Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan - LOSRA · A Biodiversity Action Plan (or BAP) is a long-term...

Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan 2008-2011 04 June 2008

Courtesy of Tim Wilkins, Plantlife

Courtesy of Sue Webber, Surrey Biodiversity Partnership

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Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan 1

Contents

Executive Summary ..............................................................................4

Introduction ..........................................................................................5

1.1 What is biodiversity?....................................................................................................5 1.2 Why is biodiversity important? ..................................................................................5 1.3 What is a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)? ..............................................................6 1.4 Why does Spelthorne need a BAP?...........................................................................6 1.5 Current Biodiversity ....................................................................................................6 1.6 Habitats in Spelthorne.................................................................................................7 1.7 Species for special action in Spelthorne ...................................................................8 1.8 What is the relationship between the BAP and other biodiversity initiatives? ...8 1.9 Monitoring and Reporting........................................................................................10 1.10 Further Information ..................................................................................................11

2 Habitat Action Plan: Floodplain Grazing Marsh ......................... 12

2.1 Habitat Definition......................................................................................................12 2.2 Current Distribution and Status...............................................................................12 2.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat ..................................................................................12 2.4 Current Action ...........................................................................................................12 2.5 Overarching Biodiversity Action Plans ..................................................................13 2.6 Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan Objectives ...................................................14

3 Habitat Action Plan: Standing Open Water and Reedbeds ......... 15


4 Habitat Action Plan: Unimproved Meadows ............................... 19


5 Habitat Action Plan: Historic Parkland .......................................23



6 Habitat Action Plan: Urban..........................................................28

6.1 Habitat Definition......................................................................................................28 6.2 Current Distribution and Status...............................................................................28 6.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat ..................................................................................29 6.4 Current Action ...........................................................................................................29 6.5 Overarching Biodiversity Action Plans ..................................................................29 6.6 Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan Objectives: ..................................................30

7 Species Action Plan: Brown Galingale (Cyperus fuscus) .............33

7.1 Species Definition......................................................................................................33 7.2 Current Distribution and Status...............................................................................33 7.3 Factors Affecting the Species...................................................................................33 7.4 Spelthorne Biodiversity Plan Objectives ................................................................34

8 Species Action Plan: Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus) .....................35


9 Species Action Plan: Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) .............37


10 Appendices ...................................................................................39

10.1 Staines Moor Management Plan 2004-2014 Targets ............................................39 10.2 Shortwood Common Works List 2008-2012.........................................................44 10.3 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (from the Spelthorne Borough Local Plan, 2001) ................................................................................................................................45

11 Figures ..........................................................................................54

11.1 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance in Spelthorne.....................................54 11.2 Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Spelthorne ...................................................55 11.3 SPA and RAMSAR sites in Spelthorne ..................................................................56 11.4 ..............................................................57 An example of habitat loss in Spelthorne


Executive Summary The Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan is a decisive statement of Spelthorne Borough Council’s commitment to conserve and enhance biodiversity. It contains actions to improve five major habitat types in Spelthorne, and special actions for three species of conservation concern in the borough. Central government is increasingly establishing biodiversity on the national agenda. Delivering the Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan will go a significant way towards fulfilling our statutory duty to conserve and enhance biodiversity under Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. A new National Indicator on biodiversity was published in October 2007 (NI 197: Improved local biodiversity – proportion of local sites where positive conservation management has been or is being implemented). The Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan will help us to improve performance on this indicator. Spelthorne is blessed with several important nature conservation sites. Staines Moor is the largest area of floodplain grazing marsh in Surrey. This type of habitat is rich in plant and animal species, but it now covers only a small fraction of the area that it once did prior to agricultural intensification in the 20th century. Many of our reservoirs and sites of former gravel workings form a complex of waterbodies that are of international importance for gadwall (Anas strepera) and shoveler (Anas clypeata), bird species that overwinter here. Research is ongoing into how this complex of sites is used by the birds. The Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan highlights the importance of these sites, and ways in which we can conserve them. Conserving and enhancing biodiversity is not just important for our nature conservation sites, but is essential everywhere in the borough. Because Spelthorne is one of Surrey’s most urbanised boroughs, our urban wildlife habitat is especially crucial to enhancing our biodiversity. Local residents enjoy seeing wildlife, and raising awareness of wildlife issues in the general community is vital. Managing our parks and open spaces more sympathetically for wildlife is a key aspect of the Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan. We aim to lead by example in considering Spelthorne Borough Council’s opportunities to enhance biodiversity, but also to provide education about biodiversity for those who live, work, and play in the borough. Conserving and enhancing biodiversity in Spelthorne is not a task solely for the Borough Council. Developing and furthering relationships with partners is a crucial element of the Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan. Whilst we can make a large impact by modifying the management of land that we are responsible for, there are many sites that can only be improved by working in partnership with other public bodies, private organisations, community groups, and individuals. The Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan is a firm commitment to conserving and enhancing biodiversity. With this plan we can fulfil our duty, work towards improvement on a national indicator, and satisfy the requests of local residents for greater access to nature.


Introduction

1.1 What is biodiversity? Biodiversity or biological diversity simply means the ‘variety of life.’ This includes all life in its various forms such as animals, plants, fungi, even bacteria and viruses. It encompasses the diversity of species, genetic variability within a species, together with the diversity of and interactions with their environment. A more poetic description is given by the UK Steering Group on Biodiversity: “Biodiversity is all living things, from the tiny garden ant to the giant redwood tree. You will find biodiversity everywhere, in window boxes and wild woods, roadsides and rain forests, snow fields and sea shore.” The term biodiversity has come to encompass a number of different ideas. It is used to describe the rich variety of habitats, species and the ecosystems of which they are a part. It is not restricted to rare or threatened habitats and species, but includes the whole of the natural world from the commonplace to the critically endangered.

1.2 Why is biodiversity important? Biodiversity is important for many different reasons. Perhaps the most commonly cited reason for preserving biodiversity is the belief that every species has an intrinsic value and right to existence, and thus we should encourage every species to thrive. Biodiversity also provides the support system that sustains human existence. The intricate network of ecosystems, habitats and species provide clean air and water for the planet; and food, clothing and relaxation for its human inhabitants. Biodiversity also has a direct economic value. Modern agricultural crops are descendants of wild relatives, whilst many medicines are composed of extracts from wild plants. The unknown medicinal or food value of many species is a reason to try to preserve as much as possible. Areas with high biodiversity can also be important recreational areas. In Spelthorne, Shortwood Pond is a popular fishing destination, while walkers and bird-watchers appreciate Staines Moor, and amateur botanists visit Dumsey Meadow. Unfortunately, the world is losing biodiversity at an ever-increasing rate as a result of human activity. If we do not take action, we shall suffer both economic and spiritual loss and pass on to future generations a world that is considerably poorer than the one we are privileged to live in today. Alternatively, by working together we can pass on to future generations an environment capable of sustaining a richer variety of habitats and species than is supported at present.


1.3 What is a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)? A Biodiversity Action Plan (or BAP) is a long-term plan to maintain or increase biodiversity in the region where the plan applies. Many levels of government have BAPs, as do many business and charitable organisations. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan covers all of the United Kingdom, and it defines priority habitats and species to take action on within the country. The most important parts of a BAP are its objectives, targets and actions. These define where resources are to be focused, and stipulate a timeline for completing the actions. In this way, progress towards maintaining or increasing biodiversity can be measured and reported back to a central body, which can then reassess its resource allocations and redirect accordingly.

1.4 Why does Spelthorne need a BAP? Spelthorne contains a number of sites that support rare plants and animals, and the Borough Council is responsible for maintaining many of these. Long-term management is necessary for these sites to thrive. However, biodiversity is not just about places with rare species, but is found anywhere that plants and animals are allowed to thrive, including in our gardens, urban parks, and roadside verges. The Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan aims to provide achievable targets and proactive management to increase biodiversity throughout the Borough. The production of this document will also help to fulfil Spelthorne Borough Council's duty under Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 that states: “Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity…conserving biodiversity includes, in relation to a living organism or type of habitat, restoring or enhancing a population or habitat.” Central government is also increasingly establishing biodiversity on the national agenda. Biodiversity has been recognised in The New Performance Framework for Local Authorities and Local Authority Partnerships: Single Set of National Indicators, published in October 2007. A Biodiversity Action Plan will help Spelthorne to improve performance on National Indicator 197: Improved local biodiversity – active management of local sites.

1.5 Current Biodiversity Despite bordering one of the world’s largest airports and being one of Surrey’s most urbanised boroughs, Spelthorne is home to some very rare species and important habitats. It has four Sites of Special Scientific Interest: Dumsey Meadow, Staines


Moor (including Shortwood Common and Pond, King George VI Reservoir and the Staines Reservoirs), and the Kempton and Wraysbury Reservoirs. In addition, the South-West London Waterbodies Special Protection Area and Ramsar site is partly formed of reservoirs and former gravel workings within Spelthorne. The SPA and Ramsar site was designated because it holds internationally important over-wintering populations of gadwall (Anas strepera) and shoveler (Anas clypeata). The site also supports nationally important numbers of cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus), tufted duck (Aythya fuligula), pochard (Aythya farina) and coot (Fulica atra). The borough also contains 26 Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCIs). These sites were identified by the Surrey Nature Conservation Liaison Group as habitats that are important on a local scale, and they have been safeguarded from adverse development through the planning system. Many of these sites are wetland sites that support important wetland bird populations, including smew (Mergus albellus), goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) and heron (Ardea cinerea). These sites also support plants that are rare in the county, such as round-fruited rush (Juncus compressus) and flat-stalked pondweed (Potamogeton friesii). More details about Splethorne’s SNCIs can be found in Appendix 10.3. A significant area of the Colne Valley Regional Park resides in Spelthorne. The Park is the first major greenspace one encounters heading west of London, and is composed of a mosaic of 43 square miles of farmland, woodland and water on the urban fringe of Greater London. Spelthorne is home to many uncommon species. Rare plants include small water-pepper (Polygonum minus), brown sedge (Carex disticha), brown galingale (Cyperus fuscus), southern marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza praetermissa), marsh stitchwort (Stellaria palustris), and marsh arrow-grass (Triglochin palustris). The borough also contains a wide variety of animal life including stag beetles (Lucanus cervus), and pipistrelle bats (Pipistrellus pipistrellus). Staines Moor reputedly contains the oldest known anthills of the yellow meadow ant (Lasius flavus) in Britain, at an estimated 180 years old 1.

1.6 Habitats in Spelthorne There are a number of diverse habitats in Spelthorne that are important for conserving biodiversity. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan groups habitats according to ‘broad’ and ‘priority’ habitats, with the priority habitats having their own Habitat Action Plans (HAP) over the entire country. In Spelthorne, we have a number of both broad and priority habitats (as defined by the UK BAP) that are included in the Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan. The priority habitats are:

1 Penny Anderson Associates (2006). Spelthorne Borough Council: Staines Moor Management Plan 2004-2014.


• Floodplain grazing marsh – A very rare habitat, of which Spelthorne is very fortunate to have a large amount of on Staines Moor.

• Unimproved meadows – Meadows that have not been improved through ploughing, artificial fertilisers, or herbicides. Sites include Dumsey Meadow and remnant common land, other small sites including Funky Footprints Nature Reserve, Bronzefield Prison, and Orchard Meadow.

• Historic parkland – Consisting of parkland with open-grown trees. Sunbury Park and Stanwell Place are both historic estates.

The broad habitats covered in the Spelthorne BAP are:

• Standing open water and reedbeds - Spelthorne has many reservoirs, restored gravel pits, and ponds that are important for wildlife. Ponds are now a UK BAP priority habitat, but are included in this broad habitat definition for completeness. Sites covered in this HAP are the South West London Waterbodies SPA/Ramsar, Shortwood Pond, Laleham Pond, Funky Footprints Nature Reserve, and Splash Meadow.

• The urban environment – Spelthorne is a very urbanised borough and we can do much to improve this for wildlife. Sites include parks and open spaces not covered by a priority habitat.

1.7 Species for special action in Spelthorne The species highlighted in Spelthorne’s BAP are brown galingale (Cyperus fuscus), stag beetle (Lucanus cervus) and song thrush (Turdus philomelos). These species have been carefully chosen as species that can benefit from management actions within Spelthorne Borough Council’s control, and by being flagship species to promote biodiversity conservation. Positive management for these species will benefit many other species as well.

1.8 What is the relationship between the BAP and other biodiversity initiatives?

The UK BAP and the Surrey BAP are intricately linked to the Spelthorne BAP. Efforts have been made to ensure continuity between these two overarching plans and the Spelthorne BAP. Where necessary, extraneous objectives and targets from the UK and Surrey BAPs have been omitted from the Spelthorne BAP, whilst local objectives and targets have been added. Both the Surrey and UK BAPs are currently undergoing reviews, with revised targets due out soon. The Spelthorne BAP will be updated to reflect any changes when this information is available. Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs) are sites that are safeguarded from adverse development under the Spelthorne Local Plan. Spelthorne’s policy RU11 states that:


“The Borough Council will safeguard Sites of Nature Conservation Importance as shown on the Proposals Map and will only permit development proposals within these sites, where there will be no adverse effect, either directly or indirectly on their ecological interest, or where the requirements of Policy RU14 are met. The Council, in consultation with the Surrey Wildlife Trust, will keep under review the Sites of Nature Conservation Importance and will seek to protect such sites following their selection on a County-wide basis by the Surrey Nature Conservation Liaison Group.” Spelthorne’s policy RU14 is: “Where a development proposal would destroy or damage the nature conservation interest of a site, the applicant will be required to demonstrate that the benefits of the proposed development outweigh the decrease in the nature conservation value of the site, that any such decrease has been kept to a minimum, that mitigation or compensation to provide for species protection and/or habitat creation or enhancement has been made within the area, and that appropriate measures to monitor the effectiveness of the mitigation have been established.” Spelthorne is currently working towards adopting a Local Development Framework (LDF), which will replace the Local Plan. Policies RU11 and RU14 have been ‘saved’ from the Local Plan, and are valid under both plans. The Spelthorne Development Plan’s core strategies focus on protecting the environment. These include Strategic Policy SP6: Maintaining and Improving the Environment: “The Council will seek to maintain and improve the quality of the environment of the Borough. It will: a) Ensure the design and layout of new development incorporates principles of sustainable development, and creates an environment that is inclusive, safe and secure, is attractive with its own distinct identity and respects the environment of the area in which it is situated b) Contribute to improving air quality in the Borough. c) Protect and enhance areas of existing environmental character including sites of nature conservation value, areas of landscape value, the Borough’s historic and cultural heritage (including historic buildings and Conservation Areas) and open space of amenity and recreation value. d) Promote the improvement of poor quality environments both within the urban area and in the Green Belt” and Policy EN8, Protecting and Improving the Landscape and Biodiversity:: “The Council will seek to protect and improve the landscape and biodiversity of the Borough, by: a) Safeguarding sites of international and national importance. b) Working with partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors to develop and secure the implementation of projects to enhance the landscape and create or improve habitats of nature conservation value, and to secure the more effective management of land in the Borough


c) Ensuring that new development, wherever possible, contributes to an improvement in the landscape and biodiversity and also avoids harm to features of significance in the landscape or of nature conservation interest d) Refusing permission where development would have a significant harmful impact on the landscape or features of nature conservation value e) Safeguarding the Borough’s Common Land and working with other interested parties to protect and where appropriate enhance its nature conservation and recreational value.” These policies are complementary to the Spelthorne BAP and jointly, they work together to conserve and enhance biodiversity in the borough. Surrey County Council is the Minerals and Waste Development Authority, and it is currently working towards adopting a Mineral Development Framework (MDF). Spelthorne has historically had a great deal of mineral extraction, and there are several sites of current and potential workings. The MDF emphasises the value that successful mineral restorations can have for biodiversity, and encourages mineral developers to consider biodiversity as a restoration option. The Spelthorne BAP contains actions and targets that have been developed to further the Colne Valley Park Action Plan 2006-2008. Partnership and cross-boundary working are important elements of any successful biodiversity action plan; wildlife is not restricted to administrative boundaries. The Colne Valley Park is an excellent opportunity to harmonise actions to enhance biodiversity across administrative boundaries in a more cohesive, habitat-based approach within the catchment of the River Colne. Spelthorne Borough Council will work with the long-established Colne Valley Partnership, and progress partnerships with organisations such as Groundwork Thames Valley, Surrey Wildlife Trust, Natural England, and the Environment Agency to co-ordinate cross-boundary working on our actions to improve biodiversity. Green Arc is a project that brings the big outdoors closer to people through the creation of an extensive, attractive, and valued recreational landscape of well-connected and accessible countryside around London, for people and wildlife. Spelthorne Borough Council is a partner in the Green Arc project, and we support its aims through this BAP. There are numerous local community groups in Spelthorne that are committed to conserving and enhancing our biodiversity assets. These community groups, including the Association for the Preservation of Staines Moor, Egham and Staines Conservation Volunteers, Commoners Committee, Moormasters, Spelthorne Civic Pride, and Spelthorne Natural History Society have all passionately advocated on behalf of our environment for many years, and Spelthorne Borough Council aim to work in partnership with them to enhance biodiversity in the borough in future.

1.9 Monitoring and Reporting The Spelthorne Biodiversity Officer will report upon progress towards the Plan’s targets annually using the Internet-based Biodiversity Action Reporting System (BARS). A copy of this report will be sent to the Head of Environment Services at


Spelthorne, the local area officer from Natural England, and the Chair of the Surrey Biodiversity Partnership. Targets should be revised in consultation with the Head of Environment Services and all internet-based publications updated during this time period.

1.10 Further Information This document borrows liberally from both the Surrey Biodiversity Action Plan and the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Both of these documents are accessible on-line: Surrey BAP: http://www.surreybiodiversitypartnership.orgUK BAP: http://www.ukbap.org.uk Additional species-specific information can be obtained from: The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds: http://www.rspb.orgPlantlife UK: http://www.plantlife.org.ukPeople’s Trust for Endangered Species: http://www.ptes.org If you’d like to visit Spelthorne to see our biodiversity, you can find information on circular walks and designated rights-of-way at: Colne Valley Park: http://www.colnevalleypark.org.ukSurrey County Council Interactive Map: http://www.surreymaps.surreycc.gov.uk Many thanks must be given to the Surrey Biodiversity Partnership for their assistance and support. If greater depth of knowledge of the issues and information contained in the Spelthorne BAP is required, you are urged to consult the above documents. Abbreviations of partner groups: APSM Association for the Preservation of Staines Moor DEFRA Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs EA Environment Agency ESCV Egham and Staines Conservation Volunteers FOSP Friends of Sunbury Park MM Moormasters NE Natural England SCPV Spelthorne Civic Pride Volunteers SNHS Spelthorne Natural History Society STW Spelthorne Tree Wardens SWT Surrey Wildlife Trust


http://www.surreybiodiversitypartnership.org/

http://www.ukbap.org.uk/

http://www.rspb.org/

http://www.plantlife.org.uk/

http://www.ptes.org/

http://www.colnevalleypark.org.uk/

http://www.surreymaps.surreycc.gov.uk/

2 Habitat Action Plan: Floodplain Grazing Marsh

2.1 Habitat Definition Floodplain grazing marsh is defined as periodically inundated pasture or meadows with ditches that maintain water levels. Conservation interest is greatest in areas of grazing marsh that have not been drained or agriculturally improved with artificial fertilisers, ploughing, or reseeding. Almost all areas of floodplain grazing marsh are grazed and some are cut for hay or silage. Sites may contain seasonal water-filled hollows and permanent ponds with emergent swamp communities, but not extensive areas of tall fen species like reeds. They are particularly important for their numbers of breeding waders such as snipe and lapwing. It was estimated that in 1994, England had 200,000 ha of grazing marsh. However, only 5,000 ha of this grassland is thought to be semi-natural, supporting a high diversity of native plant species.

2.2 Current Distribution and Status There are two main sites in Spelthorne that have significant areas of floodplain grazing marsh: Staines Moor and Dumsey Meadow. These two sites are both designated SSSIs, and have both been assessed as having an “unfavourable, recovering” status by Natural England. Staines Moor was last assessed in March 2005, whilst Dumsey Meadow was last assessed in May 2002. New SSSI condition assessments are currently being compiled by Natural England.

2.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat Within Surrey, it has been estimated that 25% of the County’s unimproved grassland was lost between the period 1975-1985 (Surrey BAP), and that 64% of grazing marsh in the Greater Thames region was lost between the early 1930s and the mid-1980s (UK BAP). There are continuing threats to this habitat in Spelthorne, including: • A decline in traditional management. • Development. • Urbanisation and problems relating to the urban-fringe. • Aggregate extraction. • Ecologically insensitive flood defence works constructed in the past.

2.4 Current Action Spelthorne Borough Council has undertaken several actions to enable better management of its floodplain grazing sites. Ecological consultants recently


completed a comprehensive 10-year Staines Moor Management Plan. A National Vegetation Classification Survey of Dumsey Meadow was completed in March 2004, with several management recommendations provided by the consulting ecologists. These documents provide important guidance towards successful medium-term management. Spelthorne has also successfully applied for medium-term funding through a Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Countryside Stewardship Scheme for Staines Moor.

2.5 Overarching Biodiversity Action Plans 2.5.1 UK BAP relevant objectives/targets

• Maintain the existing habitat extent (300,000ha). • Maintain the quality of existing habitat (300,000ha). • Rehabilitate 10,000 ha of grazing marsh habitat which has become too dry, or is

intensively managed. • Begin creating 2,500 ha of grazing marsh from arable land in targeted areas, in

addition to that which will be achieved by existing ESA schemes.

2.5.2 Surrey BAP: relevant objectives • Identify all sites of conservation interest and potential within Surrey. • Protect all known sites of conservation value, and manage appropriately. • Protect and restore natural function of the floodplain. • Improve public perception. • Restore and create wet grassland of conservation importance.

2.5.3 Surrey BAP: relevant targets • Identify sites of conservation importance. • Review resources. • Develop countywide database. • Complete detailed flood modelling. • Maintain existing area of floodplain. • Maintain and where possible improve water quality. • Favourable management of 50% of wet grassland. • Stop loss of valuable grassland. • 50% increase in area of valuable grassland.


2.6 Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan Objectives 2.6.1 Improve the quality of existing habitat

• Target: Achieve a “favourable” rating on all SSSI land in the Borough.

Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Achieve 100% of annual management plan actions per year.

SBC MM, NE, Brett Aggregates

2008 I Implement Staines Moor Management Plan (see Appendices).

Achieve 50% of biannual management plan actions per year.

SBC MM, NE, Brett Aggregates

2008 I

Proactive management for Dumsey Meadow - Consult with NE annually in early April and September/October to monitor conditions and agree upon maintenance required.

Annual maintenance list agreed and 100% of works completed annually.

SBC NE 2008 I

2.6.2 Maintain the existing habitat extent in Spelthorne • Target: Ensure long-term grazing of all SSSI sites in Spelthorne

Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Report 100% of incidents to police and record all reference numbers.

SBC MM, Surrey Police

Immediately I Ensure adequate security for graziers.

Make SBC fences stock-proof within 24 hrs of reported damage.

SBC Immediately I

Ensure quality of forage. Monitor condition of forage and move livestock as required.

MM SBC Ongoing I

Acquire funding for sites. Apply for Higher Level Stewardship on Dumsey Meadow.

SBC Grazier, NE, DEFRA

2008 II

• Target: Ensure suitable hydrological management for the habitat.

Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Follow Water Level Management Plan for Staines Moor.

100% of annual targets achieved.

EA SBC, NE 2008 I


3 Habitat Action Plan: Standing Open Water and Reedbeds

3.1 Habitat Definition The Standing Open Water and Large Reedbed HAP is an amalgamation of several different habitats, including all standing fresh waters such as ponds, lakes, lagoons, and reservoirs. This HAP also includes ephemeral or seasonal standing waters which can dry out, and large reedbeds; in a Surrey context this has been defined as stands of common reed (Phragmites australis) that are over 2 hectares in area. Ponds have become a new priority habitat under the 2007/2008 UK BAP review. When the national Ponds HAP has been produced, it will be incorporated into this HAP.

3.2 Current Distribution and Status In Surrey, this is one habitat that has actually increased in size over the past century. Spelthorne is an excellent example of how this habitat has grown, with several very large water reservoirs and flooded former gravel workings distributed throughout the borough. Approximately 20% of the land area of Spelthorne is covered by water. Because the reservoirs provide drinking water to the public, they have excellent water quality. Many of these reservoirs and gravel workings provide good habitat for over-wintering birds, and in 2000, the King George VI, Staines North and South, Wraysbury and Kempton Park reservoirs were designated as a part of the South West London Waterbodies Special Protection Area (SPA) and Ramsar site. An SPA is a European designation under the European Community Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds, whilst a Ramsar site is an international designation under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. The SPA and Ramsar site was designated because waterbodies in the area hold internationally important over-wintering populations of gadwall (Anas strepera) and shoveler (Anas clypeata). The site also supports nationally important numbers of cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus), tufted duck (Aythya fuligula), pochard (Aythya farina) and coot (Fulica atra). It is likely that several wetland sites in Spelthorne, whilst not designated as part of the SPA, are important to its integrity, and a research project is currently ongoing into why these sites are important and how they are used. Spelthorne is also home to many smaller waterbodies that are important for wildlife. Several community projects, including Laleham Pond and Funky Footprints Nature Reserve, contain ponds created from recent gravel workings. They are now thriving under positive management and are maturing successfully. Splash Meadow, which is also managed as a community project, also contains a small pond and reedbed next to the River Ash in Shepperton.


Shortwood Pond (part of Staines Moor SSSI) is an excellent example of a historic pond habitat in Spelthorne. It contains elements of reedbeds, and the rare, rush-like plant Brown Galingale (Cyperus fuscus). This pond is the only site in Surrey, and is one of only six sites in Great Britain, to support this species. Unfortunately, Shortwood Pond SSSI is listed in “unfavourable, declining” condition due to water pollution and the introduction of non-native, invasive plants. Many rare plants have been lost from the pond over the past 30 years. It is also very much an urban-fringe site, with a history of abuse from uncontrolled fishing. Fishing can be beneficial at nature conservation sites, but only if it is controlled. Controlled fishing can lead to fish stocking levels and litter levels that can be managed positively for nature. Shortwood Pond was probably originally a gravel pit created about 150 years ago2. Over the last 30 years, there has been a history of management works, some of which aimed to prevent the pond from becoming over-vegetated. The antiquity and seasonally fluctuating water levels of Shortwood Pond are key factors underpinning its high conservation value. Some other notable plant species recorded in or around the pond’s edge in 20073:

• Riccia fluitans (a liverwort) • Water-violet (Hottonia palustris) • Round-fruited Rush (Juncus compressus) • Water-plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica) • Spiny Rest-harrow (Ononis spinosa) • Celery-leafed buttercup (Ranunculus sceleratus)

3.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat Unlike many other habitats in Surrey, standing water has been increasing in its total area over the centuries. However, this masks some significant changes in the type of standing water. The number of larger water bodies (especially manmade reservoirs) has increased, whilst there has been a decline in smaller water bodies in the rural/agricultural landscape. Equally, there has been a decline in the ecological quality of many waters. Other factors currently affecting the habitat include:

• Increasing eutrophication/decline in water quality. • Over-stocking with fish, adversely affecting plant and invertebrate

populations. • Loss of traditional ponds to development, ‘improvements’ or infilling. • Creation of stereotype ponds rather than ephemeral ponds. • Pollution incidents. • No management or inappropriate management.

2 Biggs, J., Williams, P., Whitfield, M., Fox, G. and Nicolet, P. (2000) The Ecology and Management of Shortwood Common Pond, Surrey. Pond Conservation Trust 3 Walls, R. (2007). Shortwood Pond botanical survey 4 June 2007. Commissioned on behalf of Plantlife.


• Introduction of alien species. • Inappropriate and/or competing uses causing disturbance or decline in quality. • Water abstraction and land drainage. • Natural processes of succession involving the loss of small ponds and

scrubbing up of reedbed communities. • Climate change: changes in rainfall patterns.

3.4 Current Action A management plan for Shortwood Pond has recently been completed for Spelthorne Borough Council. Works required under the management plan were started in early 2007. The reservoirs in Spelthorne are managed by Thames Water to maintain drinking water supply, which also benefits wildlife.

3.5 Overarching Biodiversity Action Plans 3.5.1 UK BAP relevant objectives/targets

• Ponds HAP targets will be added when the HAP is completed.

3.5.2 Surrey BAP: relevant objectives • Develop our understanding of, and rectify data deficiencies on, the conservation

value of open water and reedbed habitat, particularly in relation to less obvious species.

• Protect all known sites of conservation value. • Maintain the integrity of existing open water and reedbed habitat by preventing

loss and damage. • Appropriately manage all open waters and reedbeds to maintain and enhance

their biodiversity interest. • Improve the quality of water bodies by combating the causes, and reducing the

worst effects, of eutrophication. • Reverse the process of succession and scrubbing up of existing reedbed areas,

and expand their size where appropriate. • In suitable areas, encourage the creation of open water and large reedbed

habitat, particularly where this promotes a corridor/stepping stone concept linking both open water and reedbed habitats together, both within and without the County.

• Improve public understanding of open water and reedbed habitat issues.

3.5.3 Surrey BAP: relevant targets Standing Open Water:

• Identify and classify water quality and establish a database for open water sites. • All important conservation sites to be given statutory protection. • All important sites to have management plans in place. • To establish an open waters habitat group.


• To create 5 x 10ha and 100 x <0.25ha new open standing water bodies. • Develop a strategy to deal with the integrity of the South West London

Reservoirs and Gravel Pits Special Protection Area/RAMSAR (i.e. the London Waterfowl Strategy).

Reedbeds:

• All important conservation sites to be given statutory protection. • Identify all existing sites over 2 hectares, or which hold populations of key

species, and establish a database. • Ensure all important sites have management plans in place. • To establish a reedbed habitat group. • To identify locations for future reedbed creation. • To create 100ha of new reedbed. The importance for wildlife of both standing open water and reedbeds, means that where both occur, a balance will be sought to optimise the overall biodiversity of the water body.

3.6 Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan Objectives 3.6.1 Improve the quality of existing habitat

• Target: Achieve a “favourable” rating on all SSSI land in the Borough. Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Implement management plan for Shortwood Common Pond (see Appendices).

100% of annual targets achieved.

SBC Plantlife, NE, SNHS, EA

2008 I

Acquire medium-term funding for sites.

Apply for Higher Level Stewardship on Shortwood Common Pond.

SBC Grazier, NE, DEFRA

2008 II

3.6.2 Protect all known sites of conservation value • Target: Protect wildlife from excessive amounts of litter at Shortwood Pond Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Aim tangasslitt

UseseinanmfiSP

SBC An 2008 II o control ling and ociated er.

close ason and/or vite an gling club to anage the shing at hortwood ond.

gling club

Engage commhel p the pond clean.

E e locato CPV’s ‘S anC nts.

SBC SCPV, SNHS 2008 I unity in

ping to kee

ncouragl residents

join Spring Clean’d ‘Autumn

lean’ eve


4 bitat A lan: Unimproved Meadows

4.1 Habitat Definition Unimproved meadows are habitats dependent on traditional farming methods practiced for thousands of years. This habitat category refers to grasslands, meadows and pastures that have a fairly neutral soil pH and do not tend to extremely dry or wet conditions. The term unimproved refers to the fact that no significant agricultural intensification (using fertilizers or new grass species) has taken place in these habitats. Traditionally, unimproved meadows were either grazed, cut for hay, or a combination of both. This type of management leads to a species rich habitat that tends to have a high proportion of broad-leaved herbaceous plants to grasses. Traditionally managed meadows and pastures have an abundance of flowers from early in the year. In addition to farmland, fragments of this habitat can be found in recreational sites, churchyards, roadside verges, commons and other unexpected locations.

4.2 Current Distribution and Status Because most unimproved meadows occur on relatively dry, even terrain, it is very easy to improve agriculturally. It has become a highly fragmented habitat and is restricted to small, isolated islands. Recent conservation survey findings estimate that less than 15,000 ha of good quality neutral grassland survives today in the UK. Species-rich neutral grassland would have been characteristic of the pastoral landscape in the London Basin before the intensification of agriculture in the early 20th century. In Spelthorne, Dumsey Meadow and Staines Moor SSSIs contain unimproved meadows on the drier land within their boundaries. Other sites that could be classified as unimproved meadows include parts of Shortwood Common and Sunbury Park, and Priory, Birch, and Leacroft Greens, which are remnant fragments of the Staines Metropolitan Commons. Funky Footprints Nature Reserve in Shepperton is a restored former gravel workings. It has been spectacularly restored to a nature reserve in a community project involving Surrey County Council, Tarmac, St Nicholas Primary School and Spelthorne Civic Pride Volunteers. Part of the reserve contains a restoration back to unimproved meadow. There are several wildflower meadow plantings in the borough, including at Bronzefield prison and Orchard Meadow in Sunbury Park. These relatively new restorations require proper hayfield management for the flowers to thrive, but will become an excellent wildlife resource in the future, especially for birds and invertebrates. Sites with undamaged soil (e.g. that have not been ploughed) are generally seen to have a good potential for restoration.

Ha ction P


4.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat

ense destruction, with 97% being lost between 1930 and rapidly. The severe loss of unimproved

eutral grasslands in Spelthorne has mirrored that in the country as a whole.

icultural improvement through drainage, ploughing, re-seeding, fertilizer

il

Ensure that public access and recreation on neutral and acid grassland is low-impact.

This habitat has suffered imm1984. The remaining 3% is still declining nDevelopment has had a major detrimental impact on unimproved grasslands in Spelthorne. Other contributing factors to the decline of this habitat include: • Commons legislation that impedes grazing (e.g. through complications in

erecting fencing) and leads to scrub encroachment. • Agr

treatment, arable conversion and a shift from haymaking to silage production. • Increased stocking levels leading to overgrazing in the recent past. • Decline in suitable grazing stock (rare breeds). • Recreational pressures. • Atmospheric pollution. • Fly-tipping. Climate change. •

4.4 Current Action As mentioned in the Floodplain Grazing Marsh HAP, Spelthorne Borough Counchas a 10-year Staines Moor Management Plan and an ecological survey of Dumsey Meadow to inform future management decisions. An ecological survey with

anagement recommendations is available for Sunbury Park, whilst a 5-year mmanagement plan for Shortwood Pond has recently been completed.

4.5 Overarching Biodiversity Action Plans 4.5.1 UK BAP: relevant objectives/targets

• Arrest the depletion of unimproved lowland meadow throughout the UK. • Within SSSIs, initiate rehabilitation management for all significant stands of

unimproved lowland meadow in unfavourable condition. • Wherever biologically feasible achieve favourable status of all significant stands

of unimproved lowland meadow within SSSIs. • For stands outside SSSIs, wherever biologically feasible, secure favourable

condition over 100% of the resource.

4.5.2 Surrey BAP: relevant objectives• Restore and create areas of neutral and acid grassland to buffer existing grass

and heathland sites. Recreate habitat on degraded meadows, pastures and arable land.

•


• Improve the protection and management of neutral grasslands in the non-farmed landscape including commons, village greens, churchyards, playing fields and

.

6 bjectives

ny e characteristics of unimproved meadows within their ea. e Floodplain Grazing Marsh HAP for actions relating to Staines or dow SSSIs, and the Traditional Parkland HAP for actions

lating to Sunbury Park.

4.6.1 Where biologically feasible, secure favourable condition

Priority

roadside verges. • Ensure that seed of native origin is used in all neutral grassland

restoration/creation schemes, and that this is of local origin wherever possible

4.5.3 Surrey BAP: relevant targets • All unimproved hay meadow sites to be appropriately managed and in

favourable condition. • All high-quality unimproved neutral or acid pastures should be subject to an

appropriate grazing regime.

4. Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan O Ma sites in the Borough havar Please see thMo and Dumsey Meare

over 100% of the resource by 2015 • Target: Reintroduce grazing on Shortwood Common South. Action Measure Lead Partners Start CIn

onsult with Planning Application to SBC DEFRA spectorate and SBC legal

fenci

Planning 2008 I

department re: Commons Act 2006 and how to legally obtain

Inspectorate if necessary.

ng on the Common. Asse

uireesto

2009 I ss fencing and maintenance Fencing/ SBC req ments to reintroduce maintenance works liv ck. list. Co ete fencing and

nance works, reintroduce Cows on common Y/N.

SBC MM 2010 II mplmainte

zingra g.

Action Measure d Partners Start Priority

• Target: Manage small village greens and other small sites in the Borough aswildlife areas.

Lea

Identdin

evaluate.

2009 I ify potential sites and source Compile report for SBCfun g: focus on Commons and SNCIs.

Head of Environment Services to

Ga support from residents. Education SBC 2009 II rnercampaign to all residents bordering the sites.


Pro e bat and bird boxes, insect o , deadwood, or wildflower

lants, to interested residents 500m of site. Provis

Aim to provide one of these wildlife amenities in at least

SBC SNHS, SCPV, ESCV,

2009 III vidh mesplug p

ins

be sup

with ion and in tallation of equipment to

ervised by an SBC officer.

75% of sites. STW, FOSP


5 Habitat Action Pl

5.1 Habitat Definition

a an

his habitat belongs within the broader UK priority habitat of “Wood Pasture and rkland.” Historical land management practices, and the presence of important

istoric, cultural, and/or landscape features broadly define this habitat. Lowland wood pastures and parks are habitats where there has been a tradition of grazing livestock amongst trees. This had lead to a typical vegetation structure of large open-grown trees interspersed with grassland, heathland or woodland flora. There are no reliable statistics on the extent of the overall resource, or on historical and current rates of loss or degradation of this type of habitat. The figure of 10-20,000 ha 'currently in a working condition' given in the habitat statement of the UK Biodiversity Steering Group report is the current best estimate. Because this habitat is quite broad, the UK HAP has provided further definitions of wood pasture: • Lowland wood pastures and parklands derived from medieval forests and

emparkments, wooded common, parks and pastures with trees in them. Some have subsequently had a designed landscape superimposed in the 16th to 19th centuries. A range of native species usually predominates amongst the old trees but there may be non-native species that have been planted or have regenerated naturally.

• Parklands with their origins in the 19th century or later that contain much older trees derived from an earlier landscape.

• Under-managed and unmanaged wood pastures with veteran trees, in a matrix of secondary woodland or scrub that has developed by regeneration and/or planting.

• Parkland or wood pasture that has been converted to other land uses such as arable fields, forestry and amenity land, but where surviving veteran trees are of nature conservation interest. Some of the characteristic wood pasture and parkland species may have survived this change in state.

5.2 Current Distribution and Status Sunbury and Laleham Parks, and Stanwell Place are all historic parklands within Spelthorne. The Manor of Sunbury is referred to in the Sunbury Charter of 962, and the current park boundaries are encompassed within the boundaries of the estate on a map of Sunbury manor in 1722.4 The park is composed of several elements including a

n: Historic Parkl d

TPah

4 Reynolds, S (Ed). 1962. ‘Sunbury: Manors’, A History of the County of Middlesex: Volume 3: Shepperton, Staines, Stanwell, Sunbury, pp. 53-7. URL: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.asp?compid=22249. Date accessed: 23 January 2008.


Walled Garden, a ha-ha, a small woodland, and a large meadowut tanding veteran trees, of both native and cultivated species.

with several s

site of the former Laleham Manor, which is mentioned s one of the four appurtenances of Staines in the charter of Edward the Confessor

rk

anor 4th

habitat and loss of specialised dependent

•

• ere sites have high amenity use, forest hygiene, the supply of

• paction and erosion caused by

• ing action, drainage, neighbouring development, roads, prolonged

•

ersal and the increasing distances they need to travel).

Pollution derived either remotely from industry and traffic, or locally from agro-ent from pasture overstocking,

and changes to soils.

o Laleham Park is located on theagranting and confirming lands to Westminster Abbey.5 The grounds of Laleham Paare home to numerous mature trees, and a diverse riparian habitat along the Thames.

he manor of Stanwell was recorded in the Domesday book, and the present mThouse at Stanwell Place probably stands in the place of the manor house from the 1century.6 Stanwell Place formerly belonged to the King of Iraq4, but currently the northern part of the site is being extracted for gravel. Stanwell Place has excellent woodland and wetland habitats in a historic parkland setting, and is a site that could provide considerable wildlife benefits and public amenity space in the future.

5.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat • Lack of younger generations of trees producing skewed age structures, leading

to breaks in continuity of dead wood species.

Loss of veteran trees through disease (e.g. Dutch elm disease, oak dieback), physiological stress, such as drought and storm damage, and competition for resources with surrounding younger trees. Removal of veteran trees and dead wood through perceptions of safety and tidiness whfirewood or vandalism. Damage to trees and roots from soil comtrampling by livestock and people, and car parking.

Changes to ground-water levels leading to water stress and tree death, resultfrom abstrdrought and climate change. Isolation and fragmentation of the remaining parklands and wood-pasture sites in the landscape. (Many of the species dependent on old trees are unable tomove between these sites due to their poor powers of disp

•chemical application and nitrogen enrichmcausing damage to epiphyte communities

d,

sed:

6 'Stanwell: Manors', A History of the County of Middlesex: Volume 3: Shepperton, Staines, Stanwell,

/www.british-.

5 'Spelthorne Hundred: Laleham', A History of the County of Middlesex: Volume 2: General; AshforEast Bedfont with Hatton, Feltham, Hampton with Hampton Wick, Hanworth, Laleham, Littleton (1911), pp. 396-401. URL: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.asp?compid=22215. Date acces23 January 2008.

Sunbury, Teddington, Heston and Isleworth, Twickenham, Cowley, Cranford, West Drayton, Greenford, Hanwell, Harefield and Harlington (1962), pp. 36-41. URL: http:/history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=22239. Date accessed: 14 February 2008


5.4 Current Action The Surrey Wildlife Trust in 2001 completed an ecological survey of Sunbury Park and Orchard Meadow, which includes management recommendations. Spelthorne Borough Council has completed a 2006-2008 management plan for Sunbury Park, with a commitment to improving biodiversity in the park through this Biodiversity

ction Plan. A A strategy for projects to improve Laleham Park is currently underway. Groundwork Thames Valley is currently working with the landowners and Surrey County Council on some habitat works at Stanwell Place. The intention is to expandthis in the future to include community consultation/involvement and to undertake urther habitat enhancement works to the lake and woodland areas.

on Plans 5

• nd parkland.

a

5• f all existing wood pasture and parkland by preventing

• r all wood pasture and

ment

grown

ad

Raise awareness of the value of wood pasture and parkland and the ancient trees and biodiversity of this habitat in Surrey.

d towards, positive management.

nd

f

5.5 Overarching Biodiversity Acti.5.1 UK BAP: relevant objectives/targets Maintain the current extent and distribution of the total resource of wood-pasture a

• Initiate in areas where examples of derelict wood-pasture and parkland occurprogramme to restore 2,500ha to favourable ecological condition.

.5.2 Surrey BAP: relevant objectives Maintain the hectarage oloss and damage. Ensure favourable management is put into practice foparkland and its ancient trees, taking into account the various features of interest, with the aim that management is carried out under agreed manageschemes wherever possible.

• Restore and create areas of wood pasture to extend and buffer existing sites. Recreate habitat on neglected or overgrazed sites, prioritising sites where ancient trees stand and not neglecting heaths and commons where open selected trees can be allowed to grow.

• Ensure that public access and recreation in wood pasture and parkland is of low impact and sensitively managed to avoid disturbance, especially to vital dewood habitats.

•

5.5.3 Surrey BAP: relevant targets • All of Surrey’s wood pastures and parklands, and their ancient trees to be under,

or directe• Restore 375 ha of wood pasture and parkland at carefully targeted sites.

Restoration should be directed towards the enlargement of existing sites aupon recently abandoned or overgrazed habitat.


5.6 Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan Objectives

Priority

5.6.1 Ensure favourable management for historic parkland in Spelthorne

• Target: Enhance the biodiversity at Sunbury Park. Action Measure Lead Partners Start Replant wildflower plugs in 10% of meadow SBC FOSP 2008

rchard Meadow boundary replanted/year. I

Oplantings. Plant a variety of native British bulbs.

200 bulbs/year. SBC FOSP 2008 II

Implement annual hay cut in unbury Park (late summer) to

1 hay cut/year. SBC 2008 I Smimic historical management. Ensure that a mosaic of sward heights is created. Assetarge

nagovi rep

opportirds and bats.

P 2009 II ss woodland area and t for biodiversity

10% of woodland replanted/year.

SBC FOS

ma ement, including rem ng sycamore saplings

lanting understory to andincrease nesting and feeding

unities for invertebrates, b Target: Inv iversity at Laleham Park

Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority

estigate opportunities to improve the biod

Inv gate planting and ma ining a wildflower

w in the park.

Wildflower meadow project a part of the Laleham Park refurb

SBC SCPV 2008 II estiinta

meado

ishment. Invest gate a partnership with Lal m Farm to enhance

nd bird habitat in the park, s leaving rough grassland lark.

Farmland bird project a part of the Laleham Park refurbishment.

SBC 2008 II ieha

farmlasuch afor sky

t: Ensure that works in historical parkland are carried out appropriately, Targesensitively, and with regard for the conservation of biodiversity

Action Measure ead Partners Start Priority

LEnsure that tree works on vetersensi

Contractor hired SBC Ongoing I an trees are carried out tively.

to do veteran tree work possess necessary experience and qualifications.

En that tree work occurs uring periods that affect species as possible ally November to

Tree works only occur outside of these time frames in exceptional

SBC Ongoing I sureonly das few(gener


February although could be any circumstances. time of year for bats).

Practpromote stanwhere it is no

tree/year. (excluding veteran

ice ‘ring-barking’ to ding dead wood t a safety hazard.

1 ring-barked SBC Ongoing II

trees) Pr e a mixed age stand of Tree planting, SBC SCPV,omot

storic parkland, and

appropriate.

2008 III trees in hiencourage open-grown trees.

acorn/seed planting, or natural regeneration as

STW

Reduce safety risk from standing deadwood by

of moving

from standing deadwood and/or excluding access with log piles or

discouraging people from moving into potentially hazardous areas

Assess feasibility

footpaths away

longer grass

SBC 2008 I


6 Habitat Action P

lan: Urban

itionicu could argue that the entire Borough of , w don, Heathrow airport, landfill sites,

s, a busi oto in Br ll w n, or or es of the Spelthorne BAP, the urban area will

and part of the Borough that contains industrial, commercial, and residential areas, as well as its open spaces not covered under other sections of the BAP.

Council opportunity to help influence positive moves divers rban boundaries and to lead the Spelthorne

ple with l targets. What happens in our towns overriding im uture of biodiversity everywhere.

Because most people live in ation are mostly developed in these re connection between providing for wildlife (a

ird feeder) and the consequence (seeing birds at close quarters) can be very mediate and rewarding in the urban environment.

There is a great potential to increase biodiversity in urban areas. Even small improvements over such large regions will have impacts on providing habitat, food and shelter for many species of plants and animals, especially those that can adapt to living in an urban environment. With a little help and conscious effort by those that live, work, and play here, we can make definitive strides to improving biodiversity in the borough.

6.2 Current Distribution and Status Approximately 34% of Spelthorne is urbanised. This figure excludes the surface of water reservoirs. Spelthorne has approximately 750 hectares of publicly-accessible ‘open space’, including common land, playing fields, allotments, golf courses, and cemeteries. Nationally, it has been estimated that domestic gardens cover over one million hectares, an area larger than that accounted for all nature reserves combined. The importance of domestic gardens cannot be underestimated. According to the Forum for Gardening with Wildlife in Mind, a group of 45 public and private sector organisations, including Natural England, Butterfly Conservation, Notcutts Garden Centres, and the Royal Horticultural Society: “Gardens cover up to a quarter of the land surface in our towns and cities and act as a ‘food supermarkets’ for visiting and breeding birds and mammals. They support great plant diversity and are a major wildlife habitat for invertebrates, on which most other animals – as well as essential life processes – depend.”7

6.1 Habitat DefinThe urban area can be diffSpelthorne is an urban area

lt to define. Oneith Greater Lon

several artificial reservoiradjoining, the Borough. Fbe defined as the built up

nd one of thethe purpos developed

est m rways itain a ithi

Spelthorne Boroughtowards increasing biocommunity by examand cities is of

has a reality within its u its environmentaportance to the furban areas, attitudes to wildlife and conservgions. The

bim

7 ‘Let our gardens live! A manifesto for gardens, people and nature (2007). Prepared by organisations belonging to the “Forum for Gardening with Wildlife in Mind.” Accessed 8 Feb 2008 from http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/campaigns/breathingplaces/manifesto.htm


6.3 Factors Affecting the Habitat

cting urban spaces in Spelthorne is the pressure for ent. There is particular pressure on previously

-

g

nt Action

ced to raise public consciousness. ildlife gardening and composting in domestic gardens has exploded in popularity,

otect them. • Promote the enhancement of existing habitats, the creation of new habitats and

the linking of habitats through corridor creation.

The most important factor affedevelopment and redevelopmdeveloped or “brownfield” sites, many of which have rich communities of plants and animals. Other factors affecting the suitability of urban habitat for wildlife include: • Eutrophication of watercourses and reservoirs from agricultural runoff and over

stocking of fish. • Inappropriate management of public spaces: too-frequent cutting of grass, over-

zealous tree care and use of pesticides/herbicides. • Unsympathetic waterway engineering, e.g. concrete banks. • Pesticide and herbicide use in domestic gardens/lawns, e.g. slug pellet poisonin

of garden birds and hedgehogs. • Spread of invasive species from domestic gardens. • Impact of predation by domestic pets. • Damage to street trees by utilities. Increased potential of killing wildlife on roads. •• Isolation and fragmentation of wildlife sites due to urban development. • Concreting over of private gardens to provide car parking. • Dog fouling: causes nutrient enrichment of the soil and can change the ecology

of an area, it may also lead to littering.

.4 Curre6 Many positive steps have recently been introduWwith many resources available for the public. The need for local authorities to cut costs has resulted in a reduction in the intensity of management of open spaces. Heightened interest in the natural environment has led to a growth in the number of community groups actively involved in its protection and enhancement.

6.5 Overarching Biodiversity Action Plans 6.5.1 UK BAP: relevant objectives/targets

• N/A.

6.5.2 Surrey BAP: relevant objectives • Protect and enhance urban sites that are already known to be important. • Identify other possible key sites; and take measures to pr

• Ensure that all significant new development proposals are subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment, where appropriate.


• Help to ensure that new developments produce a demonstrable gain for wildlife. Increase awareness in all sectors of society of the value and significance of

ake on the rest of the county.

6.5.3 Surrey BAP: relevant targets

al groups,

have interpretation. urban biodiversity expertise.

new developments incorporate

lic

versity Action Plan Objectives: 6.6.1 Engage the Spelthorne Community to protect and enhance

ty

•urban wildlife and of the role that people can play in providing for it.

• Create and improve opportunities for organisations and people of all ages to take action for wildlife.

• Contribute towards making development more sustainable by reducing the imprint that urban areas m

• Each Borough, District, Parish and Town Council, wildlife organisation, school, business, garden and allotment society to address the issues in this plan and develop its own agenda for wildlife action.

• Each local authority to produce a web-based directory of locgreenspaces and local sources of advice.

• Declare all suitable informal greenspace land in Council ownership as Local Nature Reserves.

f over 1ha to• 50% of accessible urban greenspaces oto • Each local authority to have access

• Develop a mechanism which will ensure that allinformal greenspace for wildlife.

le to the pub• Web-based advice on wildlife gardening to be made availabthrough all local authority web sites.

• All urban schools to have access to a wildlife area.

6.6 Spelthorne Biodi

biodiversity in the borough • Target: Educate the Spelthorne community about biodiversity. Action Measure Lead Partners Start PrioriImprove and update biodiversity information on SBC’s website,

Annual update. SBC SWT, Surrey (UBAP)

2008 I

or include links to the Surrey

wildlcare,

enit ions for wildlife, pin s green, and

eadow creation.

Biodiversity Partnership website. Include topics such as

ife gardening, natural lawn water-saving gardens,

am y proviskee g gardenmPrepgarde

mutm

2008 II are and present wildlife ning talk to interested

2 talks/year. SBC

com nity groups, including allo ent holders.


De p a demonstration Self-sustaining SBC 2010 III velodliftm

into a

group.

wil e garden in a suitable allo ent site – could developed

community project, or a

wildlife garden in place.

project targeted to a specific user

Ma in a compost stration on an allotment

Compost demonstration in

SBC Allotment holders

2010 III intaemonte. place.

dsi

Co-omu

ss rabout bnews.

C SCPV,

FOSP, STW

2008 II rdinate with local 6 press SBcom nity groups to ensure pre eleases are distributed

iodiversity/conservation

releases/year SNHS, ESCV, APSM,

Ot awareness-raising ini ves for biodiversity by

At least 2 days/year

SBC SCPV, SNHS,

2008 her tiati

nfodays, f e

rFOSP, STW

I

local groups, such as provision of i rmation and staff for open

airs, or displays will b

ESCV, APSM,

suppo ted by SBC. Su rt the biodiversity Identification of SBC SCPV, 2008ppo

tiatiups

involvSBC

a d fea

d

plans.

APSM,

Iini ves of local community gro and local residents, and

e them in the management

volunteer opportunities on SBC sites an

SNHS, ESCV,

of sites where it is desired n sible.

communication of this to local

FOSP, STW

groups for input into annual work

Work with private landowners to create or restore habitat,

Biodiversity officer to liaise

SBC

especdesigcould be a par

2008 III

ially on or adjacent to nated sites, or if the land

t of a wildlife

with landowners as opportunities arise.

corridor. Assess opportunities for Report identifying SBC SCPV, declaring Local Nature Reserves

ugh. sites SNHS,

2010 II

in the boro ESCV, FOSP, STW

• Target: Encourage Action

the business community to enhance biodiversity

Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Prepare and present talk to businesses about how they can contribute to biodiversity enhancement.

2 talks/year. SBC 2008 II

• Target: Co-ordina

Council grounds.

te with Spelthorne BC contractors to enhance biodiversity on

Action Measure Lead Partners Start Priority Reduce pesticide usage to essential use only at grounds managed by SBC.

Training course for grounds maintenance

SBC 2008 I


managers.

Assess and source funding and resources for 3 parks/year.

SBC SNHS, SCPV, ESCV, STW

2008 I Increase wildlife amenity in parks by providing areas of natural grasbird/bat boxes, tree-planting, hedges, habitat piles, etc.

s,

cil-owned o

biodiversity provision.

S 2

All management plans for counsites tinclude

BC 008 I

Ditch clearance on SBC land to be ere

ere s

All ditches tected nd her

ditches to be cleared using alternate

SBC SE

2008 I performed sensitively whpracticable and in all cases whprotected species occur. Methodinclude clearance of ditches on a rotational basis, or alternate bankclearance.

with prospecies a50% of ot

methods.

NHS, SCPV, SCV

Potential for council-owned lanbe managed as part of wildlife corridors to be assessed, especiallyalong the River Ash.

d to

SBC S PV, E

2008 II Plan developed and implementedwhere feasible.

NHS, SCSCV

d Lo Au orities contin tween overarching and local

Pla

Start iority

6.6.2 Surrey UBAP• Target: Maintain

Biodiversity Action

targets anuity in goals be

ns.

cal th

Action Measure Lead Partners PrUpdate the Spelthorne Biodiversity Action Plan regularlto accommodate

y actions within the

urrey UBAP.

thorne BAP annually.

2Update Spel

SBC Surrey UBAP

008 I

SEn at all departments within Sp orne BC consult with

Regular consultation

SBC SBC 2008 sure thelth

nvironment Services where maintain Best Practice

with relevant .

I

Erelevant towith regards to biodiversity.

departments


7 Species Action Plan n Galingale (Cyperus fuscus)

on

Brown galingale is a small, rush-like plant wit er us compresse kele that hide tiny flowers. The scales of s are a chestnut brown colour, but with prominent green midribs. The s gular, and can grow to 20cm, but are often considerably shorter. Bro inates as water levels recede seasonally, and flowers from July into the autumn. Brown galingale’s preferred habitat is damp silty peats and gravels on exposed

o tion e w red r e i ith comm d traditionally grazed by ro nce from trampling by grazing animals.

on s

s ’ V ist feaning that it is facing a high risk of extinction in the

gone at least a 30% decline in area occupancy in Britain since the 1930s. It has recently been added to the list of priority UK BAP species because it ontinues to decline

Bro rtwood Pond. It has rom the Brink’

er 10 000 plants

ecting th

c the decline of brown galingale in the

glect o w tchment, including drainage, abstraction,

mineral extraction. (this species is sensitive to alterations in the seasonal fluctuation of water levels)

Invasion of vigorous non-native species. A decline in traditional grazing methods. Water pollution.

Positive management for brown galingale populations include retaining or restoring an appropriate grazing regime, occasional pollarding of bankside trees and dredging if necessary, and control of invasive species, especially non-natives.

: Brow

7.1 Species Definiti

h num o d spi ts the spikelettems are trianwn galingale is an annual that germ

unshaded pond margins. Seasgermination. Brown galingalcattle or ponies, thriving on g

7.2 Current Distributi

nal fluctuas associated wund disturba

and Statu

s in th ater level areon lan

requi fo

Brown galingale is classified aGreat Britain (JNCC, 2005), mwild, having under

a ‘vulnerable in the ascular Plant Red L or

c

wn galingale is present at 6 sites in the UK, one of which is Shobeen selected by Plantlife International as one of its 101 ‘Back f

species, and work by Plantlife resulted in a spectacular re-emergence of ov at the pond in 2003.

7.3 Factors Aff There are a number of factors

e Spec

ontributing to

ies

UK: • Overgrowth and ne• Operation affecting the

water regulation, building development and

f ponds. ater table/ca

•••


7.4 Spelthorne Biodiversity Plan Objectives

ood Common Pond in such a way as to encourage a

iority

Objective: To manage Shortwsustainable brown galingale population. Action Measure Lead Partners Start PrTo follow the Shortwood Common Pond management plan 2007-2009 to encourage and monitor brown galingale.

To complete all priority I and II actions in the management plan by 2009. Priority

SBC Plantlife, NE, EA, SNHS

2008 I

III actions to be costed by 2007, and completed by 2009 if funding available.

Tfu

o apply for external funding to Bid application by SBC Same as 2008 I nd management works. September 2007. above.

To ga n support from local residents for management plan works.

Annual presentation at

i

SBC to inform

SBC SNHS 2008 I

local residents and community organizations of management plan targets and works.


8 Species Action Plan: Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus)

beetle is one of the UK ost siv Th l cm, br ca

ale stag an not have antle

Stag beetles take about five year ecognisable ‘beetle’ stage. The female will lay small round eggs close to rotting wood, favouring log piles, roots and tree stumps. The feed on the decaying wood for most of their lives, gradually growing m long. The larvae will then pupate

oon in the soil and em adults in late spring, and ost will die of end o m

u e w . D heir sh ult r d hemselves in an attempt to gather

strength for flying in search of a ening.

8.2 Current Distribution

outhern England is a stronghold for stag beetles, and in Spelthorne, we are at the heart of the stag beetles’ UK range, which is concentrated in the Thames Valley, north-east Essex and Suffolk, and the New Forest. Two sites of European importance for stag beetle, Wimbledon Common Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Richmond Park SAC, lie within 15km of Spelthorne’s boundary. Historically, the stag beetle has been recorded throughout much of western Europe, though in many countries populations have been declining and it is now globally threatened. As a consequence, stag beetles are protected here in the UK by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) to prevent them from being gathered and sold by collectors. Much of the decline can be attributed to the tidying-up of parks and woods, especially management such as stump grinding or stump removal, which will destroy any stag beetle larvae living underground in the dead wood. The stag beetle is a UK BAP priority species, and is listed on Annex II of the EC Habitats Directive, so it is a species protected by European legislation as well. Stag beetles are not just important in their own right, they serve as a 'flagship' for a whole range of animals, plants and fungi that are dependent on dead wood. Many of these are becoming rare for the same reasons that stag beetles are declining - the removal of dead wood and the tidying-up of parks and woods.

8.3 Factors Affecting the Species • Private collection

8.1 Species Definition The stag ’s largest and m impres

-e beetles.

ge male

dstag

beetle is easily identified by itscharacteristically enlarged mandibles that appear to be huge ‘antlers.’ Fembeetles are slightly smaller th

ength of up to 7

males, and do

s to reach their r below ground larvae will then

to be up to 11c

black own win

rs.

ses, an

by building a large, round cocthen fly off to find mates. M

erge asadult stag beetles

rough thf by the f sum er,

although very rarely they will slives, the males will spend thei

rvive thays sunning t

mate in the ev

and Status

inter uring t ort ad

S


• Tidying-up of parks, woodlands and gardens, through the removal of dead w(by stump-grinding, uprooting, burning, chipping or tipping)

ood

re-development -crawly’ or potential pest leading to persecution or

intentional destruction

bjective: To preserve and enhance habitat for stag beetles.

iority

• Loss of habitat through • Perceptions as a ‘creepy

8.4 Spelthorne Biodiversity Plan Objectives O Action Measure Lead Partners Start PrRetain as much deadwood on SBC sites as is practicable.

Inspection of deadwood by biodiversity officer at all sites where removal is considered.

SBC SNHS, SCPV, ESCV

2008 I

Provide additional habitat for stag beetles, e.g. buried log/sawdust piles t selected SBC sites

2 buried log piles/yr

SBC SNHS, 2008

aSCPV, ESCV

II

Educate residents on the importance Dedicated web

T wiki about stag

request. Collect

SBC SWT, SCPV 2008 II of retaining deadwood. page on SBC’s

website or the SW

beetle habitat requirements, with links to national organisations. Leaflets to be available upon

dead beetles for public displays.

Publicise the People’s Trust for Endangered Species annual ‘Great Stag Hunt’ survey.

Link on website and article in the Borough Bulletin

SBC SCPV, ESCV, SNHS

2008 I


9 pecies Action Plan: Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) S

1

he song thrush is a familiar, usually solitary bird of parks and gardens, hedgerows, to break open by smashing

thrush’s long breeding s from M o up e N s low down in any suitable cover,

shrubs, among creepers on walls, and on the ground amongst thick vegetation. The general life exp thrush is t four years.

n s

e of seve ine h y app mately 70% in farm

habitats and 50% in woodland ha Song thrushes and their nests are nder the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird, or to damage or destroy its eggs, It is therefore essential to ensure nests are not destroyed if hedge t carried out in the breeding season.

9.3 Factors Affecting the

ecline of the so orly underst ut may relate to the llowing factors:

• Lack of food and nesting habitats brought on by the increase in intensive agriculture

• Loss of hedgerows and wet ditches • Loss or degradation of cattle-grazed permanent pasture • Severe winter weather and dry soil conditions affecting food supply. • Predation by corvids and foxes. • Competition with blackbirds. • Hunting in southern France.

9. Species Definition

Tand woodland. Song thrushes eat snails, which they like against rocks. They also eat worms and fruit. Most song thrushes in the UK stay in the same area all year. The song season last arch t August, as to thre broods can be raised per year.including trees and

esting occur

ectancy of a song hree to

9.2 Current Distributio

and Statu

Song thrushes are a UK prioritySince the 1970s, song thrushes

species becausave declined bbitats.

fully protected u

young or nest.rimming or tree felling has to be

Species

their roxi

re population declland

s.

Reasons for the d ng thrush are po ood, bfo


9.4 Spelthorne Biodiversity Plan Objectives

nhance habitat for song thrushes.

iority

Objective: To preserve and e Action Measure Lead Partners Start PrManage Spelthorne’s parks to encourage song thrush nesting and

SBC to maintain appropriately

SBC 2008 I

foraging habitat. chosen areas of minimal management in parks to provide nesting and foraging habitat for song thrush.

Educate residents on the habitat quirements for song thrush, and

Dedicated web page on SBC’s

SBC SWT, SCPV 2008 reemphasise the importance of website or the SWT

requirements, with

pon request.

II

maintaining ‘untidy’ areas in the garden wherever possible.

wiki about song thrush habitat

links to national organisations. Leaflets to be available u


10 Appendices

10.1 Staines Moor Management Plan 2004-2014 Targets






10.2 Shortwood Common Works List 2008-2012

Year to be performed Priority Works Required 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Ongoing after 2012?

1 Works register * * * * * Y 1 Pollarding bankside trees by Shortwood Ave * * Y (every 5-10 years) 1 New fencing - Shortwood South * N

1 High Level Stewardship application * N 1 Mechanical weed management * * * * * Y (annual until 2017) 1 Chemical weed management * * * * * Y (annual until 2017) 1 Ongoing maintenance -

boardwalk, kissing gates, litter picks * * * * * Y (annual)

2 Determining natural sediment buildup * N 2 Determining presence of contamination * N 2 Reed management -

by cutting or weed-wiping * * * Y (every 2-5 years)

2 Pollarding island trees * Y (every 5-10 years) 2 Amphibian Survey * N 2 Aquatic Invertebrate Survey * N 3 Managing contaminated silt * N 3 Removing natural sediment buildup * N


10.3 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (from the Spelthorne Borough Local Plan, 2001)

Location Site Description r Selection Site Reference

Area (Ha)

Grid Reference

Reason fo

n1 Moor LaneNature

MoorStaines

Wetland Nature Reservmesotrophic lak important for

l and a d associat ditch. ach area contai floating, bmerged

and emergent aquatic vegetation. lows and oth broad-lea d tree cies surround e lakes.

Contains wetland habitats with a wide range of s cies inclu g 3 County rarities of hich one, all WPepper, has been identified as nationally scarce. Also site is close to several other

ding 3 reservoirto the nor Site supp ts a goof odonat nd comm r bre

4.53 TQ 024726

Reserve, wildfow Lane, E

e with two es, pon edns su

Wilspe

er th

ve

pe dinw Sm ater

large water bodies inclh

uo

s t .a a

rone

od range eding and

wintering wildfowl.

n2 WrRe

ervoir with steeply sloping, terraced, oved grassl d bank

The main interest tering

The large water body is important for Tufted Duck and Shoveler and is

for Great Crested Grebes and Cormorants.

aysbury 257.90 TQ Resservoir 025746 impr an s grazed by

sheep. is in winwildfowl.

nationally important


n3 Wraysbury River west

Horton le

1.24 TQ 033750

This site is a natural river channel with good marginal vegetation along the

Poyle Meadows and is included within SSSI. This stretch of

ent Agency to be in the top 13% of UK

tebrate

The selected site only includes the river and an 8m buffer zone to the west. The

macroinvertebrate

a riffle beetle (Ouliminius major). The ater-Speedwell

which is also uncommon.

of Poyle Meadows,

western bank. The eastern bank of the river forms part of the flood meadow of

river supports diverse fauna including a Red Data Book species,

Road, Poy the Staines Moor river is shown by the Environm

watercourses due to its macroinverdiversity. Other habitats include adjoining grassland part of which supports botanical interest.

bank supports Blue Wwhich is scarce in Surrey and Arrowhead

n4 Poyle Meadows, Horton Road, Poyle

3.26 TQ 035753

unities.

Roesel's Bush Cricket.

Land east of Wetland with pond and associated aquatic features and grassland with hedges and scrub comm

Diversity of habitats including wetland which support species indicative of Thames Alluvial soils and includes a rareand declining rush, Common Clubrush. It also supports the nationally notable

n5 Fishing Pond, Hithermoor, Leylands Lane, Stanwell Moor

0.38 037751

.

ntain

er habitats.

Greenhams TQ Remnant of old gravel working now a fishing lake in the corner of a field used for grazing

The lake and a 10m buffer strip cotwo nationally scarce water beetles typical of good fresh wat


n6

Moor

d

e

River Colne(from Airport Way to Staines Moor), Stanwell

4.42 TQ038746

River Colne, a fast flowing river with good aquatic and marginal vegetation anareas of bare ground which are attractivto breeding birds.

The Environment Agency's data shows that this section of the river falls within the top 10% of the EA's watercourses nationally due to its diverse macroinvertebrate fauna. The selected area includes the river and an 8m buffer corridor on either side.

n7 Land east of Stanwell Moor Road, Stanwell (Stanwell

5.56 TQ 048745

latively large area of fen vegetation (approximately 5 hectares) which is of County importance. Also important for other wetland habitats, such as reed beds which support Reed

II)

Mosaic of gravel pits and ditches supporting a range of marginal vegetation including fen.

Main interest lies in the re

Bunting.

n8 Princes Lake weof

st

Clockhouse Lane,

43.81 TQ 072725

th bare ground, tall grass, scrub and dense willows. A large island in the centre of the lake provides a valuable refuge for nesting and rearing birds.

Ashford

Large body of standing water wi This wetland site supports large numbers of wintering wildfowl including Shoveler.

n9 Land adjoinShortwood Farm, Staines

ing 1.56

052717 ative of unimproved Thames alluvial soil.

of

species typical of unimproved Thames alluvial meadow including Meadow Barley, Yellow Oat Grass, Rough Hawkbit and Rough Hawksbeard.

TQ Semi-improved, dry meadow with species indic

Remnant of a once much larger arearare and declining habitat supporting


n10

ly g

ShortwoodCommon (part onadjoininSSSI)

5.25 TQ050717

Semi-improved, dry meadow with species indicative of unimproved Thames alluvial soil.

Remnant of an important alluvial grassland contiguous to Shortwood Common SSSI. Dry alluvial meadows are an important and declining habitat.

n11 Land noof Birch Green,

rth 5.47 TQ 038721

Sheep-grazed, tussocky, wet grassland with ant hills, lying between the River Ash and a water channel. Areas of the

Staines (between bypass and aqueduct)

river have diverse emergent flora.

This type of wetland grassland is uncommon and declining in the County.

n12 Land west of Queen

36.45 TQ 070700

A complex of lakes, scrub and grassland with ruderal communities, created by old

variety of aquatic species. It is of County

ew in nge of breeding and

overwintering populations.

Mary Reservoir, Ashford Road, Laleham

gravel workings. There is a strip of woodland along the western side and theeastern boundary is the River Ash. The site provides important additional habitats to the adjacent Queen Mary Reservoir.

The wetland habitat supports a good

to regional ornithological importance, supporting Little Ringed Plover, Kingfisher, Water Rail and Smaddition to a wide ra

n13 2 htly QueenMary Reservoir

320.4 TQ062696

Large body of open water, with tiggrazed slopes, willow scrub and some planted trees.

Interest lies in significant numbers of wildfowl and visiting seabirds. Nationally important for Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Gadwall and Shoveler.


n14 Land east ofCharlton Village (north M3)

d ler.

16.26 TQ088694

Eutrophic lakes with steep sides ansurrounded by willows and other broadleaved trees.

This wetland site is important for wintering wildfowl including Shove

n15 Lake at

6.88 TQ 684

Approximately 30 year old gravel

This wetland habitat supports a number lat Nutty Lane,

Shepperton 078 working with mature willows and scrub

around lake with a good marginal vegetation.

of typical species of which one, FStalked Pondweed, is a County rarity.

n16 Penton Hook Island, Thames Side, Laleham

4.22 TQ 043692

e

willows and the interior by elder and hawthorn thicket.

Contains a diversity of good wetland habitats with several notable species including Round Fruited Rush, a County rarity.

A large island in the River Thames. Thperipheral vegetation is dominated by

n17 Land of LittletonLane, Sheppert

west

on

39.77 TQ 056676

Two large lakes bordering the River Thames bisected by the M3 that are important for wintering wildfowl.

Good range of wetland habitats important for wintering wildfowl and 5 species found on the RSPB's Birds of Conservation Concern (1996) including Pochard, Herring Gull, Lapwing, Kingfisher and Goldfinch.


n18 ,

). Three eal sanctuaries for

breeding birds.

ng and t

the site, such as Great Crested Grebe, Coot, Little Ringed Plover, Common

se the mature banks and islands. In the

ch

Littleton Lake, Littleton Lane, Shepperton

44.28 TQ064675

Large body of eutrophic water, now asailing club, contiguous with site n19Sheepwalk Lake reserve (SWTsmall islands provide id

Important wetland for both winterisummer breeding birds. The bird interescomes from over 100 species recorded at

Term, and Kingfisher, all of which breedregularly. Songbirds such as Wren, Garden Warbler and Willow Warbler u

winter months up to 2000 wildfowl suas Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Smew, Gadwall, Teal and Widgeon use the area.


n19 ep

n

h e

breeding birds. It is contiguous with Littleton Lake (n18).

wildfowl such as Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Smew, Gadwall, Teal and Widgeon use the area.

Sheep WaLake, SheWalk, Shepperto

lk 16.73 TQ067675

This Surrey Wildlife Trust Reserve is part of a complex of lakes, together witone large and two smaller lakes. The sithas high bird interest, being important wetlands for both wintering and summer

Important wetland for both wintering and summer breeding birds. Nearly 300 terrestial and aquatic plant species have been recorded including a County rarity and other notable species. The bird interest comes from over 100 species recorded at the site, such as Great CrestedGrebe, Coot, Little Ringed Plover, Common Tern, and Kingfisher, all of which breed regularly. Songbirds such asWren, Garden Warbler and Willow Warbler use the mature banks and islands. In the winter months up to 2000

n20 Land east of Sheep Walk, Shepperton

14.50 TQ 071670

Eutrophic lake with grass margins and numerous willows and other broad-leaved tree species which have been planted.

This wetland habitat has good bird diversity for wildfowl and also supports Herons, Little Terns, Little Ringed Plovers and Little Egrets.

n21 Ferris Meadows, Ferry Lane, Shepperton

18.78 TQ 076662

A lake created after gravel working now occupies this site. Several grassland habitats now surround the lake, including remnants of Thames alluvial grassland. Wetland communities fringing the River Thames are of importance.

This wetland habitat supports typical plants including Fringed Water Lily, a County rarity. It also supports important numbers of wintering wildfowl and summer breeding birds.


n22

Road East, Sunbury

n KemptonLake and Half Moon Covert, Staines

16.93 TQ113707

Eutrophic lake with marginal vegetatioin Kempton Racecourse, and area of broad-leaved woodland.

The site is important for birds and includes a large Heronry. The lake and surrounding grassland support large numbers of wintering Teal.

n23 Kempton Reservoir, Upper Sunbury Road, Sunbury

11.04 TQ 122700

Reservoir surrounded by improved grassland, and to the south a small area of semi-natural woodland.

g The site is important for birds includinHerons and for wintering wildfowl including Teal, Snipe and Shovelers.

n24 River Ash - upstream of Nutty Lane,

0.41 TQ 080684

Short section of gently flowing river with overgrown river bank containing good marginal and aquatic vegetation.

on either side. It

falls within an area shown by the p

te

Shepperton

The selected area includes the river andan 8m buffer corridor

Environment Agency to be within the to10% of UK watercourses for macroinvertebrate diversity. The sialso supports a County rarity, Fringed Water Lily.


n25 River AshSplash Meadow, Old CharltonRoad to Watersplash Garm,

-

e

085678 TQ 094677

e of a

and riffle system.

A to

nd

supporting good wetland vegetation including a County rarity, Water Crowfoot.

FordbridgRoad, Shepperton

4.31 TQ081682 TQ

River with good aquatic and marginal flora. The section from Gaston Bridge toWatersplash Farm is a good examplnatural river channel with a good pool

Included in the area shown by the Efall in the top 10% of UK watercourses due to its macroinvertebrate diversity. The selected area includes the river aan 8m buffer corridor on either side

n26 River ThameCounty

s -

boundary to

188.70 TQ 030716 TQ 037704

TQ 053676 TQ 064666 TQ 070660 TQ 092662 TQ 094665

The River Thames sites include the river (to the top of the bank) and semi-natural habitats associated with the towpath.

Selection of the entire length of the River Thames through Spelthorne is supported by English Nature and the Environment Agency who have confirmed that the

f

buffer zone he y

y fish as well as an important corridor for migratory birds.

Sunbury (boundary with LB Richmond)

TQ 049692

Thames falls within the top 10% of UK waterways on the grounds of numbers omacroinvertebrate species present. The fringing habitats provide a corridor for species migration and act as ato protect the riverine environment. TThames provides an important highwafor migrator


11 Figures 11.1 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance in Spelthorne


11.2 Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Spelthorne

Staines Moor SSSI (6 units)

Dumsey Meadow SSSI

Kempton Park Reservoirs SSSI (1 unit)


11.3 SPA and RAMSAR sites in Spelthorne

Southwest LondWaterbodies SPA

on (part)



11.4 An example of habitat loss in Spelthorne

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