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Western Ecology, 1 Geffery Close, Landrake, Saltash, Cornwall PL12 5HA Telephone: 0800 622 6828
email: [email protected]
The natural choice for good advice
A report by
Yolande Knight BSc (Hons) PhD MRSB
Biodiversity Survey
University of South Wales, Treforest Campus
May 2018
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 2 of 42
Report details
Site name: Treforest Campus, University of South Wales
Site address: Treforest, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL
Grid reference: ST 0809 8862
Survey date: 21st and 22nd May 2018
Report date: 9th August 2018
Report author: Yolande Knight BSc (Hons) PhD MRSB
Report reference: WOR-321
Version: v1
Declaration of compliance
Code of Professional Conduct
The information which we have prepared is true, and has been prepared and provided in
accordance with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s Code
of Professional Conduct. We confirm that the opinions expressed are our true and
professional bona fide opinions.
Report authorised by: Colin Hicks BSc (Hons) MCIEEM
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 3 of 42
Table of contents
1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 6
1.1. Survey aims ............................................................................................................. 6
1.2. Site location ............................................................................................................. 6
2. Survey methodology ......................................................................................................... 7
2.1. Desktop survey ........................................................................................................ 7
2.2. Field survey ............................................................................................................. 7
2.3. Method for valuation of habitats ............................................................................... 7
2.4. Bat activity survey: remote monitoring ..................................................................... 8
2.5. Survey constraints ................................................................................................... 8
2.6. Study area ............................................................................................................... 8
3. Results .............................................................................................................................. 9
3.1. Site description ........................................................................................................ 9
3.2. Phase 1 habitats ...................................................................................................... 9
3.3. Desktop survey ...................................................................................................... 17
Map 1. Phase 1 habitats ............................................................................................... 18
Map 2. Biodiversity value of habitats ............................................................................. 19
4. Potential for habitats and species of nature conservation importance; evaluation of
ecological features .............................................................................................................. 20
4.1. Habitats of nature conservation Importance ........................................................... 20
4.2. Species of nature conservation importance ........................................................... 20
4.3. Invasive Non-native Species .................................................................................. 26
5. Recommendations for biodiversity enhancement. ........................................................... 27
5.1. Enhancement of woodlands, scattered trees and shrubs, new hedgerows ............ 27
5.2. Enhancement of grassland habitat ......................................................................... 27
5.3. Nectar Bed Plants .................................................................................................. 29
5.4. Watercourses and ponds ....................................................................................... 29
5.5. Enhancement of habitats for bats........................................................................... 30
5.6. Bird boxes .............................................................................................................. 31
5.7. Enhancement for Invertebrates .............................................................................. 32
5.8. Reptile hibernacula ................................................................................................ 33
5.9. On-going biodiversity management and further surveys ........................................ 34
References ................................................................................................................... 35
Appendix 1: ......................................................................................................................... 36
Appendix 2 .......................................................................................................................... 41
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Non-technical summary Western Ecology has been commissioned to provide a biodiversity survey of the Treforest Campus. This report describes the results of this
biodiversity assessment, and a tabulated summary is given here, with maps of habitats and their value also provided in the report.
Habitat assessment
Habitat type Biodiversity
value (CIEEM,
2016)
Habitat of
principal
importance
Local Biodiversity
Action Plan
priority habitat
Suggested management Suggested enhancement
Semi-natural
broadleaved
woodland
Local Yes Yes Where opportunities arise, replace non-native
trees with native trees.
Any arisings from tree management can be
sawn and stacked to form piles of wood
Removal of any invasive non-native shrubs,
such as Rhododendron, should be undertaken
Amenity grassland Negligible No No Any areas of grassland where there is limited
human access could be further enhanced by
reducing the mowing regime to twice a year in
early spring and late summer only
Re-seed with native wildflower-rich seed mix,
where appropriate
Semi-improved
grassland
Site No No Manage to increase biodiversity of sward Re-seed with native wildflower-rich seed mix
Scattered mixed
trees
Site No No - Plant native trees where possible
Dense woody scrub Site No No - -
Introduced shrubs
and trees
Site No No - Plant native trees where possible
Scattered trees Site No No - Plant native trees where possible
Watercourse Site No No Where these watercourses are shaded within
the woodland, careful opening up of the canopy
above would increase opportunities for aquatic
plants
-
Building No No - -
Introduced shrub
planting
Negligible No No - Planting nectar-rich plants
Hardstanding Negligible - - - -
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Ephemeral/short
perennial
Negligible - - - -
Intact hedge, Native
species rich
Local Yes Yes - There are opportunities throughout the Site to
create new native species-rich hedgerows,
and supplement or replace current
ornamental/non-native hedgerows
Intact hedge,
species poor
Negligible No No - -
Species assessment
Species Presence
confirmed
Presence
likely
European
Protected
Species?
Protected under
Wildlife and
Countryside Act
(1981), as amended
Species of
Principal
Importance
Local Biodiversity
action Plan
priority species
Suggested
enhancement
Comments
Noctule bat
Nyctalus noctula
Yes - Yes Yes Yes Yes - Recorded here during
remote monitoring
Common Pipistrelle
bat Pipistrellus
pipistrellus
Yes - Yes Yes Yes Yes Bat boxes Recorded here during
remote monitoring
Soprano Pipistrelle
bat Pipistrellus
pygmaeus
Yes - Yes Yes Yes Yes Bat boxes Recorded here during
remote monitoring
Long-eared bat
Plecotus sp
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Bat boxes Recorded here during
remote monitoring
Lesser Horseshoe
bat Rhinolophus
hipposideros
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Recorded here during
remote monitoring
Birds (various) Yes - - Yes Yes - Swift boxes; Sparrow
boxes; boxes for
woodland birds
-
Invertebrates
(various)
- Yes - - - - Nectar rich plantings;
insect boxes
Widespread and
common invertebrates
likely to be present
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 6 of 42
1. Introduction
Western Ecology has been commissioned to complete a Biodiversity Survey of University of
South Wales (USW) Treforest Campus, south east Wales (Plan 1).
Plan 1: USW Treforest Campus is situated in Pontypridd, south east Wales.
1.1. Survey aims
This report describes the results of an ecological survey and assessment of the site with
regards to biodiversity. This does not include a survey of any buildings, beyond an external,
visual assessment, where appropriate. Recommendations for biodiversity enhancements are
made.
1.2. Site location
The site is situated on the western side of the Rhondda Valley, in the Rhondda Cynon Taff
borough of south east Wales, 16km to the north-west of the centre of Cardiff. The site
measures approximately 16ha, and comprises numerous campus buildings, a mix of amenity
and semi-improved grassland, with introduced shrub planting forming soft landscaping, an
area of semi-natural woodland, hardstanding with car parks, and mixed scattered trees
throughout the Site.
The site is immediately adjacent to a continuation of semi-natural woodland to the west and
north-west, and to the south. Residential areas run along the Rhondda Valley immediately to
the north, south and east of the site, with the wooded River Taff, the dual carriageway A470
and the Taff Trail Cycle Track 300-500 metres to the east.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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2. Survey methodology
2.1. Desktop survey
A desktop survey, using GIS datasets from the Lle Geoportal
(http://lle.gov.wales/catalogue?lang=en&c=2007), was completed to ascertain the
relationship between this Site and any statutory nature conservation sites in the nearby
landscape.
A biodiversity audit was carried out on this campus in 2012 (Clements, 2013) on behalf of
the University of Glamorgan. Results from the audit were taken in to account when
undertaking this current survey.
2.2. Field survey
A Phase I Habitat Survey of the site was carried out on the 21st and 22nd May 2018, an
average air temperature of 20oC, light westerly winds, dry and with some cloud present on
both days.
Habitats were classified using the Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology developed by the
Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2010) and modified by the Institute of
Environmental Assessment (IEA, 1995). The main plant species were recorded, and broad
habitat types mapped. Habitats encountered are described within the Results section, with a
map included within the report. Plant species were identified according to Stace (1997) and
are listed in Appendix 1. 'Target notes' are provided for any features of particular interest.
The methodology also requires the recording of conspicuous fauna species, such as birds,
herptiles (i.e. amphibians and reptiles), mammals and invertebrates, such as butterflies and
dragonflies, paying particular attention to the presence of any rare or protected species.
Built structures were not included within this survey, beyond a brief external assessment.
Larger trees, if present, were assessed for bat roosting potential, in accordance with Collins
2016.
2.3. Method for valuation of habitats
The ecological value of habitats present is provided in line with Guidelines for Ecological
Impact Assessment (CIEEM, 2016), and those which are important in terms of legislation or
policy are identified. Table 1 summarises this information and details the extent of each
habitat recorded here, and Map 2 indicates their location.
The nature conservation value, or potential value, of the habitat is determined within the
following geographic context:
International importance (e.g. internationally designated sites such as Special Areas
of Conservation, Special Protection Areas, Ramsar sites);
National importance (e.g. nationally designated sites such as Sites of Special
Scientific Interest or species populations of importance in the Welsh and UK context);
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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County importance (e.g. SNCI, habitats and species populations of importance in the
context of Cardiff);
Local importance (e.g. important ecological features such as old hedges, woodlands,
ponds);
Site importance (e.g. habitat mosaic of grassland and scrub which may support a
diversity of common wildlife species);
Negligible importance. Usually applied to areas such as built development or areas of
intensive agricultural land.
The examples are not exclusive and are subject to further professional ecological judgment.
2.4. Bat activity survey: remote monitoring
Two Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter SMZC remote bat detectors were deployed onto site on
6th June and left to record until 21st June 2018 (Map 1). After deployment, sonograms were
downloaded and analysed using Kaleidoscope Pro (v4.5.4) and Analook software (ver. 4.2n)
to ascertain which species are recorded within the site.
2.5. Survey constraints
All areas of the site were readily accessible. Although some plant species would have not
been visible during the survey period, within such a small, simple site comprising common
and widespread habitat types, the timing of this survey is not a significant constraint to a
robust initial site assessment.
It should be noted that habitats, and the species they may support, change over time due to
natural processes and because of human influence.
2.6. Study area
The study area was determined by the client, and is hereafter referred to as the ‘Site’. This is
the area included within the line described as “Survey area” within the legend of Map 1.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 9 of 42
3. Results
3.1. Site description
The Site comprises one campus with a number of tarmac access roads, areas of car
parking, and university campus buildings. The majority of the Site surveyed comprises a mix
of grassland (close-managed amenity and semi-improved), hardstanding (including tarmac
and parking areas sparsely vegetated with ephemeral/short perennial), introduced shrub
planting, including non-native hedgerows, scattered trees, and small areas of scrub and tall
ruderals. A number of narrow watercourses are present, with occasional ornamental ponds.
An area of semi-natural ancient woodland (part of Treforest Slopes Site of Importance for
Nature Conservation (SINC)) extends into the campus from the north-western corner, with a
'woodland walk' (developed in 2013) present through the centre of this habitat.
3.2. Phase 1 habitats
Habitats have been classified using the Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology, and are
described below and detailed in Map 1. Habitats which are important in terms of legislation
or policy are identified and the extent of all habitats associated with the survey area is given
in Table 1. Plant species that characterise each of these habitats are identified, with a list
given in Appendix 1.
Semi-natural broadleaved woodland
Semi-natural woodland occurs in the central and northern part of the campus as an
extension of the Treforest Slopes SINC present off-site to the north, west and south. A
‘Woodland Walk’ has been created through the centre of this on-site woodland, ending in a
cleared area to the north-west with a children’s play area (Images 1-4).
The entrance to the woodland is immediately behind the Refectory building, and is vegetated
with close medium-mature trees, with frequent Alder Alnus glutinosa, and a mix of native
trees and woody shrubs, including occasional Silver Birch Betula pendula, Elder Sambucus
nigra, Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Hazel Corylus avellana, Goat Willow Salix caprea,
Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur, Common Ash Fraxinus excelsior and Holly Ilex aquifolium.
Rhododenron Rhodondendron ponticum is present within this habitat. The ground flora is
associated with occasionally damp conditions from a small stream running from up-slope to
the west. Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. and Ivy Hedera helix are frequent in places, in
particular in areas where the canopy is more open, with a mix of sedges, rushed, ferns and
herbs also present, including: Remote Sedge Carex remota, Wood Sedge Carex slyvatica;
Jointed Rush Juncus articulatus, Soft Rush Juncus effusus; Common Male-fern Dyropteris
filix-mas, Hart’s-tongue Fern Asplenium scolopendrium; Silverweed Potentilla anserina, Herb
Robert Geranium robertianum, Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens, Great Willowherb
Epilobium hirsutum and Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria. Areas of tall ruderals are present
where the woodland walk has been placed, and around more open areas of the canopy,
including Broadleaved Dock Rumex obtusifolius, Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense and
Common Sorrel Rumex acetosa.
More mature trees are present as the path ventures northwards, with larger trees present
around the children’s playground, including Pedunculate Oak, Beech Fagus sylvatica,
Common Ash and Holly. As the ground rises up the hillside, and the habitat becomes less
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 10 of 42
damp, the ground flora includes a mix of species preferring drier conditions, with Bracken
Pteridium aquilinum, Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Red Campion Silene dioica and
Yellow Pimpernell Lysmachia nemorum.
Several other streams run from the west down through the woodland as the habitat extends
towards the north-western corner. A narrow strip of woodland habitat is also present in the
far north-western corner of the Site.
Large White Butterfly Pieris brassicae, Robin Erythacus rubecula, Chaffinch Fringilla
coelebs, Song Thrush Turdus philomelos, Wren Troglodytes troglodytes and Great Tit Parus
major were seen within this habitat.
This woodland falls within the definition of ‘Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland’, which is
listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 as a Habitat of Principal
Importance and is a Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat.
This habitat has potential for widespread invertebrates, and small birds and mammals, and
is of Local value for biodiversity.
Image 1. Entrance to the ‘woodland walk’.
Image 2. Densely planted young trees at south-
eastern corner of woodland habitat.
Image 3. More mature trees present to the east of the
woodland walk path.
Image 4. Ground flora within an open glade by the
Children’s play area.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Dense and woody scrub
There are areas of dense Bramble scrub around much of the boundary habitat of the Site
(Image 5), and along the banks of the central carpark leading to the disused railway tunnel,
with an area of woody scrub (including Rowan Sorbus aucuparia, Sycamore, Cherry Laurel
Prumus laurocerasus,, Hawthorn, with a mix of scrub ground flora, with additional herbs
including Creeping Buttercup, Cleavers Galium aparine and Common Nettle Urticia dioica)
on a bank to the east of the Security Lodge (Image 6). Occasional mature trees are also
present within this habitat.
Beautiful Demoiselle Calopteryx virgo was seen within this environment.
This habitat has potential for widespread invertebrates, and small birds and mammals, and
is of Site value for biodiversity.
Image 5. Scrub towards the north-eastern boundary.
Image 6. Woody scrub with scattered trees, towards
the south-eastern boundary.
Introduced shrubs; scattered trees
Areas of introduced shrub planting (Image 7), and scattered native and non-native trees
(Image 8), are present throughout the campus, providing soft landscaping around the
campus buildings and areas of hardstanding. Species include Beech, Pedunculate Oak,
Common Lime Tilia x vulgaris, Himalayan Birch Betula utilis, Holly, Dogwood (Cornus sp.)
and Bird Cherry Prunus padus. Ornamental shrub planting includes Cherry Laurel, Oleaster
Eleagnus sp. and Garden Privet Ligustrum ovalifolium. The understorey to this landscaping
includes a range of native ferns, grasses, ruderals and other herbs, including Cock’s-foot
Dactylis glomerata, Yorkshire Fog Holcus lantana, Pendulous Sedge Carex pendula, Red
Campion and Wood Avens Geum urbanum.
This habitat is of Site value for biodiversity.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 12 of 42
Image 7. Introduced shrub planting by the ‘Hub’.
Image 8. Scattered trees, south-eastern quarter.
Hedges
Occasional managed hedges are present within the Site, including Cherry Laurel, Dogwood
and Hazel. Native occasionally-managed hedging of Hawthorn, Hazel, Goat Willow and Field
Maple Acer campestre are present at the north-eastern-most Site boundary (Image 10).
Native hedges are listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 as a Habitat
of Principal Importance and are a Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat. The hedges
present on Site would not qualify as ecologically important for the purposes of the Hedgerow
Regulations 1997.
The native hedge habitat is of Local value for biodiversity and provides nesting habitat for
widespread and common birds, a nectar source for insects and is likely to accumulate flying
insects in sufficient quantities for foraging bats.
The non-native hedge habitat is of Site value for biodiversity.
Image 9. Close-managed ornamental hedging
towards the centre of the Site.
Image 10. Occasionally managed native hedge,
north-eastern boundary.
Amenity grassland; semi-improved neutral grassland
The Site has large areas of close-managed amenity grassland (Image 11), with limited grass
and herb species including dominant Perennial Rye-grass Lolium perenne, frequent Red
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Fescue Festuca rubra and occasional Yorkshire Fog, Sweet Vernal-grass Anthoxanthum
odoratum and Annual Meadow-grass Poa annua. Limited herb species include sparse
Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg., White Clover Trifolium repens and Creeping
Buttercup.
Areas of semi-improved grassland, with a greater range of herb and grass species, are
present throughout the campus, around the north-western area of the woodland habitat, and
left to grow and flower in patches around residential buildings in the western half of the Site
(Image 12). Occasionally managed semi-improved grassland is also present in the north-
eastern corner of the Site. Species present include frequent Perennial Rye, Yorkshire Fog,
Sweet Vernal-grass, with occasional False Oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius agg., Meadow-
foxtail Alopecurus pratensis and Cock’s-foot. Occasional Field Wood Rush is also present,
along with ruderals such as Spear Thistle and Dandelion. Herbs include Self-heal, Oxeye
Daisy, Lesser Trefoil, Scarlet Pimpernel, Germander Speedwell, Cut-leaved Crane’s-bill and
Red Cover. Occasional seedlings including Buddleia, Hazel and Birch are also present
within this habitat.
Blackbird Turdus merula, Jackdaw Corvus monedula, Carrion Crow Corvus corone,
Eurasian Magpie Pica pica, White-tailed Bumblebee Bombus lucoram and Hoverfly
Platychertrus sp. were observed within the semi-improved grassland habitat.
The amenity grassland habitat is of Negligible value for biodiversity, whilst the semi-
improved grassland habitat is of Site value for biodiversity.
Image 11. Close-managed amenity grassland at the
centre of the Site.
Image 12. Semi-improved grassland within the
residential north-western quarter of the Site.
Tall ruderals
Areas of tall ruderal vegetation, including Docks, Common Nettle, Willowherbs Epilobium sp.
and Creeping Thistle, are present scattered through the Site, at the margins of grassland
and woodland, along cleared ground and tracks at the edge of the Woodland area, and on
areas of disturbed ground towards the northern boundary of the Site.
This habitat is of Site value for biodiversity
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Hardstanding; ephemeral/short perennial vegetation
Much of the Site comprises hardstanding in the form of tarmac access roads, paths and car
parking. Occasional areas of bare ground and concrete lattice are present towards the
northern boundary (Image 13), with sparse ephemeral/short perennial vegetation such as
Annual Meadow-grass, Creeping Buttercup, Common Mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum,
Lesser Trefoil and Dandelion.
A low-growing, species-poor Sedum Sedum sp. roof is present on the Hub in the centre of
the Site (Image 14).
These habitats are of Negligible value for biodiversity.
Image 13. Bare ground and concrete lattice towards
the north-eastern corner of the Site.
Image 14. Sedum roof on the Hub, centre of the Site.
Water courses; ponds
Three narrow streams flow down from the western slope of the campus, arising off-site, and
running into culverts (see Images 15 and 16). The water is clear and runs over a gravelly
substrate. The bankside vegetation of the streams running through the woodland and scrub
is a mix of ruderal and scrub vegetation, with negligible aquatic vegetation, whilst one of the
streams flows into a series of small ornamental concrete ponds, vegetated with non-native
ornamentals including New Zealand Flax Phorium sp. and Yucca Yucca sp. (Image 17). At
the time of survey, water levels were low.
These habitats are of Site value for biodiversity.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 15 of 42
Image 15. Culvert at eastern edge of woodland.
Image 16. Ornamental planting around one
watercourse.
Image 17. Small ornamental concrete pond.
Buildings
Campus buildings were briefly surveyed from the exterior. A number of campus
accommodation buildings have supported bats in the past (Clements, 2013), with the newer
accommodation blocks (Mountain Halls) having artificial bat roosts built in to the south-facing
walls (Image 18), but no records of usage. Clements (2013) identified the Ty Crawshay
building as having potential for crevice-dwelling bats, as did the Lodge Building at Forest
Grove entrance, Glamorgan Lodge, Glamorgan Court (Image 19) and the Brecon Complex
of buildings. A known bat roost of Soprano Pipistrelles is present in a building (8 Forest
Grove) adjacent to the south-western boundary, and not included in this survey (Clements,
2013 and per. comms).
The southern entrance to a disused former railway tunnel is present towards the centre of
the Site (Image 20), with previous evidence indicating that it is not a preferred roost
(Clements, 2013).
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 16 of 42
Image 18. South-facing, built-in bat roosts in
Mountain Halls.
Image 19. Northern-most extent of Glamorgan Court
residential block.
Image 20. Southern entrance to disused former railway tunnel,
bird box to the upper RHS with an in-use Great Tit's nest.
Walls
Occasionally vegetated stone retaining walls are present towards the entrance to the
disused railway tunnel, with occasionally vegetated concrete walls scattered through the
campus. Vegetation includes dominant Ivy, with occasional ornamental climbers.
This habitat is of Negligible value for biodiversity.
Fencing
Sections of the Site is bounded by wire fencing, with occasional metal and wooden fencing
present within the Site itself.
This habitat is of Negligible value for biodiversity.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Table 1. Phase 1 habitats within the footprint of the Site, their extent and value in a
geographical context (CIEEM, 2016).
Phase 1 habitat type Area (m2) Value
Semi-natural broadleaved woodland 23550 Local
Dense and woody scrub 5250 Site
Introduced shrubs and trees 2570 Site
Scattered trees 3930 Site
Intact hedge species-poor 780 Negligible
Intact hedge species-rich 160 Local
Amenity grassland 29910 Negligible
Semi-improved grassland 330 Site
Hardstanding 55050 Negligible
Ephemeral/short perennial 480 Negligible
Buildings 36300 Varied
3.3. Desktop survey
Statutory Nature Conservation Sites
No Sites of Special Scientific Interest (Wales) are situated within 1km of the Site
Map 1. Phase 1 habitats
Map 2. Biodiversity value of habitats
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
Page 20 of 42
4. Potential for habitats and species of nature conservation
importance; evaluation of ecological features
Habitats have been assessed from the results of the field survey for their potential to support
the following protected species. Ecological features that have the potential to be present
have been assessed in the light of current nature conservation policy and wildlife legislation
(see Appendix 2).
4.1. Habitats of nature conservation Importance
Notable habitats
Habitats are protected under international and national legislation including The
Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, and Wildlife and Countryside Act
1981 (as amended). These have been formulated into policy measures, with many examples
protected under formal site designations such as SSSIs and SACs.
Lowland mixed Deciduous Woodland
The semi-natural woodland within the north-western quarter of the Site is a Local
Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat and a Habitat of Principal Importance (Section 7 of
the Environment (Wales) Act 2016).
Intact species-rich Hedges
Areas of hedging within the Site (in particular towards the north-eastern boundary) are a
Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat and a Habitat of Principal Importance (Section
7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016).
4.2. Species of nature conservation importance
Many native wild plants and animals are protected by law with the two main legal
instruments being the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The
Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. The latter consolidates
amendments to the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations 1994 which transposed
into UK Law the EU Habitats Directive.
A range of species of fungi, plant or animal are listed in Section 7 of the Environment
(Wales) Act 2016 as being of principal importance for the purposes of conserving
biodiversity. There is a need for these species to be taken into consideration by a public
body when performing any of its functions with a view to conserving biodiversity. These
species are the subject of National and Local Biodiversity Action Plans.
Amphibians
The four native widespread amphibians (Common Frog, Common Toad, Common Newt and
Palmate Newt) are given limited protection from trade under the Wildlife and Countryside Act
1981 (as amended).
Great Crested Newt and Natterjack Toad and their breeding sites and resting places (during
all parts of their lifecycle) are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as
amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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The very rare Pool Frog, only recently recognised as a native amphibian, is fully protected
under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) from killing, injury, trade and
disturbance, whilst their habitats are also protected.
Great Crested Newt, Natterjack Toad and Common Toad are listed as species 'of principal
importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity' in Wales.
There are some aquatic habitats associated with the Site and its boundaries that could
potentially support breeding Amphibians, including the ornamental ponds, and areas of
standing water: during the survey, these had low water levels. Taking in to account the
areas of damp ground within the woodland habitat, there may be also be potential for
hibernating and/or foraging common Amphibian species in the woodland and woody scrub
habitat, in particular towards the north-western corner of the Site.
Badger
Badgers are protected from persecution or ill-treatment under the Protection of Badgers Act
1992.
The woodland habitat towards the north-west, in particular in relation to its connectivity to
extended semi-natural woodland to the north, west and south, has potential for Badgers.
However, no evidence of setts or obvious tracks, latrines or areas of foraging were noted
during this survey. Although the majority of the Site is heavily disturbed and well-lit, there is
potential for Badger to pass through the woodland areas at night whilst foraging or
commuting through the wider landscape.
Bats
Bat species, and their breeding or resting places (roosts), are protected under the Wildlife
and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species
Regulations 2017. They are identified as European Protected Species. Under these laws it is
an offence to:
capture, kill, disturb or injure bats (on purpose or by not taking enough care);
damage or destroy a breeding or resting place (even accidentally);
obstruct access to their resting or sheltering places (on purpose or by not taking
enough care); or
possess, sell, control or transport live or dead bats, or parts of them.
Seven species of bat are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of
conserving biodiversity”.
All the trees present on Site were assessed for roosting bats, following Clements 2013 with
respect to identifying individual, or groups of trees, of interest. The majority were assessed
as being of either Category 2B or 3 (i.e. moderate to low/low potential) according to Collins,
2016, with trees in these categories not requiring further survey work prior to any tree-works
or felling. One mature Beech was identified as 2A/2B (i.e. has high to moderate potential). A
summary of trees identified as 2A-2B category is provided in Table 2.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Table 2: Summary of visual assessment of trees for potential to support roosting bats.
Tree No. (Target note) Species Potential (Collins 2016)
T1 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T2 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T3 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T4 Group (woodland walk) Pedunculate Oak 2B
T5 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T6 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T7 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T8 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T9 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T10 Group of 3 Beech 2B
T11 Group of Pedunculate Oak 2B
T12 Beech 2A/2B
T13 Pedunculate Oak 2B
T14 Group of 3 Pedunculate Oak 2B
Category 2B trees should be treated in a precautionary manner, whilst Category 2A trees
would require further detailed survey before any felling or other significant tree works are
undertaken.
The buildings present on Site were briefly surveyed externally, from ground height. There is
may be some potential for void and/or crevice-roosting bats on a number of buildings (as per
Clements, 2013), however, a further, more detailed survey would be required to determine
this.
Bat boxes on trees within the woodland habitat were identified by Clements, 2013, but were
not observed during this survey. Integral bat boxes on the southern walls of Mountain Halls
have not been surveyed, and usage has not been characterised.
The woodland habitat provides good foraging habitat for bats, with connectivity out to a
significant area of further semi-natural and ancient woodland to the north, west and south.
The grassland, introduced shrub and hardstanding habitat within the rest of the Site provides
negligible potential for bats, and is well-lit, reducing potential in particular for light-averse
bats such as Horseshoe, Myotid and Long-eared: research into habitat preferences of bats
in Britain (Walsh and Harris, 1996) found that although bats could be found in almost all
habitats, they showed clear preference for woodland edges and water bodies, along with
treelines and hedgerows. The woodland within, and woody scrub habitats fringing the Site, in
particular to the west and north-west, have potential for foraging and commuting bats.
Remote bat detectors were deployed in two positions within the Site (Map 1).
A remote detector attached to a tree close to the Day Care centre between 6th and 21st June
recorded 6325 bat calls comprising 5649 calls from Common Pipistrelle, 646 calls from
Soprano Pipistrelle, 15 calls from Noctule, 13 calls from Long-eared and 2 calls from Lesser
Horseshoe (Table 3 and Chart 1).
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Summed call duration was 63747 seconds for Common Pipistrelle, 6232 second for Soprano
Pipistrelle and 157 seconds for Noctule, 62 seconds for Long-eared and 9 seconds for
Lesser Horseshoe. This equates to bats being active within the range of the remote unit for
9.5% of the survey period for Common Pipistrelle, 0.93% for Soprano Pipistrelle, 0.02% for
Noctule, 0.009% for Long-eared and 0.001% for Lesser Horseshoe
Bat activity levels at this site are high for Common Pipistrelle and moderate for Soprano
Pipistrelle, and probably relate to these bats foraging along tree margins in this location.
A remote detector attached to a tree near the security building (Map 1) between 6th and 13th
June recorded 12 bat calls, all from Common Pipistrelle. Bats are seldom active in this
location.
Table 3. Bat calls recorded during remote monitoring Site Species Calls during
survey period
Summed duration
(seconds)
Percentage of survey time that bats are active
within range of remote detector
Day Care
Centre
Common
Pipistrelle
5649 63747 9.5
Soprano
Pipistrelle
646 6232 0.93
Noctule 15 157 0.02
Long-eared 13 62 0.009
Lesser
Horseshoe
2 9 0.001
Lesser HorseshoeLong-eared
NoctuleSoprano Piistrelle
Common Pipistrelle
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
Spec
ies
Ca
lls
per
nig
ht
Date
Chart 1. Calls per night during remote monitoring near the Day Care Centre
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Birds
All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) from
being killed, injured or captured whilst their nests and eggs are protected from being
damaged, destroyed or taken. Birds which are listed under Schedule 1 of the Act are given
additional protection against disturbance.
A number of species of bird are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of
conserving biodiversity”.
A number of common birds were observed during the survey (see 3.1 Site description).
Great Tits were seen nesting in a bird box placed on the south-facing entrance wall of the
disused tunnel. Other bird boxes were present throughout the woodland, shrub and
scattered tree habitat present on Site. it is likely that occasional common bird species nest
within the woodland habitat within the north-western quarter of the Site, with smaller birds,
such as House Sparrows, making use of crevices present within buildings on Site.
Common Dormice
Common (or Hazel) Dormice, and their breeding and resting places, are protected under the
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and
Species Regulations 2017. They are identified as a European Protected Species, and listed
as a species “of principal importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity”. They are
also listed as a local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species
Dormice are arboreal and are found within species-rich woodland, hedgerow and woody
fruiting scrub. The majority grassland and hardstanding habitat within the Site has negligible
potential for Dormice, with the Site isolated within a well-lit urban landscape. There is limited
potential for Dormice within the woodland and woody scrub habitat within the Site, due to on-
going disturbance (via the woodland walk) and well-lit areas beyond the woodland boundary,
and no populations of Dormouse are known to be in the area.
Hedgehog
Hedgehogs are partially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. Hedgehogs are
listed as a species “of principal importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity” and
are a local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species
The majority grassland and hardstanding habitats associated with the Site provide negligible
potential for Hedgehog, whilst the woodland in the north-west provides some potential, with
good connectivity out to the wider landscape.
Reptiles
All native reptiles are protected to some degree under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
(as amended) whilst our two rarest species, the Sand Lizard and Smooth Snake, are given
full protection under the Act and also identified as European Protected Species.
The four common species (Slow Worm, Adder, Grass Snake and Common (Viviparous)
Lizard) are protected from deliberate killing, injury and trade.
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The two rare species, Sand Lizard and Smooth Snake, are given more protection that
includes protection from capture and deliberate or reckless killing, injury or disturbance.
Their breeding or resting places are also protected from obstruction or damage, even if it
were accidental. Slow Worm, Sand Lizard, Grass Snake, Adder and Common Lizard are
local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species.
All six native reptiles are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of
conserving biodiversity”.
Although much of the campus comprises close-managed amenity grassland and
hardstanding, there is some potential for reptiles due to the mosaic nature of habitats across
the Site, with areas of longer semi-improved grassland, scrub and ruderals, adjacent to
hardstanding, areas of gravel and woodland edges. The majority of the grassland does not
have suitable structure for hibernation, although there are south-east facing banks within the
residential blocks that might have low potential for foraging reptiles. Damp areas within the
woodland might have potential for hibernating reptiles.
Otter
Otter, and their breeding or resting places (holts and couches), are protected under the
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and The Conservation of Habitats and
Species Regulations 2017. They are identified as European Protected Species.
Otter are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of conserving
biodiversity”, and are a local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species
Otter are normally associated with running water and larger water bodies containing fish.
The heavily disturbed and well-lit location, isolation within a wider urban environment, and
limited habitat that might provide foraging or hibernation opportunities both within and near
the Site suggests that it has negligible value for Otter.
Water Vole
Water Vole is protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as
amended). Water Vole are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of
conserving biodiversity”, and are local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species
There are no potential habitats on Site for Water Vole, and there is negligible potential for
Water Vole.
Invertebrates
Over 26,000 species of insects are recorded in the UK, with over 40 species given full
statutory protection in the UK under either European or British legislation.
A small number of common invertebrates were observed during the survey (see 3.1 Site
description). The close-managed amenity grassland and hardstanding has negligible
potential for invertebrates, whilst the woodland and scrub around the Site has some potential
to support common and widespread invertebrates. The potential for any rare or protected
species to be present is considered to be negligible.
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Notable plant species
The limited and isolated habitats at this Site have negligible potential for the presence of
notable plant species.
4.3. Invasive Non-native Species
Rhododendron, listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as
amended) with respect to England and Wales, was noted on the Site.
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5. Recommendations for biodiversity enhancement.
Undertaking biodiversity enhancement is an opportunity to provide new benefits for
biodiversity through the creation of new habitats, enhancing existing habitats or providing
new features, with the aim of improving ecological resilience and adaptation to climate
change.
The Treforest Campus offers a number of possibilities for the enhancement of biodiversity
value. However, any measures identified and recommended would be required to fit in to the
attendant constraints relating to the site as a public and working space, such as health and
safety, and security concerns, and be achievable within available resources. A number of
simple recommendations are suggested as follows:
5.1. Enhancement of woodlands, scattered trees and shrubs, new hedgerows
Although the area of woodland present on Site is part of a SINC, management is
encouraged to enhance diversity for wildlife and plant species. Where opportunities arise to
replace non-native trees, both within the woodland habitat, and in relation to scattered tree
and shrub planting throughout the Site, new plantings of native tree and shrub species which
are appropriate to the location are recommended. There are also opportunities throughout
the Site to create new native species-rich hedgerows, and supplement or replace current
ornamental/non-native hedgerows. New hedgerows should be of entirely native species, with
a minimum of seven species present.
Species recommended include; Silver and Downy Birch, native Dogwood, Hazel, Hawthorn
and Blackthorn, Holly, Wild Cherry, Pedunculate Oak, Willow (Goat and Grey), Rowan,
Common Gorse and Guelder Rose.
Any arisings from tree management can be sawn and stacked to form piles of wood, situated
in shaded locations within the woodland: these piles provide habitat for a range of wildlife.
Any trunks or boles of large trees, should be left standing in situ where possible, or lain
safely on their side, again in a shady location.
Removal of any invasive non-native shrubs, such as Rhododendron, should be undertaken,
felled at ground level and the stumps treated with a suitable herbicide. This is of particular
importance in the woodland area, with respect to potential invasion into the wider woodland
SINC off-site. Any arisings should be removed off-site.
NB: any clearance of woodland or shrubs should avoid the main bird-nesting season which
runs approximately from March to August inclusive. If works during this time is unavoidable,
it should be undertaken after a survey by a qualified ecologist to ensure that no nesting birds
are present/will be affected. This is a statutory requirement.
5.2. Enhancement of grassland habitat
Occasional areas of grassland habitat within the campus are under a management regime
which sees these areas left to flower and develop, in particular around the residential
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buildings. At the time of survey, mowing of much of the grassland in the campus had cut
down areas of wildflowers and flowering grass whilst flowering was still in progress.
Any areas of grassland where there is limited human access could be further enhanced by
reducing the mowing regime to twice a year in early spring and late summer only, with
arisings being removed for composting. The larger areas of grassland on south-east facing
banks throughout the campus have particular potential for a change in management regime
(see Image 21), with additional areas present between residential blocks and the western
woodland edge (Image 22). If there is concern regarding pedestrian usage, areas identified
as having potential for wildlife could be fenced off to avoid foot-fall. The species diversity can
be increased further by either continuing to add wildflower and appropriate grass seed (in
particular mixes that encourage the formation of tussock structure to the grassland to
support reptiles), or could also be increased by removing the present sward and reseeding
with a mixture of diverse native species, including nectar-rich meadow-flower mixes, with the
aim of increasing the diversity of nectar-rich plants, and attracting larger numbers of insects.
Grassy verges through the woodland walk could also be managed to encourage woodland
species, strimming alternate sections in late summer, every other year, raking and removing
the arisings for compost.
If a commercial grassland mix is used, the seed is best sown in the autumn or spring. The
seed must be surface sown, either applied by machine or broadcast by hand. Do not
incorporate or cover the seed, but firm in with a roll, or by treading, to give good soil/seed
contact.
Image 21. South-east facing bank, residential area.
Image 22. Managed grassland, western edge of
woodland.
First year management
Most sown grass species are perennial and will be slow to germinate and grow, and will not
usually flower in the first growing season. There may be a flush of annual weeds from the
soil in the first growing season. This weed growth is easily controlled by topping or mowing.
On-going management
Once established, species-rich grassland requires minimal maintenance. However
management will be required to limit encroaching ruderals and other unwanted weeds using
spot treatment. Cutting should be done on a rotational basis, so that no more than half of
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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any new grassland habitat is cut in any one year, leaving part as an undisturbed refuge for
wildlife. Grassland cutting should be completed by use of light machinery (such as a self-
propelled mower or hand strimmer) to prevent compaction of this area of limited habitat.
Appropriate seed mixtures are available commercially, with the charity Flora Locale
providing a list of British suppliers for grass, wildflower and meadow seed mixes:
https://www.floralocale.org/British+and+Irish+Flora+Suppliers?structure=page24182&page_r
ef_id=746
5.3. Nectar Bed Plants
In addition to the enhancement of lawn areas with meadow-flower planting (see 5.1.
Enhancement of grassland planting), there are opportunities to enhance the Site's planting
scheme to include nectar-producing native plants, with the aim of attracting a wide range of
nectar-feeding invertebrates, such as butterflies and hoverflies, and their associated
predators and parasites. In addition to available grassland, meadow and woodland
wildflowers could be planted in boxes situated around the Site, allowing seed collection in
late summer/autumn. This should include a range of annual and/or perennial plants that
flower through spring and summer, and that are native to Wales. Examples include:
Spring-flowering: Oxlip, Cowslip, Bluebell, Ox-eye Daisy, Foxglove, Selfheal, Red Campion,
Primrose and Wild Daffodil
Summer-flowering: Greater Knapweed, Common Mallow, Scentless Mayweed, Harebell,
Yellow Rattle and Common Agrimony.
Further examples of suitable species can be found at Wildlife Trusts Wales
https://www.wtwales.org/plantwildflowers, with Flora Locale providing a list of British seed
suppliers (see above).
5.4. Watercourses and ponds
The current narrow watercourses present on Site are, for the most part, shaded through the
woodland, or diverted in culverts or artificial concrete channels, and are of low value for
biodiversity. Taking into account the need to manage these watercourses for drainage and
health and safety purposes, there is potential to enhance this habitat for wildlife. Where
these watercourses are shaded within the woodland, careful opening up of the canopy
above would increase opportunities for aquatic plants, whilst also enhancing the biodiversity
of the woodland habitat itself. Due to the woodland habitat being part of a SINC, consultation
with the South and West Wales Wildlife Trust (https://www.welshwildlife.org/) is
recommended.
The ponds present at the centre of the Site are artificial, with non-native ornamental planting,
and of low biodiversity value. Enhancement could be undertaken through a 're-wilding' of the
habitat, with the planting of native plants such as Willow along the edges, backfilling with soil
to create areas for native emergent and marginal water-plants, and providing shaded areas.
Deep-water plants could also be introduced, allowing silt accumulation over time, creating a
natural substrate for native invertebrates and aquatic plants.
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Detailed design would be required to take into account issues of flow- and flood-control and
any other health and safety issues.
5.5. Enhancement of habitats for bats
The disused railway tunnel was not evaluated during this survey: however, Clements (2013)
considers a number of ways this tunnel could be enhanced for roosting bats.
Bat boxes are present within the woodland, with integral bat boxes situated on the southern
walls of Mountain Halls. Clements (2013) identified that a number of the woodland bat boxes
were situated in unsuitable locations, or installed at the wrong height. The current bat box
scheme should be reviewed in detail, and re-established with appropriate
locations/situations. Advice on bat box installation can be found via the Bat Conservation
Trust website (http://www.bats.org.uk/), or via a qualified ecologist.
With respect to roosting opportunities within woodland habitat, new roosting opportunities for
non-light-averse bats, such as Common Pipistrelle, could be created using Schwegler 2F bat
boxes (Figure 1) that could be fitted on to suitable trees under the guidance of suitably
qualified ecologist.
Figure 1. 2F Schwegler bat tube
The 2F is the standard and most popular bat box and is ideal as a starter box to see if there
are bats in your area or to provide much needed secure roosting space. It has been
designed as a summer roosting space for bats and has a simple entrance hole at the front. It
has a removable front panel and can be converted in to a bird nest box using a replacement
1B front panel if there is no evidence of bat activity after a couple of years. The 2F is
manufactured from long-lasting Woodcrete, which is a blend of wood, concrete and clay
which will not rot, leak, crack or warp, and will last for at least 20 – 25 years, making it
suitable for long-term mitigation projects. Woodcrete is breathable and maintains a stable
temperature inside the box and the 2F is painted black to absorb warmth. It also provides a
good rough surface for bats to cling on to and climb. The 2F bat box can be sited in trees or
on buildings and is best positioned at a height of between 3 to 6 metres. Bat boxes should
ideally be sited in open sunny positions and in groups of 3 to 5 boxes facing different
directions to provide a variety of microhabitats. Please note that once bats have inhabited a
roost site, they may only be disturbed by a licensed bat worker (taken from NHBS website).
With respect to roosting opportunities on buildings present on Site, there is potential to use
boxes suitable for wall installation (for example, the Schwegler 2FE wall-mounted bat shelter
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Figure 2), fitting them somewhere sheltered, ideally with a south-east facing aspect, and with
easy access to foraging habitat such as adjacent woodland. These should be fitted under the
guidance of a suitably qualified ecologist.
Figure 2. Schwegler 2FE wall-mounted bat shelter.
The Schwegler 2FE wall-mounted bat shelter can be fixed to outside walls to provide a
summer hide-away for bats, with Common Pipistrelle, Natterer's Bat and Long-eared Bat
species using it, often in small groups. The interior has shaped cavities in various sizes
where the animals can roost giving optimum body contact. It is made from Schwegler wood-
concrete, which can be painted with air-permeable paint when installed on external walls.
5.6. Bird boxes
There are a number of bird boxes installed throughout the woodland habitat, although some
are sited in unsuitable locations. The current bat box scheme should be reviewed in detail,
and re-established with appropriate locations/situations. There may be opportunities to
install specialised boxes for declining species such as Swifts, Starling and House Sparrow
on buildings around the Site.
Swifts
For example, at least 17A Schwegler Swift Nest Boxes (Triple Cavity) (Figure 3) could be
situated at height on any suitable tall buildings, such as the residential blocks, located under
the eaves, facing south-east. These Swift Nest Boxes can help this species by providing
valuable nesting locations, and installation of several units is an ideal way to support a Swift
colony. The Swift Box No. 17A is made from a special mixture of compressed plant fibres
and concrete which enables it to provide good insulation and an extremely long life. This is
an extended box that can accommodate three pairs of swifts in parallel, assisting in the rapid
formation of swift colonies. The box is supplied in a natural grey colour, but can be painted to
match the background using an air-permeable paint (taken from NHBS website). Swifts can
be encouraged to occupy such boxes by broadcasting pre-recorded swift nesting calls during
the nesting season.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Figure 3. No. 17A Swift Nest Box (Triple Cavity)
Sparrows
New nesting opportunities should be provided for Sparrows, through the provision of bird
nesting boxes: this could include several Sparrow Terraces (Schwegler 1SP Figure 4) fitted
to suitable buildings around the Site: any that have sheltered, south, east or south-east
facing walls, facing towards suitable woodland or other semi-natural habitat. This terrace has
been designed to help redress the balance of falling House Sparrow numbers. The current
UK population of 6 million pairs is half what it was in 1980 and this is thought to be due to
habitat destruction and lack of suitable nesting spaces. Sparrows are social birds and like to
nest in company. Each terrace provides ideal nesting opportunities for three families. Made
of wood-concrete mix, this terrace is durable, breathable and will last many decades.
Figure 4. Schwegler 1SP Sparrow Terrace
The terrace can be fixed on to the surface of a suitable wall or incorporated into the wall. It is
suitable for all types of houses in built-up areas, and on industrial and agricultural buildings
such as barns, sheds and factories. Due to its weight (15kg), it is not suitable for fences or
garden sheds. Ideally place the terrace two metres or more above the ground. Either
installed on the surface of the wall using the plugs and screws, or installed directly into the
wall. Cleaning is advisable but not necessary. The front panel can be removed by turning the
screw hook. The Sparrow Terrace is available in either Stone or Brown (taken from NHBS
website).
5.7. Enhancement for Invertebrates
In addition to enhancing overall Site biodiversity through the planting of native woody shrubs
and trees, and increasing the biodiversity of grassland and nectar-rich species, there may be
opportunities for providing insect boxes around the Site, for example, within areas of raised
introduced shrub planting (Schwegler Clay and Reed Insect Nest, Figure 6). There may also
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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be opportunities to install Bumblebee nests in suitable locations at the edges of the north-
westerly grassland slopes or raised bed and boundary planting areas. The steep banks
within the residential areas may be suitable for creation of bare cliffs suitable for mining bees
and wasps.
Figure 6. Schwegler Clay and Reed Insect Nest.
5.8. Reptile hibernacula
There is potential for Reptiles to be present within this Site. To enhance the Site for Reptiles
and overwintering invertebrates, reptile hibernacula could be created (relating also to
woodland management and enhancement, see 5.1.).
The following has been taken from The Reptile Habitat Management Handbook, Published
by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, 655A Christchurch Road, Boscombe,
Bournemouth, BH1 4AP. ISBN 978-0-9566717-0-7:
The body of a reptile hibernaculum can contain a range of materials. For example, cut timber, brash, inert hardcore, bricks, rocks, grubbed up tree roots or building rubble. These features can provide a convenient way of using waste materials and arisings from site management. Materials that will decompose should not be placed beneath heavy components such as bricks or rocks, to avoid the risk of collapse. Wood chippings or loose topsoil can be incorporated into the construction, to pack some of the larger cavities (reptiles can squeeze into small spaces, which may afford them protection from predators, such as mustelids or rats). There should be access points around the edges. These are best created by ensuring that timber or rubble protrudes from the edge, creating crevices that allow reptiles to get deep inside. It is not recommended to use pipes to create access points. Reptiles appear to prefer using more ‘natural’ cracks and holes. Pipes are also prone to blocking or becoming dislodged with time, meaning that access is considerably limited if they are the only entrance and exit points. There is no single perfect hibernation site, and managers should consider what fits best on their site. The key design features are;
• a sunny position,
• a well-drained site, not prone to flooding,
• orientation so that one of the long banks faces south,
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• access to reptiles through openings of some sort,
• location in a patch of habitat favourable for dispersal, such as tussocky grassland,
• minimal public disturbance,
• size at least 4 m long, by 2 m wide by 1 m high, and ideally much larger.
Depending on soil conditions and hydrology, it is often preferable to dig a pit, and then place the materials partially buried inside, rather than just creating a mound on the surface. Materials to help drainage, such as slotted pipes and gravel, can be placed in the structure. However, on impermeable soils or in low-lying areas it may be safer to create an entirely above-ground structure, to reduce the risk of winter flooding. In areas of grassland or other herbaceous vegetation, turf should be removed from the footprint of the reptile bank, so that it can used to cover the completed construction. In most cases the rapid establishment of vegetation cover on reptile banks will be important. If this cannot be achieved by use of turf, then seeding with a meadow mix may be required. It can be beneficial to plant or translocate scrub to the immediate north of the feature, as this will provide shelter and cover.
5.9. On-going biodiversity management and further surveys
It is recommended that a five-year Biodiversity Management Plan for this Site, in conjunction
with all other USW campus sites, should be drawn up and implemented, setting out key
biodiversity features and assets of the site, with proposed management schema to maintain
or enhance the habitats and potential for wildlife. Further surveys may be required to:
provide additional data; refine the current biodiversity survey; confirm the use of any
biodiversity enhancements, such as bat or bird boxes; clarify any statutory responsibilities
and inform on-going management. This plan should be reviewed and updated at five-yearly
intervals. It is recommended that appropriate local bodies and stakeholders be included as
consultees.
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References
Clements, D. (2013) University Glamorgan Biodiversity Audit: Treforest Campus. David Clements Ecology Ltd. CIEEM, 2016. Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal. Technical Guidance Series. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, 43 Southgate Street, Winchester, Hampshire.
Collins, J. (ed.), 2016. Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines
(3rd edition). The Bat Survey Trust, London. ISBN-13 978-1-872745-96-1
Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEA), 1995. Guidelines for Baseline Ecological
Assessment, Institute of Environmental Assessment. E&FN Spon, aJn Imprint of Chapman
and Hall. London.
Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 2010. Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey - a
Technique for Environmental Audit. Reprinted by JNCC, Peterborough
JNCC and Defra (on behalf of the Four Countries’ Biodiversity Group), 2012. UK Post-2010
Biodiversity Framework. July 2012.
Stace, C., 1997. New Flora of the British Isles. 2nd edition. Cambridge University Press,
Cambridge.
Walsh, A. L. and Harris, S. 1996. Foraging habitat preferences of vespertilionid bats in Britain. Journal of Applied Ecology 33: 508-518.
Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018
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Appendix 1: Species recorded during Site survey
Trees and shrubs Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable
Acer campestre Field Maple
Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore
Aesculus hippocastanum Horse Chestnut
Alnus glutinosa Alder
Betula pendula Silver Birch
Betula pubescens Downy Birch
Betula utilis Himalayan Birch
Buddleia davidii Buddleia
Buxus sempervirens Box
Calluna vulgaris Heather
Cornus sanguinea Dogwood
Corylus avellana Hazel
Elaeagnus sp. Oleaster
Fagus sylvatica Beech
Fraxinus excelsior Common Ash
Hebe sp. Hebe
Ilex aquifolium Holly
Kerria japonica Japanese Kerria
Ligustrum ovalifolium Garden Privet
Mahonia sp. Oregon Grape
Picea sp. Pine
Prunus cv. Ornamental Cherry
Prunus laurocerasus Cherry Laurel
Prunus padus Bird Cherry
Prunus spinosa Blackthorn
Quercus ilex Holm Oak
Quercus robar Pedunculate Oak
Rhododendron ponticum Rhododendron Schedule 9
Ribes sp. Currant
Rosa sp. Rose
Rubus fruticosus agg. Bramble
Salix caprea Goat Willow
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Salix fragilis Crack Willow
Sambucus nigra Elder
Sorbus acuparia Rowan
Sorbus sp. A Whitebeam
Taxus baccata Yew
Tilia x vulgaris Lime
Ulex sp. Gorse
Herbaceous plants Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable
Aquilegia vulgaris Columbine
Agrostis stolonifera Creeping Bent-grass
Agrostis capillaris Common Bent
Allium sp. Ornamental Onion
Alopecurus pratensis Meadow Foxtail
Anagallis arvensis Scarlet Pimpernel
Angelica sylvestris Wild Angelica
Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass
Anthriscus sylvaticus Cow Parsley
Arrhenatherum elatius False Oat-grass
Asplenium adiantum-nigrum Black Spleenwort
Bellis perennis Daisy
Blechnum spicant Hard Fern
Brachypodium sylvaticum False-brome
Bromus hordeaceous Soft Brome
Bromus sp. Brome
Cardamine hirsuta Hairy Bitter-cress
Cardamine pratensis Cuckoo-flower
Carex flacca Glaucous Sedge
Carex hirta Hairy Sedge
Carex pendula Pendulous Sedge
Carex remota Remote Sedge
Carex sylvatica Wood Sedge
Centaurea nigra Common Knapweed
Cerastium fontanum Common Mouse-ear
Chamerion angustifolium Rosebay Willowherb
Cirsium arvense Creeping Thistle
Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle
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Clematis vitalba Traveller's Joy
Cymbalaria muralis Ivy-leaved Toadflax
Dactylis glomerata Cock's-foot
Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted Hairgrass
Digitalis purpurea Foxglove
Dryopteris filix-mas Common Male-fern
Epilobium hirsutum Great Willowherb
Epilobium tetragonum Square-stemmed Willowherb
Equisetum arvense Field Horsetail
Erica cinerea Bell Heather
Festuca rubra Red Fescue
Filipendula ulmaria Meadowsweet
Fragaria vesca Wild Strawberry
Galium aparine Cleavers
Galium palustre Common Marsh-bedstraw
Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved Cranesbill
Geranium robertianum Herb Robert
Geranium sanguineum Bloody Crane's-bill
Geum urbanum Wood Avens
Glyceria declinata Small Sweet-grass
Hedera helix Ivy
Helminthotheca echoides Bristly Oxtongue
Heracleum sphondylium Hogweed
Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog
Holcus mollis Creeping Soft-grass
Hyacinthoides hispanica Spanish Bluebell
Hyacinthoides non-scripta Bluebell
Hypochaeris radicata Common Cat's-ear
Iris sp. Ornamental Iris
Juncus articulatus Jointed Rush
Juncus effusus Soft Rush
Lamiastrum galeobdolon ssp. argentatum Variegated Yellow Archangel
Lapsana communis Nipplewort
Leucanthemum vulgare Oxeye Daisy
Lolium perenne Perennial Rye
Lonicera periclymenum Honeysuckle
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Lotus corniculatus Common Bird's-foot Trefoil
Luzula campestris Field Wood-rush
Lysmachia nemorum Yellow Pimpernel
Medicago lupulina Black Medick
Mentha sp Mint
Myosotis sp. Forget-me-not
Narcissus sp. Garden Daffodil
Phorium sp. New Zealand Flax
Phyllitis scolopendrium Hart's-tongue Fern
Pilosella officianarum Mouse-eared Hawkweed
Plantago lanceolata Ribwort Plantain
Plantago major Broad-leaved Plantain
Poa annua Annual Meadow-grass
Polygonum aviculare Knotgrass
Potentilla anserina Silverweed
Potentilla vulgaris Creeping Cinquefoil
Primula veris Cowslip
Prunella vulgaris Self-heal
Pteridium aquilinum Bracken
Ranunculus acris Meadow Buttercup
Ranunculus flammula Lesser Spearwort
Ranunculus repens Creeping Buttercup
Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary
Rumex acetosa Common Sorrel
Rumex crispus Curled Dock
Rumex obtusifolius Broad-leaved Dock
Scrophularia auriculata Water Figwort
Scrophularia nodosa Common Figwort
Senecio jacobaea Ragwort
Senecio vulgaris Groundsel
Sonchus asper Prickly Sowthistle
Stachys sylvatica Hedge Woundwort
Silene dioica Red Campion
Taraxacum officinalis agg. Dandelion
Teucrium scorodonia Wood Sage
Trifolium dubium Lesser Trefoil
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Trifolium pratense Red Clover
Trifolium repens White Clover
Urtica dioica Common Nettle
Veronica beccabunga Brooklime
Veronica Chamaedrys Germander Speedwell
Veronica serphyfolium Thyme-leaved Speedwell
Vicia sativa Common Vetch
Vinca cv. Cultivated Periwinkle
Viola Riviniana Common Dog-violet
Yucca sp. Yucca
Invertebrates Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable
Bombus lucoram White-tailed Bumblebee
Bombylius major Bee Fly
Calopteryx virgo Beautiful Demoiselle
Catocala nupta Red Underwing Moth
Eristalis pertinax Hoverfly
Pieris brassicae Large White Butterfly
Platychertrus sp. Hoverfly
Birds Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable
Carduelis carduelis Goldfinch
Corvus corone Carrion Crow
Corvus corax Raven
Corvus monedula Jackdaw
Erythacus rubecula Robin
Fringilla coelebs Chaffinch
Phylloscopus collybita Chiffchaff
Prunella modularis Dunnock
Parus major Great Tit
Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler
Pica pica Eurasian Magpie
Sitta europaea Nuthatch
Sylvia atricapilla Blackcap
Troglodytes troglodytes Wren
Turdus merula Blackbird
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Wales BAP;
Red
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Appendix 2
Legislation and Policy used to assess habitats and species
Environment (Wales) Act 2016
This Act of the National Assembly for Wales puts in place legislation to enable the on-going
planning and management of the natural resources of Wales.
European Habitats and Species Directive (CEC, 1992)
The main aim of the Habitats Directive is to promote the maintenance of biodiversity by
requiring Member States to take measures to maintain or restore natural habitats and wild
species listed on the Annexes to the Directive at a favourable conservation status,
introducing robust protection for those habitats and species of European importance.
European Red Data lists (IUCN, 2000)
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN and the European Commission have
been working together on an initiative to assess around 6,000 European species according
to IUCN regional Red Listing Guidelines. Through this process they have produced a
European Red List identifying those species which are threatened with extinction at the
European level so that appropriate conservation action can be taken to improve their status.
European Council Birds Directive (CEC, 1979)
The Directive provides a framework for the conservation and management of, and human
interactions with, wild birds in Europe. An important part of this Directive is the identification
and classification of Special Protected Areas (SPAs) to protected vulnerable bird species
listed in Annex 1 of the Directive and regularly occurring migrating species.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981 (as amended)
This Act is the primary legislation that protects animals, plants and certain habitats in the UK.
The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017
The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 consolidate and update the
Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010, and transpose Council Directive
92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (“the Habitats
Directive”) and elements of Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds (“the
Birds Directive”) in England, Wales, and to limited extent, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The objectives of the Habitats Directive is to protect biodiversity through the conservation of
natural habitats and species of wild fauna and flora. The Directive lays down rules for the
protection, management and exploitation of such habitats and species.
The Regulations place a duty on the Secretary of State to propose a list of sites which are
important for either habitats or species. These sites form a network termed Natura 2000 and
include Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas.
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Protection of Badgers Act 1992
The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 consolidated and improved previous legislation. Under
the Act it is an offence to kill, injure or take a Badger, or to damage or interfere with a sett
used by a Badger unless a licence is obtained from a statutory authority.
The Hedgerow Regulations 1997
The Hedgerows Regulations 1997 protect certain hedgerows from being removed (uprooted
or destroyed) if they meet certain criteria.
The Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000
This Act increases measures for the management and protection for Sites of Special
Scientific Interest (SSSI) and strengthens wildlife enforcement legislation.
Circular 06/2005 Biodiversity and geological conservation – statutory obligations and
their impact within the planning system
This circular provides administrative guidance on the application of the law relating to
planning and nature conservation as it applies in England. It complements the national
planning policy in the National Planning Policy Framework and the Planning Practice
Guidance.
Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006
The Act made amendments to the both the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the
Countryside and Rights of Way (CROW) Act 2000. For example, it extended the CROW
biodiversity duty to public bodies and statutory undertakers.
UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework, 2012
The ‘UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework’, published in July 2012, succeeds the UK BAP
and ‘Conserving Biodiversity – the UK Approach’, and is the result of a change in strategic
thinking.
The natural choice: securing the value of nature (2011) (Natural Environment White
Paper)
This White Paper outlines the Governments vision for the future of landscape and
ecosystem services.