ARRIVA BUS DEPOT, WATFORD - Biodiversity Net Gain Report
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
FAIRVIEW ESTATES (HOUSING) LTD
ARRIVA BUS DEPOT,
WATFORD
Biodiversity Net Gain Report
April 2021
9716.BNGreport.vf
COPYRIGHT
The copyright of this document
remains with Ecology Solutions
The contents of this document
therefore must not be copied or
reproduced in whole or in part
for any purpose without the
written consent of Ecology Solutions.CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION 1
2 BIODIVERSITY METRIC 2.0 2
3 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF METRIC 3
4 EVALUATION 7
5 POLICY CONTEXT 10
6 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 13
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 Cameo and Partners design studio Landscape Master Plan –
Dwg No. C0089 L100
APPENDIX 2 Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric 2.0Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background & Proposals
1.1.1. Ecology Solutions was commissioned in March 2021 by Fairview Estates
(Housing) Ltd to undertake a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment of Arriva
Bus Depot in Watford.
1.1.2. The proposals for the site comprise a new residential development with
associated infrastructure and landscaping.
1.1.3. The site was most recently surveyed in March 2021 based on extended
Phase 1 survey methodology1, as recommended by Natural England,
whereby the habitat types present are identified and mapped, together
with an assessment of the species composition of each habitat. This
technique provides an inventory of the basic habitat types present and
allows identification of areas of greater potential which require further
survey. Any such areas identified can then be examined in more detail.
1.2. Site Characteristics
1.2.1. The site is situated in a largely urban area and is approximately 1.2 ha in
size . It is adjacent to Garston Park, which is located to the north, with St
Albans Road located adjacent to the western boundary of the site. The
southern and eastern boundaries are adjacent to industrial and residential
development with associated hardstanding, infrastructure, and gardens.
1.2.2. The site comprises predominately buildings and hardstanding. A small
area of amenity grassland, trees and introduced shrubs are present along
the western boundary, while areas of scrub have established along the
northern, eastern and southern boundaries.
1.3. Biodiversity Net Gain Report
1.3.1. This document assesses the level of Biodiversity Net Gain within the site.
This report has been prepared with due consideration to the guidance
published by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental
Management (CIEEM)2,3 in relation to Biodiversity Net Gain. This
assessment has been primarily based around the results of the 2021
habitat surveys.
1 Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – a Technique for
Environmental Audit. England Field Unit, Nature Conservancy Council, reprinted JNCC, Peterborough.
2 CIEEM (2019). Biodiversity Net Gain. Good Practice Principles for Development, A practical Guide
3 CIEEM, CIRIA, IEMA (2016). Biodiversity Net Gain: Good Practice Principles for Development
1Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
2. BIODIVERSITY METRIC 2.0
2.1. The Biodiversity Metric 2.0 uses habitat features as a proxy measure for
capturing the value and importance of nature. It uses calculations to assess the
importance of each habitat based on its size, ecological condition, location and
its connectivity.
2.2. Methodology
2.2.1. Measurements for habitats for pre and post-development were calculated
using AutoCAD. Information regarding the habitats currently present
within the site, as well as their condition, were based on survey information
obtained in March 2021 and supported by previous survey information
undertaken in 2019. The Biodiversity Technical Supplement4 as well as
professional judgement was used to inform the habitats condition criteria.
As per current guidelines the connectivity score has been set to low for all
habitat types.
2.2.2. Measurements for the proposed landscaping, including the planting
schedules, were provided by Cameo and Partners design studio
Landscape Master Plan (see Appendix 1).
4 Natural England (2019). The Biodiversity Metric 2.0, Auditing and Accounting for Biodiversity, Technical
Supplement, Beta Edition, Natural England Joint Publication JP029
2Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF METRIC
3.1. This section should be read in conjunction with the Biodiversity Metric calculation
tool which is provided in Appendix 2.
3.2. Baseline Habitat (Pre-Development)
3.2.1. Table 3.1 below summarises the habitats present on site. The information
included within this table is based on information gathered during the
Phase 1 habitat survey undertaken by Ecology Solutions in March 2021
and supported by previous surveys in 2019 where necessary.
3.2.2. Overall, the habitat base line biodiversity value is 0.30 units. This is largely
due to the significant amount of hardstanding and buildings, which are
attributed 0 biodiversity units. Similarly, no hedgerows are present within
the site, therefore the baseline value for hedgerow units is 0.
Baseline
Baseline
Biodiversity Ecological Features Impact After works
habitat
Units
Urban – 0.02 Intensively managed amenity The proposed 0.02 units lost
Amenity grassland is present along the redevelopment will
Grassland western boundary of the site. result in all of the
amenity grassland.
Urban - 0 Large areas of the site comprise The existing buildings N/A
Developed hardstanding, formed of the old and hardstanding will
land; infrastructure of the previous be removed as a result
sealed development, and buildings. These of the redevelopment
surface areas are largely devoid of of the site.
vegetation, other than through
occasional cracks at the margins and
where low numbers of recolonising
species are starting to establish.
Heathland 0.04 Scrub has established along the The proposed 0.04 units lost.
and shrub southern, eastern and northern redevelopment will
– Bramble boundaries of the site. This habitat is result in all of the
scrub dominated by Bramble and is amenity grassland.
considered to be of poor condition
and contains several undesirable
species such as Common Nettle
Urtica dioica and Creeping Thistle
Cirsium arvense.
Urban – 0.01 Introduced shrubs are present The proposed 0.01 units lost.
Introduced alongside the amenity grassland development will result
scrub along the western boundary. in all of the amenity
Introduced as part of previous grassland.
landscaping scheme.
Urban – 0.01 A small number of trees are present The proposed 0.01 units lost.
Street within the site, predominately located development will result
trees along the western boundary of the in the loss of these
site. trees.
Table 3.1. Summary of Baseline Habitats
3Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
3.3. Post-Development
3.3.1. Table 3.2 below summarises the habitats that will be present on-site post-
development. The information included within this table is based on
information and plan provided (see Appendix 1). Owing to the lack of
finalised landscaping details, such as landscape planting palettes, certain
assumptions have been made regards to habitats that are to be provided.
These assumptions are based on discussions with the landscape architect
and design team and consist of the following:
• Native hedgerow to be established along the boundaries of the site
to enhance green infrastructure on site;
• Non-native hedgerows comprising more ornamental species to be
dominant within the built form of the redevelopment;
• New tree planting to include native fruit bearing species;
• Shrubs located along the boundaries of the site will consist of
native scrub species;
• Shrubs and perennials located within the built form of the site will
comprise predominately ornamental species; and
• Wildflower grassland will consist of a native species-rich wildflower
meadow seed mix.
3.3.2. Owing to a lack of finalised landscaping details with regards to landscaping
palettes, a conservative approach to the targeted conditions has been
applied to the pre-development habitats (see Appendix 2 for targeted
conditions).
Newly Biodiversity
Created Units Ecological Features Delivering Net Gain
Habitat Delivered
Newly Created Habitats
Urban - 0.29 Amenity grassland mixes to be sown The species present in the seed mix
Amenity directly into cultivated low fertility will attract a range of invertebrate
grassland subsoil. species, which in turn will provide
foraging resources to bats and birds.
Amenity grassland, alongside other
planting, will establish a green
corridor running through the centre
of the site.
Grassland - 0.06 Native wildflower mixes to be sown The new wildflower grassland will
Other directly into cultivated low fertility provide greater floristic diversity
neutral subsoil. Area will be cut twice a year in than is currently present on site.
grassland March / April and September / October
with all cuttings removed to reduce soil Management will ensure that the
fertility and encourage floral diversity. diversity of the grassland is
maintained long term and will
ensure that undesirable species do
not become dominant. The species
present in the seed mix will attract a
range of invertebrate species, which
in turn will provide foraging
resources to bats and birds.
Heathland 0.11 Native shrubs will be planted around The scrub will be subject to
and shrub - the western and northern boundaries of management to ensure that it meets
the site. and maintains the desired condition.
4Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
Newly Biodiversity
Created Units Ecological Features Delivering Net Gain
Habitat Delivered
Mixed The habitat will provide nesting and
scrub foraging opportunities for birds and
a range of other wildlife and will
enhance the green infrastructure
running through the site enhancing
connectivity to the neighbouring
Garston Park.
Urban - 0.22 A number of ornamental shrubs and The shrubs will be subject to
Introduced perennial planting will be established management to ensure that it meets
shrub as part of the landscaping scheme and and maintains the desired condition.
will be focussed along the northern The habitat will provide some
boundary of the site. nesting and foraging opportunities
for birds, as well as offer nectar
resources for invertebrates.
Urban - 0.23 A diverse mix of native trees and non- The trees will be planted across the
Street Tree native will be planted throughout the site and will provide net gains in the
development. number of trees opportunities for
nesting and foraging birds. As the
trees mature, they may also develop
features such as tears and
knotholes that are commonly utilised
by roosting bats.
Urban - 0.02 New residential gardens will be New residential gardens are
Vegetated established within the eastern portion of attributed a poor condition owing to
Garden the site. the lack of control over future
management. It is expected that
some ecological benefit will be
provided by residential gardens.
Urban – 0.04 Three small allotments will be created Owing to a lack of controlled
Allotments along the eastern boundary of the site. management, allotment areas have
been given a poor condition. Areas
of allotments will have potential of
offering opportunities for
invertebrates.
Urban - 0 Includes the new buildings and N/A
Developed associated parking areas, footpaths
land; and access roads.
sealed
surface
Newly Created Hedgerows
Non-native 0 Non-native hedgerows will be planted The new non-native hedgerows will
Hedgerows predominately around new buildings provide nesting and foraging
and within the central open green opportunities for a range of birds
space. They will all comprise while also providing nectar
predominately of non-native species. resources for invertebrates.
Native 1.94 New native hedgerows will be planted New native hedgerow to bolster
Hedgerows along the southern, eastern and existing boundaries and promote
northern boundaries. these as a wildlife corridor for a
range of species, such as bats and
5Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
Newly Biodiversity
Created Units Ecological Features Delivering Net Gain
Habitat Delivered
small mammals, while also
providing nesting and foraging birds.
Table 3.2. Summary of Post-development Habitats
3.3.1. Overall, the proposed scheme will result in 0.94 habitat units showing an
increase of 0.64 biodiversity units which results in a percentage increase
of 212% for habitat units.
3.3.2. There is also a gain in linear features (i.e. hedgerows) of 1.94 hedgerow
units. No percentage change can be calculated owing to the lack of
hedgerows on site pre-development.
6Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
4. EVALUATION
4.1. The Principles of Evaluation
Biodiversity Net Gain – Good Practice Principle for Development
4.1.1. CIRIA, CIEEM and IEMA have developed principles of good practice to
achieve Biodiversity Net Gain. These principles provide a framework that
helps improve the UK’s biodiversity by contributing towards strategic
priorities to conserve and enhance nature through sustainable
development. There are ten principles in total, and all principles must be
applied together as one approach. The ten principles are set out below.
4.1.2. Principle 1. Apply Mitigation Hierarchy. Do everything possible to first
avoid and then minimise impacts on biodiversity. Only as a last resort, and
in agreement with external decision makers where possible, compensate
for losses that cannot be avoided. If compensation for losses within the
development footprint is not possible or does not generate the most
benefits for nature conservation, then offset biodiversity losses by gains
elsewhere.
4.1.3. Principle 2. Avoid losing biodiversity that cannot be offset by gains
elsewhere. Avoid impacts on irreplaceable biodiversity; these impacts
cannot be offset to achieve no net loss or net gain.
4.1.4. Principle 3. Be inclusive and equitable. Engage stakeholders early, and
involve them in designing, implementing, monitoring and evaluation the
approach to net gain. Achieve Net Gain in partnership with stakeholders
where possible and share the benefits fairly among stakeholders.
4.1.5. Principle 4. Address risks. Mitigate difficulty, uncertainty and other risks
to achieving Net Gain. Apply well accepted ways to add contingency when
calculating biodiversity losses and gains in order to account for any
remaining risks, as well as to compensate for the time between the losses
occurring and the gains being fully realised.
4.1.6. Principle 5. Make a measurable net gain contribution. Achieve a
measurable, overall gain for biodiversity and the services ecosystems
provide while directly contributing towards nature conservation priorities.
4.1.7. Principle 6. Achieve the best outcomes for biodiversity. Achieve the
best outcomes for biodiversity by using robust, credible evidence and local
knowledge to make clearly-justified choices when:
• Delivering compensation that is ecologically equivalent in type,
amount and condition, and that accounts for the location and timing
of biodiversity losses.
• Compensating for losses of one type of biodiversity by providing a
different type that delivers greater benefits for nature conservation.
• Achieving net gain locally to the development while also
contributing towards nature conservation priorities at local, regional
and national levels.
• Enhancing existing or creating new habitat.
• Enhancing ecological connectivity by creating more, bigger, better
and joined areas for biodiversity.
7Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
4.1.8. Principle 7. Be additional. Achieve nature conservation outcomes that
demonstrably exceed existing obligations (i.e. do not deliver something
that would occur anyway).
4.1.9. Principle 8. Create a net gain legacy. Ensure net gain generates long-
term benefits by:
• Engaging stakeholders and jointly agreeing practical solutions that
secure net gain in perpetuity.
• Planning for adaptive management and securing dedicated
funding for long-term management.
• Designing net gain for biodiversity to be resilient to external factors,
especially climate change.
• Mitigating risks from other land uses.
• Avoiding displacing harmful activities from one location to another.
• Supporting local-level management of net gain activities.
4.1.10. Principle 9. Optimise sustainability. Prioritise Biodiversity Net Gain and,
where possible, optimise the wider environmental benefits for a
sustainable society and economy.
4.1.11. Principle 10. Be transparent. Communicate all net gain activities in a
transparent and timely manner, sharing the learning with all stakeholders.
Lawton’s Principle
4.1.12. Principles for enhancing England’s wildlife sites were developed as part of
the Lawton Review5. Across the UK, these principles can be used to
design Biodiversity Net Gain activities to boost wildlife sites. They are:
• Improving the quality of wildlife sites;
• Increasing the size of the wildlife sites;
• Enhancing connections between, or joining up wildlife sites;
• Creating new wildlife sites; and
• Reducing pressure on wildlife sites.
4.2. Post-Development Evaluation
4.2.1. The site’s contribution to Biodiversity Net Gain has been assessed with
due regard to the principles outlined and discussed above.
4.2.2. The site delivers a net gain of 209% in habitat units (see Table 4). Owing
to the lack of hedgerows within the site pre-development no percentage
change can be calculated for hedgerow units, however post-development
units equate to 1.94 hedgerow units, resulting in a significant increase in
the amount of hedgerows being provided as part of the proposed scheme.
5Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (2010). Making Space for Nature: A Review of England’s
Wildlife Sites, DEFRA
8Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
Site Baseline Habitat Units 0.30
Hedgerow Units 0
Post-intervention Habitat units 0.94
Hedgerow Units 1.94
Total net change (%) Habitat Units 212%
Hedgerow units N/A
Table 4. Summary of Biodiversity Net Gain.
4.2.3. The high level of gain demonstrates that the proposals have incorporated
significant landscaping, thereby improving the biodiversity value of the
site. The bolstering of boundary features with predominately native
species will offer an increase in the diversity of habitats within the site,
improve green infrastructure and enhance connectivity to existing open
green space to the north of the site.
4.2.4. The site proposals deliver opportunities for bats, birds and invertebrates
through the provision of new species-rich wildflower verges, hedgerows,
trees and native and ornamental scrub, delivering significant net gains,
even against a conservative view on the targeted conditions of created
habitats.
4.2.5. In addition to the landscaping, it is recommended that a number of bat
boxes and bird boxes are incorporated into new buildings across the site
to increase nesting / roosting opportunities offering further enhancements
that are not taken account of through the Biodiversity Metric.
9Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
5. POLICY CONTEXT
5.1. The planning policy framework that relate to Biodiversity Net Gains at the site is
issued nationally through the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and
locally through the planning policies of Watford Borough Council.
5.2. On 15 October 2019, the government introduced a new Bill to Parliament; The
Environment Bill. This Bill will help ensure that England maintains and improves
its environmental protection.
5.3. National Policy
National Planning Policy Framework (February 2019)
5.3.1. Guidance on national policy for Biodiversity Net Gain is provided by the
NPPF, published in March 2012, revised on 24 July 2018 and updated on
19 February 2019. The following sections of the policy relate to Biodiversity
Net Gain:
5.3.2. Paragraph 170(d) states that planning policies and decisions should
contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by minimising
impacts on and providing net gains for biodiversity, including by
establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current
future pressures.
5.3.3. Paragraph 174(b) states that to protect and enhance biodiversity and
geodiversity, plans should promote the conservation, restoration and
enhancement of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection
and recovery of priority species; and identify and purse opportunities for
securing measurable net gains for biodiversity.
5.3.4. Paragraph 175(b) states that when determining planning application, local
planning authorities should apply the following principle; development
whose primary objective is to conserve or enhance biodiversity should be
supported; while opportunities to incorporate biodiversity improvements in
and around developments should be encouraged, especially where this
can secure measurable net gains for biodiversity.
5.4. Local Planning Policy
Watford Local Plan 2006-2031 Part 1 Core Strategy (adopted 2013)
5.4.1. Policy GI3 Biodiversity. Proposals must seek to conserve and enhance
the unique natural landscape, biodiversity and habitat in and around the
town, including the protection of County Wildlife Sites and the appropriate
management and expansion of wildlife corridors, such as along water
courses and railway lines.
5.4.2. Proposals for new development should protect, maintain and enhance the
quality of biodiversity habitat and improve access to important biodiversity
areas in Watford and the surrounding area, in particular in Key Biodiversity
Areas as identified in the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan. This
includes Whippendell Woods, Bricket Wood / Moor Mill and the Colne
Valley.
10Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
5.4.3. Development on or affecting County Wildlife Sites should be avoided. If
developments on, adjacent to, or otherwise affecting County Wildlife Sites
are permitted, adequate measures for mitigation and compensation of
adverse impacts must be secured, and enhancements for biodiversity
sought.
5.4.4. Where appropriate proposals which contribute to the following will be
favoured:
• Enhancement of County Wildlife Sites and other green infrastructure
assets, including through better management for biodiversity.
• Improved links between County Wildlife Sites and other important
ecological areas identified or endorsed by the Local Nature
Partnership, in particular within Key Biodiversity Areas, to provide
opportunities for biodiversity gain, by linking habitats to reduce
fragmentation and creating corridors allowing response to climate
change.
• Improved quality of urban areas with planting and appropriate
management regimes to improve wildlife habitats.
• Consideration of indirect impacts of development on habitats –
disturbance and pollution through light, noise or air particles.
5.4.5. The council will support the designation, management and protection of
biodiversity including national designations (SSSIs), locally important
Nature Reserves (LNRs) and County Wildlife Sites (CWS) and local
priority habitats and species as identified in the Hertfordshire Biodiversity
Action Plan.
5.4.6. National and local Biodiversity Action Plans will be supported through the
conservation and management of important species and habitats by
protecting designated sites and maximising opportunities.
Watford District Plan 2000 (2003) – saved policies
5.4.7. This plan covers the period up to 2011 and seeks to establish the
framework which planning decisions will be taken. The council continues
to have regard to the remaining saved policies of this Local Plan. Relevant
saved policies are detailed below.
5.4.8. SE36 Replacement Trees and Hedgerows. This policy states that the
council will discourage the loss of trees, especially within Green Zone
area. If the retention of existing trees in not appropriate, the council will
require replacement through planting of an equivalent and appropriate
type, within the landscape scheme for the site or in exceptional cases
elsewhere within the Borough. Any hedgerows removed to enable
development to take place mush also be replaced by planting of an
equivalent and appropriate type.
5.4.9. SE37 Protection of Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows. This policy
states that the council will seek the retention of trees, woodland and
hedgerows through the use of planning obligations or planning conditions.
In the case of trees which contribute significantly to the amenity of the area
the Council will make Tree Preservation Orders, ensuring that they are not
felled, or pruned to the detriment of the environment and ensure their
replacement should felling become necessary. Wherever appropriate, new
planting with locally native species within development sites, along site
11Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
boundaries and highway frontages as part of the development proposals
will be required.
Emerging Watford Local Plan 2018-2036 (Final Draft)
5.4.10. This plan will cover the period from 2018-2036. It is currently in its final
draft stage and is currently being prepared to be submitted for
examination. It builds upon what was previously mentioned in the 2006-
2031 local plan. With a focus on sustainability, the plan details a number
of policies in regard to ecology, biodiversity and the environment (Chapter
9).These are summarised below.
5.4.11. Policy NE9.1: The Natural Environment. Proposals will be required to
demonstrate a positive impact on Watford’s natural environment, including
achieving biodiversity net gains, creating new environmental features
where possible, protecting trees and creating native planting on new
developments.
5.4.12. Policy NE9.2: Green Infrastructure Network. Proposals will be required
to demonstrate how they will appropriately conserve, restore, expand, or
enhance the green infrastructure network, including how the site connects
with the wider network. A proposed loss or damage of non-protected trees,
woodland or hedgerows should be avoided, and if demonstrated as being
unavoidable, appropriate replacement or compensation will be required.
Native planting should be prioritised.
5.4.13. Policy NE9.3: Blue Infrastructure Network. This policy states that
development proposals in close proximity to watercourses must support
the strategic importance of Watford’s blue infrastructure network, whilst
maximising its multifunctional environmental benefits.
5.4.14. Policy NE9.8: Biodiversity. Proposals should apply the mitigation
hierarchy to avoid or mitigate harmful effects on biodiversity. Protected
sites of international, national, and local importance will be protected by
Watford Borough Council from inappropriate development based on the
importance of the designation. New development should seek to achieve
an overall net gain in biodiversity. This must be measured through the use
of the latest Natural England biodiversity metric. The biodiversity metric
should demonstrate an improvement in biodiversity units of 10% or more
from the existing baseline value of the site.
5.5. Environment Bill
5.5.1. A government statement made on 23 July 2019 outlines further details
about how the Biodiversity Net Gain requirement will be defined. The
Government proposes that the requirement will come into force after a two-
year transition period after the new Environment Bill for England receives
royal assent. The Bill has been started in the House of Commons and, ast
the time of writing, is in the report stage, giving MPs an opportunity to
consider further amendments.
12Arriva Bus Depot, Watford Ecology Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain Report 9716.BNGreport.vf
April 2021
6. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
6.1. Ecology Solutions was commissioned in March 2021 by Fairview Estates
(Housing) Ltd to undertake a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment of Arriva Bus
Depot in Watford.
6.2. The proposals for the site comprise a new residential development with
associated infrastructure and landscaping.
6.3. The site comprises predominately buildings and hardstanding. A small area of
amenity grassland, trees and introduced shrubs are present along the western
boundary, while areas of scrub have established along the northern, eastern and
southern boundaries. The current biodiversity value of the site is considered to
be limited.
6.4. Overall, when based against the Biodiversity Metric version 2.0, the site delivers
a net gain of 212% (0.94 units). In addition, hedgerow units have increased by
from 0 to 1.94 units, therefore a demonstratable net gain for linear features has
been achieved.
6.5. The landscape scheme has been designed to maximise gains to biodiversity and
provide opportunities in the form of new habitats, while also promoting green
infrastructure and providing valuable open green space for new residents. New
habitats will offer a significant increase in opportunities for wildlife, primarily for
bats, birds and invertebrates, while additional enhancements that are not
accounted for within the Biodiversity Metric, such as bat and bird boxes, have
been recommended as part of the proposed scheme.
6.6. It is considered that the development proposals will be compliant with the NPPF
and current and emerging local policy, together with emerging best practice and
legislation.
13APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 Cameo and Partners design studio Landscape Master Plan – Dwg No. C0089 L100
DISCLAIMER
1. This drawing is the property of Cameo & Partners Ltd.
2. It must not be copied or reproduced without written consent.
3. Do not scale from this drawing.
4. Check all dimensions on site before setting out.
LEGEND
Site Boundary
B
HARD ELEMENTS
PT1 - Paving Type 1.: Concrete block paving
(Roads)
Type: Marshalls Keyblock, Burnt Ochre or
similar approved
PT2 - Paving Type 2.: Concrete block paving
(Roads)
LT6 Type: Marshalls Tegula Pennant grey or similar
LT6 approved
PT3 - Paving Type 3.: Concrete block paving
(Pathways)
LT3 Type: Marshalls Keyblock Burnt Ochre, or
similar approved.
IH LT1
B
PT4 - Paving Type 4.: Concrete slabs paving
LT3 LT1
LT3 (Private amenities)
LT3
LT3 LT3
Totem
Sign
LT1 PT5 - Paving Type 5.: Permeable Concrete
block paving (Parking Areas)
Colour: Marshalls Keyblock Brindle, or similar
70.00 approved.
PT6 - Paving Type 6.: Self Binding Gravel
LT6
LT2 Colour: Buff
LT3
LT3
LT2
PT7 - Product: Blister Tactile Paving
LT2
Supplier: Tobermore or Similar Approved
LT6 Size/Colour: TBC
LT1
LT1
LT2 LT2
FT1 - Furniture Type 1.: Tree Grille
LT1 70.900
LT6
LT1
LT2
FT2 - Furniture Type 2.: Timber Bench
LT3
LT3 FT3. Furniture Type 3.: Table with chairs
LT6
Notional only. Client to confirm preferred product.
FT4 - Furniture Type 4.: Ornamental Boulders
W/D
LT2 Material: Granite
MVH R
Q350
Size: Approx:1000x1000x 500mm
LT2
CU
Supplier: TBC
LT1
LT2 FT5 - Furniture Type 5.: Children play equipment
Supplier and equipment: Varies
70.900
FT5 - Furniture Type 5. Cycle stand
Int. D/W
LT3 Product: Sheffield
W/D
MVH R
Q350
LT3
Supplier: Marshalls or Similar Approved
Size/Material: 750x750x48.3m (HxLxW)/Stainless Steel
CU
MVH R
LT6 Boundary Type 1.: Proposed Wall
Height :TBC
Q350
LT2
eLT
69.90 Finish: TBC
LT1 70.600 LT2 Step Type 1.: Stone Steps
LT1 Concrete structure with natural stone cladding
Height: TBC
Supplier: TBC
LT2
Int. D/W
PROPOSED ECOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT
LT3 LT3
B Proposed Bat Box
LT2 LT3
70.75
LT2 70.45
LT2 IH Proposed Insect Hotel
LT1
70.900 LT2
SOFT ELEMENTS
LT3
Single Stem Tree
(Avenue Trees & Feature Trees)
LT3 Single Stem Tree
(Ornamental Cherry or Ornamental Apple)
LT2
Multi-Stem Tree
type 1.
LT2
Multi-Stem Tree
LT2
type 2.
LT2
Existing Trees
Outside plot boundary.
LT6
LT1
Hedge planting
eLT
LT3
LT3
LT3
Shrub planting
LT1
71.56 LT2
Wildflower grass /
LT2
Ornamental grasses
LT2
69.30
LT3 LT2 Perennial planting
LT3
LT3
69.33
LT3
LT3 Lawn
LT1
LT2 LT2
LT1
LT1
71.46 LT1 Allotment planting
M Updated to client comments HvK 23.04.2021
L Updated to refuse comments HvK 19.04.2021
K Updated to highways comments,tracking & refuse HvK 15.04.2021
J Updated to Architects comments MM 07.04.2021
H Updated to Architects comments MM 06.04.2021
G Updated to Architects comments HvK 01.04.2021
F Updated to client comments & updated Architecture HvK 31.03.2021
E Red Pen Issue HvK 17.03.2021
A Issue for Comment HvK 24.02.2021
- Issue for Comment HvK 12.02.2021
rev details by date
nature Project Scale Date Checked By Drawn By
people
Arriva Bus Garage, Watford 1:250@A1 12.02.21 MM HvK
urban
Cameo Partners
design studio
Drawing No. Revision
north
Cargo Works - ET 5.07
1-2 Hatfields, Waterloo, London C0089 L100 M
SE1 9PG Drawing Purpose of Issue.
Company Registered No: 8756613.
m0 5 10 15 20 25 For comments
T : 0203 1760 130 Scale Landscape Masterplan D = design information / P = planning / T = tender / C = construction / B = as built
E : info@cameoandpartners.com 1:250 Drawing sheet size - A1 © Cameo & PartnersAPPENDIX 2 Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric 2.0
Appendix 2: Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric 2.0 – Headline Results
Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric 2.0 – Site Baseline Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric 2.0 – Habitat Creation
Natural England’s Biodiversity Metric 2.0 – Hedge Creation
Part of the ES Group
Ecology Solutions Limited Cokenach Estate Barkway Royston Hertfordshire SG8 8DL
01763 848084 east@ecologysolutions.co.uk www.ecologysolutions.co.uk
e c o l o g y s o l u t i o n s f o r p l a n n e r s a n d d e v e l o p e r sYou can also read
