Understanding the potential for a development to impact on habitats, birds and other species is an important part of scheme design.
We have…
Undertaken an initial desk study and Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey to establish baseline ecological conditions.
We found…
The site is chiefly dominated by marshy grassland with areas of blanket bog and dry and wet heath adjacent to it, which are locally relatively common. During the survey, no evidence of protected species was identified. Furthermore, the site was considered as having only limited value for protected species, with no ponds, hedgerows and trees onsite.
The site is considered unsuitable for scarce and protected bird species, such as waders or raptors. The relatively small size of the site, and proximity to the existing wind farm access road further indicates its potential for impacts on birds is limited.
What we propose to do…
An ecological assessment will be submitted as part of the planning application. This will identify important ecological features, characterise potential impacts, outline mitigation measures and assess residual effects. We will also identify opportunities for ecological enhancement in the area, which will be detailed in a habitat management plan.