Wisley Airfield, Surrey

Film Set Ecological Appraisal 2014

This is a confidential report which contains the locations of records of protected

species and must not be issued or made public without the express permission
of Wisley Property Investments Limited

RPS Planning & Development

20 Western Avenue
Milton Park
Abingdon
Oxon
OX14 4SH

Telephone: 01235 821888

Facsimile: 01235 820351

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Quality Management

Prepared by: Kerry Shakespeare

Authorised by: Keith Jones

Date: August 2014

Project Number: OXF5569

Status: Ecological Appraisal Final

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Contents

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

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

3 Results .......................................................................................................................... 4

4 Conclusions................................................................................................................ 22

References ......................................................................................................................... 24

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Figures & Appendices

Figures
Figure 1: Site Location Plan
Figure 2: Statutory and Non-statutory Site Designations
Figure 3: Phase 1 Habitat Plan

Figure 4: Wisley On-site Ecology

Appendices
Appendix 1: Example Data Request Letter
Appendix 2: Phase 1 Target Notes
Appendix 3: Phase 1 Species List

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SUMMARY

S.1 RPS was commissioned by Wisley Property Investments Ltd to carry out a Phase 1 Habitat
Survey and Desk Study for the Wisley Airfield site near Ockham in Surrey.

S.2 A Phase 1 Habitat Survey and Desk Study were undertaken for the site in 2007 as part of a
previous planning application. The main objectives of the studies in 2013 and 2014 were to
ensure the data was still valid for any future planning application in 2014/2015 for the Wisley
Airfield.

S.3 The objectives of the updated study were to:

Locate statutory wildlife sites within 5km of the site and non-statutory wildlife sites within
2km;

Locate records of protected or otherwise notable species within 2km of the site and bats and
otters within 5km;

Remap all habitats present within the site boundary according to the Joint Nature
Conservation Committee Phase 1 Habitat Survey guidelines (JNCC, 2010);

Reassess the habitats present for their potential to support protected or otherwise notable
species, and to look for field signs of such species;

Redetermine whether any mitigation would be required to ensure protected species are not
affected by any future proposals for the site.
th th
S.4 The Phase 1 Habitat Survey was carried out on the 5 and 6 August 2013. The survey
followed the standard method as set out by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC,
2010), and covered the survey area shown on Figure 1. A National Vegetation Classification
nd rd th
walkover was also undertaken on the 2 , 3 and 4 July 2014.

S.4 The desk study identified 8 statutory site designations, 12 non-statutory site designations and 3
areas of ancient woodland within 5km and 2km of the site. They consist of a SPA, LNRs, SSSIs
and SNCIs.

S.5 The desk study identified that Wisley Field Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) is
located within the site boundary and Ockham and Wisley Local Nature Reserve (LNR), Thames
Basin Heath Special Protection Area (SPA), Ockham and Wisley Commons Special Site of
Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Elm Corner Woods and Hunts Copse SNCIs are located adjacent
to the site.

S.6 The desk study also identified a number of records of protected and notable species. Records
were provided for 10 bat species within 5 km of the site and a number of additional bat records
that were not identified to species level. Otter records were provided along the River Wey.

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 Badgers were also recorded within 2 km of the site and a sett was identified within the site itself.
A total of 80 bird species, 8 herpofauna, 48 invertebrate species and 30 plant species were
recorded within 2km of the site.

S.7 The site can be broadly classified as lowland grassland and arable land fringed with pockets of
broadleaved woodland and hedgerows. There is a substantial area of hardstanding concrete
associated with the former runway and airport buildings. Three locally frequent farmland plants
were recorded within the site boundary in 2006 and 2008. These species were not recorded on
the site in 2014.

S.8 The potential for protected fauna was identified during the Phase 1 Habitat Survey. The
application site has the potential to support a number of protected species and thus further
ecological surveys were undertaken on the site in 2013 and 2014. Foraging and commuting
bats, badger setts, herpetofauna, nesting birds and terrestrial invertebrates have been recorded
using the Wisley Airfield.

S.9 The proposed filming would be undertaken on the hardstanding areas of the site only. There is
no proposed night work, hours would be restricted to 8am-7pm (8am to 5.30pm on Saturdays)
and no explosives are to be used on the site. Therefore, it can be concluded that there would
be no adverse impacts on the habitats present and wildlife currently using the Wisley Airfield
site as a result of the film set proposals.

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1 Introduction

1.1 RPS was commissioned by Wisley Property Investments Ltd to carry out a Phase 1 Habitat
Survey and Desk Study for the Wisley Airfield site near Ockham in Surrey.

1.2 A Phase 1 Habitat Survey and Desk Study were undertaken for the site in 2007 as part of a
previous planning application. The main objectives of the studies in 2013 and 2014 were to
ensure the data was still valid for a future planning application in 2014/2015 for the Wisley
Airfield.

1.3 The objectives of the updated study were to:

Locate statutory wildlife sites within 5km of the site and non-statutory wildlife sites within 2km;

Locate records of protected or otherwise notable species within 2km of the site and bats and
otters within 5km;

Re-map all habitats present within the site boundary according to the Joint Nature
Conservation Committee Phase 1 Habitat Survey guidelines (JNCC, 2010);

Re-assess the habitats present for their potential to support protected or otherwise notable
species, and to look for field signs of such species;

Re-determine whether any mitigation would be required to ensure protected species are not
affected by any future proposals for the site.

1.4 The site lies south west of the M25/A3 junction and comprises a disused airfield surrounded by
agricultural land. Part of the site is designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI).
The site also falls within 50 m of Ockham and Wisley Common Site of Special Scientific Interest
(SSSI), which is also a component of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA).

1.5 The site itself can be broadly classified as lowland grassland and arable land fringed with
pockets of broadleaved woodland and hedgerows. There is also a substantial area of
hardstanding concrete associated with the former runway and airport buildings. The location of
the site is shown in Figure 1.

1.6 This report outlines the methods used (Chapter 2), presents the results obtained (Chapter 3),
and sets out the conclusions reached and any recommendations for further surveys (Chapter
4).

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2 Methodology

Desk Study

Search Area

2.1 A search area of 2km from the site was used to gather records of most protected and notable
species and details of non-statutory wildlife sites.

2.2 A wider search area of 5km from the site was used to gather details of statutory wildlife sites
and records of bats and otters as these were considered more sensitive receptors which could
potentially be affected by activity at a greater distance away or because they are highly mobile
species which can utilise habitat a long way from where they have been recorded.

Data Request

2.3 Letters requesting data on designated wildlife sites and/or species records were sent to the
organisations and individuals listed in Table 1. A typical letter is included in Appendix 1.

Statutory and Non-Statutory Consultees

Natural England

Environment Agency

Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre (Surrey Wildlife Trust)

Surrey Bat Group

Surrey Amphibian and Reptile Group

Surrey Botanical Society

Surrey Butterfly Recorder

Surrey Bird Club

Surrey Badger Group

2.4 In addition to these requests, the 'MAGIC' website was consulted for information on any Special
Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Ramsar Sites, National

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 Nature Reserves (NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). The JNCC website
was also consulted for additional details of any SACs, SPAs, and Ramsar Sites.

2.5 The legal and conservation status of the species for which records were received was
determined using the Spreadsheet of Conservation Designations for UK Taxa (JNCC, 2010).

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

2.6 A Phase 1 Habitat Survey was undertaken on the application site in 2007 (RPS). The applicant
commissioned an updated Phase 1 Habitat Survey of land within the potential application site to
ensure the data was still valid for the 2014/2015 planning submission.

th th
2.7 The updated Phase 1 Habitat Survey was carried out on the 5 and 6 August 2013 to re-map
all habitats present within the site boundary and to identify any potential for protected or notable
habitats or species to be present. The optimal time for undertaking Phase 1 habitat surveys is
between March and September, when most plant species are evident or in flower. The timing of
the inspection was undertaken inside the main survey season and thus suitable for most types
of ecological work, as most species are still recognisable at this time of year.

2.8 The survey took into account the standard Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology as set out in
the Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey: A technique for environmental audit (JNCC 2010).

2.9 The area was surveyed and habitats were mapped onto Ordnance Survey base maps using the
JNCC Phase 1 Habitat Survey categories. Target notes were made for features of ecological
interest. Habitats potentially suitable for legally protected species were noted, and any signs of
such species (e.g. sightings, tracks, dropping, burrows etc.) were recorded.

2.10 The results of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey are shown on Figure 3 and key features are
highlighted by target notes which are included in Appendix 2. A list of the plant species
recorded during the survey is provided in Appendix 3. Plant species names follow Stace (2010).

2.11 Habitats potentially suitable for legally protected fauna were noted, and signs of such species,
including sightings, tracks, droppings and burrows, were recorded. Due to the types of habitats
present particular attention was paid to identify the presence or potential for bats, reptiles,
amphibians, badgers, invertebrates and birds. The presence of invasive species was also
noted.

2.12 A National Vegetation Classification (NVC) walkover was also undertaken on the site on the
nd rd th
2 , 3 and 4 July 2014. Three locally frequent farmland plants were recorded within the site
boundary in 2006 and 2008 (SBIC, 2013), these being corn spurry, loose silky-bent and annual
knawel. The walkover was undertaken to reassess if these species are present within the site
boundary as they have not been recorded on site over the last seven years.

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3 Results

Desk Study

Consultation Responses

3.1 The responses received from the consultees are summarised in Table 2 below.

Consultee Response

Advised that the information required is best provided by

the other organizations approached and that information
Natural England
on statutory designated sites could also be gathered
from the MAGIC website.

Environment Agency No response.

Provided records of statutory and non statutory sites,

Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre (Surrey within the search areas. Bat and otter records within
Wildlife Trust) 5km of the site and other protected and notable species
within 2km of the site.

Surrey Bat Group Provided records of bats recorded within 5km of the site.

Provided records of amphibians and reptiles recorded

Surrey Amphibian and Reptile Group
within 2km of the site.

Advised that all their data is given to and will be provided

Surrey Botanical Society
by the Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre.

Advised that details of butterflies in Surrey can be found

within the ATLAS available on their website. The site
Surrey Butterfly Recorder had been surveyed twice in July 2000 and Sept 2003
and species recorded during these surveys were
provided.

Provided records of protected and notable birds

Surrey Bird Club
recorded within 2km of the site.

Provided details of a badger sett located on the site and

Surrey Badger Group
locations of badger records.

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3.2 The data received from the consultees concerning wildlife sites and protected and notable
species records is summarised below.

Statutory Designated Sites

3.3 There are eight statutory sites located within 5km of the access route. These are listed in Table
3 below and shown on Figure 2.

Site Name Designation Distance to site Description

Thames Basin Heath SPA
0m Consists of tracts of lowland heath which supports
distinctive flora and fauna some of which are
under threat and in decline. Supports important
populations of ground nesting birds i.e. Dartford
Warbler, Nightjar and Woodlark.

Ockham and Wisley SSSI 0m Consists of a large tract of heathland lying

Commons between the Mole and Wey Rivers containing
heath, bog, open water, secondary woodland and
scrub. This variety of habitat supports a rich
community of heathland plants and animals,
including a number of rare and local insects.

Ockham and Wisley LNR 0m Habitats include heathland, grassland and

woodland. Rare heath species such as Dartford
warbler breed on the site.

Papercourt SSSI 1915m Consists of complex wetland habitats including

unimproved meadows, marshes, streams and
flooded gravel pits. Theses support a number of
local plants and a wide variety of breeding and
wintering birds.

Old Common LNR 3750m No description provided.

Bookham Commons SSSI
3200m The site supports a range of habitat types
including woodland, scrub, grassland and open
water. This diversity of habitats promotes an
extremely rich community of breeding birds and
important invertebrate populations. This site is
regarded as one of the best recorded clay sites in
Britain.

White Rose Lane LNR 4525m Damp alder woodland beside the Hoe Stream

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 Site Name Designation Distance to site Description

Basingstoke Canal SSSI 4830m The canal is nationally important for aquatic plants
East and West and invertebrates due to the lack of pollution and
variation in water chemistry. The SSSI includes
the canal and the vegetation to the top of the bank
on either side (other than private gardens).

3.4 Ockham and Wisley Local Nature Reserve (LNR), Thames Basin Heath Special Protection
Area (SPA) and Ockham and Wisley Commons Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) are
located directly next to the site. They are all part of the tract of lowland heath which supports a
range of important flora and fauna.

Non - Statutory designated sites

3.5 There are a total of twelve non-statutory designated sites within the 2km search area. These
are listed in Table 4 below and shown on Figure 2.

Site Name Designation Distance to site Description

Wisley Field SNCI Within site boundary Disused airfield. Long grass on
boundaries, ancient hedgerows.

Elm Corner Woods SNCI 0km Mixed woodland with species rich wetter
areas associated with drains. Important
due to its location within the ecological unit
of other SNCIs and SSSIs.

Hunts Copse SNCI 0km Broadleaved woodland managed as

coppice. Wild Service Tree (an indicator of
old woodlands) present along with 14
other ancient woodland indicators.
Important due to its location within the
ecological unit of other SNCIs and SSSIs.

Ripley Green SNCI 660m Consists of a variety of grassland, shrub

and woodland communities and a shallow
stream. Over 250 vascular species on site
including locally scarce.

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 Site Name Designation Distance to site Description

River Wey SNCI 1260m A good quality river supporting a high

density of invertebrates and water voles

Pyrford Common SNCI 1400m Selected for surviving heathland which is a

declining habitat in Surrey and that the site
has good heathland regeneration potential

Warren Farm Wood SNCI 1800m Selected for marshy areas with high
and Riverside species diversity and Alder woodland.

Clandon Woods SNCI 1900m Site consists of a complex of woodlands

across the Clandon and Ripley parishes.
Much is composed of Ancient Semi
Natural Woodland.

Wisley Bridge SNCI 1950m Recommended by the Surrey Flora

Committee as the site of a County rare
and Nationally Scarce plant.

SNCI 1980m Unimproved wetland which is an

(South) uncommon habitat in Surrey. Good
invertebrate populations.

SNCI 2km Selected for tall grasslands, providing

feeding grounds for birds and valuable
habitat for invertebrates, small mammals
and reptiles.

Manor Farm and SNCI 2km Selected for having high diversity of
Meadows aquatic species and for being in close
proximity of other important sites. Also a
scarce habitat type with considerable
ornithological interest.

3.6 Wisley Field SNCI is located within the site boundary and Elm Corner Woods and Hunts Copse
SNCI are located directly next to the site boundary.

3.7 Both Elm Corner Woods SNCI and Hunts Copse SNCI act as a continuation of habitat between
Ockham and Wisley Common SSSI and Wisley Airfield SNCI. There is good potential for
enhancement on these sites as they are managed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust (SWT).

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 Ancient Woodland

3.8 Ancient woodland is defined by Natural England as a site that has had a continuous woodland
cover since 1600AD. It is irreplaceable, wildlife rich habitat and often includes important
archaeological features

3.9 There are three areas of ancient woodland located directly next to the site; these are shown on
Figure 1.

Records of Protected and Other Notable Species

3.10 Protected or notable species refers to any species specially protected or listed under the
following legislation:

Protected Species

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (Annex 4) (European

Protected Species) (EPS)

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (Schedules 1, 5 and 8)

(WCA1/WCA5/WCA8); and
The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (PBA)

Other Notable Species

The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006. Section 41; Habitats
and Species of Principal Importance in England (S41);
RSPB UK Red or Amber listed birds (Red or Amber); and
National Red Data Book Species (NT Near Threatened, VU Vulnerable)

3.11 Records of protected and otherwise notable species recorded since 2000 provided by the
consultees are summarised in the tables below.

Birds

Table 5 - Summary of protected or other notable bird species recorded within 2km of the
site

Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow Amber

Branta leucopsis Barnacle Goose BDIR

Amber

Phoenicurus ochruros Black Redstart WCA1

Amber

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status
Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull Amber

Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver Amber

Fringilla montifringilla Brambling WCA1

Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common Bullfinch Amber

Cuculus canorus Common Cuckoo NERC S.41

Red

Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank WCA1

Larus canus Common Gull Amber

Falco tinnunculus Common Kestrel Amber

Alcedo atthis Common Kingfisher WCA1

BDIR

Amber

Carduelis cannabina Common Linnet Red

Aythya ferina Common Pochard Amber

Phoenicurus phoenicurus Common Redstart Amber

Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper Amber

Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling Red

Apus apus Common Swift Amber

Sterna hirundo Common Tern BDIR

Amber

Sylvia communis Common Whitethroat Amber

Emberiza calandra Corn Bunting Red

Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler WCA1

BDIR

Amber

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status
Falco subbuteo Eurasian Hobby WCA1

Anas crecca Eurasian Teal Amber

Passer montanus Eurasian Tree Sparrow NERC S.41

Red

Scolopax rusticola Eurasian Woodcock Amber

Pluvialis apricaria European Golden Plover BDIR

Amber

Caprimulgus europaeus European Nightjar BDIR

NERC S.41

Red

Turdus pilaris Fieldfare WCA1

Red

Regulus ignicapilla Firecrest WCA1

Amber

Anas strepera Gadwall Amber

Botaurus stellaris Great Bittern WCA1

BDIR

NERC S.41

Red

Larus marinus Great Black-backed Gull Amber

Tringa ochropus Green Sandpiper Amber

Picus viridis Green Woodpecker Amber

Perdix perdix Grey Partridge NERC S.41

Red

Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail Amber

Anser anser Greylag Goose WCA1

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status
Amber

Prunella modularis Hedge Accentor Amber

Larus argentatus Herring Gull Red

Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard WCA1

BDIR

Amber

Delichon urbicum House Martin Amber

Passer domesticus House Sparrow NERC S.41

Red

Vanellus vanellus Lapwing NERC S.41

Red

Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull Amber

Carduelis cabaret Lesser Redpoll NERC S.41

Red

Dendrocopos minor Lesser Spotted Amber

Woodpecker

Egretta garzetta Little Egret BDIR

Amber

Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe Amber

Larus minutus Little Gull WCA1

BDIR

Amber

Anas platyrhynchos Mallard Amber

Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier BDIR

Amber

Poecile palustris Marsh Tit Red

Anthus pratensis Meadow Pipit Amber

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status
Falco columbarius Merlin WCA1

Amber

Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush Amber

Luscinia megarhynchos Nightingale Amber

Vanellus vanellus Northern Lapwing NERC S.41

Red

Anas clypeata Northern Shoveler Amber

Oenanthe oenanthe Northern Wheatear Amber

Pandion haliaetus Ospery WCA1

BDIR

Amber

Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon WCA1

BDIR

Milvus milvus Red Kite WCA1

BDIR

Amber

Turdus iliacus Redwing WCA1

Red

Emberiza schoeniclus Reed Bunting NERC S.41

Amber

Riparia riparia Sand Martin Amber

Alauda arvensis Skylark Red

Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Red

Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher NERC S.41

Red

Columba oenas Stock Pigeon Amber

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status
Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew WCA1

BDIR

NERC S.41

Amber

Anthus trivialis Tree Pipit NERC S.41

Red

Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck Amber

Saxicola rubetra Whinchat Amber

Anas penelope Wigeon Amber

Poecile montanus Willow Tit Red

Phylloscopus trochilus Willow warbler Amber

Lullula arborea Woodlark WCA1

BDIR

NERC S.41

Amber

Jynx torquilla Wryneck WCA1

Red

Emberiza citrinella Yellowhammer NERC S.41

Red

3.12 A total of 80 protected or notable species of bird have been recorded within the search area;
these are listed in Table 5 above.

3.13 These include 19 species specially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 16
protected under the Birds Directive and 15 are listed under Section 41 of the Natural
Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006). All the birds recorded are red or amber listed.

3.14 The closest bird species recorded to the site are lapwing and starling. No bird records have
been provided within the site boundary.

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 Mammals

Table 6 - Summary of protected bat and otter records within 5km of the site.

Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Vespertilionidae sp. Bat species EPS

WCA5

Plecotus auritus Brown Long-eared bat EPS

WCA5

NERC S.41

Pipistrellus pipistrellus Common Pipistrelle EPS

WCA5

Myotis daubentonii EPS

WCA5

Nyctalus leisleri EPS

WCA5

Plecotus sp. Long-eared bat species EPS

WCA5

Myotis sp. Myotis species EPS

WCA5

Pipistrellus nathusii EPS

WCA5

Myotis nattereri EPS

WCA5

Nyctalus noctula Noctule EPS

WCA5

Pipistrellus sp. Pipistrelle species EPS

WCA5

Eptesicus serotinus Serotine EPS

WCA5

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Pipistrellus pygmaeus Soprano Pipistrelle EPS

WCA5

NERC S.41

Myotis EPS
mystacinus/brandtii
WCA5

Lutra lutra European Otter EPS

WCA5

NERC S.41

3.15 10 species of bats were recorded within 5km of the site and a number of records were provided
for bats not identified to species level. These could therefore have been other additional
species. The bat species recorded are listed in Table 6 above.

3.16 No bat records have been provided within the site boundaries. Common Pipistrelle, Soprano
red bat have been recorded within 1km of
the site.

3.17 European Otter was also recorded within 5km of the site. Otters were recorded along the River
Wey.

3.18 All bats and otters are specially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended),
listed under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006) and are
European Protected Species.

Table 7 - Summary of other notable mammal records within 2km of the site.

Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Meles meles Eurasian Badger PBA

3.19 One other notable and protected mammal species have been recorded within 2km of the site.

3.20 Badgers records were provided within 2km of the site. A well used badger sett with four holes
and a dung pit has been recorded within the site boundary (Surrey Badger Group 2013).
Badgers and their setts are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 which makes it
illegal to kill, injure or take badgers or to interfere with a badger sett.

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 Herpofauna

Table 8 - Summery of Protected and Notable Herpofauna recorded within 2km of the
survey site

Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Vipera berus Adder WCA5

NERC S.41

Natrix natrix Grass Snake WCA5

NERC S.41

Zootoca vivipara Common Lizard WCA5

NERC S.41

Lacerta agilis Sand Lizard WCA5

NERC S.41

Anguis fragilis Slow Worm WCA5

NERC S.41

Bufo bufo Common Toad WCA5

NERC S.41

Rana temporaria Common Frog WCA5

Lissotriton helveticus Palmate Newt WCA5

3.21 A total of protected 8 herpofauna species have been recorded within the search area; these are
listed in Table 8.

3.22 All the species recorded are specially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (as
amended) and the majority are listed under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural
Communities Act (2006).

Invertebrates

Table 9 - Summery of Notable Invertebrates recorded within 2km of the survey site

Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Myopa occulta A fly Endangered

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Leopoldius brevirostris A fly Vulnerable

Trypeta zoe A gall fly Endangered

Agonum scitulum A ground Beetle NERC S.41

Nephus A ladybird Vulnerable

quadrimaculatus

Dryops nitidulus A long-toed water beetle Near Threatened

Lymexylon navale A Timber Beatle Vulnerable

Eugnorisma glareosa Autumnal Rustic NERC S.41

Philanthus triangulum Bee Wolf Vulnerable

Timandra comae Blood-Vein NERC S.41

Gonocerus Box Bug Endangered

acuteangulatus

Lycia hirtaria Brindled Beauty NERC S.41

Spilosoma luteum Buff Ermine NERC S.41

Atethmia centrago Centre-Barred Sallow NERC S.41

Tyria jacobaeae Cinnabar NERC S.41

Aporophyla lutulenta Deep Brown-Dart NERC S.41

Melanchra persicariae Dot Moth NERC S.41

Apamea remissa Dusky Brocade NERC S.41

Ennomos fuscantaria Dusky Thorn NERC S.41

Amphipoea oculea Ear Moth NERC S.41

Euxoa nigricans Garden Dart NERC S.41

Hepialus humuli Ghost Moth NERC S.41

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Allophyes oxyacanthae Green-Brindled Crescent NERC S.41

Acronicta psi Grey Dagger NERC S.41

Tholera cespitis Hedge Rustic NERC S.41

Acronicta rumicis Knot Grass NERC S.41

Rhizedra lutosa Large Wainscot NERC S.41

Chiasmia clathrata Latticed Heath NERC S.41

Brachylomia viminalis Minor Shoulder-Knot NERC S.41

Caradrina morpheus Mottled Rustic NERC S.41

Xestia castanea Neglected Rustic NERC S.41

Watsonalla binaria Oak Hook-Tip NERC S.41

Apatura iris Purple Emperor WCA5

Formica rufa Red Wood Ant Near Threatened

Bombus ruderarius Red-shanked Carder-bee NERC S.41

Mesoligia literosa Rosy Minor NERC S.41

Hydraecia micacea Rosy Rustic NERC S.41

Hoplodrina blanda Rustic NERC S.41

Xanthia icteritia Sallow NERC S.41

Ennomos erosaria September Thorn NERC S.41

Scotopteryx Shaded Broad-Bar NERC S.41

chenopodiata

Formicoxenus nitidulus Shining Guest Ant NERC S.41

Mythimna comma Shoulder-Striped Wainscot NERC S.41

Plebejus argus Silver-studded Blue WCA5

NERC S.41

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Cupido minimus Small Blue WCA5

NERC S.41

Near Threatened

Hemistola Small Emerald NERC S.41

chrysoprasaria

Coenonympha Small Heath NERC S.41

pamphilus
Near Threatened

Ecliptopera silaceata Small Phoenix NERC S.41

Diarsia rubi Small Square-Spot NERC S.41

Lucanus cervus Stag Beatle WCA5

NERC S.41

Chesias legatella Streak NERC S.41

Limenitis camilla White Admiral NERC S.41

Vulnerable

Spilosoma lubricipeda White Ermine NERC S.41

3.23 48 notable invertebrate species was recorded within the 2km search area; this are listed in
Table 9 above.

3.24 These include 4 species specially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 43 species
listed under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006) and a
number of species that are listed as Endangered, Near Threatened or Vulnerable in the
National Red Data Book Species.

3.25 The closest invertebrate species recorded to the site are stag beetle, trypeta zoe and cinnabar.
No records have been provided within the site boundary.

Flora

Table 10 - Summery of Notable Plant Species recorded within 2km of the survey site

Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Scleranthus annuus Annual Knawel NERC S.41

Endangered

Neottia nidus-avis Near Threatened

Hyacinthoides non- Bluebell WCA8

scripta

Ruscus aculeatus EPS

Filago vulgaris Common Cudweed Near Threatened

Fallopia dumetorum Copse Bindweed NERC S.41

Ranunculus arvensis Corn Buttercup NERC S.41

Critically Endangered

Anthemis arvensis Corn Chamomile Endangered

Chrysanthemum Corn Marigold Vulnerable

segetum

Spergula arvensis Corn Spurry Vulnerable

Centaurea cyanus Cornflower NERC S.41

Carex divisa Divided Sedge NERC S.41

Vulnerable

Cuscuta epithymum Dodder Vulnerable

Cyperus longus Galingale Near Threatened

Chenopodium bonus- Good King Henry Vulnerable

henricus

Potentilla argentea Hoary Cinquefoil Near Threatened

Cynoglossum officinale Near Threatened

Gnaphalium luteoalbum Jersey Cudweed WCA8

Baldellia ranunculoides Lesser Water-plantain Near Threatened

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 Taxon Name Common Name Protected Status

Apera spica-venti Loose Silky-bent Near Threatened

Colchicum autumnale Meadow Saffron Near Threatened

Cardamine impatiens Narrow-Leaved Bitter-cress Near Threatened

Silene noctiflora Night-flowering Catchfly Vulnerable

Primula elatior Oxlip Near Threatened

Centaurium scilloides Perennial Centaury Endangered

Papaver argemone Prickly Poppy Vulnerable

Persicaria minor Small Water-pepper Vulnerable

Anthemis cotula Stinking Chamomile Vulnerable

Stratiotes aloides Water Soldier Near Threatened

Viola tricolor Wild Pansy Near Threatened

3.26 30 protected plant species was recorded within 2km of the site; these are listed in Table 10
above.

3.27 These include 2 species specially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 5 species
listed under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006) and a
number of species that are listed as Endangered, Near Threatened or Vulnerable in the
National Red Data Book Species.

3.28 Three locally frequent farmland plants were recorded within the site boundary in 2006 and 2008
(unknown source via the SBIC), these being corn spurry, loose silky-bent and annual knawel.

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

3.29 The results of the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey are described by habitat below, the Phase
1 Habitat Plan is shown on Figure 3 and the associated target notes are provided in Appendix
2. Plant names follow the nomenclature of Stace, 2010, a list of flora recorded during the site
walkover is provided in Appendix 3.

3.30 The site comprised an area associated with the concrete and tar-macadam surfaces of the
former runway and marshalling areas of the airfield. Areas within the hardstanding and beyond
them are variously used for arable crop production, with some areas of rough grassland, scrub
and woodland. Boundaries to the site were mainly fenced, although they occasionally

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 incorporated hedges or woodland edges. Hedge lines within the site were visible, but generally
not substantial or stock-proof hedges.

A - Woodland and Scrub

A1.1 Broad-leaved Woodland
3.31 There were a number of woodland areas around the periphery of the site, particularly to the
northern side, associated with the Wisley Common/Ockham and Chatley Heath complex. Small
areas of woodland also occur within the site boundary, most notably in the south west, and also
a small strip on the boundary with Elm Corner. The woodland to the south west was rather wet
in character with alder Alnus glutinosa, willow Salix spp and oak Quercus robur with an
understorey of occasional hazel Corylus avellana and very occasional hawthorn Crataegus
monogyna and elder Sambucus nigra. The ground flora at this location was sparse, with ground
ivy Glechoma hederacea and patches dominated by nettle Urtica dioica.

3.32 The strip of woodland adjacent to Elm Corner was dominated by oak with birch Betula pendula
common. Ash Fraxinius excelsior and hazel were also represented. Ground flora varied from
dense bracken Pteridium aquilinum through to patches of bramble Rubus fruticosus agg and
some areas dominated by ivy Hedera helix.

3.33 Lowland mixed deciduous woodland is included in the list of habitats and species referred to in
Section 74 of the CRoW Act 2000 and expected to be included on the list that Section 41 of the
NERC Act 2006 refers to. Woodland is also a Surrey Local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)
habitat.

A2.1 Continuous Dense Scrub

3.34 There were several areas of scrub across the site comprised mainly of bramble, with variously
bracken, suckering elm Ulmus spp, willow and hawthorn. Bramble scrub was also associated in
some areas with tall ruderal habitats, such as common nettle, docks Rumex obtusifolius and
willowherbs Epilobium Spp. Other areas of scrub dominated by bramble had a considerable
woody species complement, such as elder, birch, ash hazel, elm and willow, these occurring
particularly along the northern boundary of the airfield.

A2.2 Scrub Scattered

3.35 There were small areas of scattered bramble scrub on the periphery of areas of arable land and
other features.

B - Grassland and Marsh

B2 Neutral Semi-improved Grassland
3.36 The site contained a number of areas classified as semi-improved grassland. These areas
Dactylis glomerata, false oat grass Arrhenatherum
elatius, perennial rye grass Lolium pernne. Due to the timing of the survey, it is not possible to
provide a detailed breakdown of the grassland habitat. It is possible that the grassland habitats
show more diversity than have been identified at this stage. Some are likely to be unimproved
in nature, apparently naturally regenerating in areas unused for arable production. All areas of
-

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 caveat that the grassland components of the site should be reviewed at a more appropriate
time of the year, to ensure that the precise nature of all areas is properly identified.

3.37 Neutral grassland is a UKBAP Broad Habitat. It is not identified in the Surrey BAP.

C - Tall Herb and Fern

C3.2 Tall Ruderal
3.38 Several areas of ruderal habitat colonised by tall herbs were recorded across the study area.
Most notably was the area off the western end of the main runway, which was dominated by
nettle, docks, willowherbs and teasel Dipsacus fullonum. Areas of tall ruderal also occur within
matrices of other habitats, such as grassland and scrub.

J Miscellaneous
J1.1 Arable
3.39 Large areas of the Wisley Airfield site are in arable production, with a mixture of maize, winter
and game crops present. The presence of the arable weeds corn spurry, loose silky-bent and
annual knawel was not recorded during the NVC walkover in July 2014.

J2.3.2 Hedge with Trees (species-poor)

3.40 Some sections of hedgerow to the north and west of the site were rather gappy and not
stockproof. The hedgerows were largely reduced to lines of mature trees (predominantly oaks)
with some bramble scrub at the base.

J2.4 Fence
3.41 Post and wire fencing was common across the site and largely surrounded much of the
boundary, in some cases augmenting hedgelines and woodland edges.

J3.6 Buildings & Hard-Standing

3.42 A security-fenced building and aerial/beacon array is sited to the south east of the main runway.
This is a single-storey building of concrete construction with a flat roof with no bat roosting
potential.

3.43 A small disused switchgear house is also present at the gate access onto Ockham Lane. This
has no door attached and was inspected inside and out for possible presence of bat roosts. No
evidence was found and little potential exists in this building due to its construction, which gives
very limited access to sheltered areas such as rafters or other internal roof structures.

3.44 Large areas of the site are covered with concrete and tar-Macadam hard-standing areas
relating to the former main runway and marshalling areas. In addition, there are a number of
hard-standing tracks, including an access track to the above aerial/beacon unit.

J4 Bare Ground
3.45 Bare ground was present at the western end of the main runway. This was mainly in the form of
patches of stone and gravel, with some bare earth. Sparse tall ruderals were often represented
on bare soil areas.

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 Spoil
3.46 Spoil pile/horse manure were noted at the eastern end of the main runway. The horse manure
is donated every year by a local stable to the Wisley Airfield farm tenant.

G1.1 Standing Water

3.47 Three ephemeral pools were identified on site, with one showing some growth of reedmace.
There was also a half-dry pond in the west of the site and there is also a ditch along the north
west boundary of the site.

G2.1 Running water

3.48 One watercourse (Stratford Brook), a tributary of the Ockham Mill Stream and the River Wey,
runs through the site in the south west. The brook runs along the southern boundary of the site
which is approximately 5 m wide and has varying flow rates and depth.

Other
3.49 Previous ecological surveys undertaken by RPS for the previous planning application have
identified the presence of Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica and Himalayan balsam
Impatiens glandulifera on the site.

3.50 Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam are invasive non-native species. Both plants were
introduced to the UK in the early 19th Century as ornamental garden plants which have
subsequently spread into the wild. Both plants form dense stands which outcompete native flora
and can contribute to river bank erosion and increase the likelihood of flooding. Japanese
knotweed can also cause structural damage to buildings and hard surfaces. The applicant has
implemented an eradiation programme of these two species across the Wisley Airfield site

3.51 Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam are listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). It is illegal to plant or otherwise cause either plant to
spread in the wild.

3.52 Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan balsam contaminated waste must be taken to landfill as

Potential for Protected Species

Plants and Habitats
3.53 No habitats covered by Annex I of the European Habitats Directive were recorded from within
the study area. Mixed lowland woodland is listed on Section 74 of the CRoW Act 2000. The
woodland at the south western end of the site would fall into this broad category.

Invertebrates
3.54 Protected status of invertebrates is complex, due to the very high numbers of taxa and species.
A local BAP has not been prepared for any invertebrates in the local area, however there are
228 UK BAP insect species and several of these are likely to be present in Surrey.

3.55 Although the majority of the site is of limited value for invertebrates (the hard-standing and
arable production areas), other habitats do have more potential, such as the woodland areas,
with considerable amounts of dead wood, potentially of value to saproxylic species. In addition,

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 some species of solitary wasp and bee may be attracted to bare ground or sparse vegetation,
such as that found at the western end of the main runway.

3.56 A full invertebrate survey was undertaken through May to September 2013. The survey
followed the Webb (2004) methodology whereby seven repeat surveys are conducted
throughout an appropriate time of year. Techniques such as grubbing, sweep netting and
beating were undertaken.

3.57 No invertebrate species that are afforded protection under any UK or European legislation were
encountered during the survey.

Amphibians
3.58 All native amphibians are partially protected against sale under Section 9(5) of the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Great crested newts are fully protected under that act, and
through their inclusion on Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations
2010 and on Annexes II and IV of the EC Habitats Directive. Great crested newts are also a UK
BAP priority species. A local BAP has not been prepared for any amphibians.

3.59 An amphibian survey was carried out on all four existing on-site waterbodies in the spring of
2013. In line with the survey advice given in the Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines
(English Nature, 2001), each pond was initially visited on four occasions over the period mid-
March to mid-June, with two visits undertaken between mid-April and mid-May, in order to
determine the presence/absence of great crested newts.

3.60 No great crested newts were recorded on the Wisley Airfield site during the 2013 survey.
However, smooth newts were identified within Pond 1, common frog in Ponds 1, 2 and 3, with
common toad recorded in Pond 3 during the course of the 2013 survey.

Reptiles
3.61 All native UK reptiles are partially protected under Section 9(5) of the Wildlife and Countryside
Act 1981 (as amended) against intentional killing, injury or sale. A local BAP has not been
prepared for any reptiles, however the sand lizard is a UK BAP Priority Species and has been
recorded in the Surrey BAP.

3.62 Rank grassland and scrub habitats were recorded on site that could support common reptile
species especially slow worms Anguis fragilis and common lizard Lacerta vivipara. There is
also potential habitat for the more common snake species such as grass snake Natrix natrix
(which tend to hunt amphibians and prefer habitats with water courses). There may be habitats
suitable for adder Vipera berus, although this is perhaps slightly less likely to be present than
the other reptiles. Sand lizard Lacerta agilis has been recorded near the site but the habitats
present on site make it unlikely that it is present.

3.63 A reptile survey was undertaken in 2013 and followed guidelines set out in the JNCC

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3.64 The reptile survey was conducted using artificial refugia made from roofing felt, carpet tiles and
corrugated tin sheeting. 21 survey visits were undertaken through August, September and
October 2013 throughout the whole of the Wisley Airfield. This survey concentrated on targeted
habitats which were deemed suitable for reptiles i.e. woodland edges, scrub, rough grassland
and waterbodies.

3.65 Reptiles were identified within specific areas on the Wisley Airfield, including the rough
grassland edge along the northern boundary of the whole site, within the Wisley Field Site of
Nature Conservation Importance and along parts of the southern boundary of the site.

3.66 The 2013 survey results concluded that the Wisley Airfield site supports low populations of
adders and common lizards and a good population of slow worms and grass snakes. The
Wisley Airfield site qualifies as a key reptile site under Froglife guidelines (Froglife 1999).

Birds
3.67 All wild birds and their nests are protected during the breeding season against intentional
damage or disturbance of their nests, eggs or young whilst on the nests under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). A local BAP has not been prepared for any birds, however
there are 26 UK BAP bird species of which two have been recorded in the Surrey BAP; the
European nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus and woodlark Lullula arborea. The Dartford warbler
Slyvia undata has also been recorded from within 2 km of the site. This species is protected
under the European Birds Directive and Schedule one of the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

3.68 The woodland, scrub, hedges and trees would be suitable for nesting common bird species.
The arable use of the majority of the site is likely to preclude ground nesting birds such as
skylark from large areas, although some suitable habitat may exist. However, it is likely to be
used for foraging by a number of common bird species.

3.69 A number of bird surveys were undertaken on the site in 2013 and 2014. The 2013 surveys

Census (CBC) and Little Ringed Plover Survey (LRPS) methodologies to record the species
and numbers present on the site during the breeding season. In 2013 and 2014 Dartford
warbler, woodlark and nightjar surveys were also undertaken even though no suitable habitat
for these species is present on the Wisley Airfield site. .

3.70 Forty three species were identified during the spring/summer surveys and thirty two of these
were considered to be breeding on the site. Six UKBAP Priority species (Dunnock, house
sparrow, linnet, skylark, song thrush and starling) were identified on the site, six of which were
breeding. All of these species, with the exception of dunnock, are also red-listed. Dunnock,
goldcrest, grey wagtail, kestrel, green woodpecker, stock dove and swallow are all amber-listed
species and were either breeding on the site or nearby.

3.71 The majority of the spring/summer bird assemblage at Wisley Airfield comprised common and
widespread species which are associated with hedgerows, woodland and scrub.

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3.72 No little-ringed plover were recorded during the 2013 survey. The areas of hardstanding
favoured by this species had low levels of vegetation leaving little remaining cover and there
was also a high level of dog walking disturbance. This significantly reduces the value of the site
to breeding little-ringed plover.

3.73 Four wintering bird surveys were also undertaken on the Wisley Airfield site between December
2013 and March 2014. Transects were walked following the standard British Trust for

3.74 Thirty nine bird species were identified during the surveys in 2013/2014. The Wisley Airfield
site was found to support a typical assemblage of wintering birds associated with lowland
farmland, hedgerows and woodland. Diversity was relatively low but two specially protected
species (fieldfare and redwing) and six UKBAP species (herring gull, dunnock, song thrush,
starling, linnet and skylark) were identified using the site during the four surveys.

3.75 No bird species associated with the Thames Basins Heaths SPA was recorded during the 2013
and 2014 surveys i.e. nightjars, woodlarks and Dartford warbler. The absence of these species
is possibly due to the lack of suitable habitat on the Wisley Airfield site.

Badgers
3.76 Badgers are protected against cruelty and wilful killing, injury or taking under the Protection of
Badgers Act 1992. Badger setts are protected against interference from damage or obstruction,
or allowing dogs to enter a sett, or to disturb a badger whilst in a sett. The Protection of
Badgers Act protects badgers and their interests for welfare reasons rather than wildlife
conservation reasons.

3.77 A badger survey was undertaken on the Wisley Airfield site in October 2013. The 2013 survey
followed the Cresswell et al methodology (1990) and investigated all potential habitat on the
site.

3.78 A total of two active main badger setts were identified on the site, along with a further disused
main sett. One active annex, subsidiary and outlier sett were also recorded on the site at the
time of the walkover. The classifications of the badger setts found during the survey are
presented in the table below. The locations of these badger setts have been omitted from this
report due to animal welfare issues but can be provided upon request for legitimate reasons.

Badger sett classification

Sett Description and Classification

Number
Sett 1 Previous active main sett in 2007 in a manmade tip, now inactive with only
four holes present. This sett did not appear to have been occupied within

licensing purposes.
Sett 2 An active small sett of 4 holes. Fresh spoil and hair were found within the

Sett 3 A large active main sett of 12 holes all of which are freshly active with

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 Sett Description and Classification
Number
bedding and prints present. Situated along a defunct hedgerow dominated
by mature trees. Due to size and activity levels, considered to be a main
sett.
Sett 4
close to the disused airfield, hair and prints were recorded.
Sett 5 Active
social group once present at sett 1 have relocated along this hedgerow.
Sett 6
linked to sett 5 by a network of tracks. It may be that the social group once
present at sett 1 have relocated along this hedgerow.

3.79 A number of tracks, runs and prints were also noted, mainly across the south of the site, in
areas broadly associated with the active setts identified above. The relatively low number of
hedgelines or other substantial boundary features on the Wisley Airfield site meant that the
amount of field data relating to badger movements is relatively low. It is likely that badgers are
active across most areas of the site and beyond. Dung pits were also noted in a number of
locations which suggests badgers do forage and commute across the wider site; these were
recorded in the south, west and east of the site.

Water voles/Otters
3.80 European otters are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations
(2010). They are also afforded full protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as
amended), being listed on Schedule 5 of the Act. Water voles are fully protected under section
9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), through inclusion on Schedule 5.

3.81 One watercourse (Stratford Brook), a tributary of the Ockham Mill Stream and the River Wey,
runs through the site in the west. The brook was examined in detail for evidence of otter or
water vole activity in October 2013.

3.82 The otter survey involved a detailed survey of the watercourse and six spot checks in the
surrounding area. The spot checks focused on sites where roads crossed the watercourse in
the surrounding area. Checking such sites increases the likelihood of finding field signs for
otters since sprainting sites are often located under bridges. Also, where culverts beneath roads
are unfavourable for use by otters (e.g. due to small culvert diameter or high water level), runs
and prints can often be identified where otters have left the watercourse to find an alternative
route.

3.83 The water vole survey was carried out in accordance with guidelines of best practice set out in
the Water Vole Conservation Handbook Third Edition (Strachan et al, 2011).

3.84 No signs of water vole activity were identified during the survey indicating that water voles are
absent from the survey area. No signs of otters were identified during the watercourse survey
or the spot checks undertaken in 2013.

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3.85 No evidence of the presence of water voles or otters in the form of characteristic field signs was
identified along any of the areas surveyed at the time of the walkover, it is concluded that these
species are likely to be absent from the proposed application land.

Bats
3.86 All bats native to Britain are listed in Schedule 5 and are fully protected under Schedule 9 of the
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as updated by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
All British bats are additionally protected under the European Directive, the Conservation of
Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (92/43/EEC) 1992, which is transcribed into
British law under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. Bats are listed
in Annex IV of the Directives and Schedule 2 of the Regulations. The Act and Regulations gives
full protection to bats from intentional/deliberate killing, injuring, taking and reckless or
intentional disturbance. In addition bat breeding and resting places (i.e. bat roosts) are also
protected from damage, destruction and reckless or intentional obstruction of access to such
places.

3.87 A bat roost is defined as 'any structure or place which [a bat] uses for shelter or protection'. As
bats tend to re-use the same roosts, the roost itself is protected whether or not bats are present
at the time of survey.

3.88 The 2013 bat surveys on the Wisley Airfield site followed the UK recommended bat survey

2012.

3.89 There are no standing structures or buildings within the application boundary with the potential
to support roosting bats. The two buildings on the site do not have potential for roosting bats,
due to their lack of appropriate access points and structures with limited sheltering spaces.
However, a number of trees were deemed suitable for roosting bats along the boundary edges.
It is understood that these trees will not be affected directly or indirectly by the film set
proposals, thus no further survey work was undertaken. If this changes as the masterplan
progresses i.e. trees to be felled with bat potential, lighting impacts etc, further survey work will
be required.

3.90 Bat activity surveys were carried out across the habitats within the site boundary, in order to
assess bat species assemblage and activity levels on the site. The activity surveys were
carried out during July, August and September 2013.

3.91 An activity transect route was selected to include all habitats on the site and the features which
had been assessed during preliminary surveys as having potential for use by foraging and
commuting bats. Start points were varied for each survey so as to reduce bias associated with
time of day/night.

3.92 Bat activity was recorded on all surveys and the site was found to provide commuting and
foraging habitat for at least six species of bat; common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, noctule,

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 myotis species. The woodland edges and associated rough grassland
margins of the site are of most value to foraging and commuting bats. Soprano and common
pipistrelles were the most frequent bats recorded on the Wisley Airfield site.

Other
3.93 There are also a number of narrow animal runs throughout the site, which appear to have been
created by foxes. A number of rabbit burrows were also recorded within the Wisley Airfield
project sites boundary vegetation.

3.94 It should be noted that both foxes and rabbits are protected under The Wild Mammals
(Protection) Act 1996. Under this Act it is an offence to inflict unnecessary suffering.

3.96 The results of the protected species surveys can be seen on Figure 4 with the exception of the
location of the badger setts due to animal welfare issues.

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4 Conclusions

Desk Study
4.1 The desk study identified 8 statutory site designations, 12 non-statutory site designations and 3
areas of ancient woodland within 5km and 2km of the site. They consist of a SPA, LNRs, SSSIs
and SNCIs.

4.2 Wisley Field SNCI is located within the site boundary and Ockham and Wisley Local Nature
Reserve (LNR), Thames Basin Heath Special Protection Area (SPA), Ockham and Wisley
Commons Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Elm Corner Woods and Hunts Copse
SNCIs are located directly next to the site.

4.3 The desk study also identified a number of records of protected and notable species. Records
were provided for 10 bat species within 5 km of the site and a number of additional bat records
that were not identified to species level. Otter records were provided along the River Wey.
Badgers were also recorded within 2 km of the site and a sett was identified within the site. A
total of 80 bird species, 8 herpofauna, 48 invertebrate species and 30 plant species were
recorded within 2km of the site. A precise grid reference was not provided for the location of a
number of records so it was not possible to determine how near to the site these species had
been recorded.

Phase 1 Habitat Survey

4.4 The site itself comprised of a disused airfield, with a main runway and large hard-standing
areas of marshalling yards. Associated with the former airfield are large areas of land in arable
production. There are also some areas of wet broadleaved woodland and poor semi-improved
and semi-improved neutral grassland.

4.5 Two species of invasive weeds were also recorded within the site boundary, mainly along
Stratford Brook which runs along the western and southern boundary of the site.

4.6 Three locally frequent farmland plants were recorded within the site boundary in 2006 and
2008. These species have not been recorded on the site in the last seven years during various
ecological surveys which have been undertaken for a number of planning applications on the
site. These arable weeds were not recorded on the site during the NVC survey in July 2014,
this is possibly due to the management of the working arable land and the conditions are no
longer favourable.

4.7 Various habitats were identified on the site that could support protected species and thus full
surveys were undertaken in 2013 and 2014. It should be noted that the site has been
thoroughly surveyed since 2007 for other planning applications so a detailed ecological
baseline is known for the Wisley Airfield site. Foraging and commuting bats, badger setts,

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 herpetofauna, nesting birds and terrestrial invertebrates have been recorded using the Wisley
Airfield. Largely all activity would be undertaken within the main filming hub area on existing
hardstanding, some long shots would be required across the whole of the airfield. However, the
applicant has confirmed at the time of writing this report that habitats suitable for protected
species would not be directly or indirectly affected by the proposed film set. The following
mitigation measures have been put in place:

no removal of habitats on the site or part of the set construction and operation;

no filming or film set construction within 30m of the known badger setts on the site,
particularly the badger sett to the south of the main filming hub area;

no filming at night time so no noise disturbance or lighting changes so no impacts on

nocturnal animals such as bats and badgers use the site (hours would be restricted to
8am-7pm and 8am to 5.30pm on Saturdays);

no use of explosives during filming; and

care would be taken when constructing trenches (>1.5m deep), as these could act as

provided.

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References

Bat Conservation Trust. Bat Surveys Good Practice Guidelines. Second Edition, 2012

Bibby, C.J., Burgess, N.D., Hill, D.A. & Mustoe, S.H. (2000). Bird Census Techniques: 2nd edition.
Academic Press, London.

Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds)

Cresswell P., Harris S., Jefferies D. J. 1990. The history, distribution, status and habitat requirements of
the badger in Britain. Nature Conservancy Council.

Eaton et al (2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United
Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. British Birds 102, pp296-341

English Nature (2001) Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines

Froglife, (1999); Reptile Survey: an introduction to planning, conducting and interpreting surveys for
snake and lizard conservation. Froglife Advice Sheet 10. Froglife, Halesworth.

Fuller, R.J., (1980); A method for assessing the ornithological importance of sites for nature
conservation. Biological Conservation 17:229-239.

Gent, T and Gibson, S (Eds.), (2003); Herpetof

Committee, Peterborough.

Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D.W. and Evans, J. (1998). Bird Monitoring Methods: A manual of techniques for
key species. RSPB/BTO/JNCC/WWT/ITE/The Seabird Group. RSPB/BTO, Sandy, Beds.

Gregory RD, Wilkinson NI, Noble DG, Robinson JA, Brown AF, Hughes J, Procter DA, Gibbons DW
and Galbraith CA. 2002. The population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle
of Man: an analysis of conservation concern 2002-2007. British Birds 95: 410-450.

HGBI Advisory Notes for Amphibians and Reptiles Groups 1998

Highways Agency (2012) Design Manual for Roads and Bridges London Highways Agency

HMSO (1992) Protection of Badgers Act 1992. London HMSO

HMSO (2010) The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. London HMSO

HMSO (1981) The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). London HMSO

Holden, P. & Cleaves, T. (2002) RSPB Handbook of British Birds. Chris Helm, London.

IEMA (1997) Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment London IEMA

JNCC (2010) Conservation Designations Spreadsheet. Peterborough, JNCC

JNCC, (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey. A Technique for Environmental Audit. JNCC,
Peterborough.

MAGIC (2014). Statutory Designated Site and Ordnance Survey map information. Available from
www.magic.gov.uk

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Merchant, J.H (1983) BTO Common Birds Census Instructions. BTO, Tring.

Protection of Badgers Act, (1992); OPSI.

RPS (2007) Wisley Aerodrome Desk Study & Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Report.

Stace C. (2010). New Flora of the British Isles. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Strachan et al (2011) Water Vole Conservation Handbook. 3rd Ed. Wildlife Conservation Research Unit,
Tubney.

UKBAP JNCC Website (2014) http://www.ukbap.org.uk

Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996, OPSI.

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 Figures

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 Figure 1: Site Location Plan

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Project Ref: O:\5569b Wisley Aerdrome\Tech\Drawings\5569-0036-01.mxd
 Figure 2: Statutory and Non-statutory Site Designations

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Project Ref: O:\5569b Wisley Aerdrome\Tech\Drawings\5569-0037-02.mxd Date Save: 01/09/2014
 Figure 3: Phase 1 Habitat Plan

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Project Ref: O:\5569b Wisley Aerdrome\Tech\Drawings\5569-0038-01.mxd Date Save: 20/08/2014