GATWICK AIRPORT BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN - Land East of the Railway Line and the North West Zone 2018-2023 - Crawley Borough Council
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GATWICK AIRPORT BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN Land East of the Railway Line and the North West Zone 2018-2023 Rachel Bicker, Biodiversity consultant
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 3
INTRODUCTION 3
BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT DRIVERS 4
BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN TABLE 5
OBJECTIVE 1: WOODLANDS 5
OBJECTIVE 2: GRASSLANDS 9
OBJECTIVE 3: SCRUB AND HEDGEROW 12
OBJECTIVE 4: WETLANDS 13
OBJECTIVE 5: ECOLOGICAL DATA 16
SPECIES MONITORING METHODOLOGIES 18
APPENDIX I – BIODIVERSITY AERIAL MAPS 22
APPENDIX II – BIODIVERSITY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 25
APPENDIX III – BIODIVERSITY RELEVANT LEGISLATION 32
2
INTRODUCTION
Gatwick Airport is situated in a largely rural area between the towns of Crawley and Horley, on the
county borders of Sussex and Surrey. It is connected to the wider landscape through a patchwork of
agricultural and grazing land. Several sites of biodiversity importance at International (European) level
are located within 15km of the airport, including Ashdown Forest Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
and Special Protection Area (SPA), and the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC. There are four Sites
of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), five Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and 46 non-statutory sites (Sites
of Nature Conservation Interest [SNCIs]), within 5km Gatwick, with Horleyland Wood SNCI being the
only one found within Gatwick’s estate boundary.
The action plans cover two areas totalling 75 hectares: The North West Zone (NWZ) is located
adjacent to runway, consisting of ancient woodland, the River Mole, floodplain meadow old
hedgerows and scrub mosaic. The Land East of the Railway Line (LERL) is located to the south-east of
the airfield, adjacent to the Brighton mainline railway. It contains the Gatwick Stream, large open
grasslands, interconnected ancient woodlands and woodland ponds (see Appendix I for maps of these
areas).
The biodiversity sites consist of a mosaic of habitats that are mostly very wet in nature, due to the
underlying geology of Weald Clay. Ancient woodlands found on site at Gatwick are Brockley Wood,
Lower Picketts Wood and the SNCI Horleyland Wood. Full site descriptions and initial assessments of
these habitats can be found within the two Biodiversity Action Plans ‘North West Zone’ and ‘Land East
of the Railway Land’.
In 2012, Gatwick Airport Ltd established a five-year management plan to maintain and enhance the
biodiversity value of the NWZ and LERL. The BAPs provide a framework for ensuring compliance with
the regulatory environmental obligation ISO14001, planning obligation S106 and Gatwick’s
sustainability commitments, leading to consistent wildlife monitoring and good quality habitat
management on site.
The new Gatwick Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) has been developed with reference to the previous
BAPs (for the period of 2012-2017), with the input of the Five Year Review, the Sussex Wildlife Trust’s
Gatwick Greenspace Partnership and various consultant ecologists. This new plan will address any
issues that were identified in the previous Biodiversity Action Plans Five Year Review and will continue
to provide the framework for biodiversity management at the airport.
A critical part of the biodiversity programme at the airport is ensuring that no works result in the
potential for increasing risk of wildlife hazards, such as bird strikes. All biodiversity works are
conducted within the requirements of aerodrome safety compliance, including ICAO Annex 14, EASA
regulations and CAP772. This means that the planting of certain species is restricted and the creation
of attractant habitat, such as open water bodies, is to be avoided.
3
BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT DRIVERS
The biodiversity management drivers at Gatwick stem from the following areas:
Policy commitments for Gatwick’s Decade of Change
Obligation placed on the business from the granting of previous planning permission,
generally in the form of land that is to be managed for the benefit of biodiversity/community
enhancement as mitigation for land lost during a development e.g. the Pollution Lagoon
extension.
Guidelines relating to the management of wildlife in the vicinity of the airport on grounds of
safety
Ensuring legal compliance in terms of protected species and controlling invasive species.
The obligations made by the business in the sustainability policy.
The positive community engagement opportunities and the need to manage our landholdings
to ensure they are safe for members of the public and GAL staff.
Management Process
The Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) will run for 5 years (2018-2023), and follows on directly from the
previous BAP dated 2012-2017. The original BAPs took direction from an overarching management
strategy based on the Chris Blandford Associates Gatwick Airport Ecological Review, 2010.This
document forms a long term aspiration for all the off-airfield land including the North West Zone and
the River Mole collating relevent ecological information, policies and obligations. Another important
document is the 2011 Ecological Mitigation report by CBA1 that sets out the recommended mitigation
for the pollution lagoon extension. The recommendations are included in the management plan action
and monitoring sections, as well as the species survey methodology table.
The BAPs comply with the constraints of aerodrome safety requirements while still ensuring the
biodiversity potential of sites are maximised. It is envisaged that after the completion of this action plan
period, appropriate biodiversity management will continue under a new management plan.
The current management plans are designed to be effective on-the-ground plans that contain relevent
actions to help meet appropriate targets. The management plans will also contain an ecological
monitoring schedule to ensure appropriate information is collected and targets are monitored.
Volunteer involvement
A local community conservation group called the Gatwick Greenspace Partnership (part of the Sussex
Wildlife Trust) has been operating on and around Gatwick’s sites for the last 12 years or so. This has
provided Gatwick with a resource of volunteers to assist with habitat management and wildlife
surveying. We aim to maintain volunteer involvement in our Action Plan, enabling GGP to engage the
airport’s staff and the wider community, increasing the awareness of wildlife in the area.
4BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN TABLE
The below table outlines the objectives for key habitats present at the airport, which are then expanded into detailed, measurable targets. Several of the
targets are measured using Biodiversity Performance Indicators (BPIs), which are discussed in further detail in Appendix II. Relevant actions to deliver the
targets are detailed along with time scales. These actions are tracked during biodiversity quarterly reviews with staff and stakeholders, and also assessed
during Wildlife Trust Biodiversity Benchmark audits. In addition to habitat actions, the management plans contain an ecological monitoring schedule, ensuring
relevant information is collected and the outcomes from habitat actions are being appropriately monitored. This table is in the following section.
Objective 1. To maintain and enhance existing semi-natural woodland, ensuring good structural and botanical diversity.
Woodlands
Biodiversity Woodland condition score using West Weald Landscape Partnership criteria
Performance Population estimates of selected bird species
Indicators Abundance levels of Himalayan Balsam
Target Action/ Time scale Monitoring Benefit
1.1 Maintain or 1.11 Carry out baseline Woodland Survey: Assessing condition of habitats at five-yearly intervals
increase woodland Condition Survey of all woodlands - 2023 Woodland Condition Baseline for comparison will capture processes and provide
condition score. Survey – 2023 information to revise management at intervals
Using West Weald
Landscape 1.12 Litter and old plastic tree guard Reduction of plastic litter in woodlands, prevention of
Partnership criteria collection; remove a proportion of tree Breeding Bird Survey/Winter strangling of establishing trees
by 2023 guards from one woodland (consider using Bird Survey (BBS/WBS)
alternatives to usual disposable plastic tree identify and monitor the key
guards in future) – 2 days annually species utilising the woodland
habitat
1.13 Woodland understory management; Selective coppicing with standards will help to ensure
selective coppicing of Hazel, protecting retention of mature trees, lengthens life span and
regenerating growth through use of brash encourage fresh growth. Structural diversity within
piling - annually the woodland can also positively affect the
5biodiversity, maximising the number of available
habitat niches. Rotational coppicing creates a
heterozygous woodland habitat, benefitting the
widest number of species. Selective coppicing can
help to ensure retention of standards to develop into
mature trees, which will provide a wide variety of
habitat niches. Brashing-up of coppice stools helps
protect new growth from browsing pressure and
provides habitat for species such as Dormice. Due to
aerodrome safeguarding restrictions, it is not possible
to burn all arisings, therefore materials are neatly
stacked in limited areas or removed from site where
possible.
1.14 Maintain rides (powerline at Bats, butterflies and floral species in particular will
Horleyland Wood and Upper Picketts/Goat benefit from the management of glades and rides.
Meadow), scallop footpaths and maintain Scalloping footpaths creates sheltered sunny areas,
glades – annually increasing floral diversity and warm areas for
invertebrates to bask. By creating networks of new
glades and letting old ones grow over, the structural
diversity of these habitats are maintained.
1.15 Manage and maintain structural Managing woodland edges by softening them helps to
diversity of woodland edges and new tree create an ecocline; a transitional areas between two
plantations, monitoring establishment, habitats which maximises the habitat niches available.
thinning out, removing deer fencing and
reinstating where needed – by 2023
61.16 Maintain standing and fallen Deadwood is an important resource for a number of
deadwood habitat, preserving natural different species. Different types of deadwood
deadwood features and ecosystem support different varieties of fungi. Standing
dynamics, or creation through ring barking deadwood can also develop into important habitat for
of trees – by 2023 a variety of invertebrates, birds and mammals such as
bats and Dormice. Where wood needs to be piled,
pre-defined staked areas are helpful to reduce
impacts on surrounding ground flora.
1.17 Maintain boardwalks and surfaced Reduction of the impact of high footfall on woodland
footpaths in wet woodland areas and groundflora, encouraging people and dogs to keep to
along woodland edges – annually as the footpaths.
required
1.2 Annually 1.21 Bat box checks throughout all Annual checks and Maintaining the bat boxes will help to ensure
maintain all woodlands, cleaning out and recording any maintenance of bat boxes, additional roosting habitat for the bat species present
woodland bat signs of occupancy. If bats are present aiming for summer months to in these woodlands.
boxes on site, then biometric data will be taken where assess occupancy. With
retaining the total possible - annually licenced bat surveyor as per
current number Bat Conservation Trust. Data
shared with Surrey Bat Group
1.3 Annually 1.31 Check all Dormouse boxes under the Nest box checks from April – Maintaining the Dormouse boxes will help to ensure
maintain the supervision of licenced Dormouse Sept with licenced surveyor as additional nesting habitat for Hazel Dormice, a
condition of ecologist – monthly per and National Dormouse European Protected Species.
7Dormouse boxes, 1.32 Clean out and maintain all Dormouse Monitoring guidance. Data
retaining the total boxes during the winter when Dormice are submitted to
current number not active – annually People’s Trust for Endangered
Species
1.4 Annually 1.41 Clean out and maintain all bird boxes None required Maintaining the bird boxes in winter will help to
maintain the during the winter months when birds are ensure the longevity of additional nesting habitat
condition of not active – annually
woodland bird
boxes, retaining
the total current
number
1.5 Annually 1.51 Control the non-native invasive plant Survey: Invasive species Non-native invasive species pose a threat to Britain’s
control or reduce Himalayan Balsam between April and June abundance surveys using the native flora and fauna. There is a legal obligation for
invasive species in carrying out 1 day of management with DAFOR scale landowners to control and prevent the spread of
woodlands, contractors and 2 days with volunteers invasive species. Efforts to identify and control them
carrying out 1 day - annually will have a positive effect on native biodiversity
of management 1.52 Reduce overall areas of Bracken
with contractors and control of dominant species in
and 2 days with woodlands; Snowberry and Sycamore -
volunteers
annually
8Objective 2. To maintain existing areas of grassland and enhance their botanical and structural diversity
Grasslands
Biodiversity Grassland condition score
Performance Number of reptile habitat features in suitable condition
Indicators Presence of neonate and adult Grass Snakes
Abundance levels of Goat’s Rue
Population estimates of selected bird species
Target Action/ Time scale Monitoring Benefit
2.1 Investigate 2.11 Carry out baseline Grassland Condition Survey Grassland Condition Baseline Sowing a native seed mix (appropriate to the
ways of introducing of all grasslands, assessing abundances of indicator Survey – in 2018 and repeated habitat type) will help increase botanical
native botanical species and mapping of habitat structure – 2018 in 2024 diversity in an area that is lacking in a natural
indicator species to then repeat in 2024 seed bank. Ground preparation is important for
species poor areas Breeding Bird Survey/Winter botanical species establishment, and due to the
by 2023 2.12 Commence ground preparation for a seeding Bird Survey (BBS/WBS) identify heavy clay nature of the site it will be beneficial
project in Ashley’s Field; core sample soil testing and monitor the key species to investigate which techniques work best.
and marking out of plots – by 2019 utilising the grassland habitat
2.13 Applying seed and repeating of the wildflower
plots – frequency as per trial plan
2.14 Continue monitoring the grassland study
areas, ensuring clear signage and protection of the
wildflower plots - annually
92.2 Annually 2.21 Cut and collect all grasslands, including raised Cutting and collecting the arisings of grasslands
maintain the areas in Flood Attenuation site and beetle banks as will reduce the nutrient levels of soils,
structural diversity per grassland management plan (some sites cuts on maximising botanical diversity through the
of open and mosaic a rotational basis) reduction of dominating forbs andgrasses.
grassland habitat Maintaining a structural diversity of grassland
provides habitat niches and areas of ranging
microclimates, benefitting small mammals,
reptiles and invertebrates. Cattle grazing is a
useful way to manage a species rich meadow,
maintaining a structurally diverse sward. As
2.22 Rotational strimming or hand-scything of less- there are current restrictions around the use of
accessible small areas grassland in Goat Meadow, livestock on Gatwick’s landholdings, groups of
Scrub West of Brockley and the beetle banks, volunteers using scythes can help to recreate the
staggering the management at different times of character of grazed grassland.
year - annually
Cutting grassland at different times of year will
ensure the productivity of both early and late
flowering species.
2.23 Scraping of raised banks and Flood Bare soil habitat benefits invertebrate species
Attenuation site bunds to maintain a bare soil such as butterflies and beetles by creating
mosaic. No more than 30% of the site to be basking areas, bare ground for nesting burrows
disturbed in one season - annually of bees and wasps.
2.24 Strimming and brush-cutting of bramble on
grassy slope, managing a third of the area
rotationally - annually
102.3 Annually 2.31 Replenish grass cutting piles for egg laying, Reptile peak counts and Protection and the appropriate management of
maintain the using arising from grass cutting on site - annually breeding evidence surveys reptile habitat features will help ensure these
reptile habitat structures continue to be of benefit to reptiles
features on site, 2.32 Replenish brash piles, keeping them localised long after any localised disturbance.
keeping clear of to minimise the impact on surrounding ground flora
scrub and shade,
repairing where 2.33 Keep a third of surface area of hibernacula
needed free from encroaching scrub and bramble
2.4 Annually 2.41 Carry out baseline assessment of Goat’s Rue Walkover abundance surveys Non-native invasive species pose a threat to
control or reduce abundance in 2018 and 2022 and mapping of invasive plant Britain’s native flora and fauna. There is a legal
invasive species in species using the DAFOR scale obligation for landowners to control and prevent
grasslands the spread of invasive species. Efforts to identify
2.42 Reduce levels of Goat’s Rue in grasslands and control of these species will have a positive
within or adjacent to biodiversity sites using effect on native biodiversity
contractors, spraying where needed (frequency
depending on baseline assessment)
2.43 Continue to control Japanese Knotweed where
encroaching from railway line
11Objective 3. Scrub Maintain existing areas of scrub and hedgerows under a programme of rotational management
and Hedgerow
Biodiversity Hedgerow condition score
Performance Percentage area of scrub rotationally coppiced
Indicators Length of hedgerow rotationally trimmed
Target Action/ Time scale Monitoring Benefit
3.1 Maintain or 3.11 Carry out baseline Hedgerow Condition Survey Hedgerow condition survey as Trimming back hedgerows periodically
increase hedgerow of all hedgerows within the action plan area, per DEFRA handbook stimulates the regeneration of shrub species,
condition score. assessing abundances of indicator species and guidelines – in 2023 prolonging the life of the plant. Brown Hairstreak
Using DEFRA integrity - 2023 Butterflies utilise regenerating and suckering
Hedgerow Survey Breeding Bird Survey/Winter Blackthorn growth that is around two years old
criteria by 2023 3.12 Trim back or flail one section of each Bird Survey (BBS/WBS) identify in sheltered sunny areas, hence it is best for
hedgerow (less than 30% of the total habitat area), and monitor the key species Blackthorn to be cut on a three to four year cycle
or lay where possible on a 3-5 year rotation - utilising the scrub habitat to promote new growth.
annually
3.13 Gap planting of Hedgerow 4 in the North West
Zone – by 2023. It is important this work is carried
out within aerodrome safeguarding regulations
3.14 Trim back a section of Blackthorn scrub edges
of the River Mole footpath (less than 30% of the
total habitat area)
3.2 Annually 3.21 Coppicing a proportion of all areas of scrub; Mapping of areas of scrub Valuable mosaics of grassland, scrub and
maintain structural Rolls Field, Goat Meadow, Scrub West of Brockley, being managed developing woodland all contribute to the
diversity of areas of Man’s Brook ditch and base of grass slope on a ecological and structural diversity of a site. By
scrub rotational basis, removing arisings from site where cutting back dense scrub periodically this will
possible or adding to existing brash piles if needed. reduce dominating species, allow in light and
- annually encourage other species to flourish. As stated
123.22 Thin planted trees in Ashley’s Field and above, it is beneficial for Blackthorn scrub to be
thinning / removing young oaks and willow in Goat cut on a three to four year cycle to promote
Meadow – annually fresh growth for Brown Hairstreak Butterflies
Objective 4. To maintain and enhance waterbodies, ensuring good condition and botanical diversity
Wetlands
Biodiversity BPI: Pond Condition Score using West Weald Landscape Partnership criteria
Performance BPI: Length of watercourse (m) with Himalayan Balsam at dominant to abundant levels
Indicators BPI: Average numbers Great Crested Newts counted
BPI: Presence of Great Crested Newt eggs
BPI: Length of river under management for willow coppicing
Target Action/ Time scale Monitoring Benefit
4.1 Maintain or 4.11 Carry out river corridor assessment for River River Condition Baseline Survey Reduction of canopy shading and the permanent
increase habitat Mole in 2019, then again for River Mole and – in 2019 and repeated in 2023 removal of some Willows will allow increased
condition score of Gatwick Stream in 2023 light levels to water and riparian vegetation.
the River Mole and Breeding Bird Survey/Winter Some limbs could be retained as Kingfisher
Gatwick Stream by 4.12 Pollarding or coppicing of mature Willows Bird Survey (BBS/WBS) identify posts. Willow coppicing will also create new
2023, using the along the River Mole within sections based on a and monitor the key species growth which is important to the Purple
River Corridor management plan, permanently removing a utilising wetland habitat – four Emperor Butterfly.
assessment proportion where possible - annually times per year By regularly managing reed beds, structural
method 4.13 Pollard or coppice small establishing Willows integrity of this habitat is maintained, promoting
and Alders within netted area of Gatwick Stream – new growth and rotationally opening up small
annually areas of open water.
4.14 Scythe and rake off mature reed beds along
the River Mole, around 20m on a rotational basis -
annually
134.2 Maintain 4.21 Maintain log protectors and nursery crop of Annual count of Black Polar The native Black Poplar tree (Populus nigra ssp.
existing Black willows around Black Poplars, staking in new trees – once early summer and betulifolia) is a rapidly declining species, and it is
Poplar trees along deadwood material as needed. Remove old tree once again late summer estimated that only 8,000 now exist in the UK,
the River Mole at a guards and replace any dead Black Poplar trees – with only 400 being female. Their decline has
minimum number twice per year been caused by a lack of suitable wetland
of eight specimens habitat, their removal and threats from
hybridisation. Replanting this species provides an
important food resource for the caterpillars of
several moth species such as the Poplar Hawk-
moth and Figure of Eighty. The catkins provide
an early source of pollen and nectar for bees and
other pollinating insects.
4.3 Annually 4.31 Carry out baseline assessment of Himalayan Invasive species monitoring; Non-native invasive species pose a threat to
control or reduce Balsam abundance in 2023 Himalayan Balsam abundance Britain’s native flora and fauna. There is a legal
invasive species by meterage. Walkover obligation for landowners to control and prevent
4.32 Control Himalayan Balsam in all waterways,
along waterways abundance surveys using the the spread of invasive species. Efforts to identify
targeting areas of dominant and abundant levels -
DAFOR scale and control will have a positive effect on native
annually
biodiversity. American Mink are a non-native
predatory mammal which has negative impacts
4.33 Control American Mink through targeted on native mammals and bird species.
trapping with licenced trapper
4.4 Maintain or 4.41 Carry out baseline pond condition assessment
Baseline pond condition Keeping areas of pond banks open will allow in
increase habitat - 2023 assessment in 2023 as per the light and encourage the growth of riparian
assessment score West Weald Landscape Project vegetation. Retaining buried and stacked
of NWZ ponds 4.42 Pond bank management – continued coppicing Sussex Pond Survey deadwood provides additional habitat and cover
using West Weald and clearing scrub, encouraging marginal for amphibians during the terrestrial phase of
Landscape vegetation and bare mud areas in the draw-down life. Litter can present a hazard to amphibians
Partnership criteria zone. and invertebrates as well as leaching toxins into
by 2023 4.43 Replenish dense brash and log piles around waterways, so it is best to remove where ever
pond edges, using cut material from nearby possible. A newly created woodland pond will
woodland management
144.44 Continue managing the coir rolls, plug planting provide an additional wetland resource on site at
where there are gaps and monitoring for any an earlier successional stage.
recurrence of invasive species Crassula helmsii
4.45 Regularly remove litter where accumulating
around pond edges or in shallows
4.46 Creation of a new pond in the River Mole
woodland strip, as part of the Hangar Project
Mitigation Scheme. This work will be carried out
within aerodrome safeguarding regulations,
ensuring that the risk of bird strike hazards are not
increased
4.5 Maintain or 4.51 Carry out torching surveys for peak counts of Torching surveys for Great
increase average adult Great Crested Newts in LERL Ponds 3 and 4, Crested Newt Peak Counts and
number of adult and Charlwood Park Pond 1 - annually egg-searches
Great Crested 4.52 Use canes with strips of plastic bin liner to help
Newts recorded with detection of egg-laying activity
4.6 Manage small, 4.61 Increase the depth of scrapes near Povey Networks of small shallow pools benefit
shallow scrapes of Cross, digging out a section of dense Reed Mace dragonfly and amphibian populations, which
temporary water annually. It is important this work is carried out utilise ephemeral (temporary) water bodies. This
bodies, ensuring within aerodrome safeguarding regulations, will also will directly benefit reptiles, birds and
water retention ensuring that areas of open water are not other predators.
during the spring excessively increased
4.62 Maintain a small network of shallow pools
within Goat Meadow.* It is important this work is
carried out within aerodrome safeguarding
regulations, ensuring that areas of open water are
not excessively increased
154.7 Installation and 4.71 Installation of around 80m of coir rolls along Coir rolls help to stablise the banks of rivers,
establishment of the Gatwick Stream, within the netted section – by instantly adding additional riparian vegetation,
coir rolls and log 2019 increasing botanical diversity of the site and
weirs creating habitat for aquatic species. It is
4.72 Installation of two log weirs along the Gatwick important that the coir rolls are sourced
Stream, within the netted section – by 2019 responsibly to reduce the likelihood of the
introduction of non-native species.
Objective 5. To collect and record relevant ecological information on species of interest across the site
Ecological data
Target Action/ Time scale Monitoring Benefit
5.1 Annually 5.11 Continue to enter and retrieve data through Annual update of species A centralised database for storing ecological data
update the central the online biological recording system iRecord and database via iRecord assists with the periodic reviews of species
database/master present data analysis snapshots in annual reviews downloads and shared records groups, tracking individual species and
spreadsheet of from naturalists identifying potential gaps in ecological
Gatwick’s species 5.12 Keep the master species spreadsheet up to monitoring. This database or master spreadsheet
records through date with data from ecology consultancies, would also facilitate the extraction of relevant
retrieved data from independent naturalists and the local biological information on all species within a short time
various sources by records centres period.
end of 2023
5.2 Continue 5.21 Bat activity surveys, bat box checks and Bat detector surveys Collecting relevant information on protected
regular monitoring farmhouse roost monitoring – annually Bat box checks species will not only help monitor management
of all listed 5.22 Breeding bird surveys / winter bird surveys- Bird transects actions but help to ensure compliance with
protected species quarterly Reptile refugia checks legislation. It is important to be aware of what
annually 5.23 Reptile surveys- quarterly Amphibian torching surveys protected species are occurring where on
Dormouse box checks Gatwick’s landholdings. The monitoring of
5.24 Great Crested Newt surveys – four times in Trail cameras mammals through trail cameras can highlight
spring
16which areas are important for these potentially
declining groups of wildlife.
5.25 Dormouse box checks – monthly through Understanding the location of nesting and
summer roosting bird territories can also be of benefit to
operational safety.
5.26 Mustelids and hedgehogs – quarterly check
through trail camera checks
5.3 Continue to 5.31 Terrestrial invertebrates – baseline surveys Terrestrial invertebrate Gathering information on other species groups,
record less every 5 years sweeping surveys many of which are under-researched, can be
understood species Kick sampling and pond netting helpful in providing information regarding
by 2023 for aquatic invertebrates habitat condition and importance. Identifying the
5.32 Aquatic invertebrates ; quarterly monitoring of Non-vascular plant surveys most notable and declining species will help to
outfalls and waterways, and a 5 yearly baseline Fungi recording target management for specific habitats.
survey for biodiversity ponds Moth trapping Pollinators such as bees, moths and flies are very
Butterfly transects important groups regarding ecosystem
5.33 Non-vascular plants; lichens, bryophytes and Bumblebee transects functioning, and many species are rapidly
horsetails Long-horned Bee monitoring declining, therefore it is good practice to monitor
and manage for pollinators.
5.34 Fungi
5.35 Moths
5.36 Butterflies – weekly transect and roving
records
5.37 Bumblebees – monthly transects and roving
records
5.38 Long-horned Bees – 3 years of data collection
by PhD student
17SPECIES MONITORING METHODOLOGIES
This ecological survey methodology table outlines the species groups being monitored and
methodologies being applied.
Table 2. Ecological monitoring and survey methodologies
Species group Standardised Methodology Data analysis/
recording
methodology
Birds Breeding Bird Survey and Winter Bird Survey Produce absolute
species list for
Standardised walk survey covering the site, twice in
each BAP area.
the winter, twice in the breeding season, counting
Annually compare
individual bird species which are seen or head and
those of
noting any confirmed breeding behaviour. List bird
conservation
species and their breeding codes as per BTO
concern as per BPI
methodology. Follow fixed transect routes on map
assessment
in a similar way to BTO methodology, the transect
criteria in Section
lines do not have to be as strictly defined as is
4.
requested by BTO. These surveys will also not be
restricted by certain kilometre squares.
All species data, including hazardous bird species
will be made available to Aerodrome Safeguarding
Bats Bat box checks Enter species
records into
Checking boxes annually with licenced worker while
iRecord database.
carrying out annual cleaning and maintenance work
Transect Surveys GIS mapping.
Absolute species
Four sessions every 2 years, using bat detectors
lists for each BAP
walk pre-designated transects using similar
area
methodology and routes as in previous CBA and
Surrey Bat Group reports.20
Objective to identify species, potential roosts,
commuting and foraging areas.
Great Crested Newts Bottle trapping HSI assessments.
Absolute counts
Place bottle traps out late evening and collect in
and population
early morning. Following Natural England
estimates of GCN.
guidelines, ensuring bottle traps are secured and
placed at least one per 2m of bank.1 Squeeze-boxing
1
English Nature (2001). Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough.
18of adult newts for photographing belly patterns
deemed too intrusive and not necessary.
Torching
Four sessions per year, counting all amphibian
species and particularly noting numbers of male and
female Great Crested Newts.
Reptiles Grass Snake refugia checks Population peak
counts and size
Place out artificial refugia in likely reptile habitat.
estimates of
Check refugia in mornings during appropriate
individuals
weather conditions and look out for open basking at
suitable basking points as per Froglife Advice Note
10. Assess status of population as per BPI
assessment criteria in Section 4.
Water Voles, Otters Wetland mammal surveys
and Mink
Water voles/Otters- During RiverSearch surveys,
check riverine habitat for evidence of water voles or
otters. Look for obvious signs such as: Burrows,
latrines, scat, and gardens.
If any presence of these species is confirmed a more
stringent survey programme should be initiated.
Mink
Mink- Use mink rafts to gain information on mink
and other aquatic mammals on the River Mole.
Place rafts out in river channel following GWCT
guidelines.2
Dragonflies and Baseline surveys and roving records Species listing and
Damselflies abundances.
Survey banks of wetlands for these species. Follow
Compare species
guidelines from BDS.3 Contract in expert for initial
presence of first
baseline surveys of main wetland habitats
year to final year
of BAP
Harvest Mice and Longworth trapping Species listing and
other small collection of
Once per year, setting out traps along the River
terrestrial mammals biometric data;
Mole, targeting Harvest Mice nesting areas.
weight, sex,
Generate a species list of all small mammals. Bait
breeding
traps with food suitable for omnivorous and
condition. Enter
insectivorous mammals. Harvest Mice are a BAP
into iRecord
2
GWCT (2009). The GWCT Mink raft guidelines.
3
BDO (2012). Dragonfly monitoring scheme. 2009 pilot.
19species and so as much data as possible should be
collected for this species.
Hedgehogs Hedgehog tracking tunnels Pinpointing areas
with hedgehog
As used by Brighton University, place in secluded
activity for further
area near hedgerows, dead hedge or other linear
torch surveys
scrub habitat. 6 nights of monitoring through
summer season
Tracking signs and using camera trap
Set up a camera trap at various points on site to try
to obtain footage of hedgehogs
Badgers Tracking signs and using camera trap Entering signs and
confirmed
Searching for footprints, latrine sites or active setts.
sightings into
Set up a camera trap nearby to record footage of
iRecord
badgers
Butterflies Butterfly survey Species listing and
abundances
Create transects through suitable habitats;
grassland, woodland ride/glades etc.
Using the UKBMS recording methodology (fixed
transects). Carry out on warm, sunny days with no
more than light winds.
Moths Light traps Species listing and
abundances
Place out light traps overnight in secluded area
(away from public).
Terrestrial Malaise trap Species listing and
invertebrates summaries of
Place in secluded area against linear habitat. Empty
conservation
trap and send off samples for identification by
designations
entomologist
Baseline sweeping surveys
Roving through survey areas, sweeping and beating
vegetation, grubbing in the ground layer and lifting
deadwood. Comprehensive species list by
contracted entomologist covering all action areas,
repeated up to every 5 years.
Aquatic Kick Sampling surveys Species
invertebrates identification,
Quarterly chemical monitoring of the potential
assessment of the
impacts of airport discharges on the River Mole and
aquatic
Gatwick Stream is carried out by external
macroinvertebrate
consultants in conjunction with the Environment
20Agency (EA) aiding in water quality assessment and assemblages and
control biotic scores
Bumblebees and Bumblebee Walk and Long-horned Bee counts Species listing and
Long-horned Bees abundances, to be
Identifying and counting species, noting sex or caste
compared from
as per Bumblebee Conservation Trust Bee Walk
Year 1 to Year 3
methodology. Identifying and recording preferred
food plants. Noting weather conditions
Invasive species Baseline abundance survey Species listing,
mapping and
Walking areas where invasives are to be found,
abundances using
listing abundances and locations via GPS
DAFOR scale
Annual mapping
Update maps of areas where invasive species are
occurring, Use to track where invasive species have
been successfully targeted for control, using the
Riversearch Survey protocol.
21APPENDIX I. BIODIVERSITY AERIAL MAPS
OVERALL SITE MAP
Map 1. Overall site map. Within the outlined areas is a total of 75ha of Gatwick’s land being actively retained and managed for biodiversity
22NORTH WEST ZONE
Map 2. North West Zone with the River Mole, Brockley Wood and surrounding grasslands;
approximately 35ha within the highlighted boundary.
23LAND EAST OF THE RAILWAY LINE
Map 3. Land East of the Railway Line with the Gatwick Stream flood attenuation area, grasslands and
three connected woodlands; approximately 40ha within the highlighted boundary.
24APPENDIX II. BIODIVERSITY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
Table 3. Biodiversity Performance Indicator Assessment Criteria table
BPI Assessment criteria and sources
Woodland Assessment criteria adapted from West Weald Landscape Project Woodland
condition score Condition Assessment. For a consistent approach across the baseline surveys, we
have reversed the system so that a higher score is indicative of good condition.
http://www.westweald.org.uk/pdf/Woodland_Condition_Report%20_Jan_2013.p
df
Woodland condition criteria adapted for use at Gatwick. Maximum score of 30.
Excellent
Attribute assessed Good (1.5) Poor (0) Notes
(3)
Growing A varied canopy
1. Average canopy Open 30- Closed
over 80- cover is considered
cover 80% 100%
100% best
In this instance,
2. Average Limited or
Patchy Dense patchiness is
understorey cover absent
considered best
3-4 ages
3-4 ages
classes; no An even distribution
classes; 1-2 age
3. Age structure age class of ages considered
51%+ in classes
more than best
one class
50%
A good mix of
Standing Standing or Limited or
4. Deadwood deadwood structure
and fallen fallen absent
is best
Limitation in the
extent of invasives
Some -
5. Invasive non- relating to severity,
None being Present
native species assumed that small
controlled
amount appearing is
manageable
All 4 types
of Ideally all 4 types of
Some
6. Evidence of regenerati regeneration will be
regenerati None
regeneration on at present at over 25%
on present
25%> of of stops
stops
25This attribute has
been simplified due
to the small size of
Growing Gatwick woodlands,
7. Open
Yes / over/abse not always possible
rides/glades
nt to have both rides
and glades open
without harming
woodland integrity
Presence of deer
8. Evidence of exclusion fencing
Limited Some Extensive
grazing/browsing reduces levels of
browsing
Old or recent
9. Evidence of
coppicing, dead
recent good
Some Little None wood piling,
management
footpath
practice
improvements
Vandalism, bad
10. Evidence of
None Some Extensive management, fly
damage
tipping, tree stress
Pond condition Assessment criteria adapted from biotic indexes of Fresh Water Habitat Trusts
Score and methodology of West Weald Landscape Project Sussex Pond Survey
http://www.westweald.org.uk/docs/Report%20on%20the%20Condition%20of%2
0Ponds%20in%20the%20West%20Weald%20Landscape%20Area,%202012%20-
%202013.pdf
Also adapted from the Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index
http://www.narrs.org.uk/documents/HSI%20guidance.pdf
Gatwick’s ponds are situated in woodland setting, resulting in natural levels of
high silt and nutrient levels. These characteristics should be taken into
consideration when assessing the condition of these habitats, as they are unlikely
to score as highly as ponds in a more open setting
Pond condition assessment criteria (maximum score of 39)
Biotic score Poor (0) Moderate (1.5) Good (3)
1. Invertebrate index
0-17 18-34 35+
score
2. Amphibian species 1 2 2+
3. Fish species 1+ 1 0
4. Invasive species Dominating Some establishing None
5. % shade at height >75% 51-75% 25-50%
6. % surface cover >75% 0-25 % - 51-75% 25-50%
267. Marginal aquatic
Due to habitat restoration works and the artificial seeding of some sites at
Gatwick, there is potential for the overlap of NVC lowland and upland hay
meadow species communities.
Below is a list of 13 grassland flowering plants, based on positive indicator species
of NVC communities, which have been recorded across the Gatwick sites in 2013.
Presence or absence of these species forms the criteria for grassland condition
(maximum score of 13 species).
Walk over surveys were conducted at each grassland site and the abundance
levels of indicator species noted.
Common Name Species name Common Name Species name
Agrimonia Greater Birdsfoot Lotus
Agrimony
eupatoria Trefoil pedunculatus
Betony Stachys officinalis Water Mint Mentha aquatica
Black Knapweed Centaurea nigra Cowslip Primula veris
Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria Yellow Rattle Rhinanthus minor
Sanguisorba
Ladys Bedstraw Galium verum Great Burnet
officinalis
Meadow Vetchling Lathyrus pratensis
Ragged Robin Silene flos-cuculi
Birds foot Trefoil Lotus corniculatus
Hedgerow Adapted from the ‘Condition Assessment of Hedgerows in the West Weald
condition score Landscape Area’, West Weald Landscape Project (2011 )
http://www.westweald.org.uk/pdf/Hedgerows.pdf
Defra (2007) Hedgerow Survey Handbook. A standard procedure for local surveys
in the UK. Defra, London.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/
69285/pb11951-hedgerow-survey-handbook-070314.pdf
Hedgerow condition criteria (maximum score of 12)
Not
Feature Threshold for desirable condition Met
met
1. Undisturbed At least 2m undisturbed Ground from
1 0
ground centre of Hedgerow
2. Herbaceous At least 1 m of perennial herbaceous
vegetation vegetation from centre line to 1 0
undisturbed ground.
283. Nutrient < 20% cover of Nettles, cleavers and
1 0
enrichment docks
4. Non-native Maximum 10% of herbaceous
1 0
herbaceous species vegetation
5. Non-native woody Maximum 10% of woody vegetation
1 0
species
6. Height At least 1m tall
1 0
7. Width At least 1.5 m wide (but less than 5m)
1 0
8. Cross sectional At least 3m squared
1 0
area
9. Integrity 5m wide
1 0
11. Integrity Canopy 75%
Abundant 51-75%
Frequent 26-51%
Occasional 11-25%
Rare 1-10%
Presence of Presence/absence assessment as recommended by Common Standards
one neonate Monitoring Guidance for Reptiles
and one http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/pdf/csm_reptiles_amphibians1.pdf
breeding adult
Grass Snake Monthly visits during reptile season (March-October) in suitable weather
conditions, checking felts and tins (refugia) placed in areas of suitable habitat.
Number of
reptile habitat Grass Snake length
features Neonate 30cm
29Single species site (Grass Snake): Presence of at least one adult recorded and
presence of juveniles (low numbers, pose little risk to aerodrome safety. Long term monitoring will be
useful to detect potential population changes locally and data can also be put
into context using national data. The continual monitoring of all bird species in
our areas may also help pick up any significant issues and population trends for
high risk strike species, such as winter thrushes and Starlings, contributing to the
wider monitoring programmes commissioned by aerodrome safeguarding.
Population monitoring with reference to JNCC Common Standards Monitoring
guidance for birds http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/pdf/CSM_birds_incadditionalinfo.pdf
Adapted from the JNCC Common Standards Monitoring for Birds 2004 – at least
25% presence of peak count for 4 consecutive years = Pass
Less than 25% of peak count for 4 consecutive years = Fail
LERL selected indicator species:
Conservation
Common name Habitat type
status
Grey Wagtail Red Listed Waterways
Marsh Tit Red Listed Woodland/scrub
Bullfinch Amber Listed Woodland/scrub
Dunnock Amber Lister Woodland/scrub
Blackbird Green Listed Woodland/scrub
Wren Green Listed Woodland/scrub
NWZ selected indicator species:
Conservation
Common name Habitat type
status
Woodland/
Mistle Thrush Red Listed
grassland
Linnet Red Listed Grassland
Kingfisher Amber Listed Waterways
Reed Bunting Amber Listed Waterways
Blackbird Green Listed Woodland/scrub
31Wren Green Listed Woodland/scrub
APPENDIX III. BIODIVERSITY RELEVANT LEGISLATION
Gatwick Airport Ltd’s operations and Biodiversity Management is governed by a number of different
legislations. These are summarised in the table below.
Table 4. Key topics of legislation and summaries of requirements
AERODROME SAFETY
Principle To ensure aerodrome safety by taking action to decrease the risk to aircraft operations
by adopting measures to minimise the likelihood of collisions between wildlife and
aircraft.
Requirements ICAO Annex 14 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, Aerodromes, Volume 1,
Aerodrome Design and Operations: Sixth Edition July 2003, Section 9.4 Wildlife Strike
Hazard Reduction
The UK, as a signatory to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, Chicago 1944,
has adopted many of the provisions specified in Annex 14 to the Convention. Annex 14
published by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), includes standards and
recommended practices (SARPs) that address the risk of a birdstrike and a potential
increase of the birdstrike risk due to the presence or development of bird-attractant
features on, or in the vicinity of, an aerodrome.
Under the heading "birdstrike hazard reduction", Annex 14 Volume 1 (6th Edition section
9.4.1) states that: the birdstrike hazard on, or in the vicinity of, an aerodrome shall be
assessed through:
a) the establishment of a national procedure for recording and reporting bird strikes to
aircraft;
32b) the collection of information from aircraft operators, airport personnel, etc. on the
presence of birds on or around the aerodrome constituting a potential hazard to aircraft
operations; and
c) an ongoing evaluation of the wildlife hazard by competent personnel
Annex 14 section 9.4.3 also states that:
Action shall be taken to decrease the risk to aircraft operations by adopting measures to
minimise the likelihood of collisions between wildlife and aircraft.
Annex 14 section 9.4.4 goes further by stating that:
The appropriate authority shall take action to eliminate or to prevent the establishment
of garbage disposal dumps or any such other source attracting bird activity on, or in the
vicinity of, an aerodrome unless an appropriate aeronautical study indicates that they
are unlikely to create conditions conducive to a bird hazard problem. Where the
elimination of existing sites is not possible, the appropriate authority shall ensure that
any risk to aircraft posed by these sites is assessed and reduced to as low as reasonably
practicable"
The term "in the vicinity" is taken to be land or water within 13 km of the aerodrome
reference point, and "garbage disposal dumps" refers to landfill sites (i.e. the disposal of
waste by landfill) as defined under relevant UK legislation.
An "appropriate aeronautical study" is taken to be a study that focuses on the potential
flight safety implications at the relevant aerodrome(s) that an existing or proposed bird
attractant development may cause. Such a study should consist of the overall
assessment of the ambient birdstrike risk at the aerodrome and a site-specific risk
assessment relating to any development or site in the vicinity.
In the UK, the aerodrome licence holder shall take all reasonable steps to secure that
the aerodrome and the airspace within which its visual traffic pattern is normally
contained are safe at all times for use by aircraft (Article 128(5) of the Air Navigation
Order (ANO) 2005). The licence holder is therefore responsible for the development and
implementation of birdstrike risk control measures.
Actions for ICAO Airport Services Manual Part 3 Fourth Edition 2012
compliance
33Section 4.7.1
[Off Airfield monitoring of bird species and behaviour should occur and should include
species, flightlines, seasonal patterns, time of day etc.]
Section 4.7.2
[Any significant bird/wildlife attractants within a defined radius (the exact distance will
be dependent upon local or State regulations) centred on the aerodrome reference
point (ARP) should be assessed and a management plan developed to reduce their
attractiveness to birds/wildlife.]
Requirements COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) No 139/2014, ARTICAL 10, Wildlife Hazard
Management, ANNEX III Part Organisation Requirements – Aerodrome Operators (Part –
ADR.OR) SUBPART B – AERODROME OPERATIONAL SERVICES, EQUIPMENT AND
INSTALLATIONS (ADR.OPS.B) ADR.OPS.B.020 Wildlife Strike Hazard Reduction
The aerodrome operator shall:
(a) Assess the wildlife hazard on, and in the surrounding, of the aerodrome;
(b) Establish means and procedures to minimise the risk of collisions between
wildlife and aircraft, at the aerodrome; and
(c) Notify the appropriate authority if a wildlife hazard assessment indicates
conditions in the surroundings of the aerodrome are conducive to a wildlife hazard
problem.
Actions for CAA CAP772 Wildlife Hazard Management: This UK CAA Guidance document is seen as
compliance providing UK Aerodromes with an alternative means of compliance to the above EASA
legislation.
Chapter 3, Roles and Responsibilities details the objectives that should be met by the
[GAL] Bird Control Manager / Co-ordinator, these include, but are not limited to:
5. Monitor habitat changes on and in the vicinity of the aerodrome and develop and
implement appropriate management and control activities.
347. Understand the implications of not managing wildlife strike hazards effectively and
not following the plan and initiating any necessary changes.
8. Analyse and interpret records (shift logs) of control activities, strike reports and on
and off-airfield observations and intelligence
9. Understand the need for periodic surveys of bird and wildlife concentrations and
movements in the local area (up to or beyond 13km as determined by aerodrome
management policies.
10. Work with [third parties] in order to influence and raise awareness of bird hazard
matters.
12. Monitor the effectiveness of any bird and habitat measures via quality audit or
similar process.
13. Identify potential strike risks through collation of local ornithological reports and
survey data.
CONSERVATION OF NATURAL HABITATS & SPECIES
Principle Provides for the protection of natural habitats and habitats of species, wild animals and
plants.
Requirements The protection of wild birds, plants, animals and areas of nature conservation value is
enforced through the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 which
amends the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The national nature conservation bodies or
agencies e.g. Natural England are required to identify and designate protected areas
(e.g. Sites of Specific Scientific Interest - SSSIs) and to protect rare and endangered
species. The agencies must be consulted during the planning process and whenever
works are planned which could impact on designated sites and/or protected species.
Permission for development may be refused or delayed until it can be demonstrated
that no adverse impact will occur.
Part 3 of the Act refers to restrictions regarding wildlife which includes reference to a
biodiversity list of living organisms and types of habitat which are of principal
importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity. Enforcement powers in
connection with wildlife are enforced under the act with specific controls for the
protection of birds. Certain flora, fauna and features are protected by specific
legislation including badgers, great crested newts and hedgerows.
Under the Act, certain invasive non-native species are controlled which include plants
such as Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed. It is an offence to plant or encourage
growth of these species. Japanese knotweed is regarded as controlled waste and has to
be disposed of at licensed sites or by burning on site.
The national nature conservation bodies are empowered to serve Nature Conservation
Orders and following this, it is an offence to carry out potentially damaging works
without first notifying Natural England and complying with conditions.
35On 1 April 2010 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 replaced
The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) in England
and Wales. The legislation still provides controls in England to prevent operations
which may be damaging to natural habitats and gives the conservation agency power
to serve notices (a 'management notice') to land managers to carry out works
necessary to restore or conserve the land, or to allow the agency to carry out the work.
The 2010 Regulations do not make any substantive changes to these existing policies
and procedures (other than in relation the establishment of the Marine Management
Organisation (MMO)– which takes on certain licensing functions from Natural England -
and to ensure a consistent with the approach in the Marine and Coastal Access Act
2009
These regulations also make it an offence to deliberately capture, kill or disturb certain
wild animals or to trade in them, subject to certain exceptions. Further to this, it is an
offence to pick, collect, cut, uproot or destroy certain plants or trade in them, subject
to certain exceptions.
The Alien and Locally Absent Species in Aquaculture (England and Wales) Regulations
2011
These Regulations provide for the implementation and enforcement of Council
Regulation (EC) No 708/2007 concerning use of alien and locally absent species in
aquaculture. The aim of the European Regulation is to ensure there is adequate
protection of aquatic habitats from the risks associated with the use of alien and locally
absent species in aquaculture whilst contributing to the sustainable development of
the aquaculture industry.
These Regulations make provision for the movement of listed species listed and locally
absent species from within the United Kingdom to be restricted. They also provide for
a system of permits and environmental risk assessment where necessary and prescribe
requirements for contingency plans and monitoring.
Regulations come into force October 2011
Actions for (i) Identify whether there are any conservation areas or SSSIs on or in the vicinity of the
Compliance sites. If so, it is advised that a register be compiled of areas and develop a biodiversity
action plan or strategy for those on site.
(ii) In the event that protected plant and animal species are identified on-site, carry out
necessary measures in consultation with the local authority and relevant nature
conservation agency to ensure their protection.
(iii) Prior to commencing any site development works which require movement over,
or within an area of protected land or wildlife habitat etc, consultation should be made
with the relevant conservation agency for permission or need for special provisions.
(iv) Advisement is required by the local planning authority or Natural England of any
parts of the land which must be conserved and any wild animals and plants which must
be protected, to avoid penalties for rectifying damage to Sites of Special Scientific
Interest (SSSIs).
(iv) Ensure that work is carried out in strict adherence to current good practice.
36(v) Ensure the safe cutting and removal of invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed
and Giant Hogweed. Ensuring the discarded material is treated as controlled waste, has
appropriate waste transfer documentation and is disposed of at a site authorised to
take this particular waste stream.
(vi) To avoid prosecution ensure that 'reasonable precautions' are taken to protect
habitats and protected species when carrying out works. Carrying out a Wildlife
Impact Assessment before minor project works will ensure potential harm to protected
species and habitats are avoided and works are carried out in a conscientious manor.
Further Guidance Government: Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation
Defra guidance - Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010
Japanese Knotweed EA Code of Practice
Enforcing
authority Nature conservation body, Natural England and Local Planning Authority
INTERFERENCE WITH SPECIES OR HABITATS
Principle Sets out protection for species and habitats under threat from development.
Requirements The protection of wild birds, plants, animals and areas of nature conservation value is
enforced through the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the
Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000). The national nature conservation agencies
are required to identify and designate protected areas (e.g. SSSIs) and to protect rare
and endangered species and must be consulted during the planning process and
wherever works are planned which could impact on designated sites and/or protected
species. Permission for development may be refused or delayed until it can be
demonstrated that no adverse impact will occur.
It is an offence to kill, take or injure any wild bird and take, damage, destroy any nest
while in use or eggs. Schedule 1 also states birds which have added protection;
(i) to disturb any wild bird included in Schedule 1 while it is building a nest or is in, on,
or near, a nest containing eggs or young; or
(ii) to disturb dependent young of such a bird
Protected animal and plant species are listed in schedules 5 and 8 of the Wildlife and
Countryside Act respectively. These schedules are required to be reviewed no less than
5-yearly. Certain flora, fauna and features are protected by specific legislation including
badgers (the Badgers Act, 1992), hedgerows and trees (removal of which is prohibited
without notification to the local planning authority).
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