Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff and operational phases of the ... Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester ... Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff and

Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal

March 2017

Waterman Infrastructure & Environment Ltd

Merchants House, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RW www.watermangroup.com

Client Name: Planning Potential Ltd

Document Reference: WIE12626-100-R-1-1-4-PEA

Project Number: WIE12626-100

Quality Assurance – Approval Status

This document has been prepared and checked in accordance with Waterman Group’s IMS (BS EN ISO 9001: 2008, BS EN ISO 14001: 2004 and BS OHSAS 18001:2007)

Issue Date Prepared by Checked by Approved by

First March 2017 Jonathan Stuttard

Graduate Ecologist

Niall Machin

Associate Director

Niall Machin

Associate Director

Comments

Disclaimer

This report has been prepared by Waterman Infrastructure & Environment Limited, with all reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the Contract with the client, incorporation of our General Terms and Condition of Business and taking account of the resources devoted to us by agreement with the client.

We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope of the above.

This report is confidential to the client and we accept no responsibility of whatsoever nature to third parties to whom this report, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such party relies on the report at its own risk.

Contents Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

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WIE12626-100-R-1-1-4-PEA \\S-bl\wiel\Projects\WIE12626\100\8_Reports\1.PEA\WIE12626-100-R-1-1-4-PEA.docx

Contents

1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

2. Methodology ............................................................................................................................... 2

3. Results ......................................................................................................................................... 7

4. Assessment ............................................................................................................................... 15

5. Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 16

6. Conclusions .............................................................................................................................. 19

Figures

Figure 1: 'Extended' Phase 1 Habitat Survey Features Plan (WIE12626-100-GR-EC-1A)

Tables

Table 1: Geographical Scale of Important Ecological Feature Categories. ..................................... 2

Table 2: Legally protected and Invasive Species ............................................................................. 3

Table 3: Adapted Tree Assessment Guidelines ............................................................................... 4

Table 4: Summary of Desk Study Records of Non-statutory Designated Sites within 1km of the Site ...................................................................................................................................... 7

Table 5: Summary of desk study records of flora and fauna within 1km of the Site ........................ 8

Table 6: Building descriptions and bat roosting potential ............................................................... 10

Table 7: Important Ecological Features Anticipated to be Affected by the Development .............. 15

Table 8: Ecological Features Scoped out of the Assessment ........................................................ 15

Table 9: Summary of Recommended/Required Additional Ecological Assessments .................... 19

Appendices

A. Summarised Flora and Fauna Legislation

B. Photographs

Page 1 Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

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1. Introduction

1.1. Waterman Infrastructure & Environment Ltd (Waterman) was commissioned by Planning Potential

Ltd to carry out a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) at Land off Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

(hereafter referred to as the ‘Site’).

1.2. The Site proposals comprise the demolition of existing Site buildings and the erection of a new

ALDI supermarket with associated infrastructure (hereafter referred to as the ‘Development’).

1.3. The Site is approximately 0.67 hectares (ha) in area, centred on Ordnance Survey Grid Reference

ST167805. The Site is located in a predominantly residential area north of Cardiff city centre.

Buildings and hardstanding dominate the Site in the form of a derelict factory and fuel station

buildings and infrastructure. Other habitats present at the Site include scattered scrub, species-

poor semi-improved grassland, scattered trees and bare ground. The Site appears to have been

derelict for a significant period containing neglected burned-out buildings, fly tipping and multiple

rubble piles.

1.4. This PEA includes the results of an ecological data search and ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey.

Furthermore, preliminary ground based bat roost inspections at buildings (external only) and trees

on Site were also undertaken.

1.5. As detailed within industry guidance1, a PEA can be used to support a planning application

provided that no ‘Important Ecological Features’ (IEF’s) are identified and no significant ecological

effects are anticipated. If this is not the case, an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is normally

required by the Local Planning Authority (LPA). The Development has been determined to be a

non EIA development.

1.6. The recommendations made within this report for ecological mitigation, compensation and

enhancement measures should be used to inform the emerging scheme design. Upon scheme fix

this report should be updated to reflect the final measures adopted. This report also details

measures required to ensure legal compliance and ecological good practice during the demolition,

construction and operational phases of the Development.

1.7. The purpose of this report is to:

Identify the potential for IEF’s present within the identified Zone of Influence (ZoI) and any

resulting constraints to the Development;

Inform master-planning to allow significant ecological effects to be avoided or minimised

wherever possible;

Allow the further ecological assessments needed to inform an EcIA to be identified and

appropriately designed, as required;

Allow likely mitigation, compensation and ecological enhancement measures to be developed,

to ensure compliance with nature conservation legislation and planning policy (Appendix A);

and

Form a basis for agreeing the scope of the EcIA (if required) with relevant consultees.

1 CIEEM (2016). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal, 2nd Edition. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester.


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2. Methodology

Scope of the Assessment

2.1. This section summarises the methodologies used for undertaking the PEA based on current

guidelines2 3 4. This PEA included an ecological data search, ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey

and an external building and ground based tree inspection for roosting bats.

2.2. The ZoI is the area(s) over which ecological features maybe impacted by the biophysical changes

caused by the proposed Development. Based on the scale and nature of the Development, it has

been assessed that the ZoI arising from these works is unlikely to be greater than 1km from the

Site. Therefore, this distance has been used to collect the ecological data search information. The

‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat survey area comprised primarily the Site. However, adjacent land was

viewed where possible from the Site and aerial photography for the area has also been reviewed.

As referenced in industry guidance5, IEF’s that are anticipated to be affected by the Development

have been identified and subject to assessment. In this report, designated sites, habitats and

species that fall into the categories in Table 1 and Table 2 have been identified as being

ecologically important and/or legally protected/controlled and form the scope of data gathering

during the data search and Site surveys.

Table 1: Geographical Scale of Important Ecological Feature Categories.

Geographical Level of Importance

Category

International Statutory designated sites: Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), Special Protection Areas (SPA) and Ramsar sites (including candidate SACs and proposed SACs, SPAs and Ramsar sites).

National

Statutory designated sites: Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserves (NNR)6;

Ancient Woodland;

Habitats and species of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity as listed on Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 20167, including ecological important hedgerows under the Hedgerow Regulations; and

Red List and rare species (using IUNC criteria8) and Birds of Conservation Concern (Red List and Amber9)

County Local Nature Reserves (LNR), Non-statutory designated wildlife sites known as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI’s) and Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) habitats and species.

2 Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2013). Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. Technical Guidance Series. 3 Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2015). Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Assessment. Technical Guidance Series. 4 BSI (2013) BS 42020:2013. Biodiversity - Code of Practice for Planning and Development. 5 CIEEM (2016). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal, 2nd Edition. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester. 6 DCLG (2012). National Planning Policy Framework, paragraph 118. 7 Welsh Government (2016) Environment (Wales) Act 8 http://www.iucnredlist.org/technical-documents/categories-and-criteria 9 https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-and-wildlife-guides/bird-guide/status_explained.aspx

http://www.iucnredlist.org/technical-documents/categories-and-criteria

https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-and-wildlife-guides/bird-guide/status_explained.aspx


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Table 2: Legally protected and Invasive Species

Legislation (Summarised in Appendix A)

Species included on Schedules 1, 5 and 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (S1, S5 and S8; WCA, as amended), excluding species that are only protected in relation to their sale (Section 9[5] and 13[2]);

Species included on Schedule IV of the Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended);

Badgers, which are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992; and

Species included on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), which it is an offence to release or allow to escape into the wild or which it is an offence to plant or otherwise cause to grow in the wild.

Ecological Data Search

2.3. The aim of the ecological data search is to collate existing ecological records for the Site and

adjacent areas. Obtaining existing records is an important part of the evaluation process, as it

provides additional information that may not be apparent during a site survey.

2.4. An ecological desk study was undertaken in March 2017, during which all records of protected

species, and/or other notable fauna and flora within 1km of the Site were requested from The

South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre (SEWBRC).

2.5. Records of important statutory and non-statutory sites designated for their nature conservation

value within 1km of the Site were also requested from SEWBRC and searched for on the Multi-

Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC)10.

2.6. In addition, Habitats of Principal Importance (HoPI) and Species of Principal Importance (SoPI)

listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act, as well as Habitat Action Plans (HAPs) and

Species Action Plans (SAPs) listed under Cardiff Local Biodiversity Action Plan11 (LBAP) were

consulted to assign an ecological context to the Site.

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

2.7. An ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the Site was undertaken on 1st March 2017 using the

Joint Nature Conservancy Council (JNCC, 2010)12 standard ‘Phase 1’ survey technique. The

Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology was ‘Extended’ by undertaking an assessment of the Site to

support protected and notable faunal species. All habitat types within the Site were mapped

(Figure 1) with target notes where appropriate. The survey of the Site was conducted under

conditions deemed appropriate for survey due to the quality and extent of habitats on Site.

2.8. Where access allowed, adjacent habitats were also considered to assess the Site within the wider

landscape, and to provide information with which to assess possible impacts of the proposed

development.

2.9. A detailed floral species list was collated for the Site during the ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey.

As such, the species list detailed within the results section of this report can be used to inform any

future BREEAM reports (specific assessment guidelines dependant).

10 Magic.defra.gov.uk. (2014). Magic. [online] Available at: http://magic.defra.gov.uk/ [Accessed April 2015]. 11 Cardiff Council. (2008). The Cardiff Biodiversity Action Plan. Accessed: 15/03/17: http://www.outdoorcardiff.com/wp-content/uploads/Cardiff-LBAP-2008.pdf 12 JNCC. (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey. Nature Conservancy Council


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Invasive Species Assessment

2.10. The list of invasive plant species included on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

(as amended) is extensive and these plants are found in a range of different habitats, including

aquatic habitats. The ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey checked for the presence of common

invasive species including; Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica, giant knotweed Fallopia

sachalinensis, hybrid knotweed Fallopia baldschuanica, giant hogweed Heracleum

mantegazzianum and Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera.

Preliminary Bat Roost Inspections

Buildings

2.11. As part of the preliminary roost inspection an external building assessment for bats was undertaken

at the Site on 1st March 2017. The survey was led by an experienced ecologist. The survey was

based on current best practice guidelines13.

2.12. An assessment of each building was made in terms of its suitability to support roosting bats. The

survey consisted of a visual inspection of the exterior of the building for evidence of bat use (e.g.

droppings, scratch marks, staining and sightings). A number of factors were considered, including

presence of features suitable for use by roosting bats, proximity to foraging habitats or cover and

potential for disturbance. Notes were made relating to relevant characteristics of features providing

potential access points and roosting opportunities for bats. Based on the findings of the external

inspections, a potential rating for the building to be used as a bat roost was assigned (rated as

negligible, low, moderate of high bat roost potential) or classified as a roost if evidence was

recorded.

Trees

2.13. As part of the preliminary roost inspection a ground based visual inspection of trees on the Site for

bat roost potential was undertaken in combination with the ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey,

guided by current best practice guidelines.

2.14. Binoculars were used to inspect the trees from the ground to the canopy to look for features

indicative of bat roosts. Signs of bat use such as droppings, staining from the fur or urine and

scratches around the entry points were also inspected where applicable.

2.15. Following the ground based visual inspections, the trees were scored according to the criteria set

out in Table 3, based on adapted current best practice guidelines, to determine their potential to

support roosting bats.

Table 3: Adapted Tree Assessment Guidelines

Assigned Bat Roosting Potential Description

Known or confirmed roost Evidence of roosting bats within the tree.

High Trees with multiple, highly suitable features capable of supporting roosts.

Moderate Trees with definite bat potential, supporting fewer suitable features than category ‘high’ trees.

13 Collins, J. (ed) (2016) Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edn). The Bat Conservation Trust, London. ISBN-13 978-1-872745-96-1


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Assigned Bat Roosting Potential Description

Low

Trees with no obvious potential, although the tree is of a size and age that aerial surveys may result in cracks or crevices being found; or the tree supports some features which may have limited potential to support bats.

Negligible Trees with no potential to support bat roosts.

Assessment

2.16. Data gathered as part of this PEA has been used to identify potential IEF’s (i.e. designated sites,

habitats and species as listed in Tables 1 and 2) that are anticipated to be affected by the

Development within the ZoI (up to 1km from the Site).

2.17. However, not all the IEFs within the ZoI have the potential to be significantly14 affected by the

Development, or the legislation pertaining to them to be contravened. Features have been scoped

out where:

They are unlikely to be affected by the Development;

No pathway of effect has been identified, for example the feature is sufficient distance from the

Site or there is the presence of a barrier between its location and the Site15; or

The feature is of insufficient biodiversity conservation value within the ZoI, due to its quality,

extent or population size16.

2.18. For all remaining features scoped into the assessment, the pathway of effect (e.g. habitat loss,

lighting, noise etc.) and potential impact of this on the feature have been identified.

Constraints and Limitations

2.19. Although the Site survey was conducted outside of the optimal season for Phase 1 Habitat Surveys

(April-September) when the majority of plant species are visible, the timing of the survey was

considered suitable given the urban context of the Site within its surroundings and the habitats it

supports. All plants were identified through their floristic (where possible) and vegetative

characteristics.

2.20. All other contractors, designers and the client should be aware of the following: The design

recommendations within this report are assessed to be the most effective ecological solution at this

initial stage of the project. No other pre-construction information has been provided, obtained or

referred to during the preparation of this report (including, but not limited to, services information,

geotechnical reports and ordnance reports). In deciding whether and how to progress with this

project, it will be incumbent upon the client, designers and contractors to obtain and refer to

relevant pre-construction and maintenance information, as required by the Construction (Design

14 Positive or negative effects on ecological features that have the potential to influence a planning decision are considered to be significant 15 Whilst the ZoI of potential effects arising from the development is up to 2km from the Site, the ecological ZoI (within which the feature could be affected) for each feature may vary and for some features may be much less, e.g. great crested newts generally move up to a maximum of 500m from a breeding pond and movement can be restricted by barriers such as busy roads and fast flowing rivers 16 Whilst the ZoI of potential effects arising from the development is up to 2km from the Site, the ecological ZoI (within which the feature could be affected) for each feature may vary and for some features may be much less, e.g. great crested newts generally move up to a maximum of 500m from a breeding pond and movement can be restricted by barriers such as busy roads and fast flowing rivers


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and Management) Regulations to ensure compliance. Waterman can assist with the development

and co-ordination of this design to support effective risk management on this project upon request.


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3. Results

Desk Study

Statutory Sites

3.1. The Site is not located within or adjacent to any statutory designated sites. Furthermore, no

statutory sites have been recorded within 1km of the Site.

Non-Statutory Sites

3.2. The Site is not located within any non-statutory designated sites. However, two non-statutory

designated sites are located within 1km of the Site: these are detailed in Table 4 below. It should

be noted that the distances provided below are taken from the central grid reference of the Site and

therefore are approximate.

Table 4: Summary of Desk Study Records of Non-statutory Designated Sites within 1km of the Site

Site Name Designation Distance from Site (km)

Description

Coed y Caeau

SINC 0.7km north east.

Coed y Caeau encompasses a ‘H’ shaped section of woodland located between residential and commercial areas. The woodland encloses Llanishen Brook on the north side and a separate smaller brook on the south side. Protected species recorded here include a variety of bat species.

Heath Wood and Pond

SINC 1km south east.

Heath Wood and Pond encompass a section of two combined parks; Heath Park and King George’s Field. The SINC comprises an area of semi-natural broad-leaved woodland, open parkland and a large pond. The area provides habitats for protected species such as a variety of bat species and the great crested newt.

Ancient Woodland

3.3. There is no Ancient Woodland recorded on or within 1km of the Site.

Protected, BAP and Other Notable Species

3.4. Records of legally protected or otherwise notable species of flora and fauna within 1km of the Site

were provided by SEWBRC. A summary of the most significant results are provided in Table 5

below. Full results can be obtained from the data providers but cannot be presented in this report

as a result of copyright. For some records, only a four figure grid reference has been provided by

SEWBRC and therefore ‘within 1km’ has been stated in Table 5. It should be noted that the


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distances provided in Table 5 below are taken from the central grid reference of the Site and

therefore are approximate.

Table 5: Summary of desk study records of flora and fauna within 1km of the Site

Species Category of Importance

Number of

Records

Date Range of Records

Distance from Site (km) of Nearest Record

Amphibians

Common toad

Bufo bufo

S7 6 2004-2008 0.371

Great crested newt Triturus cristatus

WCA (as amended), European

Protected species (EPS), S7

39 1990 - 2015

0.5

Badgers

None recorded

Bats

Common pipistrelle

Pipistrellus pipistrellus

WCA (as amended), EPS,

S7 4

2010 - 2011

0.861

Soprano pipistrelle

Pipistrellus pygmaeus


S7 3 2010 0.749

Noctule bat

Nyctalus noctula


S7 1 2010 0.749

Birds

House sparrow

Passer domesticus

S7 48 1970 - 2015

0.142

Dunnock

Prunella modularis

S7 23 2008 - 2015

0.142

Tree pipit

Anthus trivialis

LBAP, S7 10 1930s -

2010 1

Black redstart

Phoenicurus ochuros

S1 WCA (as amended)

7 1996 - 2015

0.963

Dormouse


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Species Category of Importance

Number of

Records

Date Range of Records

Distance from Site (km) of Nearest Record

None recorded

Hedgehog

West European hedgehog

Erinaceus europaeus

S7 25

2002 - 2016

0.189

Invertebrates

None recorded

Otters

None recorded

Reptiles

Common lizard

Zootoca vivipara

WCA (as amended);

LBAP, S7

5 1930 - 2005

0.2

Slow-worm

Angulis fragilis

WCA (as amended);

LBAP, S7

7 1930 - 2005

0.2

Grass snake

Natrix natrix

WCA (as amended);

LBAP, S7

3 1914 - 1995

0.2

Adder

Vipera berus

WCA (as amended);

LBAP, S7

3 1930 - 2005

1.0

Water Vole

None recorded

White-Clawed Crayfish

None recorded

Flora

Grape-hyacinth

Muscari neglectum

S7 1 1970 1.0

Invasive Species

None recorded


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Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Habitats

3.5. The following habitat types, described in more detail below, were identified on and directly adjacent

to the Site during the ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey:

Buildings;

Hardstanding;

Scattered scrub;

Species-poor semi-improved grassland;

Scattered trees;

Bare ground;

Fence; and

Wall.

3.6. The habitat descriptions given below should be read in conjunction with Figure 1 and the

photographs (Plates) presented in Appendix B.

Buildings

3.7. A total of seven buildings are present on Site. All buildings provide potential nesting habitat for

breeding birds and three of the buildings are assessed to have bat roosting potential. A description

of each building and details of their potential to support roosting bats can be found below in Table 6.

Table 6: Building descriptions and bat roosting potential

Building Number / Photograph

Building Description/construction

Potential bat access and roosting opportunities

Bat Roost Rating*

B1

(Appendix B; Plate 1 and 2)

A derelict two storey brick built building with a protruding single storey extension. The main building has no roof due to fire damage. The single storey extension has an intact flat felt roof. Windows surround the building and are either completely broken or boarded up. Wooden fascia surrounds the single storey extension.

Gaps under facia board on the south side of the single storey extension (TN1).

Low

B2

(Appendix B; Plate 3)

A derelict single storey building adjacent to B1. The building has a pitched corrugated aluminium roof. A large garage style entrance is present on the west side. Windows surround the building and are all fully broken. Aluminium facia surround the building and is in good condition.

None Negligible


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Building Number / Photograph

Building Description/construction

Potential bat access and roosting opportunities

Bat Roost Rating*

B3


A derelict single storey brick built factory building. The building has a pitched asbestos roof with large corrugated aluminium facia running down the flanks of the building. A large brick built façade with a garage like entrance is present on the east side. All windows are broken.

None Negligible

B4

(Appendix B; Plate 5, 6 and 7)

A large derelict factory building. The building has a roof comprising a multitude of felt topped pitched windows to allow light access. The roof is in bad condition with a large proportion of missing felt exposing the wood joists and waterproofing. Most building windows are broken. Aluminium facia board is present upon the roof and could not be fully viewed. The façade of the building is wooden clad. An old oil tank protrudes from the north west corner of the building (TN2).

Likely to present gaps under aluminium fascia board upon the roof (TN3); and

Gaps under lifted wood cladding upon the façade of the building (TN4).

Low

B5


A derelict single storey car wash. The building has a flat roof. The entire building is clad with flat aluminium sheeting. A garage style entrance is present at either side of the building. Both entrances are fully boarded up.

None Negligible

B6


A derelict single storey brick built storage building. The building has a flat concreate roof. No facia boards are present throughout. The building obtains a single door and no windows; the door is not attached.

None Negligible

B7

(Appendix B; Plate 10 and 11)

A derelict single storey brick built building. The building has a pitched tiled rood with flat roof peripheries. Wooden soffit boxes and fascia boards are present around the entire roof and are significantly dilapidated. All windows and doors are broken.

Gaps underneath lifted roof tiles on the south side of the building (TN5).

Damaged fascia and wood soffit boards provide access into the soffit box throughout (TN6).

Moderate

Hardstanding

3.8. Hardstanding is present surrounding the buildings (Appendix C; Plate 12), which would have provided

car and pedestrian access around the Site. This habitat lacks any ecological value.


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3.9. Present on the hardstanding within the south east of the Site is a small brick enclosed area containing

derelict fuel pumps (TN7). This feature lacks any ecological value.

Scattered Scrub

3.10. Scattered scrub is distributed sporadically throughout the Site. Specifically, scattered scrub is

mostly present around the edge of buildings, within areas of open substrate and through cracks

within the hardstanding (Appendix B; Plate 13). Notably, the scrub habitat has been left unmanaged

for a significant period and is becoming established. Buddleia Buddleja davidii dominates the scrub

habitat on Site and in most cases has grown to a large size. Other species recorded amongst the

scattered scrub include willow saplings Salix spp., ivy Hedera spp., and bramble Rubus fruiticosus.

This habitat represents a food source for common species of invertebrates. Furthermore, the

habitat provides suitable foraging habitat for bat species and nesting habitat for breeding birds.

Species-Poor Semi-Improved Grassland

3.11. Three areas of species-poor semi-improved grassland (Appendix B; Plate 14) are present on Site: a

linear section is present along the eastern boundary of the Site, parallel with Caerphilly Road; a

section is present in the south east of the Site; and a section is present to the west in between B1

and B2. Here, species recorded include perennial rye grass Lolium perenne, creeping buttercup

Ranunculus repens, cocks foot Dactylus glomerata, common dandelion Taraxacum officinale,

ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata, broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius and common cats ear

Hypochaeris radicata. Due the small size of this habitat and its fragmentation from further valuable

habitat it is considered to lack any ecological value.

3.12. Located within the grassland between B1 and B2 is an old oil tank (TN8) and a shipping container

(TN9) filled with domestic waste. Both features lack any ecological value.

Scattered Trees

3.13. An area of scattered trees is present within the species-poor semi-improved grassland located in

the south east of the Site. The trees vary in age from sapling to semi-mature and are in fair to good

condition. Here, species recorded include Leyland cypress Cupressus leylandii, willow Salix spp.,

spruce Picea spp., English oak Quercus robur, silver birch Betula pendula, and ash Fraxinus

excelsior. All trees, with the exception of saplings, provide suitable nesting opportunities for nesting

bird species. No trees on Site contain features suitable to support roosting bats.

Bare Ground

3.14. Areas of bare ground that have not yet been colonized by scrub plants are present: in the north

west of the site adjacent to B2 and B3; and within the south east of the Site. Furthermore, a strip of

bare ground is present under the façade of B4. This habitat lacks any ecological value.

3.15. Present amongst the bare ground adjacent to B4 (TN10) are large rubble piles (Appendix C; Plate

15). These rubble piles are isolated from any significant green space and are thus not considered

to offer suitable hibernaculum habitat for any protected and/or notable species and thus lack any

ecological value.

3.16. An electricity substation (TN11) is present adjacent to the bare ground located in the south east of

the site. This feature lacks any ecological value.


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Fence

3.17. Fencing encloses sections of the Site. This habitat lacks any ecological value.

Wall

3.18. Walls enclose sections of the Site. This habitat lacks any ecological value.

Protected, BAP and other Notable Fauna

3.19. As a result of the ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey and a review of the ecological desk study an

assessment is made below on the potential of the Site to support:

Bats;

Birds;

Invertebrates; and

Reptiles.

3.20. The fauna descriptions provided below should be read in conjunction with Figure 1 and the

photographs (Plates) presented in Appendix B.

Bats

3.21. The 2017 desk study returned a total of 3 bat species present within 1km of the Site, the nearest of

which is of a common pipistrelle 0.7km from the Site.

3.22. Three buildings on Site are considered to provide potential to support roosting bats. Buildings B1

and B4 are considered to offer low bat roosting potential and building B7 is considered to offer

moderate bat roosting potential. The remainder of the buildings are considered to be of negligible

bat roosting potential. For details of each building and their suitable features, see Table 6 above.

3.23. All trees on Site are considered to provide negligible bat roosting potential. This is due to their lack

of maturity or desirable features such as rot holes, branch wounds and linear faults. Furthermore,

the trees are not considered to offer significant commuting or foraging habitat.

Birds

3.24. Numerous records for common bird species within 1km of the Site were returned from the ecological

data search.

3.25. Species of bird recorded on Site during the ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey included: feral pigeon

Columba livia domestica, blackbird Turdus merula and blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus. Such species

are considered common and widespread.

3.26. The Site offers foraging and nesting habitat for a wide range of common bird species in the form of

buildings, scattered trees and scattered scrub. However, foraging and nesting potential is common

and widespread in the wider area.

Invertebrates

3.27. No records of any protected and/or notable invertebrate species were returned within 1km of the site.

3.28. Due to the species composition and diversity on Site, habitats present are not considered suitable to

support any protected and/or notable invertebrate species. However, the scattered scrub and trees


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present on Site provide opportunities for common species of invertebrates. Common invertebrate

species may provide a food resource for protected and/notable species that may be present on Site.

Reptiles

3.29. Although potentially suitable habitat is present on Site in the form of hibernaculum (rubble piles) and

species-poor semi-improved grassland, the habitats are considered to be isolated from further

appropriate habitat consequently fragmenting the area. As such, habitats present on site are not

considered suitable to support reptiles.


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4. Assessment

4.1. The IEF’s that are anticipated to be affected by the Development (based on the results of the PEA

and the Development plans received to date) are listed in Table 7 below. The table also details the

pathway of the effect and any requirement for further ecological assessments.

Table 7: Important Ecological Features Anticipated to be Affected by the Development

Potential Important Ecological Feature

Category of Importance

Rationale Potential Effect Pathway

Requirement of Further Ecological Assessment

Bats EPS

Buildings have been identified with moderate and low potential to support roosting bats.

Potential destruction of bat roosts. Killing or injury of bats present in the roosts during building demolition.

Buildings with moderate potential require two separate survey visits: a single dusk emergence survey and separate dawn re-entry survey.

Buildings with low potential require a single survey visit; either a dawn or dusk survey.

Birds WCA

Presence of suitable breeding

habitat for common species.

Killing or injury of birds whilst nesting and

destroying active nests during Site

clearance activities

None

4.2. All other ecological features identified through the PEA, have been scoped out of further

assessment because either: the population or area likely to be affected by the Development is of

insufficient size or diversity to be of ecological value; no potential effect pathway between the

Development and these features has been identified; and/or contravention of the legislation relating

to the feature is unlikely to occur. The rationale for scoping out features is provided in Table 8

below.

Table 8: Ecological Features Scoped out of the Assessment

Ecological Feature

Rational

Designated Sites

No pathway of direct effect given distance from Site. Indirect effects also unlikely to occur based on scale of proposed works and intervening built up areas.

4.3. On Site

habitats

4.4. Habitat types commonly found locally and nationally and are unlikely to support rare

or notable species.

Invertebrates The habitat assemblage present on Site is not considered suitable to support protected and/or notable invertebrate species.

Reptiles Given its isolation and poor habitat composition, the Site is considered unsuitable to support any species of reptile.


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5. Recommendations

5.1. The PEA has identified IEF’s anticipated to be affected by the Development (based on plans received

to date) that could result in ecological impact. The requirement for further ecological assessments

has been highlighted within Table 7 and a detailed scope is provided below.

5.2. To minimise or avoid any significant ecological effects and inform the emerging scheme design,

ecological mitigation and compensation measures have been provided. In addition, ecological

enhancement measures are also recommended.

5.3. Upon scheme fix and based on the results of the further assessments recommended below, the

mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures will need to be confirmed/finalised in the EcIA

and other reports as required.

Habitats

5.4. The habitats on Site and those within the ZoI that could be significantly affected by the

Development include buildings with bat roost potential; and buildings, scattered scrub and

scattered trees providing bird nesting opportunities. No other habitats are assessed to require

further work. Mitigation for these features is suggested in the ‘Protected and Notable Fauna’

section below.

5.5. To conserve and increase the ecological value of habitats at the Site the following compensation

and enhancements measures in line with planning policy requirements should be considered as

part of the Development:

The Development proposals should enhance biodiversity on Site to comply with Local Planning

Policy. This could be achieved by:

- The use of native species or species of benefit to wildlife within any proposed landscape

scheme to provide foraging opportunities for birds, bats, invertebrates and other fauna is

recommended to enhance the Site for wildlife;

- Additional habitat could be created above ground level utilising roof top space such as the

provision of living roofs. For example, brown roofs could be provided with a gravel substrate

and allowed to self-seed with ruderal/ephemeral species. Green roofs could also be provided

by creating grassland on roofs by sowing sedum and hardy plant species in shallow low-

nutrient soils. This would potentially provide a food source for invertebrates on which, in turn

other invertebrates and birds and bats may feed. They can also provide breeding and

nesting habitat for invertebrates and birds (including the house sparrow, a SoPI) and

green/brown roofs are ideal for including bird boxes on (see bird section below). Brown

roofs would also provide a suitable foraging for black redstarts (S7) which would replace the

potential foraging habitat lost as part of the Development, and nest box provision for this

species could also be provided on overlooking vertical structures; and

- Artificial habitats for bats, bird and invertebrates are also recommended (see fauna section

below) to enhance the Site for these species group;

Where new landscaping is to be undertaken as part of the Development proposals horticultural

practice should include the use of peat-free composts, mulches and soil conditioners. The use

of pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and slug pellets) will be discouraged to


WIE12626-100


prevent fatal effects on the food chain particularly invertebrates, birds and/or mammals. Any

pesticides used should be non-residual.

Protected and Notable Fauna

5.6. Protected and notable fauna on Site and within the ZoI that could be significantly affected by the

Development include bats and birds, pending on the results of the recommended further

assessments.

5.7. It is recommended that mitigation in the form of protection measures are adhered to during the

construction phase of the Development. These measures would ensure legal compliance and that

good practice is adopted. The measures could be documented within a Construction

Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and include;

The protection of retained trees. Any trees to be retained should be appropriately protected in

accordance with BS 5837:2012 - “Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction –

Recommendations”; and

Timing constraints associated with Site clearance works including the removal of habitats with

the potential to support nesting birds as detailed below.

Bats

5.8. Three buildings on Site have been assessed to be of bat roosting potential: B7 (moderate) and B1

and B4 (low). In line with best practice guidelines further survey effort in the form of dusk/dawn

surveys are required. Details of the survey effort are detailed below:

Buildings with moderate bat roosting potential (B7):

Two separate survey visits; one dusk emergence survey and a separate dawn re-entry survey.

Buildings with low bat roosting potential (B1 & B4):

A single survey visit; either a dusk emergence or a dawn re-entry survey.

5.9. The above surveys should be carried out to determine the presence/likely absence of roosting bats.

Surveys should look to be undertaken during the optimal time for this type of survey (May –

August/September).

5.10. No trees on Site were assessed as having bat roosting potential.

5.11. If bats are found utilising the above buildings, survey effort would need to be increased to gain an

understanding of the bat roost present, and to provide sufficient information for a Natural England

(NE) European Protected Species (EPS) Development Licence.

5.12. In line with guidance17 enhancement of the Site for bats could be provided. The provision of the

habitat enhancements as detailed above and the provision of roosting habitat in the form of bat

boxes could be included within the final design. The number and type of boxes would be informed

by the results of the further bat surveys detailed above, together with consultation between the

project ecologist and architect.

5.13. In addition, a wildlife sensitive lighting strategy should look to be adopted across the Site to prevent

any unnecessary spill on future roosting habitats and commuting habitats.

17 TAN5 Welsh Assembly Government, 2009. Technical Advice Note 5: Nature Conservation and Planning.


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Birds

5.14. The habitats at the Site including buildings, scrub and trees are considered unlikely to support any

large populations of birds, although there are opportunities on Site to support common species of

breeding birds. As such the following mitigation measure is recommended:

In order to prevent the contravention of legislation, as detailed within Appendix A, should any

habitats of value to nesting birds require removal to facilitate the Development this will be

undertaken outside of the breeding bird season (March to August inclusive). However, if works

cannot be undertaken outside the breeding bird season, an ecologist will inspect any vegetation

/ building to be removed. An experienced ecologist will be deployed to carry out an inspection

at least within 24 hours prior to the clearance. If an occupied nest is detected, an appropriate

buffer zone will be created around the nest, and clearance of this area delayed until the young

have fledged.

5.15. Opportunities to compensate for the loss of habitats of value to birds and enhance the Site for birds

should be incorporated into the design of the Development to increase the value of the Site for bird

species. It is recommended that artificial nest sites are targeted at SoPI species and LBAP species

(SAPs). The following bird boxes are recommended:

‘Schwegler Starling Next Box 3S’ – This nest box has been designed with a large, deep cavity

and 45mm entrance hole to attract starlings. Can be installed on mature trees or buildings. As

well as starlings, this nest box is suitable for woodpecker species. The bird boxes should be

placed at least 3m above ground level to prevent vandalism and face east or west;

‘Schwegler Sparrow Terrace 1SP’ – Suitable for house sparrows and tree sparrows. The nest

box contains three separate nesting cavities. Three terraces should be included as sparrows

are communal breeders. The boxes can be installed on buildings either affixed to the exterior

wall or incorporated into the wall. The bird boxes should be placed at least 3m above ground

level to prevent vandalism and face east or west; and

‘Schwegler Nest Box 1B’ – Available with a range of entrance hole sizes. Suitable for many bird

species including tits, sparrows and redstarts. Can be installed on mature trees or buildings.

The bird boxes should be placed at least 3m above ground level to prevent vandalism and face

east or west.

5.16. The use of native plant species as recommended above would provide additional foraging habitat

for local bird species.


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6. Conclusions

6.1. Following the tasks undertaken as part of this PEA, it is assessed that further ecological

assessments would be required to assess if any IEF’s are present within the identified Zone of

Influence (ZoI) and if any significant ecological effects would occur as a result of the Development.

As such it is not yet possible to determine if a separate EcIA is required to support the planning

application.

6.2. IEF’s within the ZoI that are anticipated to be affected by the Development include potential for

roosting bats.

6.3. It is determined that further ecological assessments as detailed in Table 9 below would be required

to inform the emerging scheme design and when finalised support the production of an EcIA. The

Development has been determined to be a non EIA development/EIA development, as such the

EcIA will be a standalone document/presented as a chapter within the EIA process.

Table 9: Summary of Recommended/Required Additional Ecological Assessments

6.4. To ensure legal compliance and ensure good practice measures are adopted during the

construction phase of the Development, recommendations have been made within this report with

regards to the Site preparation and construction phases of the proposed Development. To inform

the emerging scheme design, ecological mitigation and compensation measures have been

provided based on current knowledge of the Site. In addition, ecological enhancement measures

are also recommended. Upon scheme fix and based on the results of the further assessments

recommended above, the mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures will need to be

confirmed/finalised in the EcIA and other reports as required .

6.5. It should be noted that this PEA is relevant to the legislation detailed in Section 2 and Appendix A

at the time of writing. If there are any changes to legislation prior to the Development being

completed, the advice within this PEA may require amending / updating in line with any legislative

updates.

6.6. If there is a significant period of time (most LPAs consider this period to be to 18 months) between

this PEA and the Development commencing, the ecological value of the Site may change and the

Site should therefore be subject to an update survey.

Species Survey Timing

Bats

Dusk emergence/pre-dawn re-entry surveys on buildings B1 and B4 (single survey visit) and B7 (two survey visits).

May to August/Sept inclusive.

Figures Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

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FIGURES

Figure 1: 'Extended' Phase 1 Habitat Survey Features Plan (WIE12626-100-GR-EC-1A)

Project Details

Figure Ref

Date

Figure Title

File Location

Figure 1: ‘Extended’ Phase 1 Habitat Survey Features Plan

\\s-bl\wiel\projects\wie12626\100\graphics\ec\issued figures

WIE12626-100_GR_EC_1A

March 2017

WIE12626-100: Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

www.watermangroup.comReproduced from the Ordnance Survey maps with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright, Waterman Infrastructure & Environment, Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street, London SE1 9DG. Licence number LAN1000628.

© WATERMAN INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENT

Target Note

Gaps Under Fascia Board

Oil Tank

Roof Top Fascia

Lifted Wood Cladding

Gaps Under Roof Tiles

Derelict Fuel Pumps

Oil Tank

Shipping Container

Rubble Pile

Electricity Sub-Station

Damaged Soffit Box

Scattered Tree

Wall

Site Boundary

Hardstanding

Building Species-PoorSemi-Improved Grassland

Bare Ground

Fence

SI

SI SI

SI

Scattered Scrub

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxxx x x xxx

xx

xx xxxxxxxx

xx

xx

xx

xx

xx

xx

xx

xx

xx

xx

x xxxxxxx

x x xx xx

x xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx x x x x x x x

x

x

xxx

xxx

xxxxxx

x xxxx

xxxxxxx

x x x x x x x x

xxx

8

1

1

2

3

4

5

7

8

9

10

11

6

114

1

3

10 6

B3

B2

B1

B4

B5B7

B6

5

7

9

2

Appendices Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff

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APPENDICES

A. Summarised Flora and Fauna Legislation

Legislation

Specific habitats and species receive legal protection in Wales under various pieces of legislation,

including:

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended)18;

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)19;

The Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 200020;

The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 200621;

The Hedgerow Regulations 199722;

The Protection of Badgers Act 199223; and

Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 199624

National Planning Policy

Planning Policy Wales, 2014

National planning policy guidance is set out within Planning Policy Wales (PPW) 7th Edition25.

Chapter 5 (Conserving and Improving Natural Heritage and the Coast) of PPW is of relevance to this

report.

The Welsh Government’s objectives for the conservation and improvement of the natural heritage

are to:

“promote the conservation of landscape and biodiversity, in particular the conservation of native

wildlife and habitats;

ensure that action in Wales contributes to meeting international responsibilities and obligations

for the natural environment;

ensure that statutorily designated sites are properly protected and managed;

safeguard protected species; and

promote the functions and benefits of soils, and in particular their function as a carbon store.”

Of relevance to this PEA, paragraph 5.5.11 states the following with regards to protected species

“An ecological survey to confirm whether a protected species is present and an assessment of the

likely impact of the development on a protected species may be required in order to inform the

planning decision.”

18 HMSO (2010) The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended).

19 HMSO (1981) ‘Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)’ 20 HMSO (2000) ‘The Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act’ 21 ODPM (2006) ‘Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006)’ 22 ODPM (1997) ‘The Hedgerow Regulations’ 23 ODPM (1992) ‘The Protection of Badgers Act’ 24 HMSO. (1996). Wild Mammals (Protection) Act. 25 Welsh Government, 2014. Planning Policy Wales. Edition 7.


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Consequently, biodiversity considerations should be taken into account at an early stage in

development proposals and the effect of development upon wildlife, and in particular protected

species, is a material consideration in determining planning applications.

Technical Advice Note 5: Nature Conservation and Planning26 (TAN 5) provides additional detail to

PPW in terms of how the land use planning system should contribute towards protecting and

enhancing biodiversity and minimising harm to nature conservation interests. Protecting wildlife in

the environment, with appropriate weight attached to priority habitats and species, is identified as an

important factor in the evaluation of planning application submissions.

TAN 5 identifies that planning application submissions should identify measures to avoid, mitigate or

compensate for potential adverse effects on nature conservation interests and should include

appropriate technical reports which provide further detail on the ecological interests of a site.

Environment (Wales) Act 2016

The Environment (Wales) Act puts in place the legislation needed to plan and manage Wales’ natural

resources in a more proactive, sustainable and joined-up way. A new biodiversity duty included in

the Act helps to reverse the decline and secure the long-term resilience of biodiversity in Wales.

Part 1 of the Environment Act sets out Wales' approach to planning and managing natural resources

at a national and local level with a general purpose linked to statutory 'principles of sustainable

management of natural resources' defined within the Act.

Section 6 - Biodiversity and resilience of ecosystems duty, places a duty on public authorities to

‘seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity’ so far as it is consistent with the proper exercise of

those functions. In so doing, public authorities must also seek to ‘promote the resilience of

ecosystems’. The duty replaces the section 40 duty in the Natural Environment and Rural

Communities Act 2006 (NERC Act 2006), in relation to Wales, and applies to those authorities that

fell within the previous duty. Public authorities will be required to report on the actions they are

taking to improve biodiversity and promote ecosystem resilience.

Section 7 - Biodiversity lists and duty to take steps to maintain and enhance biodiversity: this

section replaces the duty in section 42 of the NERC Act 2006. The Welsh Ministers will publish,

review and revise lists of living organisms and types of habitat in Wales, which they consider are of

key significance to sustain and improve biodiversity in relation to Wales. The Welsh Ministers must

also take all reasonable steps to maintain and enhance the living organisms and types of habitat

included in any list published under this section, and encourage others to take such steps. Part 1 of

the Act, including Sections 6 and 7, came into force on May 21, 2016.

Environment Strategy for Wales

The Environment Strategy for Wales27 (ESW) provides the framework for the Welsh Assembly

Government and its partners to protect and enhance the environment in Wales. The ESW states the

following priorities which are of relevance to this PEA:

“Conserve and enhance our biodiversity, while respecting the dynamics of nature; and

Conserve and enhance our land and sea, our built environment, our natural resources and

heritage, developing and using them in a sustainable and equitable way and for the long term

benefit of the people of Wales.“

26 Welsh Assembly Government, 2009. Technical Advice Note 5: Nature Conservation and Planning. 27 Welsh Assembly Government (2006). Environment Strategy for Wales.


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Local Planning Policy

The Cardiff Local Development Plan (2016-2026)

The Cardiff Local Development Plan (CLDP) is the current development plan for Cardiff28. The

CLDP provides a guide for development and land use across the City. The document was adopted

in 2016 and provides development guidance up to 2026.

At present, an interim version of the CLDP has been adopted. As such, document amendments are

imminent. Within the current interim document, the CLDP contains policies related to biodiversity

and are thus of relevance to this report.

Policy EN6: Ecological Networks and Features of Importance for Biodiversity states:

“Development will only be permitted if it does not cause unacceptable harm to:

Landscape features of importance for wild flora and fauna, including wildlife corridors and

‘stepping stones; which enable the dispersal and functioning of protected and priority species;

and

Networks of importance for landscape or nature conservation.

Particular priority will be given to the protection, enlargement, connectivity and management of the

overall nature of semi natural habitats. Where this is not the case and the need for the

development outweighs the nature conservation importance of the site, it should be demonstrated

that there is no satisfactory alternative location for the development and compensatory provision

will be made of comparable ecological value to that lost as a result of the development”.

Biodiversity Action Plans

UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework

The Environment Departments of all four governments in the UK work together through the Four

Countries Biodiversity Group. Together they have agreed, and Ministers have signed, a framework

of priorities for UK-level work for the Convention on Biological Diversity. Published on 17 July

2012, the 'UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework'29 covers the period from 2011 to 2020. This now

supersedes the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP)30. However, many of the tools developed

under UK BAP remain of use, for example, background information about the lists of priority

habitats and species. The lists of priority species and habitats agreed under UK BAP still form the

basis of much biodiversity work in the countries.

Although the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework does not confer any statutory legal protection,

in practice many of the species listed already receive statutory legal protection under UK and / or

European legislation. In addition, the majority of Priority national (Welsh) BAP habitats and species

are now those listed as Habitats of Principal Importance (HoPI) and Species of Principal

Importance (SoPI) in England listed under Section 42 (S42) of the NERC Act 2006. For the

purpose of this report, habitats and species listed under S42 of the NERC Act are referred to as

having superseded the UK BAP. All public bodies have a legal obligation or ‘biodiversity duty’

under Section 40 of the NERC Act 2006 to conserve biodiversity by having particular regard to

those species and habitats listed under S42.

28 Cardiff Council. (2006). Cardiff Local Development Plan. Accessed 070316: https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Planning/Local-Development-Plan/What-is-the-Local-Development-Plan/Pages/What-is-the-LDP.aspx 29 JNCC and DEFRA (on behalf of the Four Countries’ Biodiversity Group). (2012). UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. 30 HMSO. (1994) Biodiversity The UK Action Plan.


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Based on the results of the PEA the following HoPIs and SoPIs listed under S42 are considered to

be of potential value on and/or immediately adjacent to the Site:

Bats (SoPI); and

Buildings (HoPI).

Local Biodiversity Action Plan

At a local level, the Site is covered by the Cardiff Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP). This document

identifies habitats and species of importance locally and contains local targets relevant for planning

and mitigation within Wiltshire.

Based on the results of the PEA, LBAP priority species (SAPs) are considered to be of potential

value on and/or immediately adjacent to the Site, including:

Bats (all species; SAP).

Guidance

BS 42020: 2013 Biodiversity: Code of Practice for Planning and Development

The UK commitment to halt overall loss of biodiversity by 2020 in line with the European

Biodiversity Strategy and UN Aichi targets31, is passed down to local authorities to implement,

mainly through planning policy. To assist organizations affected by these commitments, BSI has

published BS 42020 which offers a coherent methodology for biodiversity management.

This British Standard sets out to assist those concerned with ecological issues as they arise

through the planning process in matters relating to permitted development and activities involved in

the management of land outside the scope of land use planning, which could have site-specific

ecological implications.

The standard has been produced with input from a number of organisations including the

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) and the Association of

Local Government Ecologists (ALGE) and provides:

Guidance on how to produce clear and concise ecological information to accompany planning

applications;

recommendations on professional ethics, conduct, competence and judgement to give

confidence that proposals for biodiversity conservation, and consequent decisions/actions

taken, are sound and appropriate; and

direction on effective decision-making in biodiversity management a framework to demonstrate

how biodiversity has been managed during the development process to minimize impact.

31 https://www.cbd.int/sp/targets/


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B. Photographs

Plate 1 –B1.

Plate 2 – Gaps underneath lifted fascia upon south side of B1.


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Plate 3 – B2.

Plate 4 – B3.


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Plate 5 – East facing flank of B4 showing multitude of pitched light wells.

Plate 6 – East facing flank of B4. Note aluminium fascia running along the top of roof windows.


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Plate 7 – South facing façade of B4. Note dilapidated wood cladding.

Plate 8 – B5.


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Plate 9 – B6.

Plate 10 – East side of B7. Note dilapidated soffit box and fascia.


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Plate 11– South side of B7. Note slate tiled roof.

Plate 12 – Hardstanding present on Site.


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Plate 13 – Buddleia dominated scattered scrub.

Plate 14 – Species-poor semi-improved grassland present on Site.


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Plate 15 – Large rubble pile present adjacent to B4.

Documents

Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff and operational phases of the ... Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester ... Aldi, Caerphilly Road, Cardiff and