Strategic Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP)

Transcription

1 Strategic Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP) University of Bath, Claverton Campus

2 Contents 1. Where are we now? Introduction - Why this document is being produced Masterplan Summary Purpose and Scope of the LEMP How to use the management plan Methodology and Nomenclature Planning Policy Context Site Description Ecology Value of the Claverton Campus Landscape Character Wider Context Character Areas - University Campus Information base Where do we want to get to? The Vision Landscape Character Areas University Campus Opportunities Aims and Objectives External Lighting Green Infrastructure How will we get there? Introduction Target Areas Description of the proposed works to the target areas Management and Maintenance Strategy Programme and Phasing Potential funding and resources to consider How will we know when we have arrived? Monitoring and Review Appendix Masterplan Appendix 2 Campus-wide Tree Survey Appendix 3 LEMP figures Appendix 4 Wider Landscape Character Assessment stridetreglown.co.uk

3 1. Where are we now? 1.1. Introduction - Why this document is being produced Bath and North East Somerset Council require the University of Bath to prepare a Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP) for the Claverton Campus to further support the endorsed University of Bath Masterplan to This LEMP is to be enforced through a Section 106 Agreement The University appointed Stride Treglown Limited and Ecosulis to prepare the Landscape and Ecological Management Plan on its behalf. The following external organisations and representatives have been consulted on the content of the LEMP document: Planning Officer B&NES Landscape Officer B&NES Tree Officer B&NES County Ecologist B&NES Natural England The Council require the LEMP to be informed by a sound Landscape Character and Ecological evidence base, include appropriate objectives, details of operations that will be carried out to achieve the objectives, management performance specifications, monitoring and review procedures and a programme for implementation A Scoping Report was produced to agree with the Council the scope of further ecological surveys to be undertaken and the matters that will be considered by the LEMP. The Scoping Report set out the available information that had been reviewed by the University and consultant team including site surveys and existing reports The Scoping Report was approved in writing by B&NES on the 21st June Masterplan Summary The University prepared a new Masterplan for the development of the Claverton Campus which responded to the provisions of Bath and North East Somerset Council s (B&NES) Local Plan Policy GDS.1/B The Masterplan is underpinned by a robust evidence base that investigated the development potential of various sites within the campus. It was also the subject of extensive stakeholder and public consultation The current 2026 Masterplan summarises the development proposals in the form of a Development Framework that establishes the key parameters for the future development of the campus. These development parameters accord with the previous 2009 Masterplan in terms of the location and scale of development proposals, the infrastructure provision (notably in terms of transport and parking), and landscape enhancements. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 3

4 1.2.4 In response to feedback received from B&NES and Natural England during the early discussions regarding the LEMP, the University has updated its masterplan to show a break between the proposed development areas on the western edge of the University Park. This will ensure that a green link is maintained between the University Park, wider environs to the east and land to the west. The treatment for this green link and the relationship with new built form to the south will be addressed in greater detail at the time of any forthcoming planning application. Section 2.5 of this report highlights that the primary wildlife corridors and vegetation networks are largely focussed around the boundaries of the campus and make up the key green infrastructure The Development Framework in the Masterplan identifies development blocks and not building footprints. As has been evidenced through recent planning applications for the Chancellors Building (GTA), The Quads (R6) and the Centre for the Arts, new buildings will be sited and designed to respect their context having regard to matters such as access and movement, car parking, landscape and ecology It is intended that the 2026 Masterplan will be submitted with future planning applications for specific proposals to demonstrate how they fit within the overall Masterplan. It is not, therefore, intended to be a static document, but a living document that evolves to reflect the on-going development of the campus. View looking south along the Bushey Norwood Boundary 4 stridetreglown.co.uk

5 Figure 1: University Masterplan (updated 2014) Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 5

6 1.3. Purpose and Scope of the LEMP This Landscape and Ecological Management Plan categorises existing and proposed landscape assets, sets out a methodology for their establishment and maintenance, and proposes a long-term vision for their management The LEMP outlines objectives and commitments as established within the 2026 Masterplan document, and agreed as part of the Scoping Report between the University, Natural England, B&NES, Stride Treglown Landscape and Ecosulis Ecology Consultants How to use the management plan It is intended that this LEMP forms part of the briefing package for all future development phases outlined within the 2026 Masterplan Development Framework and is referred to as part of a suite of documents for all future detailed planning applications to be made for and on behalf of the University. The document suite includes the following base documents, all of which are appended to the LEMP for easy reference: Masterplan document Campus wide tree survey Site wide Tree Strategy Hyder 1.5. Methodology and Nomenclature The approach taken is to set the proposed works into the context of: Landscape Character Wider Context Based on local designations and planning policy context Landscape Character Areas University campus As established with the Estates Landscape Team, The Director of Estates and his Team and the University Health, Safety and Environment unit, as consulted. Ecological Survey Data Existing and revised survey information collated for the Campus This document envisages a management period of 20 years, subject to regular review. Since the strategy is to build on existing and in some cases already mature ecosystems, it is felt that this timeframe should suffice to establish coherent ecological networks in line with National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) paragraph 109, along with a system of monitoring and feedback to ensure their functionality beyond this period. 6 stridetreglown.co.uk

7 1.6. Planning Policy Context The requirement for the University to maximise the development potential of its land holdings in order to meet the needs arising from its continued development is acknowledged in the Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Local Plan that was adopted in October Policy GDS.1/B11 identifies the campus as a General Development Site. The policy requires that the Masterplan provides approximately 43,250m 2 of university related non-residential development and approximately 40,000m 2 (2,000 bedspaces) of student residential accommodation alongside the following; Protection for the green heart to the campus, St John s Field (Green Belt) and other visually and ecologically important landscape areas; Adequate suitable replacement on or off site of any displaced sports facilities; On and off site transport infrastructure necessary to deliver an integrated transport solution; High quality design and landscaping that responds to the AONB and improves the visual and landscape relationship with neighbouring areas, notably Bushey Norwood This policy clearly recognises the need to address the sensitive environmental context without unduly hindering the further development of the University s estate. Policy Designations The Draft Core Strategy provides more general support for the University and its further development in Policy B5: Strategic Policy for Bath s Universities. The policy recognises that the spatial strategy should seek to enable the provision of additional teaching and research space (45,000m 2 ) and student bed spaces (2,000) to facilitate the growth of the University and in doing so encourage economic development The supporting text to the policy recognises the value of the Masterplan, providing a framework for future development as set out within the B&NES Local Plan. A part of the University Campus and its immediate surroundings are subject to the following planning designations: Cotswold AONB Bath and Claverton Conservation Areas Green Belt Forest of Avon Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM) Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - North Quarry Road is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and within this area should be preserved. Combe Down and Bathampton Mines SSSI is located 0.7km from the site, designated due to the presence of roosting bats, including greater and lesser horseshoe bats. Tree Preservation Order - The whole campus is subject to a blanket Tree Preservation Order, and some of the hedgerows on the site have been identified as important under the Hedgerow Regulations. Special Area of Conservation (SAC) - Bath and Bradford on Avon Bats SAC is located 0.7km north of the site. This site has been designated due to the presence of greater horseshoe, lesser horseshoe and Bechstein bat populations. Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI) - The green areas around the north and western fringes of the campus, predominantly woodland habitats, form part of a larger Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI), which will need careful consideration where development is proposed. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 7

8 Bath City World Heritage Site (WHS) B&NES documentation In preparing the LEMP, due regard has been given to the following documents that have been prepared by B&NES: B&NES Submitted Core Strategy Composite Version City of Bath World Heritage Site Setting SPD August 2013 B&NES Local Plan October 2007: Natural Environment Policies South West Character Areas and Character Area 107: Cotswolds by Natural England B&NES Claverton Conservation Area Appraisal March 2007 Rural Landscapes of B&NES: Landscape Character Assessment SPD April 2003 Bath City Wide Character Appraisal SPD adopted 31 August 2005 Cotswolds AONB Landscape Character Assessment B&NES Green Infrastructure Strategy Valuing people, place and nature Figure 2 Local policy designations plan 8 stridetreglown.co.uk

9 1.7. Site Description Site Layout and Context The Claverton Campus is located approximately 2.5km to the east of Bath city centre on Claverton Down. It was first developed in 1965 and now covers an area of approximately 60ha The Campus has a developed core containing the academic, research and administrative buildings located around the University Park Student residences are located in the northern and eastern part of the campus. The Sports Training Village is located in the eastern part of the campus together with a large open area of sports pitches extending south to Claverton Down Road The main entrance to the campus is from Claverton Down Road. From that access Norwood / Convocation Avenue runs north, past the Sports Training Village and the South Car Park, to the Arrivals Square, which accommodates the bus terminus, in the heart of the campus and to the access to the East Car Park. There is a second access to the campus from North Road, which links directly to the West Car Park The campus is bordered by residential development to the south, south west and west, a golf course to the north, and open countryside to the east and south east. The land to the immediate east- Bushey Norwood- is owned by the National Trust. The Bath Skyline Walk passes through that area. Site Users The site is an open campus and includes some public footpaths and bridleway routes within its boundaries. These footpaths connect to the immediate surroundings and tie in with the wider local network of publicly accessible land With approximately 2,500 bed spaces currently on campus and progress currently underway to increase this to approximately 3,200 bed spaces, there is an increasing demand for student facilities on campus The University often hosts visiting sports groups and interested parties and was a training facility for the preparation of the 2012 Olympics and 2013 Special Olympics The mix of staff, students, visitors and general public can generate large volumes of people and therefore any ecologically sensitive areas require appropriate management and protection without restricting access throughout. Friends and Neighbours of the Campus The University is actively involved in meetings and consultations with its neighbours including local resident groups. The University regularly works with the National Trust to agree strategic maintenance and management needs of the area known as Bushy Norwood, ensuring a joined up approach. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 9

10 10 Figure 3: Existing Campus Layout

11 1.8. Ecology Value of the Claverton Campus The Claverton Campus has been subject to numerous ecological surveys, providing a good level of baseline ecological information. The scope of the surveys has been discussed and agreed with the County Ecologist and Natural England. An Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the campus was undertaken in 2010/11, and was updated by subsequent walkover surveys on 10 April and 1 May The survey identified appropriate habitats within the campus for protected species, notably badgers, bats, amphibians, dormice, reptiles and nesting birds. Notable habitats on site also include hedgerows, mature trees, woodlands and water bodies Surveys for badger, bats, great crested newt, dormice and nesting birds were undertaken in (2008 and 2013) In the case of bats, the Scoping Report identified that additional baseline survey information was required to inform the LEMP due to the age of the existing survey information (horseshoe bat surveys were undertaken in 2002 and 2008) and the presence of statutory designated sites for bats within 500m of the campus. These comprise the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Combe Down & Bathampton Down Mines Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) In line with current guidance a suite of ten surveys, spread twice monthly across the main survey season between May and October, were carried out in 2013 to provide a good level of information on numbers and species of bats using habitats on the campus, and the main areas used by bats. Each survey comprised a three hour transect, starting at sunset and walking the most suitable foraging sites and flight lines for bats. Two transect routes were used, as illustrated by Figure One route walked the main campus including the boundaries, and the second route concentrated on the central area of the campus where the majority of future development is proposed. Each transect was walked five times across the season to ensure that a full suite of ten surveys were undertaken. The surveys covered both the boundary habitats, where historic data exists, and the central section of the site, where there is no historic data. The surveys were undertaken in accordance with the Bat Mitigation Guidelines (English Nature, 2004) and Bat Survey Good Practice Guidelines (BCT, 2012) Two surveyors walked the transect with frequency division bat detectors to detect and record bat activity, their flight lines and foraging areas, and recordings were analysed (as required) by an expert using the dedicated computer software BatSound. In addition static detectors comprising one SM2 were deployed in the central area of the campus to provide additional survey information through the season. This was set to record for at least three consecutive nights on five occasions spread through the season between May and October 2013, with a total of 50 days of recording A baseline ecological map is provided as Figure 4 which collates all existing baseline data of habitats and ecological features to inform future management and habitat creation / enhancement proposals. The results of the ecological surveys on site indicate that the boundaries of the site support foraging and commuting bats, including horseshoe bats. Low levels of bat activity, predominately pipistrelle bats, were recorded within central areas of the site. A small badger sett has also been recorded in the West Car Park section of the site. No great crested newts or dormice have been recorded on site during the survey. The boundary habitats provide the highest quality habitat for wildlife, particularly calcareous grassland, woodland habitats and less disturbed areas of the site. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 11

12 1.8.8 The details from the existing reports and the updated bat surveys have been used to inform the details of the LEMP and appropriate aims and objectives for the site. The assessment recommends that the Masterplan aims to retain and enhance green infrastructure throughout the site such as the woodland and hedgerow boundaries, provide wildlife corridors, sustainable drainage systems and small pockets of sensitively managed habitats, including aquatic habitats, to provide stepping stones for more mobile wildlife across the campus Targeted habitat and species monitoring activities are identified in Section stridetreglown.co.uk

13 Figure 4: Habitat Map Baseline ecology Note: Due to recent changes, Sham Castle will no longer be leased by the University. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 13

14 Figure 5: Bat Transect Plan 14

15 1.9. Landscape Character Wider Context The Claverton Campus sits within a significant and historically rich landscape tapestry that is characterised by rolling hillsides, steeply sided valleys, dense woodland and open grassland plateaus of varying topography and land use. The Claverton Campus is located on an upper plateau which is heavily screened and enclosed by significant mature tree belts and woodland, with intermittent visual connections across dry stone walling, woodland tracks and rural gateways As part of this LEMP, a review of the wider landscape character and its relationship with the campus was undertaken to identify common themes found on site that contribute to the wider landscape context. These themes have been summarised below and reflect in particular the Bath City-wide Character Appraisal SPG - Bathampton Down and Claverton Down. Typical boundaries include dry stone walls, native hedgerows and neat hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees. Beech trees and woodland are typical of the area, some of which are ancient and semi natural. Generally the area is a flat plateau with gentle slopes towards the edges based on porous limestone formations which means there are no significant water courses in the area. Local landscape character is described as dip-slope landscape with remnants of medieval parkland, mining and quarrying of bath stone (although short-lived in the area), arable and pasture agricultural land and significant woodland areas. The University Campus is a lively and busy area of activity which contrasts with the tranquil and calm countryside surrounding it. Calcareous and limestone grasslands feature on the campus and in the surrounding area Recommendations to maintain the local character are to maintain ancient beech woods and to plan for resilience to climate change by adopting management methods such as coppicing and pollarding. Other practices could be developed to respond to climate change including planting species resistant to disease and planting that is less reliant on water. A detailed overview of the relevant character area descriptions is provided at Appendix Character Areas - University Campus The main existing on-site landscape character areas have been identified and are illustrated in Figure 6. Academic Core Landscape Character: The academic core is the oldest part of the Campus and mainly comprises high rise academic buildings and hard standing areas. There are a number of external courtyard spaces some of which have been improved over recent years providing outdoor seating and tree planting. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 15

16 University Park Landscape Character: The University Park provides the main informal recreational area for the campus and includes amenity grass lawn areas, ornamental shrub and herbaceous borders, an amphitheatre and an artificial lake which includes Carp. There are a substantial number of existing trees in this area, both native and ornamental species, including a range of mature yew trees. The University is the proud custodian of the national yew tree collection and continues to draw on this accolade through continued research and conservation. Entrance Avenue - approach and arrival Landscape Character: Convocation Avenue provides a tree lined approach to the campus core area and includes native trees to the east of the avenue. The trees to the west of the avenue are coniferous and provide screening to the tennis courts from the adjacent residential boundary The bus terminus area includes ornamental herbaceous and shrub areas and is intensively managed/cultivated as an arrival and entrance area to the Campus. The floral displays in this area and other prominent areas of the campus have won the Bath in Bloom Gold Award for a number of years. Ancient Beech Avenue Landscape Character: This historic avenue runs perpendicular to Convocation Avenue and defines the southern edge of the Sports Training Village playing fields. There are some over mature beech trees within the avenue and gaps have appeared where the trees have died off or been removed. A strategy for replacement is underway (see Section 3.3). Woodland Areas and Scrub Woodland area: Quarry Road The University is introducing native tree planting along the Quarry Road boundary above the existing rock face to protect wider views from the City. There is a footpath and a couple of benches in the area but it is mostly untouched and is considered to be of wildlife value. Woodland within this area provides suitable opportunities for protected and notable species, including foraging and commuting horseshoe bats. Woodland area: Eastwood Landscape Character: The woodland along the north eastern boundary has been subject to a fairly intensive management strategy carried out by the University which has focused on habitat creation and management. This woodland forms part of the campus peripheral walk designed to allow for students, staff and visitors to link with wider recreational opportunities in the area. This woodland provides suitable opportunities for a range of wildlife. Foraging and commuting lesser horseshoe bats have been recorded using this woodland during update surveys in The woodland provides a green corridor connecting the site with adjacent habitats. Woodland area: Lime Kiln Wood Landscape Character: This woodland area is also managed as part of the site wide tree strategy and includes some clearance areas where recycling of site materials takes place. The university maintenance team has confirmed that the Lime Kiln woodland area has been recently cleared of buddleia to allow more native species to grow and establish. This woodland also provides suitable opportunities for wildlife, and horseshoe bats were recorded to the north of the woodland during the update surveys. 16 stridetreglown.co.uk

17 Campus Residences Landscape Character: The residential areas sit to the north and east of the campus. Landscape treatment to these areas tends to include robust ornamental planting with formal lawns and tree planting to create and define the spaces between the buildings. West Entrance Parkland Landscape Character: The landscape adjacent to Quarry Road runs from the western entrance to the campus and leads through to the West Car Park. This area includes the grounds of the medical centre which is leased by the University. This includes a parkland style landscape of mature trees (all mature trees have Tree Preservation Orders) and dry stone boundary walling. The dry stone walling provides suitable refuge opportunities for reptiles and amphibians. There is an historic orchard to the east, and a small outlier badger sett in the west. There is potential to bring the orchard back into use for the benefit of students and staff alike. Laser Shooting Range and Bobsleigh track Landscape Character: This area currently includes large spoil heaps of excavated stone and bedrock with limited available topsoil. The current planting suggests an alpine landscape with pine trees and some low growing areas. Sports fields Landscape Character: The sports fields are maintained to a high standard for the various outdoor sports activities such as rugby, football and hockey. The sports fields include astro-turf pitches and running tracks. 1) Sports Training Village 2) Lime Kiln Fields 3) St John s Fields Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 17

18 18 Figure 6. Indicative character areas

19 1.11. Information base Existing Document Review In addition to the review of relevant planning and policy documentation available from B&NES, there are other existing key documents which have informed the production of the LEMP. In the main these are as follows: University documentation: Masterplan Document University Environmental Policy Campus Tree Survey 2012: University of Bath by Tree Maintenance Ltd. Strategic Tree Review 2012 Hyder Woodland Court Residences LVIA 2006 R6 Student residences LVIA Ecological surveys and data: Bat surveys and DEFRA licence application for a soprano pipistrelle bat roost in a building adjacent to the old boiler house (Conservation Consultancy, 2002) Horseshoe Bat Surveys, Management Plan and EcoHomes report for R5 development (Ecosulis ref E1384, 2006) Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of Campus (Ecosulis ref E1604UOB2UOB, March 2008) Great crested newt, bat, hedgerow and dormouse surveys (site-wide) - Ecosulis, 2008 Badger survey for footbridge at Quarry road - Ecosulis, 2008 Precautionary Method of Working to cover tree removal, to include considerations to nesting birds - Ecosulis, 2010 Update Phase 1 Habitat Survey (site wide) - Ecosulis, 2011 Bat Habitat Suitability Assessment of buildings, mammal burrow monitoring (site south of running track) - Ecosulis, 2011 Update site walkover of small development sites - Ecosulis, Feb 2012 Site walkover of campus residences - Ecosulis, May 2012 Site walkover of entrance avenue and arrival (Ecosulis ref JONLAN-UNIBAT-C4491, May 2012) Bat Activity Surveys (site wide) (Ecosulis reference STRTRE-UNIBAT-C4913) Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 19

20 Site Walkovers Ecosulis Ltd undertook ecological site walkovers, on behalf of the University, on the following dates to update the baseline ecological assessment of the site and to inform their recommendations of the scope of further ecological surveys to feed into the LEMP Site walkover 1 Main Campus Area Site walkover 2 Lime Kiln fields, St John s Field and Sham Castle area 20 stridetreglown.co.uk

21 2. Where do we want to get to? 2.1. The Vision The vision for Claverton Campus is to ensure that landscape and ecology issues are intrinsic to any development which will take place as part of the future expansion of the campus. This will serve to further enhance the University s reputation as a sensitive and diligent custodian of its landscape environment. Principles established within the 2026 Masterplan document The campus landscape and the wider landscape setting are viewed as a significant asset by staff, students and visitors to the campus The landscape strategy for the masterplan seeks to maximise the amenity offered by the downland and woodland landscape setting, and proposes a strategy that will give the campus a clear identity by establishing a coherent and legible structure to the campus between built form, external spaces, planting and landform. This creates a framework for future development that will further enhance the campus and provide a lasting legacy The landscape proposals seek to: Respect the importance of maintaining and enhancing the parkland setting to the south of the main complex of buildings - the University Park. Respond to the desire to extend the Cotswold downland landscape around the edges of the campus. Reflect the existing landscape character zones in terms of an extension to the woodland blocks and grassland to the east and west, enhancement of the central parkland, and the creation of transitional areas around the margins. Enhance the University Park through careful management and new planting to ensure its distinctive character is maintained, including opening up views between individual spaces. Create a new footpath around the perimeter of the campus to provide a valuable recreational resource for the whole community that can be accessed from many strategic points. Enhance and maximise views from within the campus and protecting views from the surrounding area. Enhance the ecological value of the campus through the introduction and management of a diversity of native, local flora and fauna, and the provision of green corridors The landscape proposals comprise two main complementary elements The first is to improve and creatively develop the University Park as a principal element within the overall campus plan. This includes: Contributing to energy efficiency by localised shelter and enhancing the local microclimate through landscape treatment. Improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists across the campus to provide a safe, well defined hierarchy of routes that utilise the landscape for the benefit of staff, students and visitors in the creation of a legible, identifiable network Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 21

22 Designation of the central landscaped area as the University Park. Improving circulation patterns around and across the Park to more closely correspond to desire lines and to the draw the Park into the heart of the University s pedestrian circulation strategy. Removing poor planting and creating key sightlines to allow the Park to be understood as a single landscape element. Maintain and enhance opportunities for wildlife through appropriate planting and habitat management. Designing three complementary and contrasting landscape areas within the Park The second major element is the perimeter landscape. It is intended to develop this area as a continuous green ribbon around the campus which includes public rights of way and links to the wider network of public footpaths and bridleways. This will include various existing areas of contrasting landscape conditions which afford views into the campus and spectacular views out across Wiltshire and down to the City of Bath. Maintaining this green corridor will also retain connectivity across the site for wildlife The University has been working with the National Trust for a number of years along with other neighbours of the campus to provide a joined up approach to conservation and enhancement of the various shared landscape features of the area By linking existing perimeter paths with new routes, a continuous perimeter walk can be established. This will help to create an important resource for University students and staff as well as the general public. This would be of particular benefit to users of the University who already explore the perimeter landscape for recreation or as a running circuit The 2001 Masterplan proposed a significant increase in the landscaping to the eastern boundary of the campus and further additional planting was added following the construction of Woodland Court. It is intended that the buffer strip on the eastern boundary will continue to be reinforced around any new development and will generate woodland fingers reaching into the campus Furthermore, the National Trust and University have been actively involved in new planting programmes along the East of the campus and within the Bushy Norwood land, helping to reinforce green infrastructure links with the surrounding landscape and helping to join up disparate green areas of the campus. 22 stridetreglown.co.uk

23 Figure 7 Masterplan 2026 Summary of Constraints Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 23

24 2.2. Landscape Character Areas University Campus Opportunities On review of the campus character areas, the following principles were set out: Academic Core: to retain and develop any future open spaces within this area as practical, formal high use areas with robust and manageable materials. University Park: to remain and be developed as an ornamental feature amenity landscape with amphitheatre and artificial lake. Due to its central location the current layout could be altered to increase visual connectivity and improve wayfinding across the campus. Convocation Avenue: Re planting to the east of native trees as succession of specimens as they become over mature and in decline. The conifers to the west are not in keeping with the local or surrounding character, however they provide screening of the tennis courts and lighting to the adjacent residential area and are therefore to remain. Ancient Beech Avenue: Management strategy to remove non-native species (rhododendron, laurel) to be continued. Re-planting of young trees as succession of over mature and declined specimens to continue. Woodland: Lime Kiln Wood: continue woodland management and provide areas of new habitat creation. Eastwood: provide further habitat creation opportunities and controlled pedestrian access. Ensure that a sensitive lighting scheme is adopted in woodland areas to maintain dark corridors for horseshoe bats. Residences: maintain and provide a mixture of robust ornamental and herbaceous planting in line with the University s current successful species (avoid species which have failed in the past.) Provide high quality robust areas for students to enjoy as part of the campus environment. West Entrance Parkland: Develop and manage area of ancient orchard trees. Laser shooting range and bobsleigh: this area is well screened and located close to the boundary It is intended to be developed further following new UK sport funding and expansion of facility. Further landscape works could include building on the character as a mock alpine landscape along with new planting and enhanced biodiversity Sports fields: continue current management regime for sports facilities and use any suitable leftover/surplus areas for habitat creation Aims and Objectives The aims and objectives of the LEMP are in line with the principles established within the 2026 Masterplan and are informed by updated ecological survey information and a review of existing and potential landscape management systems to support and enhance the campus ecology and landscape environment. LEMP Aims a) Address the wider landscape character by extending the Cotswold landscape around the edges of the campus b) Build upon the university campus landscape character - refine and enhance existing landscape character areas c) Develop the perimeter landscape as a green ribbon with a focus on ecological enhancement and to tie in with the wider area public footpath network improve linkages and connectivity on and offsite for wildlife and people d) Maintain and enhance the parkland setting of University Park as a principle element within the overall campus plan 24 stridetreglown.co.uk

25 e) Enhance the ecological value of the campus through appropriate management and practices to support the long-term viability of ecology on site f) Maintain and enhance woodland areas within the campus, protect and enhance green infrastructure and key linkages through the site g) To address all site user needs including students, staff, and visitors LEMP Key Objectives For each aim there are a number of objectives which underpin them, these are as follows: o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o a) Address the wider landscape character by extending the Cotswold landscape around the edges of the campus Use vernacular materials such as dry stone walling and native hedgerows as boundaries wherever practicable Protect and create calcareous grasslands and beech woodland areas where appropriate Protect and enhance areas of parkland landscape and native woodland Protect and enhance opportunities for wildlife on site, including horseshoe bats b) Build upon the university campus landscape character - refine and enhance existing landscape character areas Identify actions and create target areas within each individual character areas Give priority scale to each target area to inform ongoing maintenance and management programmes c) Develop the perimeter landscape as a green ribbon with a focus on ecological enhancement and to tie in with the wider area public footpath network improve linkages and connectivity on and offsite for people and wildlife Maintain, improve and create footpath areas to join up the perimeter footpaths, bridleways and public rights of way as a continuous circular route Reinforce and strengthen woodland buffer planting especially along the eastern boundary Appropriate management of woodland habitats to maximise their ecological value Implement a sensitive lighting scheme around woodland habitats to maintain dark corridors d) Maintain and enhance the parkland setting of University Park as a principle element within the overall campus plan Improve pedestrian and cycle circulation by formalising desire lines and creating footpaths which tie in with wider campus wayfinding and circulation network Remove areas of poor planting and reinstate with more appropriate species Open up important views and create sightlines to increase legibility and connectivity across campus e) Enhance the ecological value of the campus through appropriate management and practices to support the long-term viability of ecology on site, particularly horseshoe bats Introduce and adapt existing management of local flora and fauna to provide ecological benefit Using historical and recent survey data to implement the masterplan strategy to provide and manage ecological enhancements across the campus Provide green corridors and protect areas of the site of ecological benefit and importance Develop and build upon site wide natural SUDS features- remove ornamental and non-native species from existing swales and provide new opportunities for habitat creation Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 25

26 o o o o o o o o o o Implement a sensitive lighting scheme on the boundaries of the site to ensure that dark corridors for wildlife are maintained on site. f) Maintain and enhance woodland areas within the campus, protect and enhance green infrastructure and key linkages through the site Identify new areas of potential woodland planting especially on the perimeter of the campus with reference to existing Strategic Tree Review produced by Hyder Environmental and the site wide masterplan Retained and enhance green infrastructure routes through the campus to provide Wildlife Corridors through appropriate management and additional planting Review recommendations within the campus wide tree survey to identify priority areas g) To address all site user needs including students, staff, visitors and the local community Maintain and protect outdoor sport facilities for training and teaching in order to retain the highest standards Provide and maintain informal recreational opportunities for students, staff and visitors to the campus Provide educational tools and opportunities to advise visitors of the campus landscape while protecting vulnerable areas from overuse and exposure Improve site signage and legibility for all site users including interpretation boards Encourage clean and considerate behaviour Provide high quality green habitats on site for site user enjoyment and recreation 2.4. External Lighting Lighting generally: External lighting to new developments, will be designed to comply with CIBSE guide LG6 The outdoor environment and BS EN Light and lighting Lighting of work places Part 2: Outdoor work places To limit the effects of sky glow, light trespass and disability glare, guidance from the SLL - Guide to limiting obtrusive light should be followed External lighting design for future developments should be mindful of the impact of light trespass and disability glare on existing buildings. The selection of university standard luminaires will assist in this, but this needs to be done in conjunction with, an effective lighting design with the aim of minimising obtrusive light and appropriate lighting controls To limit the effects of sky glow, luminaires should have an upwards light output ratio of 0% as per the universities standard. Car park lighting: New car park developments will be designed to comply with, CIBSE guide LG6 The outdoor environment and BS EN Light and lighting Lighting of work places Part 2: Outdoor work places To limit the effects of sky glow, light trespass and disability glare, guidance from the SLL - Guide to limiting obtrusive light should be followed. 26 stridetreglown.co.uk

27 2.4.5 Particular attention must be given to ensuring that, where car parks border vegetation and wildlife networks/woodlands, lighting is designed and controlled in such a way as to ensure that the effect on flora and fauna is minimised. To limit the effects of sky glow, luminaires provided to these spaces should have an upwards light output ratio of 0% as per the University of Bath s standard types used elsewhere on campus Green Infrastructure Connectivity across the site will be retained along the northern, southern, eastern and western boundaries which comprise green corridors dominated by hedgerows, mature tree avenues, woodland and grassland. The northern, eastern and north-western boundaries of the campus will be retained as dark corridors, therefore maintaining opportunities for foraging and commuting horseshoe bats and linking to the adjacent SAC. The campus currently has connectivity to the central parkland areas from the east and west in the form of a small tree line and associated amenity grassland to the south of the West Car Parking area. As a result, bat activity within these areas are relatively low with low numbers of common species recorded foraging and commuting around habitats including the lake The masterplan for the site includes the retention of a green corridor to the south of the West Car Park. This corridor is smaller than the existing connection to the parkland on site, however will be planted up with standard trees, hedges, and a longer grassland edge to enhance its potential as a green corridor. A sensitive lighting scheme will also be implemented in this area to enhance opportunities for foraging and commuting bats. Landscape works will also be incorporated along the northern boundary of development site 6 to strengthen this green corridor and as part of the ongoing biodiversity enhancement for the campus. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 27

28 28 Figure 9 - Green Infrastructure Strategy

29 3. How will we get there? 3.1. Introduction This section of the report sets out the management strategy for the Claverton campus required to achieve the aims and objectives set out at Section 2. It has two elements. The first is the enhancement or creation of a number of specific target areas focussed on improving the biodiversity value of the campus. The second element comprises more general management prescriptions for the hard and soft landscape components that are present within the campus, including the ongoing management of the target areas An anticipated timescale for progressing the target areas is set within this document as well as a timetable for the management prescriptions for the hard and soft landscape elements It is the success of the management of the existing and proposed landscape and ecological features on site which underpin the entire process. Section 4 of the LEMP considers how monitoring and review of the LEMP and the associated processes will be carried out Target Areas The main landscape and ecological target areas are identified by Figure 8 and relate to the landscape character areas identified by Figure 6. The target areas include existing features to be enhanced and new features to be developed within the various campus landscape character areas. The character areas and associated target areas are as follows: University Park (Target 4. Stumpery Target 7. Swales & Drainage) Ancient Beech Avenue (Target Area 6. Bee hives, Target 8.) Woodland Areas (Target Area 5. Eastwood, 10. Nature Pond, Target 12. Woodland ) Parkland Entrance (Target Area 2. Existing Orchard, Target 3. Rockery ) Sports Fields (Target 9. Woodland understorey, Target 11. Wildflower meadow) The character areas comprising the Academic Core, Entrance Avenue, Approach and Arrival, Campus Residences and Laser Shooting Range and Bobsleigh do not have any specific target areas associated with them at the present time. These areas will be subject to management and maintenance in accordance with the prescriptions set out in sections Table 1 below. However, the live nature of this document means that this does not prevent new target areas being identified within these areas during the life of the LEMP Priority and phasing of these target areas will be subject to confirmation by the University and in accordance with the approved masterplan vision. Agreed habitat mitigation will be prioritised to ensure habitats are protected. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 29

30 30 Figure 6 (repeated): Existing landscape character areas

31 Figure 8: Target Areas Plan Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 31

32 3.3. Description of the proposed works to the target areas The following section provides a description of the works necessary to create or enhance the target area as shown on Figure 8. Character Area: University Park Target Area 3 Rockery Located adjacent to 8 West, the rockery is to be maintained and enhanced through the continued introduction of appropriate plant species. Target Area 4 Stumpery Located south of 4 West building, the stumpery is to be expanded with more stumps as they become available and introducing new fern species. Target Area 7 Swales The University will continue to maintain the central University Park area as an ornamental landscape, including the central lake and priority areas for ecological focus towards the edges of the campus and its boundaries where the natural environment would be less disturbed by the presence of students. Character Area: Entrance and Arrival - Norwood and Convocation Avenue Target Area 14 Entrance trees Entrance Avenue: A programme of re-planting is taking place where trees are over mature and to fill gaps. Character Area: The Avenue Target Area 8 Ancient beech avenue Ancient Beech Avenue: A re-planting programme is ongoing with a strategy for future succession planting of Beech specimens underway including selectively thinning out and removing Laurel. The beech avenue is surveyed biennially. The strategy will be extended along the length of the avenue. Strategic management and planting will be undertaken in this area to ensure that a continuous canopy is maintained for foraging and commuting bats. Character Area: Woodlands The campus wide tree survey (Appendix 2) provides initial recommendations for works required in the short, medium and long term and will inform the woodland strategy with regard to priority areas. All subsequent tree surveys relating to future planning applications and development proposals to use the tagged and numbering system within this document for consistency and clarity. Target Area 5 Eastwood nature walk Eastwood Nature Trail and Woodland Management: along the north eastern boundary the maintenance team have carried out a lot of work to date, including habitat creation. This is the preferred approach over adding more bird boxes for example which have maintenance implications. The addition of Bug Hotels was considered to be appropriate but again if more natural environments can be achieved such as log piling etc this would be preferred. Woodland 32 stridetreglown.co.uk

33 habitat management works need to consider the presence of foraging and commuting bats, therefore strategic management should be undertaken to ensure that a continuous canopy is maintained. Appropriate species will also be planted that provide benefit to wildlife. Target Area 10 Nature Pond Adjacent to Lime Kiln Wood and Lime Kiln fields this is underway and the location has been chosen. The location for the nature pond will be relatively undisturbed. Construction of the pond in under active consideration, due to the location it may need to be lined or could be filled with wood chipping to provide more natural conditions. Target Area Additional woodland Lime Kiln Wood: There is a Strategic Tree Review which was produced by Hyder for the campus which suggests the south east corner of Lime Kiln fields is an area for additional woodland planting and it was agreed this could be a suitable location, although the peripheral woodland walk areas should take priority. Character Area: Parkland Entrance Quarry Road Target Area 1 Quarry Road boundary The dry stone walls along Quarry Road are a habitat for adders and there are 3 badger setts on the University side of the road. Target Area 2 Existing Orchard Two Orchards are managed by the University i.e one small area near the Lodge and a larger one off campus at Bathampton. Annual maintenance is carried out which involves apple tree pruning and grass cutting. Character Area: Modern Pentathlon and Bobsleigh Target Actions: 13. Alpine Landscape The laser shooting range and bob-sleigh track includes an area of potential for landscape enhancements. Following an injection in UK sport funding, the University is identifying possible landscape and habitat opportunities as part of an uplift to this area. Character Area: Sports fields: Target Area 9 Woodland Understorey Woodland understorey enhancements are currently undertaken by the University and managed on a yearly basis. Further woodland opportunities would be undertaken as part of the LEMP including hibernacular, thinning works and coppicing. Character Area: Site wide Target Area 6 Bee hives There are currently 2 hives on campus at medical centre / Lodge and at least 10 being introduced at Bathampton Fieldstation which will be used for valuable bee research and managed by researcher Mark Greco. Further bee habitats will be explored within the woodlands for wild bees to hibernate and overwinter in near future. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 33

34 Target Area 7 Swales Existing swales are subject to review by the maintenance team to eradicate invasive weeds, reduce non native species and to provide an aesthetic and function sustainable feature. Swales will continue to be monitored and enhanced through regular maintenance regimes including selective thinning and cutting. Precedent image naturalised swale and ornamental landscape working together Target Area 11 Wildflower Meadow The University campus features extensive amenity grass areas for sport, recreation and general use and will be subject to review to look at opportunities for longer grass and meadow planting. These limited areas will provide further benefit to wildlife and increase net biodiversity gain overall. The University is also actively managing off site grass land areas such as the Sulis Club and Bathampton Fields and introducing wildflower seeding as part of their annual maintenance regime. 34 stridetreglown.co.uk

35 3.4. Management and Maintenance Strategy The following section outlines the key features, habitats and species that require management under this LEMP. It highlights existing management considerations and provides management aims and actions in order to realise the masterplan. Further detailed timings and methods should be developed by the estates management team, providing a wholly live and relevant working document for the university estate and its environs A combination of departments are responsible for the management and maintenance of the campus including the Estates Landscape Team who are principally responsible for routine grounds maintenance, mowing, strimming, weed control, litter, pruning and hedge cutting, new planting and minor woodland works excluding arboriculture. The management strategy outlines works that are undertaken as part of the routine maintenance of the site. Newly created habitats will be managed by the university landscape management team who will work alongside the relevant contracts team offering experience of the site and providing early input into the design work for each respective development area. Landscape and Ecological Management Areas The site walkovers have identified the key soft and hard landscape components across the campus. The management strategy provides objectives and actions for each of the landscape components followed by a timetable for the carrying out of the various maintenance prescriptions Key soft landscape components of the campus comprise: Existing woodland and scrub Amenity grassland Sports pitch natural turf Meadow grassland and woodland edge Native hedgerow planting Ornamental planting hedgerows Ornamental planting shrubs and herbaceous Ornamental tree planting Aquatic features including Swales Key hard landscape components of the campus comprise Paved surfaces and public realm Non-paved footpaths and desire routes to the countryside Parking areas and bus / coach drop offs Waste and recycling bin storage & littler picking Fencing & enclosures Urban tree furniture including tree grilles Seating and raised planters Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 35

36 Woodland and Scrub Areas Management objectives Retain, protect and where possible enhance existing mature trees; Build on their ecological value, especially for roosting bats and nesting and foraging birds; Maintain a long-term woodland edge mosaic of habitats with scrub and open areas; Encourage a diverse understorey flora; Phase management over time to create a varied age structure and open glade areas, and to maintain a continuous tree canopy. Management actions (see Prescriptions Table) Inspect existing trees every 3 years for safety, and trim as required with consideration for bats and birds; Where space allows, windrow arisings to habitat piles in appropriate locations; Periodic tree removal should be undertaken to maintain structural variety and prevent shading of the scrub edge. Scrub and tree removal should not normally involve the removal of more than 5% of the habitat in any one year. Scrub should not normally cover more than 15% of the site at any one time. Tree removal should ensure that a continuous canopy is maintained for foraging and commuting bats. Unless essential to the University s business, tree removal should be restricted to immature trees to preserve those which may be suitable for roosting bats. Health and safety considerations will ultimately take precedence when concerning the structural condition of any tree. Remove ivy from trees where tree health is impaired. Ivy will otherwise be retained on trees for the benefit of invertebrates, bats and birds. Vegetation removal should not normally be below 20cm above ground to reduce the risk to hibernating reptiles, amphibians and small mammals. Unless there is risk of the spread of disease or other key consideration, tree stumps should be left in place to provide valuable refuge and hibernation habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Create and maintain scalloped edges to woodland using scrub management. Unless there is risk of the spread of disease or other key consideration, deadwood will normally be retained in situ or created into piles using cut material from tree management works These points are to be observed when undertaking woodland site works: All trees on site are subject to a blanket Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and therefore require a formal application and approval by the local authority. If in doubt, consult the relevant tree officer for support. Bird nesting season: no cutting or clearance work is to be carried out if it would impact on neting birds; Monitor the condition of bird and bat boxes annually, taking appropriate action to ensure their continued efficacy; Create deadwood habitats by retaining standing dead wood as far as safe and possible and using arisings to form windrows. Deadwood is to be retained in undisturbed areas to create hibernacula within the woodland as per the target areas and to enhance refugia for small mammals, reptiles and amphibians. 36 stridetreglown.co.uk

37 Management to be phased over time to maintain/ create a varied age structure Trees The Estates Landscape team will carry out works in accordance with the campus tree strategy, excluding specialist work to be undertaken by an approved tree surgeon The Estates Landscape Team will maintain records of Tree Preservation Orders and work on protected trees. Risk Management The Estates Landscape team will carry out a rolling programme of tree inspections as part of ongoing woodland and tree maintenance. Veteran trees will be re-inspected on a biennial cycle, or a shorter period if appropriate. The Estates Landscape team will ensure that all in-house and contract staff working on major trees are appropriately trained and hold the relative certificates of competence for the operations they carry out. Risk assessments and certificates of competence are maintained in the Arboricultural Safety log. Remedial works The Estates Landscape team will prioritise works arising from the tree inspection and recommendations of the strategic tree survey. Specialist tree work will be carried out by an approved tree surgeon. Tree Felling An approved tree surgeon will be appointed to fell trees identified for removal in the most suitable manner for the tree and the site and in accordance with the tree strategy. The Estates Landscape team will coordinate the works and ensure any tree works are carried out in accordance with the site tree strategy. The Estates Landscape team will refer to the strategic tree strategy for information on tree replacements and to maintain tree coverage quotas. Specific requests for tree planting should be made to the Director of Estates. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 37

38 Amenity Grassland Management objectives Provide a clean environment for features and seating areas; Complement amenity landscapes in scale and maintenance standards; Sward appropriate for recreational access; Hard wearing, tidy grass surfaces cut to an appropriate regime; Tidy and litter-free appearance. Management actions (see Prescriptions Table) Amenity grassland will be managed in recreational areas, and will be managed to maintain a short sward Longer grassland edges will be left where possible, including adjacent to hedgerow, woodland and scrub habitats for the benefit of wildlife. Irrigate and litter pick as required to realise design intents; Spot treat broadleaved weeds twice each summer; Mulch cut to 100mm height 6 times each summer or as required Tree Planting Management objectives o o o Existing tree planting will be managed and maintained as part of the site wide tree survey and strategy recommendations. Proposed tree planting will be carried out: as per each detailed development planning application, as part of the recommendation set out within the tree strategy or to replace dead/dying trees with an appropriate replacement. Enhance opportunities for wildlife on site through appropriate native tree planting where appropriate; Promote healthy, well-balanced growth of trees as individual features. Management actions (see Prescriptions Table 1) Maintain adjustment of tree stakes, ties and shelters while needed, replacing missing or broken furniture as required and removing once anchorage has been established; Remove dead or diseased wood as required and trim to achieve a natural habit; Ensure inspection by a suitably qualified arborist once annually to advise on defects; Replace dead, dying or damaged trees as agreed with the site supervisor for the first 5 years. Replacement plants will normally be of the same species and specification as the failed specimens, exceptions may include instances where native species may take precedence over ornamental species. 38 stridetreglown.co.uk

39 Ornamental Shrub Planting Management objectives Provide enclosure for urban features and areas; Complement amenity landscapes in scale and maintenance standards; Healthy growth leading to rapid canopy closure at the appropriate level. Management actions (see Prescriptions Table) Prune, weed, irrigate and litter pick to realise design intents; Replace failed plants as required in Years 1-5; Winter management operations are not normally to be below 20cm to minimise the risk to hibernating reptiles, amphibians and small mammals. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 39

40 Habitat Pond Management and Maintenance Management objectives Manage wetland planting to provide variety and transitions between deep aquatics and marginals within the first 5 years. Monitor and carry out remedial actions to reduce invasive weeds and promote oxygenating species. Maintain planting diversity to limit invasive planting taking over Encourage student groups and volunteers to take part in monitoring as part of personal development opportunities offered on campus. Management actions (see Prescriptions Table) Annual monitoring of pond life quality and water regimes would be during the first five years then allowed to develop as a self sustained habitat. Student involvement could be encouraged to review and monitor habitat, scientific data and other related fields. Vegetation would be left to naturalise subject to maintaining suitable access requirements and sport facilities. Timing may also depend on any invasive plant species that need controlling and whether this may be in conflict with wildlife interest on the site. Precedent images of student engagement 40 stridetreglown.co.uk

41 University Park Lake - Management and Maintenance Management objectives Maintain a safe and attractive feature for enjoyment by all users of the park; Manage wetland planting to provide variety and transitions between deep aquatics and marginals. Ensure lake edge gradients are maintained to ensure safe slopes that do not exceed 1:2 Monitor and carry our remedial actions to reduce invasive weeds and promote oxygenating species. Carry out routine litter collection including leave litter during Autumn De-silt the lake every two years to maintain water levels and water quality Management actions (see Prescriptions Table) Annual monitoring of pond life quality and water regimes will be encouraged as part of a student/volunteering group involvement programme. Monitoring could be carried out to review and monitor habitat, scientific data and other related fields. Timing may also depend on any invasive plant species that need controlling and whether this may be in conflict with wildlife interest on the site. Filamentous algae will be removed manually where possible. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 41

42 Meadow grassland and wildflower areas Management objectives Create managed, native species grassland adjacent to woodland to enhance structural diversity and as a companion habitat for insects and birds; Provide opportunities for foraging wildlife including bats, birds and invertebrates; Colour and seasonal variety for recreational users; Keep invasive plant levels under control through monitoring and management; Designated long grassland areas should be developed to meet at least two of the following conditions: 1) Cover of rye-grasses and white clover is less than 30%. 2) Sward is moderately species-rich (12 species/m 2, including grasses). 3) Cover of wildflowers and sedges, excluding white clover, creeping buttercup and injurious weeds, is 10% or more. Maintenance of open grassland habitats Management actions (see Prescriptions Table 1) Long grassland swards to be established through cutting once annually, alternately in August and September to allow differential wildflower seeding, collecting and removing all arisings; Allow for a second cut as agreed with the landscape manager if required; Control invasive weed and woody seedling encroachment by hand pulling and/or topping. Scrub control works to ensure that grassland is not encroached. These control works should be undertaken outside of nesting bird season, particularly within areas of dense scrub. Timing must also consider protection of hibernating species Arisings will be removed from the grassland and placed in designated compost heaps or removed from the site Management of grassland to increase structural diversity. Longer edge grassland swards will be allowed to establish along hedgerows. Cover of rye-grasses and clover of greater than 30% in wildflower areas will normally trigger a reassessment and consideration to altered management and/or additional sowing/plug planting. 42 stridetreglown.co.uk

43 Special Features Management objectives Signing, interpretation, fencing and gates checked and maintained as required; Introduction of further natural habitat features to enhance opportunities for wildlife; Lighting, litter bins, picnic seating and other furniture should be functional and clean. Commissioning of further artwork, display boards and wayfinding subject to funding and grants Management actions (see Prescriptions Table) Empty bins and litter pick weekly or as agreed with landscape manager for special occasions; Check security effectiveness and the public safety of fencing and gates twice annually; Annual monitoring of habitat and hibernacula features with preference to be given to students as an educational tool Drainage clearance and gully emptying as to be agreed with landscape manager; Review replacement strategy in the long-term to reflect experience made. The following points apply to all site maintenance works: Compliance with all relevant legislation, notably the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974; Compliance with the relevant British Standards, guidelines and best practice for herbicide use, plant handling, pruning etc; An organic management approach will be used, such that weed killer and other chemicals should not be used on site as far as possible; Replace worn, broken or damaged items as required; Report site issues arising to the appropriate University department; Ensure the necessary access to infrastructure elements. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 43

44 Miscellaneous Works Green Waste Disposal The Estates Landscape team aims to recycle as much green waste as is possible within available budgets. All green waste will be removed or processed on site. Peat use Peat use is kept to a minimum with the aim of eventually eliminating its use. Snow Clearing and Gritting During freezing weather the University will make reasonable allowance to grit roads and footpaths The Estates Landscape team aims to comply fully with all University policy which reflects legislative obligations. The Landscape Manager will maintain appropriate H&S Management Systems in accordance with University Policy. Existing recycling facilities on site 44 stridetreglown.co.uk

45 3.5. Programme and Phasing The following section identifies a preliminary programme for the implementation of the works specific to the individual target areas and the indicative point at which the various management prescriptions for the soft and hard landscape components will be carried out. Timetable for the proposed works to the target areas Table 1 below sets out anticipated timescales for the carrying out of the works necessary to contribute to the creation or enhancement of the features within each of the target areas. As the LEMP will be a live document the opportunity to revise or add additional targets as the need arises is encompassed within its provisions or may be triggered routinely following the annual review of the LEMP. The timescales are based on a notional start period of January TARGET DISCRIPTION ANTICIPATED TIMESCALE NOTES TARGET 1 Quarry Road Boundary YEARS 1-5 Ongoing TARGET 2 Existing Orchard YEARS 5-10 Winter 2015 TARGET 3 Rockery YEARS 5-10 Ongoing TARGET 4 Stumpery YEARS 1-2 Spring 2014 TARGET 5 Eastwood Nature Trail YEARS 1-2 Winter 2013 TARGET 6 Bee Hives YEARS 1-5 Ongoing including expansion at Bathampton Fields TARGET 7 Swales & Drainage - SUDS YEARS 2-5 Autumn 2013 TARGET 8 Beech Avenue YEARS 1-20 Ongoing TARGET 9 Woodland Understorey YEARS 1-20 Ongoing TARGET 10 Nature Pond YEARS 1-5 Ongoing TARGET 11 Wildflower Meadow YEARS 1-20 Ongoing TARGET 12 Woodland Areas YEARS 1-20 Ongoing TARGET 13 Alpine landscape YEARS 5-10 Ongoing TARGET 14 Entrance Trees YEARS 5-20 Ongoing FUTURE TARGET Table 1. Provisional timetable for target area works Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 45

46 Typical soft and hard landscape management prescriptions Maintenance Action Years Years 3-5 Years 6-10 Years Years Existing Woodland Winter Winter Winter Winter Winter Inspect and trim Summer Summer Review Review Review Monitor bird/ bat boxes and hiberancular Winter Winter Winter Winter Winter Existing Hedgerow Review Review Review Review Review Inspect and trim Winter Winter Winter Winter Review Control natural regeneration Spring Spring Spring Woodland Planting Winter Inspect tree furniture Spring Spring Remove Inspect health and trim Spring Spring Review Arboricultural inspection Winter/Spring Winter/Spring Review Review Review Inspect plant furniture Spring Spring Remove Inspect plant health and trim Spring Spring Review Replace agreed plants Winter/Spring Winter/Spring Winter/Spring Winter/Spring Winter/Spring Tree Planting Winter/Spring Winter/Spring 46 stridetreglown.co.uk

47 Maintenance Action Ornamental Shrub Planting Weed and irrigate Inspect and trim Years Years 3-5 Years 6-10 Years Years Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Review Review Review Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Review Review Review Spring Spring Review Review Review Replace agreed plants Autumn Autumn Wildflower Meadow Autumn Autumn Autumn Review Review Control weed encroachment Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Review Review Review Spot treat paths Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Review Review Review Open Grassland Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Spring/Summer Control scrub regeneration Spring Spring Spring Review Review Maintenance Action Years Years 3-5 Years 6-10 Years Years Special Features Dependant on target Dependant on target Dependant on target Dependant on target Dependant on target Inspect fencing and gates Summer Summer Summer Summer Review Clear drainage systems Autumn Autumn Autumn Autumn Review Table 2: Indicative Maintenance Prescriptions Table Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 47

48 Phasing It is difficult to predict the exact timing of the various academic capital projects outlined in the Masterplan as they rely on affordability in a very uncertain planning context for the Higher Education sector New student residences will be funded by the University on the basis of a business plan. It is likely that these projects will be brought forward as required Creation of new habitat and planting outside of the identified target areas is most likely to be carried out as part of each respective Masterplan development parcel, including ongoing maintenance and management regimes references herewith. 48 stridetreglown.co.uk

49 3.6. Potential funding and resources to consider Various organisations support and provide funding to projects which are able to demonstrate benefit to people, place and environment. Due to the inherent diversity of any university campus, many diverse groups and uses can be demonstrated In addition to the below organisations, other local groups may exist such as voluntary groups who may be keen to use the campus as a vehicle for training, adult learning and general health. These groups would ultimately help with matters related to community involvement, maintenance of the grounds and public relations. Local events could be organised on site to stimulate interest. Funding for landscape Funding for education, sport, health Funding for sport Funding for Art Funding for the natural environment Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 49

50 4. How will we know when we have arrived? 4.1. Monitoring and Review Annual & Biannual monitoring depending on habitats would be undertaken by an approved ecologist in the form of a walkover survey within the site boundary. This will record habitat condition and species diversity. The results of the monitoring surveys would inform any changes to the LEMP Reactive management will be undertaken on site in the form of ongoing maintenance regimes including remedial works, pruning, maintaining hard landscape areas for safety and appearance. Any significant areas of debris/litter will be removed as soon as they are discovered. Any dead plants within the first five years of planting will normally be replaced. Maintenance operations could be recorded on work sheets to monitor success and establish systems for each management prescription. Establishment and Usage Monitoring A regime of regular inspections of planting and seeding works, wearing surfaces, timber goods repairs and the general condition of the habitats (particularly woodlands) would be essential to guiding habitats development. Monitoring works and reactive management is essential to ensure that habitat value is maximised in the long-term. Assessment and Analysis The assessment of the success of management regimes on site will be based on habitat condition and species diversity. If either of these factors decrease over time, the habitat may be deemed as in unfavourable condition and amendments to the LEMP introduced to enhance the habitat back to a favourable condition The Estates Landscape team will be responsible for ensuring habitats and landscape features on site are maintained and managed in accordance with the guidance set out in the LEMP and will ensure that any matters affecting the strategic aims of the Masterplan and LEMP are brought to the attention of the Director of Estates. Should any landscape or ecological feature require a significant change in management, the LEMP should be reviewed to ensure the goals set out are still being met and a review of any planning matters which may be affected. Designed Flexibility of the LEMP The LEMP has been developed to provide a document which is both useful and flexible to respond to additions and variations as the campus develops The following points are fundamental to this goal: The LEMP is a strategic document providing ideas and management techniques and should be used to guide further discussion and detail as required. The University will ensure the LEMP is maintained and updated subject to changes in management regimes and campus development. 50 stridetreglown.co.uk

51 Climate Change To prepare the University for a changing climate and extreme weather conditions such as flooding hotter summers and cooler winters, the following list sets out some key environmental aims with an emphasis on combating climate change: Planting more trees Selecting more drought tolerant trees and shrubs Replacing resource-intensive annual flowerbeds with drought tolerant perennial planting schemes Exploring the possibilities of capturing rainwater for irrigation systems Using plumbing techniques that reduce water use, and re-use grey water See the UKCIP website for further guidance Possible future projects Further to the LEMP aims and objectives contained within the above sections, aspirational projects such as those listed below might be considered, subject to funding availability and prioritisation of University resources: Identifying new areas for native planting Introduction of further planting diversity i.e to the University Park Lake Installation of outdoor exercise equipment and trim trails to promote health and wellbeing Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 51

52 Appendix Masterplan 52 stridetreglown.co.uk

53 Appendix 2 Campus-wide Tree Survey Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 53

54 Appendix 3 LEMP figures 54 stridetreglown.co.uk

55 Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 55

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57 Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 57

58 Appendix 4 Wider Landscape Character Assessment In considering the wider surrounds in which the Claverton Campus is located a number of documents were reviewed. A summary of the findings relevant to the University is provided below: Bath City Wide Character Appraisal SPD: Area 19 Bathampton Down and Claverton Down This document presents the results of the Bath city-wide character appraisal which was carried out in 2004 and This has been prepared to assist residents, businesses, developers, agents, amenity societies, planners, decision makers, visitors and the local community in understanding the character of the city, its setting and its component parts. The University campus is included within Area 19 which makes reference to the site as follows: Landform and drainage The area consists of a generally flat plateau with gentle slopes towards the edges. The flat nature of the area with the porous limestone formations means that there are no significant natural watercourses. Springs emerge on the slopes surrounding the area in neighbouring character areas. There is a large artificial lake within the grounds of the University of Bath. Land Use Agricultural land, mainly pasture, covers the largest area. Other undeveloped areas include sports pitches associated with the University, school and sports club as well as the golf course. The University is the most dominant cluster of buildings concentrated towards the northern end of the area. Building form The University contains a wide range of building types that illustrates piecemeal growth over the period of its history. Heights Most buildings are usually no more than two storeys, but the University contains buildings with a wide variety of heights including the original campus buildings which are over seven storeys high. Vitality and Tranquillity This is a tranquil area with a few exceptions. The University has a large number of students and they and their associated commuting, recreational and sporting activities generate a most lively feeling. Materials and Boundary Treatment The footways are tarmac with concrete kerbs. Dry stone walls are the most frequent boundary treatment but there are some hedgerows too. 58 stridetreglown.co.uk

59 Trees and Shrubs There are a variety of mature trees in the area, some formally planted, and others as woodland or shelter belts. Beech trees are particularly characteristic in this area. Open Space Open space is an important feature comprising agricultural and sports uses. Features, Landmarks and Views Sham Castle, framed by trees, is a landmark visible from the city centre and south facing hills. The large telecommunications mast is a more prominent landmark, intrusive on the rural skyline, as is the mass of the University of Bath. Nightly floodlighting of the University of Bath outdoor sports pitches is responsible for intrusive light spill visible for miles around. Historic Uses The area has a rich history. Bathampton Down has Earthwork remains of late prehistoric origin while parts of Claverton Down include areas of mediaeval parkland. The original site of the Bath racecourse was located on the plateau to the east of the University. Some areas were used for mining and quarrying including possible Roman mines to the northern end of the area. Cotswold AONB Landscape Character Assessment The landscape character assessment of the Cotswolds AONB identified 19 distinct types of landscape, two of which are relevant to the University and its environs: 04 Enclosed limestone valley A radial network of enclosed limestone valleys drain into the Bristol Avon in the southern part of the AONB and dissect the high wold dip-slope and low limestone plateau surrounding Bath. Key Characteristics include significant areas of woodland, of which a number are ancient semi-natural woodlands particularly on upper and steeper slopes and a discrete area of the Enclosed Valley type also overlooks Bath. Here, the close proximity and views of urban areas influences local landscape character. 09 High wold dip-slope The gently rolling landform of the high wold dip-slope, dissected by a network of dry valleys, falls southeastwards from the high wold plateau merging into the dipslope lowlands on the eastern perimeter of the AONB. This is a transitional landscape sharing characteristics of both of the adjacent landscape types. It extends in a broad arc from the outskirts of Bath in the south to the detached sections of the west Enstone uplands in the extreme east. 9B Bathampton and Claverton Down The Bathampton and Claverton Down Character Area represents a detached area of Dip-Slope landscape. The downs rise to 204 m AOD dipping southwards to 150 m AOD. Many thousands of years ago, this area was contiguous with the Dip-Slope landscapes extending across Lansdown and onto the Cotswolds High Wold Dip-Slope. However, powerful rivers such as the Avon and By Brook have eroded deep valleys that almost encircle it, and leave the area as a detached remnant of the Dip-Slope landscape. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 59

60 The close proximity of Bath has had a profound influence, with Bath University, schools and large housing states all exerting a strong suburbanising influence on the character of the local landscape. Despite this, farming is evident and a significant area of the landscape is devoted to arable and pasture farming. Fields are generally divided up by neat hedgerows, often containing mature hedgerow trees. Woodland within the character area is limited to small areas of woodland, mainly in the south, north west of Combe Down, and extending along the road, south of Claverton Down. A significant area of calcareous grassland exists in the north of the University campus. To the north of the University, overlooking the heart of Roman and Regency Bath, sits a large enclosure named Caer Badon comprising of a mound and ditch. No evidence has been found for occupation, and it is widely thought to represent a large stock enclosure. There is also evidence for extensive Celtic field systems on the hills, and earlier barrows, obviously sited on a dramatic location overlooking the Avon valley. Quarrying of the local limestone (Bath Stone) has been undertaken since Roman times. However, the stone here is of poor quality and enterprises were therefore short lived. National Character Area Profile 107: Cotswolds National Character Areas (NCAs) divide England into 159 distinct natural areas. Each is defined by a unique combination of landscape, biodiversity, geodiversity and cultural and economic activity. Their boundaries follow natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative boundaries, making them a good decision making framework for the natural environment. The Cotswolds landscape is a steep scarp and long, rolling dip slope cut into a series of plateaux by numerous rivers and streams. Characterised by limestone walls, especially on the predominantly arable plateau top and hedgerows, beech woodlands and limestone grasslands on the scarp slope. Most of the area falls within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Key Characteristics Defined by its underlying geology: a dramatic limestone scarp rising above adjacent lowlands with steep combes, and outliers illustrating the slow erosion of escarpments. The limestone geology has formed the scarp and dip slope of the landscape, which in turn has influenced drainage, soils, vegetation, land use and settlement. Open and expansive scarp and high wold dipping gently to the southeast, dissected by river valleys. Arable farming dominates the high wold and dip slope while permanent pasture prevails on the steep slopes of the scarp and river valleys with pockets of internationally important limestone grassland. Drystone walls define the pattern of fields of the high wold and dip slope. On the deeper soils and river valleys, hedgerows form the main field boundaries. Ancient beech hangers line stretches of the upper slopes of the scarp, while oak/ash woodlands are characteristic of the river valleys. Regular blocks of coniferous and mixed plantations are scattered across the open high wold and dip slope. Large areas of common land, important for unimproved calcareous grassland, are characteristic of the scarp and high wold around the Stroud valleys and along the crest of the scarp to Cleeve Hill. The majority of the principal rivers flow south-eastwards forming the headwaters of the Thames with the exception of rivers in the west which flow into the River Avon and then the Severn Estuary. 60 stridetreglown.co.uk

61 Rich history from Neolithic barrows, iron-age hill forts and Roman roads and villas to deserted medieval villages, grand country houses, cloth mills and Second World War airfields. The field patterns largely reflect both the medieval open field system, with fossilised areas of ridge and furrow, and later planned enclosures. Locally quarried limestone brings a harmony to the built environment of scattered villages and drystone walls, giving the area a strong sense of unity for which the Cotswolds are renowned. Bath stone is also famous and has been used for building since Roman times, both locally in the principal buildings and streets of Bath and more widely, for example for Buckingham Palace in London. Parkland, gardens and historic designed landscapes are features particularly of the dip slope and broad lowland, such as Lawrence Johnston s garden at Hidcote, and Heather Muir s garden at Kiftsgate, parkland at Stanway, Chastleton and Blenheim Palace. Prominent natural and built features in the landscape include the City of Bath WHS, Brailes Hill, Broadway Tower, Cleeve Hill, the Tyndale monument, Freezing Hill, Kelston Round Hill and Blenheim Palace WHS. Opportunities: SEO 3: Protect, maintain and expand the distinctive character of the Cotswolds and the network of semi-natural and arable habitats, including limestone grassland, beech woods and wetlands along streams and rivers, to enhance water quality, strengthen ecological and landscape connectivity, support rare species and allow for adaptation to changes in climate. Targeted planting of woodland buffers to existing woodland or new woodland copses, and regenerating and restoring existing woodland, informed by strategies such as the Forestry Commission s ancient woodland opportunity mapping and the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) tree planting guidelines, paying due attention to the open character of the landscape in places such as the high wold and the opportunities presented by valleys and river networks. Seeking opportunities to link woodland with other habitats such as parkland to create functional networks. Seeking and realising opportunities to reinstate hedgerows, and hedgerow trees, where they have been lost, especially for the benefit of species such as bats in the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats SAC, butterflies and other invertebrates and farmland birds, and to enhance landscape character. Managing and restoration of ancient semi-natural beech woodland and small mixed oak woodlands on the scarp and valley slopes and dip slope, exploring coppicing and pollarding as means of increasing management and resilience to changes in climate; expanding and relinking woodland in selected locations, particularly on scarp and dip slope, to increase the resilience of this habitat to changes in climate and assist in controlling cross-land flows City of Bath World Heritage Site Setting SPD The protection of the setting of any World Heritage Site (WHS) is fully linked to the protection of the site itself. This is particularly true in the case of Bath where the landscape of the site and its surroundings not only enhances the site but has been instrumental in the location, form and special character embodied in the core values of the site. Landscape Characteristics of the Setting The landscape of the setting characteristically consists of the green undeveloped farmland, green spaces, and trees and woodland which surround the site. It also includes developed areas within the setting which also play an important role. The development has particular significance where it pre-dates, or is from, the Georgian period. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 61

62 Key viewing points overlooking the city There are public viewpoints within or close to the city looking towards the centre which have been significant since the 18th or 19th centuries and are still existing today They include: Widcombe Hill North Road, Sham Castle and Bathampton Down. Bath s Special Landscape The landscape provides a natural beauty, which is an integral part of the city s special character and appearance and has the ability to soften the harshness of people s activities and a capacity to improve the quality of all our lives. Figure 8: National Character Area 107: Cotswold 62 stridetreglown.co.uk

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