006

For each survey square, results were tabulated to provide figures for cover expressed as a

Domin score, range, and constancy of occurrence across the 5 (or 10) quadrats (see Appendix

D). Photographs of the survey quadrats are listed in Appendix E. The range is given by the

Domin score of any one plant found within any of the survey squares. For example, if Yorkshire

fog (Holcus lanatus) is found in two quadrats out of the five sampled and the Domin score in

these quadrats was 6 and 7 respectively, this means that the range of this species is 6 to 7.

The term frequency is used to describe how often a species is encountered in different stands

or samples of a vegetation type, irrespective of how much of that species is present in each



stand or sample. It is summarised in floristic tables using Roman numeral I-V and referred to in

descriptions of vegetation types using the terms listed in Table 2 below:

Table 2: Vegetation Frequency Class

Frequency class

Range of frequency class Terms used to describe frequency class

I 1-20% (i.e 1 stand in 5) Scarce

II 21-40% Occasional

III 41-60% Frequent

IV 61-80% Constant

V 81-100% Constant

Source: JNCC 2006

At this stage of the classification the sample number comes into consideration. Given that five

samples have been used it is easy to calculate in which frequency class any of the species falls

into.

This information was then used on conjunction with the key in British Plant Communities

Volume 3 Grasslands and Montane Communities (1991) to assign the most closely

corresponding NVC community type based on the abundance and frequency of plant species

within each plot.

2.2 Assessment of Conservation Importance and Likely Impacts

The following are some of the criteria that are used in the assessment of the conservation value:

Designation of the site: rarity of species or habitats;

Presence of Red Data Book (RDB) species or endemic species;

Presence of diverse assemblages of plants or animals;

Plant communities typical of natural/semi-natural habitats;

Habitat diversity and connectivity;

Presence of large populations of animals which are uncommon or threatened in a wider

context; and

Presence of species listed on Section 41 of the NERC Act, 2006 and Local Biodiversity

Action Plan (LBAP) species/habitats (CIEEM, 2006).

2.3 Limitations

It must be noted that the site was visited over the period of two days, as such seasonal

variations were not observed and potentially only a selection of all species that occur within the

site will have been noted. Given that the NVC grassland survey was undertaken during the

optimum time of the year when most grassland plant species are flowering, it is considered that

the survey limitations with regards to seasonal variations apply mainly to other plant species

excluding grasses, such as orchids which would have flowered earlier in the year.



3 Results

3.1 Field Study

The results of the survey undertaken are presented below. For each plant community, a brief

description of the structure and species composition is given, along with the NVC classification.

The survey area can be described as a mixture of semi-improved species poor grassland, scrub

and bracken stands. The SINC was bordered by woodland meaning and in a few locations

immature sapling growth was noted within the grassland.

The semi-improved species poor grassland was observed at varying lengths, predominantly

around 20cm in height. However, in areas where paths had been mown and/or were regularly

walked the sward height was no greater than 5cm. This habitat was present in areas where the

gradient was principally flat with some gentle slopes. Most of this habitat was present in areas

with little to no shading.

Scrub habitat bordered the SINC boundaries and were normally associated with the tree line

boundaries and/or pathways. Several areas of scrub habitat were noted to create divides in the

field, which changed the floristic character of some of the areas. The habitat was normally

present on a gently sloping gradient and was limited by shading from the surrounding tree lines

and bracken encroachment.

Bracken stands were noted towards the northern side of SINC. These stands flanked the tree

lined boundary in more undulating areas. Some part of this habitat was marshy in the furrows.

This community was present in shaded areas with some encroachment into more sunlit areas.

Four plant communities were identified in the SINC:

● Plant community A: resembled the MG9: (Holcus lanatus - Deschampsia cespitosa

grasslands)

● Plant community B: resembles the MG1: (Arrhenatherum elatius grassland)

● Plant community C: resembles the W22: (Prunus spinosa - Rubus fruticosus scrub)

● Plant community D: resembles the W25: (Pteridium aquilinum - Rubus fruticosus scrub)







3.2 Plant Community A (Quadrats 1 – 5)

Figure 1: Plant Community A (MG9)

Source: J.Stephenson 2016

The large grassland area toward the Whitchurch hospital side of the SINC resembles MG9:

Holcus lanatus – Deschampsia cespitosa. This community is one of the mesotrophic grassland

communities in the British National Vegetation Classification system. It is one of three

communities associated with poorly drained permanent pastures.

This habitat covers approximately 4ha in size (See Appendix D.1, Table 4). This vegetation

association is present in areas of flat gradient and with little to no shading. This habitat is

irregularly disturbed by walkers and dogs moving throughout the area. There was no evidence

of a regular cutting or grazing strategy within the SINC.

The sward is generally rank and coarse and includes constant Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus),

red fescue (Festuca rubra), sweet vernal-grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum) and perianal rye

grass (Lolium perenne). Occasional grasses include meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis),

annual meadow grass (Poa annua) and cocksfoot grass (Dactylis glomerata), with rare grass

species comprising of meadow foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis) and creeping bent (Agrostis

stolonifera).

The forbs composition closely resembles the NVC MG1 community, containing creeping thistle

(Cirsium arvense) and common sorrel (Rumex acetosa), with frequent bird foot trefoil (Lotus

corniculatus). Occasional stands of creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens), field speedwell

(Veronica persica), lesser stitchwort (Stellaria graminea), meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris)

and rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium). Rare species included bramble (Rubus

fruticosus), cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) and

nettle (Urtica dioica).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesotrophic_grasslands_in_the_British_National_Vegetation_Classification_system

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminology_used_in_connection_with_the_British_National_Vegetation_Classification

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_National_Vegetation_Classification



3.3 Plant community B (Quadrats 6 – 10)

Figure 2: Plant Community B (MG1)


A smaller area of grassland was present towards to the north side of the SINC, which

resembled MG1 (Arrhenatherum elatius grassland). This community is one of the mesotrophic

grassland communities in the NVC system. It is a very widespread community throughout the

British lowlands of England, Wales and southern and eastern Scotland.

This habitat covers approximately 2ha of the SINC (See Appendix D.2, Table 5). This

community was located on flat or gently sloping gradients. Although predominantly situated in

full sun, some areas were shaded by encroaching scrub and bracken habitats as well as

immature trees. This habitat, like MG9, was noted to be regularly disturbed by walkers and dogs

with no signs of routine management through mowing or grazing.

The sward species were mostly rank and course, this includes constant false oat grass

(Arrhenatherum elatius), cocksfoot grass and annual meadow grass. Frequent species included

red fescue and sweet vernal-grass. Occasional stands of Yorkshire fog with rare grass species

included meadow fox tail.

The herbaceous species included common sorrel with frequent species comprising of ribwort

plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and birds foot trefoil. Occasional species include cow parsley,

rosebay willowherb, creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens), meadow buttercup, cleavers

(Galium aparine) and lesser stitchwort (Stellaria graminea). Rare species included ragwort

(Jacobaea vulgaris), yellow rattle (Rhinanthus minor), bracken (Pteridium aquilinum), creeping

thistle, pignut (Conopodium majus), colts foot (Tussilago farfara) and common dandelion

(Taraxacum officinale).





https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminology_used_in_connection_with_the_British_National_Vegetation_Classification

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tees-Exe_line

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottish_Lowlands



3.4 Plan community C (Quadrat 11-15)

Figure 3: Plant Community C (W22)


Flanking the majority of the SINC were large areas which resemble the W22: (Prunus spinosa -

Rubus fruticosus scrub). This assemblage is a scrub and/or understorey community normally

associated with tree lines and/or woodlands. It is a very widespread community throughout the

British Isles.

This habitat covers the approximately 1ha of the SINC (see Appendix D.3, Table 6). It is located

along the boundary lines and associated pathways. The community does receive some sunlight,

however most of the plant species are shaded by neighbouring trees.

Bramble and creeping thistle were the constant species, together with frequent stands of ribwort

plantain, rose bay willow herb and annual meadow grass. Occasional species included

cocksfoot grass, red fescue, creeping buttercup, false oat grass and nettle. Rare species

comprised of cow parsley, Yorkshire fog, colts foot and common dandelion.





3.5 Plant community D (Quadrats 16-20)

Figure 4: Plant Community D (W25)

Source: J. Stephenson 2016

Along the Northern side of the SINC, neighbouring the MG1 community was an area of W25:

(Pterium aquilinum – Rubus fruticosus scrub). This assemblage was present on undulating

ground with large areas of shading from neighbouring trees.

This habitat only covered a relativity small area of SINC, less than 1ha (see Appendix D.4 Table

7). It surrounds the northern side of SINC in areas of undulating gradient, which were nearly

permanently shaded. This area showed signs of disturbance with an occasional pathway

through. No grazing or other forms of management were present in this area.

The constant species was bracken with frequent stands of bramble. Occasional stands of

cocksfoot grass, cleavers, ribwort plantain, rosebay willowherb and creeping thistle. Rare

species included common sorrel, red fescue, creeping buttercup, false oat grass, Yorkshire fog,

dandelion, Himalayan balsam and marsh woundwort (Stachys palustris).

3.6 Assessment of Conservation Importance

The grassland habitats at Whitchurch Green Fields SINC can be described as mesotrophic

grassland in the form of two different communities; MG9: (Holcus lanatus - Deschampsia

cespitosa grasslands) and MG1: (Arrhenatherum elatius grassland).

Both plant communities A and B (see Appendix C) can be described as coarse, unmanaged

grassland. The relative abundance of common bird foot trefoil and common sorrel, as well as

the fact that lowland meadow is considered a priority habitat under the Cardiff Council BAP,

allows this habitat to be described as having a moderate (district) conservation value.

Plant community C: W22: (Prunus spinosa - Rubus fruticosus scrub) can be classed as scrub

habitat. The presence of abundant bramble with limited other floral species means that this

habitat can be described as being of very low (local) conservation value.

Plant community D: W25: (Pteridium aquilinum - Rubus fruticosus scrub) can be classed as

continuous stands of bracken habitat. The present of large abundant stands of bracken with

limited other floral communities means that this habitat can be described as being of very low







(local) conservation value. Where possible this habitat should be removed from the SINC,

through careful management.

3.7 Assessment of Likely Impacts

Under the current proposal impacts on the identified plant communities within the SINC will be

certain as there will be a permanent loss of habitat under the current proposed footprint. A large

area of the MG9 grassland will be lost and replaced with a new hospital building and associated

infrastructure. There would also be temporary loss of habitat under the footprint of any

temporary work areas as construction compounds and/or material storage areas. As habitats of

distinct conservation importance of the plant communities A and B were identified during the

survey, this impact is considered to be significant at a local level.

Table 3: NVC Plant communities of Whitchurch Green Fields and associated values.

NVC Community Value Description

MG9 District Species rich habitat that appreciably enriches the local habitat resource.

MG1 District Species rich habitat that appreciably enriches the local habitat resource.

W22 Local Species composition that appreciably enriches the local habitat resource.

W25 Local Species composition that appreciably enriches the local habitat resource.



4 Mitigation and Recommendations

4.1 Mitigation

Sensitive management of the SINC in terms of replacement or enhancement must be

implemented, pre, during and post development. These areas will be cleared during the

development and habitat loss will need to be offset. Without mitigation, negative residual

environmental impacts will occur due to the loss of habitat and associated species.

4.1.1 Enhancement

Under the NERC Act 2006, public authorities have a duty to conserve biodiversity. The act

states that:

‘Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regards, as far as is consistent with

the proper exercise of those functions, to the propose of conserving biodiversity’.

Therefore, in order to ensure Velindre Cancer Centre fulfils its duty under the Act, whilst at the

same time maximise the likelihood of gaining consent the enhancement measures below are

recommended:

● Producing a landscaping plan for the SINC which aims to increase grassland native species

diversity similar to already described would represent an enhancement; and

● Any grass re-seeding required should use a species rich mix suitable for the local soil

conditions in order to increase plant diversity within the SINC.

Enhancement of grassland habitats and increasing diversity would also create benefit for other

species including known reptile populations, birds and bats.

4.1.2 Protecting retaining habitat

Measure to reduce impacts include:

● Avoid laying stone for any temporary areas on the grassland – instead use metal or plastic

‘Durabase’ track way type panels, which spread vehicle load weight and reduces soil

compactions, this would need to be designed with reptile fencing to reduce impact on the

known local reptile population;

● Clearly demark the work area to ensure any grassland outside the required working area

remains undisturbed;

● Ensure safe storage of materials and chemicals, for example fuel; and

● Ensure all plant carry spill kits or wear plant nappies.

4.1.3 Replacement of lost habitat

During the NVC survey some areas were found to be of district value (MG1 and MG9, which

comprises of approximately 5ha of the site). Mitigation should be implemented for these areas.

To mitigate for this loss, replacement habitat should be created elsewhere. This could be done

either by:

● Introduce similar management strategies of an equivalent area of distinct value, within the

site or close-by;



● Introduce a sowing regime of species lost due to the development (especially wild flowers).

The seeds should have the same composition and be from local provenance. This should be

undertaken within similar grassland habitat, in the local vicinity;

● If the mowing regime cannot be altered in any areas of the site, off-site habitat

creation/management should be considered; and

● Remove bracken stands and re-seed with complimentary grassland species.

It is understood that the results of this survey will be incorporated into an overarching plan for

the Velindre Cancer Centre project, which will provide off-site mitigation areas (if required) for

habitats and species where required across the whole scheme.

4.1.4 Landscaping

Any landscaping scheme developed for the SINC should consider the soil type, the habitats

which have been lost and should aim to create new species rich habitats using native plants

appropriate for the area.

The northern side of the SINC has an undulating topography which has allowed large stands of

bracken to colonise the area. The proposed design should encourage the levelling out of these

areas and the removal of trees which provide shading to allow grassland to re-establish in these

areas. The removal of the large bracken stands would facilitate more grassland areas.



5 References

CARDIFF COUNCIL (2010). Local Development Plan 2006 – 2026 Vision and Objectives.

Available: URL https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Planning/Local-Development-

Plan/Documents/Vision%20and%20Objectives%20Report.pdf. Last accessed 8 February 2017.

DEPARTMENT FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (2012). National Planning

Policy Framework. Available: URL

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pd

f. Last accessed 8 February 2017.

PLANNING POLICY WALES (2009). Technical Advice Note 5: Nature Conservation and

Planning Welsh Assembly Government. Cardiff, The Publications Centre.

RODWELL, J.S. (2006). National Vegetation Classification User’s Handbook. Peterborough,

Joint Nature Conservation Committee.

RODWELL, J.S. (1991). British Plant Communities Volume 3: Grasslands and Montane

Communities. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

STACE, C. (2010). New Flora of the British Isles; 3rd ed. Cambridge, Cambridge University

Press.

https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Planning/Local-Development-Plan/Documents/Vision%20and%20Objectives%20Report.pdf

https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Planning/Local-Development-Plan/Documents/Vision%20and%20Objectives%20Report.pdf

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf



Appendices

A. SINC citation 17

B. Site Options 20

C. Habitat Survey Map 22

D. Plant Community Tables 24

E. Photographs 28



A. SINC citation

Whitchurch/Tongwynlais

ST141808

7.84

H4 Neutral Grassland

Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)

Ward:

Grid Reference:

Area:

Reason for SINC selection:

For further information please contact:Biodiversity@cardiff .gov.uk or seewww.cardiff .gov.uk/biodiversity

Whitchurch Green Fields

About the Whitchurch Green Fields SINC

Site description:

An area of semi-improved neutral grassland in Whitchurch, bounded on three sides by the Glamorgan Canal Local Nature Reserve, and to the south by the grounds of the Whitchurch Hospital. The field was formerly horse-grazed, and supports a rather patchy mix of sward heights and species composition, fringed by Brambles. The long grass areas typically include Cock’s-foot and Yorkshire Fog, while the shorter swards comprise mainly Common Bent, Red Fescue and Sweet Vernal-grass. Ribwort Plantain and Creeping Buttercup are the most prominent herbs. Eyebright, Lesser Stitchwort, Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil and Yellow Rattle occur sparsely through the finer-leaved grass areas. There are local patches of tall herb vegetation including Broad-leaved Dock, Nettle and Spear Thistle. Several small ant-hills are present, mainly near to the sunny margins. Bracken is locally abundant around some of the margins and there are several patches of very dense Bramble in the north of the site. There is a network of informal paths through the field, with short vegetation usually in the vicinity of the paths.

Species recorded at this site leading to SINC selection:

Barren Strawberry, Bluebell, Burnet-saxifrage, Cat’s-ear, Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil, Common Centaury, Common Dog-violet, Common Hemp-nettle, Common Sorrel, Common Spotted Orchid, Common Twayblade, Dog's Mercury, Eyebright, Field Maple, Field Scabious, Field Wood-rush, Giant Fescue, Goldenrod, Greater Knapweed, Guelder-rose, Hairy Brome, Hairy Wood-rush, Hard Fern, Hoary Ragwort, Lesser Stitchwort, Marsh Cudweed, Oxeye Daisy, Perforate St. John’s-wort, Pignut, Primrose, Ramsons, Red Clover, Rough Hawkbit, Sanicle, Scaly Male Fern, Smooth Hawk’s-beard, Soft Shield Fern, Spindle, Toothwort, Tufted Vetch, Tutsan, Wild Carrot, Wild Service-tree, Wood Anemone, Wood Melick, Wood Speedwell, Wood-sedge, Wych Elm, Yellow Archangel, Yellow Rattle, Yew

Protected and priority species recorded:

Bullfinch, Common Frog, Green Woodpecker, Long-Winged Conehead, Redshank, Song Thrush

Priority habitat:

Lowland meadow

Recommendations for management of the site:

GRASSLAND: Grazing is an ideal management technique, especially with cattle which provide a varied vegetation height and areas of bare ground. Sheep can also be used, however they should be introduced later in the season to graze on flower heads and herbs. Grazing and mowing keeps grass short, which is ideal for grassland fungi such as waxcaps. The level of grazing should be considered carefully as overgrazing could lead to increased amount of bare ground, the spread of weeds and nutrient enrichment, whereas undergrazing which can lead to scrub encroachment of bracken and invasive species. However, some scrub is welcome in order to benefit birds and insects. Furthermore, grazing when the ground is wet should be avoided as hooves will churn up the ground. Where land is mown, removing grass cuttings also avoids nutrient enrichment of the soil. Chemicals such as fertilisers or moss killers can damage or kill grassland fungi, and should be avoided. In marshy areas, grazing or mowing between April and June when ground-nesting wading birds are nesting should be avoided.

This area has been designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation by Cardiff Council. This does not formally protect the site or place any restrictions upon the landowner. This information given is used to ensure that nature conservation is taken into account in planning decisions. This designation itself does not confer any rights of access to the site and

Please note:



B. Site Options

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Rev Date Drawn Description Ch'k'd App'dFitzalan HouseFitzalan RoadCardiffCF24 0ELT +44 (0)2920 467800F +44 (0)2920 467801W mottmac.com

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Velindre Cancer Hospital Site Options Map

Client

Title

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J BrownC Houlker

J Wu

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J BrownJ Brown

M PhillipsScale at A3 Status Rev Security

INF P1 STD1:5,000

Notes

Key to Symbols

Location Map

Drawing Number364561-MMD-00-XX-DR-C-0128

© Mott MacDonald Ltd.This document is issued for the party which commissioned it and for specific purposes connected with the captioned project only. It should not be relied upon by any other party or used for any other purpose.We accept no responsibility for the consequences of this document being relied upon by any other party, or being used for any other purpose, or containing any error or omission which is due to an error or omission in data supplied to us by other parties. 0 100 200 300

Metres

[

© Crown copyright and database rights [2015]Ordnance Survey 100022432© Crown copyright and database rights [2016]Ordnance Survey 0100031673P1 16/02/17 CH For Information JJB MP

Site extentAccess optionsSite ASite BSite CSite DSite E

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AB

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C. Habitat Survey Map

D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D














































































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P:\Cardiff\MNS\Projects\364561 - Velindre Geo Enviro\Drawings\5 GIS\MXD\MMD-364561-EN-DR-00-XX-0114.mxd

Rev Date Drawn Description Ch'k'd App'dFitzalan HouseFitzalan RoadCardiffCF24 0ELT +44 (0)2920 467800F +44 (0)2920 467801W mottmac.com

The Placeholder text for ClientName and Address, LogosAlso go in this box

Velindre Cancer HospitalNVC Habitat Survey Map

Client

Title

DesignedDrawnGIS Check

J StephensonJ Stephenson

J Wu

Eng CheckCoordinationApproved

J BatesJ Brown

M PhillipsScale at A3 Status Rev Security

INF P1 STD1:2,000

Notes

Key to Symbols

Location Map

Drawing NumberMMD-364561-EN-DR-00-XX-0114

© Mott MacDonald Ltd.This document is issued for the party which commissioned it and for specific purposes connected with the captioned project only. It should not be relied upon by any other party or used for any other purpose.We accept no responsibility for the consequences of this document being relied upon by any other party, or being used for any other purpose, or containing any error or omission which is due to an error or omission in data supplied to us by other parties. 0 50 100 150 200

Metres

[

© Crown copyright and database rights [2015]Ordnance Survey 100022432© Crown copyright and database rights [2016]Ordnance Survey 0100031673P1 25/01/17 JS For Information JB MP

SINC boundaryW22: Prunus spinosa - Rubus fruticosusW25: Pteridium aquilinum - Rubusfruticosus

D D

D D

D D

D D

D D D

D D DD D D

D D DMG9 - Holcus Ianatus - Deschampsiacespitosa grasslandMG1 - Arrhenatherum elatius grassland

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D. Plant Community Tables

D.1 Plant Community A

Table 4: Plant Community A

Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5

Constancy value

Yorkshire fog

Holcus lanatus

8 7 6 7 8 V

Sweet vernal grass

Anthoxanthum odoratum

7 6 7 7 6 IV

Red fescue

Festuca rubra

8 7 7 7 IV

Creeping thistle

Cirsium arvense

6 7 7 7 IV

Common sorrel

Rumex acetosa

7 7 5 7 IV

Perianal rye grass

Lolium perenne

7 7 IV

Annual meadow grass

Poa annua 8 5 5 II

Bramble Rubus fruticosus

1 1 5 I

Cow parsley

Anthriscus sylvestris

1 I

Creeping buttercup

Ranunculus repens

4 7 II

Cocksfoot grass

Dactylis glomerata

6 5 6 II

Ribwort plantain

Plantago lanceolata

7 7 7 III

Meadow fescue

Festuca pratensis

5 II

Bird’s foot trefoil

Lotus corniculatus

9 7 III

Rosebay willowherb

Chamerion angustifolium

4 6 6 II

Cleavers Galium aparine

1 4 4 I

Himalayan balsam

Impatiens glandulifera

4 I

Meadow buttercup

Ranunculus acris

5 II

Lesser stichwort

Stellaria graminea

6 II

Creeping bent

Agrostis stolonifera

4 I

Meadow foxtail

Alopecurus pratensis

4 I

Field speedwell

Veronica persica

9 V



Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5

Constancy value

Nettle Urtica dioica 5 II

Purple Dead head nettle

Lamium purpureum

4 I

D.2 Plant Community B

Table 5: Plant Community B

Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5

Constancy value

Cocksfoot grass

Dactylis glomerata

8 8 9 8 8 V

Common sorrel

Rumex acetosa

8 8 7 8 - IV

Ribwort plantain

Plantago lanceolata

8 7 - 7 - III

Red fescue

Festuca rubra 7 - 6 6 7 III

Ragwort Jacobaea vulgaris

5 4 - 3 4 I

Yellow rattle

Rhinanthus minor

4 4 4 4 4 I

Cow parsley


5 - 5 5 5 II

Rosebay willowherb


5 - 5 5 5 II

Bird’s foot trefoil

Lotus corniculatus

7 7 7 7 7 III

Creeping buttercup

Ranunculus repens

5 5 5 - - II

Meadow buttercup

Ranunculus acris

5 5 5 5 II

Cleavers Galium aparine 4 4 7 - 4 II

Lesser stitchwort

Stellaria graminea

6 4 - 4 4 II

Bracken Pteridium aquilinum

4 - - - - I

Annual meadow grass

Poa annua - 9 7 7 7 IV

Creeping thistle

Cirsium arvense

4 - 4 4 4 I

Creeping bent

Agrostis stolonifera

- 5 4 5 5 II

Sweet vernal grass

Anthoxanthum odoratum

- 7 - 7 7 III

False oat grass

Arrhenatherum elatius

8 8 8 8 8 IV

Pignut Conopodium majus

5 5 4 - 3 I

Yorkshire fog

Holcus lanatus 6 5 6 6 6 III



Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5

Constancy value

Colts foot Tussilago farfara

- - 4 4 4 I

Common Dandelion

Taraxacum officinale

- - 4 4 4 I

Meadow foxtail

Alopecurus pratensis

4 - 5 4 - I

D.3 Plant Community C

Table 6: Plant Community C

Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5

Constancy value


8 9 8 9 9 V

Cocksfoot grass

Dactylis glomerata

6 6 7 6 6 II

Ribwort plantain

Plantago lanceolata

7 7 8 7 8 III

Red fescue

Festuca rubra 6 6 6 6 5 II

Cow parsley


4 4 4 4 4 I

Rose bay willow herb


6 6 7 7 7 III

Creeping buttercup

Ranunculus repens

5 5 5 5 6 II

Annual meadow grass

Poa annua 7 7 6 6 6 III

Creeping thistle

Cirsium arvense

7 7 8 8 8 IV

False oat grass


5 5 5 5 5 II

Yorkshire fog

Holcus lanatus 4 5 5 4 4 I

Colts foot Tussilago farfara

3 3 4 4 4 I

Common Dandelion


3 3 3 4 4 I

Nettle Urtica dioica 5 5 6 6 6 II

D.4 Plant Community D

Table 7: Plant Community D

Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5 Constancy value

Bracken Pteridium aquilinum

8 9 9 8 9 V


6 7 8 7 6 III



Common name

Scientific name

Quadrat 1

Quadrat 2

Quadrat 3

Quadrat 4

Quadrat 5 Constancy value

Cocksfoot grass

Dactylis glomerata

5 5 5 4 5 II

Common sorrel

Rumex acetosa

5 5 4 4 4 I

cleavers Galium aparine

6 6 5 5 5 II

Ribwort plantain

Plantago lanceolata

5 5 6 6 5 II

Red fescue

Festuca rubra 4 4 4 4 4 I

Rosebay willowherb


5 5 5 5 5 II

Creeping buttercup

Ranunculus repens

4 4 4 4 4 I

Creeping thistle

Cirsium arvense

5 5 5 5 5 II

False oat grass


4 4 4 4 4 I

Yorkshire fog

Holcus lanatus 4 4 4 4 4 I

Common Dandelion


3 3 3 4 4 I

Himalayan Balsam

Impatiens glandulifera

4 4 3 3 3 I

Marsh Woundwort

Stachys palustris

3 3 6 7 3 I

Nettle Urtica dioica 5 5 6 6 6 II



E. Photographs

Table 8: NVC quadrats

Quadrat Number Habitat Plate

1 -

2

3

4




5

6

7

8

9




10

11

12

13

14




15

16



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