Survey
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P00512 – Land at Norton Lane, Norton Oakes Surveyed 16/07/2012 by C. Duffield & M. Senkans The dividing hedge / brief description The hedge measures approximately 90 metres in length and links Norton Lane with the former Bents Green School site. It is continuous and connects with other lengths of hedgerow. The dominant species is mature (often multi – stemmed) common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna). Assessment and conclusion The following features were noted with regards the ‘Important Hedgerows Criteria’ (The Hedgerow Regulations,1997): The hedgerow in question met the following criteria: It contains at least 5 woody species from ‘Schedule 3 Woody Species’ : Elder (Sambucus nigra), Common Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Holly (Ilex aquifolium), Sessile oak (Quercus petraea) Yew (Taxus baccata)) It contains at least 4 associated features : Contains 4 species from the list of 57 ‘woodland plants from ‘Schedule 2 Woodland Species’: Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non–scripta), Common dog violet (Viola riviniana) , 1 Herb – Robert (Geranium robertianum) and Wood avens (Geum urbanum)). Less than 10% gaps. On average at least 1 tree per 50 metres. It also has connections with other hedgerow The central hedgerow has been assessed under the Hedgerow Regulations (1997) as being 'Important'. Various criteria specified in the Regulations were used to identify this such as wildlife, landscape and/or for historical reasons. The Hedgerow Regulations prohibit the removal of countryside hedgerows without the Council’s consent. Removal of this hedgerow would not be permitted unless there is an overriding justification, and this is determined by the Council. However, the strong presumption is that important hedgerows will be protected. Unless satisfied that removal is justified, the authority must refuse permission. If permission for removal is refused, a Hedgerow Retention Notice would be issued to say that removal of the hedgerow is prohibited. To comply with the Hedgerow Regulations, and to meet the Council’s biodiversity duty it is recommended that the hedge be retained and enhanced. Other points of ecological interest Large mammal holes were also noticed within the hedgerow. These did not appear to be in use at this point in time. Regularly used animal track - ways were noted throughout the field in general. The boundary hedge along the west of the field (adjacent Norton Free School) boasts mature oak trees and good mix of tree/hedgerow species including: field maple (Acer campestre), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and cherry (Prunus sp.). Before the western boundary meets Norton Lane, there is a triangular block of developing wet woodland, dominated by aspen (Populus tremula) with the occasional grey willow (Salix cinerea). Standing water was noted along with a dense stand of yellow flag (Iris pseudacorus). Other wetland species noted on site include greater bird’s – foot trefoil (Lotus ulginosus). During the survey, a number 5 – spot burnet (Zygaena trifolii) were noticed, emerging from cocoons. Freshly emerged ringlet (Aphantopus hyperantus) also noted. Both species require tall damp grassy habitats. The larval stage of the 5 – spot burnet feeds on greater bird’s – food trefoil. 2 Location of the ‘Important hedgerow’ at Norton Oakes Lane (SK36298243) 3