Elsea Park Management Plan · Elsea Park Management Plan 3534 2 signs.htm). Noticeboards could give information on, for example, wildflower plants that might be seen and management

Elsea ParkManagement Plan

Designers of the London 2012 Olympic Parklands

DRAFT: MARCH 2014

Contents Executive Summary ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 1

Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1

Management Objectives ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1

Action Plans …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2

Next Steps ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3

1.0 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5

1.1 Background ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5

1.2 The 2000 Management Plans ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 5

1.3 Elsea Park Community Trust ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 6

1.4 Purpose of this Management Plan ……………………………………………………………………………….. 6

1.5 Structure of this Document ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6

2.0 The Site before Development ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8

3.0 The Masterplan ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10

3.1 Objectives of the Masterplan ………………………………………………………………………………………… 10

3.2 Progress to Date ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11

3.3 Changes Deemed Necessary to Proposals in the 2000 Management Plans ………….. 11

4.0 Management Objectives and Opportunities ………………………………………………………………………….. 13

4.1 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 13

4.2 Key Purposes ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13

4.3 General Management Objectives …………………………………………………………………………………. 15

4.4 Site-Wide Opportunities for Enhancement ………………………………………………………………. 17

5.0 The Meadows ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18

5.1 Access to the Meadows ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18

Meadows: Hay Meadow …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19

Meadows: Pasture …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 22

Meadows: Woodland Edge ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 25

Meadows: Ponds ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 28

6.0 Other Open Space Areas …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 31

Arena Park ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 32

Cooke’s Field ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 35

The Gables ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 38

Heartsease Way Link ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 40

Hedgerow along A15 and Associated Public Open Space ……………………………………….. 42

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Leytonstone Lane Green ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 44

Linear Park ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 46

Little Garth ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 50

Local Equipped Areas of Play ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 52

The Pollards …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 54

Raymond Mays Way ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 56

Setts Green ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 60

Springbank Drive Open Space ……………………………………………………………………………………… 64

Tilia Way ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 66

Wake Ponds ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 68

Additional Areas in Private Ownership ……………………………………………………………………… 71

7.0 Future Open Spaces …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 73

Bridgend ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 74

Brock Bank Lane ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 75

Chequer Tree Green ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 76

Chequer Tree Walk ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 77

Danby Street …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 78

Existing Hedge and Ditch at Brock Bank Lane ………………………………………………………….. 79

Existing Hedge and Ditch between Danby Street and Turners Paddock ……………… 80

Manor Farm Development – Structure Planting ………………………………………………………. 81

North Green with Neighbourhood Equipped Plan Area …………………………………………. 82

Ogrey Pool ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 83

Pantile Square ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 84

Play Area to North-West ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 85

Playing Fields …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 86

School Avenue ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 87

New Spinney – North of Playing Fields ………………………………………………………………………. 88

Swallow View ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 89

Turners Paddock ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 90

Western Side of Wherry’s Spinney ……………………………………………………………………………… 91

Willow Pond with Nature Area ……………………………………………………………………………………. 92

8.0 Management Programmes ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 93

8.1 Health & Safety ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 93

8.2 Wildlife Legislation ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 93

T1 Trees – Retained Existing ………………………………………………………………………………………… 94

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T2 Trees – Specimen in Streets ……………………………………………………………………………………. 95

T3 Trees – Specimen in General Public Open Space ……………………………………………….. 97

T4 Trees – Pleached ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 98

T5 Trees – Pollarded ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 99

H1 Hedges – Retained Existing ……………………………………………………………………………………. 100

H2 Hedges – New Native ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 101

H3 Hedges – Ornamental ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 102

SP Structure Planting …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 103

SH1 Shrub Planting – Native ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 105

SH2 Shrub Planting – Ornamental ……………………………………………………………………………… 106

HP Herbaceous Planting and Grasses …………………………………………………………………………. 108

G1 Grasslands – Species Rich Grazed …………………………………………………………………………. 109

G2 Grasslands – Species Rich Hay Meadow ……………………………………………………………… 111

G3 Grasslands – Species Rich Verges ………………………………………………………………………….. 113

G4 Grasslands – Amenity within Structural Open Space ………………………………………. 115

G5 Grasslands – Amenity within Public Open Space in Housing ………………………… 116

G6 Grasslands – Sports Turf …………………………………………………………………………………………. 117

G7 Grasslands – Mown Footpaths ………………………………………………………………………………. 118

PDD Ponds, Ditches and Drainage Systems ………………………………………………………………. 119

FIGURES ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 120

Version: 1.3

Version date: 03 March 2014

Comment Draft for consultation with Residents

This document has been prepared and checked in accordance with ISO 9001:2008.

Elsea Park Management Plan

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Executive Summary

Introduction

This Management Plan has been prepared to guide Elsea Park Community Trust in the future management of the open spaces within the development, to help it maximise the overall quality and appearance of the development, its enjoyment by residents and its recreational, amenity and ecological value. The Management Plan is intended to guide future decisions on maintenance, on the scope for new interventions in existing areas of open space and in responding to requests from residents for new features, planting and so forth.

This document briefly reviews the history of the Elsea Park development and the Masterplan for the development, which dates from 2000. The Masterplan has been followed very faithfully in the construction of the development to date, with streets largely aligned as indicated on the Masterplan and open spaces delivered where indicated on the Masterplan. However, the detailed design and implementation of some of the open spaces has not fully delivered the character and qualities intended.

Changes over time are also a consideration. It is not possible in an outline planning application for a Masterplan to anticipate all the circumstances that will prevail ten or twenty years in the future when the development is implemented. Similarly, the experience of residents living on the development brings a different perspective and may raise valid concerns and aspirations which should rightly be taken on board. It is therefore necessary to review the original Masterplan intentions in the light of current circumstances and the views of residents as expressed to the Trust, and these are reflected in the recommendations in this Management Plan.

Management Objectives

Section 4.2 of this document identifies a number of key purposes for the landscape and open space areas at Elsea Park, which are set out under the four functions of landscape, ecology, recreation and amenity. Section 4.3 sets out a number of general management objectives under the themes of the Masterplan, the construction of development parcels, residents, landscape and protected species.

Section 4.4 sets out a number of opportunities that have been identified to enhance the value, understanding and enjoyment of open space areas throughout Elsea Park:

Improved website with map and events page.

Noticeboards with magnetic map and Post-Its, within The Centre and potentially local schools to enable people to note sightings / any issues.

Provide name signs on open spaces within the development, using the names shown on the Masterplan and used in this document.

Provide bat and bird box advice to residents, possibly through workshops to make bird boxes or through discounted supply. Boxes should be targeted for urban species such as house sparrows, starlings and common garden birds

Interpretation on the Meadows and on the site could be greatly improved through use of sensory boards or information boards (see http://www.dabgraphics.co.uk/sensory-

http://www.dabgraphics.co.uk/sensory-signs.htm


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signs.htm). Noticeboards could give information on, for example, wildflower plants that might be seen and management being undertaken (e.g. why is the hedge 2 m high?).

Wildlife camera screen in The Centre – a wildlife trail camera (with night vision) could be moved around the site to maintain interest – e.g. at the badger tunnel, Setts Green, on the Meadows, at the ponds.

Opportunities for more benches and for it to be made clear that picnics/sitting out are allowed on public green spaces within the development

Co-ordination with local wildlife groups and recording groups to start a programme of events in the summer months such as bat walks, plant surveys, bird watching, moth survey, guided tour of the Meadows explaining their interest and the management regime. In the first instance this could be pulled together to create a week of activities in the summer promoting the site to residents and enthusing residents about the wildlife on their site.

Results of monitoring surveys for wildlife on site (either by local groups or commissioned by the Trust) could be used to provide more detailed information on the site’s wildlife for interpretation and notice boards.

Flowering plants and shrubs in amenity and ornamental planting should include species which have simple flowers which are of value to invertebrates such as bees and butterflies. They should also be allowed to set seed where possible as seeds provide a valuable food source to birds such as house sparrows throughout the winter. Such plants need not be native but non-native plants should be carefully selected, ideally with the involvement of an ecologist.

Shrubs in amenity and ornamental planting should include those that fruit. These should be managed in such a way as to allow fruit to set and ripen. Fruit bearing shrubs should not be cut back until either the fruit has gone or late winter in order that it can provide a resource for wintering birds. Such plants need not be native but non-native plants should be carefully selected, ideally with the involvement of an ecologist.

Action Plans

Sections 5.0 and 6.0 contain Action Plans for all open space areas that have been implemented to date, including the Meadows which lie on the opposite side of the A151 Raymond Mays Way. Each Action Plan describes the existing functions, original design intent and (where applicable) the existing ecology of the relevant open spaces. Current issues facing each open space are identified and the Action Plans then move on to identify potential additional functions that the open space could perform and potential enhancements that could be undertaken to the open space.

The Action Plans will guide the Trust in its management of the open spaces and help it identify specific projects to be undertaken to improve the open space network within Elsea Park (see Next Steps for examples).

Outline Action Plans are provided in Section 7.0 for areas of open space identified on the Masterplan but which are yet to be delivered. It is anticipated that as each future open space



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area is delivered, its Action Plan will be updated and expanded to the same level of detail as those in Section 6.0.

Section 8.0 contains Management Programmes which outline the management requirements for all existing and proposed vegetation and habitat types across the development. The Action Plans cross-reference to the Management Programmes which are relevant to each open space.

Next Steps

It is intended that the residents of Elsea Park will be consulted on the recommendations in this Management Plan, via information on the Trust’s website. A consultation event will be held at The Centre in June 2014 alongside the annual Picnic in the Park community event.

It is suggested that the Trust Board consider the early implementation of the following actions which arise from the Management Plan.

Short Term Actions: 2014

Actions which could, if desired, be undertaken this year include:

Improve the Trust website with a map of the development and open spaces, events page, more information about landscape and wildlife.

Installation of interpretation boards on The Meadows, Setts Green and Wake Ponds.

Installation of a mobile webcam (with night vision) and an associated viewing screen in The Centre.

Landscape-related events, e.g. nature walks.

Investigate access improvements to The Meadows.

Additional benches around the edges of The Meadows.

Adjustments to management regime for The Meadows including reduced grazing and changes to woodland edge management.

Botanical survey of the Hay Meadow in summer.

Repair badger tunnel drainage system.

Initiate appropriate events on Setts Green, e.g. nature walks, school visits, etc. (potential tie in with opening of school).

Bulb planting in Cooke’s Field/Linear Park/Arena Park.

Progress improvements to Springbank Drive open space.

Medium Term Actions: 2015-16

The following projects may be appropriate to progress over a 2-3 year period:

Design enhancements to Cooke’s Field/Linear Park/Arena Park.

Art project, focussed on Cooke’s Field/Linear Park/Arena Park.

Expansion of wildlife programme with additional events and activities, surveys and recording, etc.


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Improvements to other open spaces.


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1.0 Introduction

1.1. Background

Elsea Park is a large development site around the south-west side of Bourne, comprising housing development along with associated employment and community facilities and substantial areas of structural landscape and open space. Outline planning permission was granted by South Kesteven District Council (SKDC) on 12 June 2001. The development has been under construction for over 10 years and is approximately 40% complete.

LDA Design (then trading as Landscape Design Associates) prepared a Development & Design Brief (DDB) for Elsea Park in June 2000 in support of the planning application. The DDB described the development proposals and included a Concept Masterplan. An important aspect of the development proposals was ecology and habitat creation, and an ecological masterplan was also included in the DDB. The masterplan is described more fully in section 3.0 of this Management Plan.

1.2. The 2000 Management Plans

The outline planning permission for the development required the preparation of an “Ecology Management Plan” and a “Landscape Management Plan” for the development (Planning ref. SK94/0125/12, conditions 11, 12 and 13). In response to these conditions, four Management Plans were produced by LDA Design in 2000 and submitted to SKDC.

These were:

Landscape Management Plan for Structure Planting and General Public Open Space; setting out general requirements and schedules of operations applicable to most of the different character areas and landscape features within the Masterplans.

Ecological Management Plans Volume A; addressing the concepts and principles of the whole development, including relevant adjacent areas.

Ecological Management Plans Volume B; dealing with the Buffer Zone (now Elsea Park Meadows) between Math and Elsea Wood SSSI and the SWRR (now Raymond Mays Way).

Ecological Management Plans Volume C; dealing in detail with Zone 1 of the development, including the character area named the Stray (now the east end of the Linear Park).

The measures recommended in the above Plans were incorporated in the section 106 Agreement with SKDC as a condition of Planning Permission for the Elsea Park development.

As part of the planning conditions, it was envisaged that further volumes of Ecological Management Plans were to be submitted and approved by SKDC for each subsequent development zone prior to the commencement of development.

English Nature was consulted on nature conservation issues and ecological mitigation measures and in principle agreed with them, including construction methods for e.g. badger tunnels and amphibian/reptile hibernacula.


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1.3. Elsea Park Community Trust

Under the section 106 agreement with SKDC, a Community Trust was formed for the benefit of the residents of Elsea Park. One of the main purposes of the Trust is to own and manage all open space within the development following its implementation and handover by Kier (successor to Allison Homes) as master developer.

Following the handover of substantial areas of open space to the Trust in 2012, the Trust now owns and manages the majority of the areas of open space that have been implemented to date. In 2013, it contracted out the more routine maintenance operations to an external contractor, retaining the more specialist work and the maintenance of more ecologically sensitive areas to be undertaken by the Trust’s own groundsman.

1.4. Purpose of this Management Plan

This Management Plan has been prepared to guide the Trust in the future management of the open spaces within the development, to help it maximise the overall quality and appearance of the development, its enjoyment by residents and its recreational, amenity and ecological value. The Management Plan is intended to guide future decisions on maintenance, on the scope for new interventions in existing areas of open space and in responding to requests from residents for new features, planting and so forth.

In the course of preparing this Management Plan, landscape architects and an ecologist employed by LDA Design have received briefings from Trust staff and have surveyed all areas of open space which have been implemented to date. The ecology survey was undertaken on 1 November 2013 which is sub-optimal, particularly for identifying spring and summer species.

The findings of those briefings and surveys inform sections 5.0 and 6.0 of this document. It was not considered appropriate to survey the remaining land within the site that remains undeveloped at the present time.

1.5. Structure of this Document

Sections 1.0 to 3.0 provide background material including the planning background, the nature of the site before development commenced, and an overview of the Masterplan for Elsea Park.

Section 4.0 addresses general management objectives to be borne in mind in relation to all areas of open space and considers general opportunities for enhancement across the development.

Section 5.0 covers the Meadows, the most significant area of open space associated with the development, although it is separated from the development by the A151 Raymond Mays Way.

Section 6.0 covers the other areas of open space that have been implemented to date, most but not all of which have been handed over to the Trust.

Section 7.0 contains skeleton material concerning other areas of open space within the Masterplan which are yet to be implemented.


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Section 8.0 contains programmes outlining the management requirements for all existing and proposed vegetation and habitat types across the development.


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2.0 The Site before Development

Ordnance Survey maps from before development show a series of fields with several electricity transmission lines and a public right of way crossing the site.

LDA Design’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) undertaken in 1998 (plus specific issues followed up in 1999 and 2000), showed the existing wildlife interest of the site to be limited, but that adjacent to the south is Math and Elsea Wood, a SSSI woodland of some sensitivity. Within the SSSI, Elsea Wood is comprised predominantly of ash Fraxinus excelsior with a diverse ground flora. Math Wood has pendunculate oak Quercus robur and ash standards with some coppiced hazel Corylus avellana and wild service tree Sorbus torminalis. Records show that both woods have good but not exceptional bird and invertebrate interest.

LDA Design’s surveys of the site and its immediate surroundings recorded that before development the site was agricultural land with mixed arable, semi-improved and improved grassland. Many of the fields had associated ditches and hedges, most of which were species-poor. Several waterbodies were found on the site, comprising ditches and ecologically poor ponds. An area of scrub and woodland known as Wherry’s Spinney outside the development site boundary, but surrounded by the site on three sides, was identified as being an area of wildlife interest, although it is also intensively used by local people for recreational purposes. Other small areas of woodland and specimen trees were found throughout the site.

LDA Design’s surveys identified a badger Meles meles sett within the site boundaries, some bird interest and ditches with some locally uncommon invertebrates. No nationally or locally important flora or fauna had been recorded on site in the past except for badgers. Off-site, however, and in close proximity, were two sites of national and local interest; the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Math and Elsea Wood and the County Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve Toft Tunnel.

General habitat features on site were specimen trees, groups of trees, hedges and dry and wet ditches and a pond.

Protected and notable fauna recorded were as follows:

A badger sett within the development site

Two further badger setts and an outlier in the wider survey area

Use of the site by a number of Birds of Conservation Concern

The presence of nationally notable aquatic invertebrates close to the site and aquatic invertebrates of local importance within two site drains.

Subsequent surveys by the Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) appointed by Allison Homes in the period prior to 2006 recorded the presence of water voles Arvicola terrestris in ditches adjacent to the site, the habitat of which is protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Daubenton’s bats Myotis daubentoni were also recorded in 2002 and 2005, foraging over the ponds. All bats and the places they use for shelter and protection are also legally protected.

A further ecological walkover survey was carried out by LDA Design on behalf of Allison Homes during July 2006 and established that the undeveloped portion of the site was still agricultural land composed of arable fields and semi-improved grassland, with areas of


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species-poor hedgerow, ditches and groups of trees. Although no subsequent ecological survey has been undertaken of the area still remaining undeveloped, there are no obvious indications that the condition of that area has changed significantly.


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3.0 The Masterplan

The Masterplan, as included in the DDB (see section 1.1 above), showed an illustrative layout incorporating the areas of open space described in sections 5.0 to 7.0 below, and was developed in discussion with South Kesteven District Council and English Nature officers. The current version of the Masterplan, which is substantially the same as the Masterplan included in the DDB, is included as Figure 1 at the back of this Management Plan.

The areas of open space implemented to date are shown on Figure 2 at the back of this document.

3.1. Objectives of the Masterplan

The overall aim of the Masterplan was to provide a new sector of Bourne that was informed by the principles of sustainable development insofar as this was practical given market constraints. An important principle of this was the proposal to form the Elsea Park Community Trust to enable involvement by residents in the shaping and future management of their community.

Key components of the Masterplan were:

A site of 131ha (325 acres) overall to accommodate around 2,000 dwellings.

Links to Bourne town centre and existing local/public rights of way.

Retention of the majority of existing features, including mature trees, hedges, a pond and ditches.

Incorporation of education, commercial employment and community uses.

Cycle, pedestrian and vehicle links, as part of a Green Transport Strategy for the development.

A network of green corridors and public open spaces, each with a clearly defined character and objectives, including provision for sports pitches, children’s play and nature conservation areas.

The South West Relief Road (SWRR), which wraps around the outer edge of the built development and is now known as the A151 Raymond Mays Way. This road provides a clear long-term boundary to the expansion of Bourne and planting associated with the road provides screening of the development in views from the countryside. All vehicular access to the development is from this road.

Integration into the wider countryside setting.

Incorporation of mitigation measures to protect and enhance existing wildlife and ecology within the development and the protection of Math and Elsea Wood SSSI.

The area between the SWRR and the SSSI managed primarily for biodiversity, to serve as a buffer zone protecting the ecological value of the SSSI. This area is known as Elsea Park Meadows.

The network of open spaces within the development area, together with the Meadows, were intended from the outset to be the key element giving Elsea Park its identity and sense of place. Variations in the character of the open spaces and principal landscape features were


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intended to create a richness and diversity, creating distinctive areas within the development and adding real value to residents’ lives. A key theme of this Management Plan is to seek to ensure that this is achieved.

3.2. Progress to Date

Development commenced at the south-east corner of the site and has extended eastwards and northwards, with around 40% of the development complete at the end of 2013. The layout of the development to date has followed the Masterplan very faithfully, with streets largely aligned as indicated on the Masterplan and open spaces delivered where indicated on the Masterplan. However, the detailed design and implementation of some of the open spaces has not fully delivered the character and qualities intended. In some locations, particularly along the Linear Park, infrastructure constraints will be an ongoing issue, but in other areas appropriate ongoing management and maintenance will enable the Masterplan objectives to be delivered over the longer term.

Changes over time are also a consideration. It is not possible in an outline planning application for a Masterplan to anticipate all the circumstances that will prevail ten or twenty years in the future when the development is implemented. Similarly, the experience of residents living on the development brings a different perspective and may raise valid concerns and aspirations which should rightly be taken on board. It is therefore necessary to review the original Masterplan intentions in the light of current circumstances and the views of residents as expressed to the Trust, and these are reflected in the recommendations in this Management Plan.

3.3. Changes Deemed Necessary to Proposals in the 2000 Management Plans

The 2000 Ecological Management Plans made recommendations as to various works that should be undertaken in order to mitigate the effects of the development on wildlife or to provide new habitat to offset the effects of development. In the light of experience as construction of the development has proceeded, a number of changes have been made to these recommended works.

Deer fence between Math and Elsea Wood and the Meadows:

This has not been erected as, in the view of Allison Homes’ Ecological Clerk of Works, it would channel deer onto the A15, increasing the possibility of traffic accidents and encouraging deer to crop graze on adjacent farmland. English Nature agreed to the omission of the fence, provided individual trees were protected within the zone of regenerating woodland along the south edge of the Meadows.

Grazing deer on the Meadows now form an attractive feature and, in the absence of the fence, badgers have access to forage within Elsea and Math Wood.

Badgers:

The design of the badger tunnels under the SWRR has had to be modified on Health and Safety grounds due to concern that children might climb into them.

Due to an expanding badger population, additional foraging areas have been developed, a new badger sett was constructed and a pump was installed to prevent flooding of the


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badger tunnel between the Meadows and Setts Green, all in agreement with English Nature. Issues still remain with the badger tunnel’s drainage system (see section 6.0).

Wildlife Ponds in the Meadows:

The design of the weirs to retain water in the ponds had to be changed and the bottom of the ponds was deepened to the water table to ensure permanent water is retained in the ponds.

Ditches:

Deepening of existing dry ditches to introduce water dampness has not always been carried out due to safety reasons or practical concerns within housing areas.

Hay Meadow:

The Hay Meadow in the Meadows has been divided into two halves: one part wildflower meadow and the other half pasture (the latter to increase badger foraging area).

Access to the Meadows:

Public access to the Meadows was not originally planned but permissive paths were established in response to requests from residents. Grass paths are cut regularly and two seats and a hide were established, all in agreement with English Nature.


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4.0 Management Objectives and Opportunities

4.1. Introduction

The overall aim of the Masterplan as expressed in the DDB is to provide a ‘good place to live’ which is distinctive and characterful. The DDB also set out important biodiversity and conservation aims and a range of more general sustainability principles. The DDB formed part of the planning application and is referred to in the Outline Planning Permission. The development must therefore be designed, constructed and managed in accordance with the principles set out in the DDB.

Reflecting the principles established in the DDB, the landscape and open space areas at Elsea Park must therefore balance landscape, ecological, recreation and amenity functions to provide a vibrant and successful ‘green infrastructure’ for the development. These four functions and their key purposes are set out below.

4.2. Key Purposes

4.2.1. Landscape

To create a green environment.

To contribute to the creation of a development of richness and character with a strong sense of place.

To integrate the development within the wider landscape and mitigate the effects of the development on views from the rural landscape.

To create shelter and enclosure through the planting of masses, lines or groups of trees and shrubs.

To provide a range of varied and interesting open spaces with clear and distinctive identity, contained within a structure of architecture and planting.

To filter noise and pollution.

4.2.2. Ecology

To protect Math and Elsea Woods SSSI.

To retain, protect and enhance existing semi-natural habitats, in particular:

- Willow Pond (an existing pond associated with farm buildings in the western part of the site, which has not been developed to date).

- Existing hedgerows.

- Hay meadows and other features in the Meadows.

- Setts Green.

- Wherry’s Spinney (although this woodland is outside the development site boundary, work on the adjacent areas of the site may have significant effects on the ecology within the Spinney).


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To protect and enhance rare or legally protected species and their habitats.

To create new habitats to complement natural areas and to provide biodiversity gain.

To encourage appropriate wildlife into the built areas of the development to enrich the environment and provide interest for residents.

To provide opportunities for organised or informal nature walks and other nature-based activities such as bird watching.

4.2.3. Recreation

To fulfil planning requirements as to open space provision.

To provide playing fields for formal sports activities.

To provide a range of formal and informal play opportunities for children of all ages.

To provide a series of linked spaces and attractive footpath and cycle routes to allow residents to move easily between different parts of the development and beyond the development, without the need for car usage, and for activities such as dog walking.

To provide attractive spaces for active and passive recreation activities such as walking, picnicking, kite flying or sitting and enjoying the environment.

To provide spaces for communal use such as fetes and festivals.

4.2.4. Amenity

To create an attractive landscape and open space setting for the development.

To provide a pleasant outdoor environment for residents and visitors to live in and move through.

To provide attractive and interesting views from houses overlooking open space or landscape features.

To provide opportunities for residents to have contact with nature and wildlife in their daily lives.

These four functions must be fully provided for throughout the development as a whole. However, in specific locations one or more functions will need to be given priority over others. For example, on the playing fields the needs for recreation will be the overriding priority although, particularly around the edges of the space, there will also be scope to provide for wildlife and other functions. On the other hand, the priority within the Meadows must always be to increase biodiversity and to manage the land with an emphasis on nature conservation, but the attractive landscape within the Meadows also performs landscape and amenity functions and there are opportunities to make recreational use of the Meadows in an appropriate way that does not conflict with the ecological objectives.

Action Plans for each of the open space areas within the site are contained in sections 5.0 to 7.0 of this document, and set out the priorities and balance to be struck in each area between the various functions. The various vegetation and habitat types within each area are identified in the Action Plans in sections 5.0 – 7.0 of this Management Plan, and the


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management regimes to be applied to each of the vegetation and habitat types are set out in the Management Programmes contained in section 8.0.

4.3. General Management Objectives

Whilst the specific management objectives for individual areas of the site are set out in sections 5.0 to 7.0 of this Management Plan, as described above, there are a number of general management objectives which apply to all areas across the site. These are set out below.

4.3.1. Masterplan Objective

To manage all landscape and open space areas creatively and actively, to ensure that the principles of the Masterplan (as modified, where appropriate, by the aspirations of residents and by any changes in circumstances) are achieved.

4.3.2. Construction Objectives

In conjunction with Kier and the parcel developers, to assess each development parcel prior to commencement of construction works on site and to take appropriate measures to ensure that features identified for retention are protected throughout the construction period. Measures for the protection of trees are set out in BS 5837:2012.

To encourage Kier and the parcel developers to achieve high quality landscape implementation and maintenance works, resulting in early and successful establishment of planting and the need for minimal remedial and replacement works.

To encourage Kier and the parcel developers to adopt the names for roads, streets and character areas as shown on the Masterplan.

4.3.3. Objectives for Residents

To provide information for residents through newsletters, the Trust website and other means to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the landscape and wildlife at Elsea Park.

To secure residents’ respect and understanding for newly executed landscape works so as to minimise damage and thus the need for remedial works.

4.3.4. Landscape Objectives

To maintain all trees, existing and new, in a healthy and safe condition by regular inspection and management by arboricultural specialists.

To screen Raymond Mays Way as far as possible and develop its planting and verges into corridors of nature conservation value, adding to the wooded character of the area in general.

To create a rich mosaic of diverse grasslands, woodland belts and hedgerows within the development, including open glades, copses, specimen trees and lines of trees, ponds and ditches, all to provide visual variety and interest and increase biodiversity.

To maintain amenity grasslands to the standard required to fulfil their purpose as general recreational spaces or as playing fields – they should appear ‘cared for’.


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To maintain ditches and ponds in a clean and healthy condition to encourage a wide range of marginal aquatic and freshwater species and enhance amenity for residents.

To maintain the open space within the development so as to achieve the original design concepts, as modified within this Management Plan. Refer to Actions Plans in sections 5.0 to 7.0 for details of individual areas.

To maintain footpaths, stiles, bridges, fences and other structures, including play equipment, in a safe and functional condition.

To maintain all public areas in a safe and clean condition by regular removal of litter and other debris, including measures to minimise dog fouling.

4.3.5. Objectives for Protected Species

Badgers

Retain a healthy badger population on the development site.

Bats

Retain and increase bat roosting sites within trees.

Water vole

Protect and enhance existing habitat for water voles

Provide new habitat for water voles

Nesting birds

Provide feeding and nesting habitat for target species in particular: kestrel Falco tinnunculus, sky lark Alauda arvensis, starling Sturnus vulgaris, tree sparrow Passer montanus, goldfinch Carduelis carduelis, linnet Carduelis cannabina and reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus.

Amphibians

Retain and enhance existing breeding habitat for amphibians.

Create new breeding opportunities for future colonisation by amphibians.

Aquatic invertebrates

Retain and enhance existing water bodies and water courses for notable species

Create new water bodies and water courses suitable for colonisation by aquatic invertebrates.

Terrestrial invertebrates

Create a mosaic of habitats (formal and semi-natural) to maximise invertebrate diversity.

Deer

Retain and control deer to reduce/avoid the risk of traffic collision and to protect key ecological assets; in particular existing woodland and new planting.


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4.4. Site-Wide Opportunities for Enhancement

A number of opportunities have been identified to enhance the value, understanding and enjoyment of open space areas throughout Elsea Park:

Improved website with map and events page.

Noticeboards with magnetic map and Post-Its, within The Centre and potentially local schools to enable people to note sightings / any issues.

Provide name signs on open spaces within the development, using the names shown on the Masterplan and used in this document.

Provide bat and bird box advice to residents, possibly through workshops to make bird boxes or through discounted supply. Boxes should be targeted for urban species such as house sparrows, starlings and common garden birds

Interpretation on the Meadows and on the site could be greatly improved through use of sensory boards or information boards (see http://www.dabgraphics.co.uk/sensory-signs.htm). Noticeboards could give information on, for example, wildflower plants that might be seen and management being undertaken (e.g. why is the hedge 2 m high?).

Wildlife camera screen in The Centre – a wildlife trail camera (with night vision) could be moved around the site to maintain interest – e.g. at the badger tunnel, Setts Green, on the Meadows, at the ponds.

Opportunities for more benches and for it to be made clear that picnics/sitting out are allowed on public green spaces within the development

Co-ordination with local wildlife groups and recording groups to start a programme of events in the summer months such as bat walks, plant surveys, bird watching, moth survey, guided tour of the Meadows explaining their interest and the management regime. In the first instance this could be pulled together to create a week of activities in the summer promoting the site to residents and enthusing residents about the wildlife on their site.

Results of monitoring surveys for wildlife on site (either by local groups or commissioned by the Trust) could be used to provide more detailed information on the site’s wildlife for interpretation and notice boards.

Flowering plants and shrubs in amenity and ornamental planting should include species which have simple flowers which are of value to invertebrates such as bees and butterflies. They should also be allowed to set seed where possible as seeds provide a valuable food source to birds such as house sparrows throughout the winter. Such plants need not be native but non-native plants should be carefully selected, ideally with the involvement of an ecologist.

Shrubs in amenity and ornamental planting should include those that fruit. These should be managed in such a way as to allow fruit to set and ripen. Fruit bearing shrubs should not be cut back until either the fruit has gone or late winter in order that it can provide a resource for wintering birds. Such plants need not be native but non-native plants should be carefully selected, ideally with the involvement of an ecologist.




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5.0 The Meadows

The Meadows, lying between the A151 Raymond Mays Way and Math and Elsea Wood SSSI, are a key element of the Masterplan and of the ecological mitigation requirements for the development, serving as a buffer zone to protect the ecology of the Woods. They have been carefully managed during the lifetime of the development, enabling habitats to develop, and the Meadows have become a very attractive feature that is highly valued by residents. Although there are no formal access rights, access is freely available from the Meadows to Math and Elsea Woods, so that the Meadows and Woods combine to provide an attractive and varied recreational resource.

The Meadows are divided into four component areas, for which Action Plans appear on the following pages.

5.1. Access to the Meadows

A key issue in relation to the Meadows is that access from the development to the Meadows is extremely poor. This may reflect the fact that access was not originally intended to be available to the Meadows but, given the importance of the Meadows as a recreational resource and the potential to enhance this further, the poor access arrangements are a major constraint which the Trust should seek to address as a high priority.

The current access to the Meadows is from the verge on the south side of Raymond Mays Way, opposite Water Lane. In the past there was an informal access from Water Lane to the verge on the north side of Raymond Mays Way, opposite the entrance to the Meadows, but this access is no longer available and it is understood that highways issues prevent its reinstatement. The two access points from the development to Raymond Mays Way are therefore at roundabout 1 and roundabout 2 (see figure 2 for numbering of roundabouts), from where the only way into the Meadows is to walk along the verge alongside Raymond Mays Way, which is neither pleasant nor particularly safe. It is therefore recommended that the Trust explore two options, with the objective being to secure both if reasonably possible:

Access into the north-east corner of the Meadows from the road verge, with a safe crossing point across Raymond Mays Way to the verge on the north side from where access to the development can be achieved via Tilia Way.

Access from the south side of Raymond Mays Way adjacent to roundabout 2. An existing public footpath crosses the road immediately west of the roundabout. The ideal solution would be if the Trust could acquire ownership of the small triangular field between roundabout 2 and the Meadows at a reasonable price. This would enable direct access into the western end of the Meadows and would enable the Meadows to be extended into this triangular field, providing additional recreation and biodiversity enhancement opportunities.

Meadows: Hay Meadow

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Location :

Main field comprising the eastern half of the Meadows.

Existing Functions :

Primary function: • Biodiversity enhancement. Secondary functions: • Visual amenity. • Footpath route across the field.

Design Intent :

Naturalistic character of a traditional hay meadow.

Existing Ecology : Current management: Hay cut annually at the end of July and arisings removed (baled and taken by farmer) followed by aftermath grazing by cattle for a few weeks. The meadow is then chain harrowed every October. No fertilizer is applied. Current Condition: Although the survey was carried out at a suboptimal time of year to survey hay meadows, species evident indicated that the meadow is not as diverse as would be expected given that it was sown with a species-rich meadow mix. Species present included perennial rye-grass, meadow foxtail Alopecurus pratensis, Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus, common knapweed Centaurea nigra, ribwort plantain

Meadows: Hay Meadow

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Plantago lanceolata, sheep’s sorrel Rumex acetosella, bulbous buttercup Ranunculus bulbosus, oxeye daisy Leucanthemum vulgare, yellow rattle, cowslip Primula veris, white clover, red clover Trifolium pratense, fairy flax Linum catharticum, lesser trefoil Trifolium dubium and common ragwort Senecio jacobaea. Perennial rye-grass is frequent in the sward, likely to be out-competing other less aggressive herbs and grasses. The management regime currently employed is optimal. As such the poor diversity is most likely a result of poor quality seed mix used originally, or high nutrient status of the soils on which it was sown. Ragwort is also frequent in the sward.

Issues :

Ragwort (see below).

Potential Functions : • As existing.

Potential Enhancements : The current management regime should be continued. A summer botanical survey should be undertaken in 2014 to gain detailed information in the species composition of the grassland and identify any particularly species-poor areas. This would be used to inform the need/benefit of re-seeding any areas with additional yellow rattle / species rich mix in autumn 2014 following harrowing. Ragwort presents a risk to cattle grazing the sward and whilst it is of benefit to invertebrates, such as burnet moths, it should be permitted to grow only in areas from which cattle are excluded (of which there are many). Ragwort within the area which is grazed by cattle should be discouraged.

Features present : (refer to Management Programmes in Section 8.0)

T1 – Trees – retained existing

T2 – Trees – specimen in streets

T3 - Trees – specimen in General Public Open Space

T4 – Trees – saplings

T5 – Trees – pollarded

SP – Structure Planting

H1 – Hedges – retained existing

H2 – Hedges – new native

H3 – Hedges – new ornamental

S1 – Shrub Planting – native

Meadows: Hay Meadow

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S2 – Shrub Planting – ornamental

HP – Herbaceous Planting

G1 – Grasslands – species rich grazed

G2 – Grasslands – species rich hay meadow

G3 – Grasslands – species rich verges/margins

G4 – Grasslands – amenity within Structural Open Space

G5 – Grasslands – amenity within Public Open Space in Housing

G6 – Grasslands – sports turf

G7 – Grasslands – mown footpaths

PDD – Ponds, Ditches and Drainage Systems

Meadows: Pasture

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Location :

Main field comprising the western half of the Meadows.


Primary function: • Biodiversity enhancement. Secondary functions: • Visual amenity. • No public access.

Design Intent :

Traditional pasture with low-intensity grazing.

Existing Ecology : Current management: Cattle (up to 15) graze the field from 31st March to 1st October each year. No enrichment of the ground (except by dunging) takes place. This land is not under Environmental Stewardship. Current Condition: Although only a small number of cattle graze this field, the field is overgrazed given the small area, and the sward is dominated by grasses with few herbs present. A barn owl box (defunct), tawny owl Strix aluco box (damaged) and a kestrel Falco tinnunculus box are all present on mature trees on the field boundaries.

Meadows: Pasture

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It is understood that, whilst these boxes were used in the past, they have not been used recently. This could be a result of their condition, the hard recent winter or the change in land use and reduction in foraging habitat available as a result of the Elsea Park development. The pasture in its present condition does not offer any suitable habitat for small mammals.

Issues :

Over-grazing (see below).

Potential Functions : • As existing.

Potential Enhancements : This field could be managed to encourage a higher diversity of wildflowers in conjunction with a sensitive grazing regime. This could involve targeting spring wildflowers or summer wildflowers. Depending on the desired outcome, plug planting of some wildflowers may be desirable. If practical the field should only be subject to light grazing pressure. Light grazing is taken to be 0.4-1 livestock units per hectare (Flora Locale, 2009). The pasture is two hectares so this would correspond to 2 two year old + cows or five young cows (under a year) or 3 cows of one-two years in age. To target spring flowers, grazing should not take place between April and May with only light grazing in February to March (if the site is not waterlogged) and over the summer months. To target summer wildflowers, it should only be lightly grazed between April – September. Resting the pasture for some periods during the summer would be beneficial. The barn owl and tawny owl boxes should be replaced. It may be desirable to install boxes with integral web cameras for monitoring and to allow residents to see the wildlife that shares their Meadows. Habitat for small mammals could be improved by creating a stock-free 3 m – 5 m perimeter buffer to the field. This could be prepared for seeding and seeded with a tussocky grass seed mix. A footpath could pass through this area. This would also benefit other wildlife such as invertebrates and amphibians.





Meadows: Pasture

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Meadows: Woodland Edge

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Location :

Southern edge of the Meadows adjacent to Math and Elsea Woods SSSI.


Primary function: • Biodiversity - buffer strip to provide a graduated, wildlife-friendly

edge to the Woods. Secondary functions: • Quiet recreation – informal footpath route. • Picnic table at western end.

Design Intent :

Informal, naturalistic, open woodland edge with considerable variation in vegetation cover and structure.

Existing Ecology : Current management: Scrub edge along woodland is left unmanaged with the exception of ash saplings, the majority of which are cut to approximately 0.5 m annually. Current Condition: This edge is generally in good condition and provides good habitat for small mammals. The area is being allowed to regenerate as woodland (naturally encroaching from the adjacent SSSI woodland), however at present this is resulting in scrub almost entirely


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dominated by ash. The grassland is fairly tussocky beneath the scrub and there are patches of brambles Rubus fruticosus which are fruiting. The current management regime is allowing some ash trees to continue to grow to maturity. It is also permitting (and favouring) growth of other species such as elder where they have managed to establish.

Issues :

Management of ash seedlings (see below).

Potential Functions : • Increased use for quiet recreation. • Increased interpretation of biodiversity and wildlife. • Public art.

Potential Enhancements : The continual recurrence of ash seedlings is likely to remain an

ongoing issue until trees in this strip start to mature and shade them out. In the meantime therefore, it is beneficial to continue management of a proportion of the ash trees to allow a diverse range of tree and shrub species to establish. The control of ash seedlings should include a cut to ground level and then treatment of the stumps with a stump killer applied according to manufacturers instructions. With the owner’s consent, seeds and nuts from tree and shrub species within the Math and Elsea Woods SSSI could be germinated and grown on (either by the groundsman, or as part of a community engagement project). In due course these could then be planted within the scrub area with tree guards) to encourage a diverse range of species to establish. Alternatively, they could be planted in-situ, providing the area immediately surrounding each seedling can be maintained weed free and protected from grazing until the seedlings are less vulnerable. Bramble should be permitted to grow on the margins as its flowers and fruits are of value to a range of wildlife over a long period. However it should be cut back in places to create grassy glades approximately 3 m wide in which a tussocky sward is allowed to develop/remain. Up to five habitat piles could be constructed in this area on the edge of patches of bramble and scrub. Quiet places to sit may be provided; there are opportunities to provide benches along this edge. The existing bird feeding station area could be made into a more significant feature through use of traditional woven hurdles, more feeders, benches, an interpretation board and a sightings notice


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board.






















Meadows: Ponds

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Location :

North side of Meadows, adjacent to Raymond Mays Way.


Primary function: • Surface water drainage. Secondary functions: • Biodiversity. • Visual amenity.

Design Intent :

Series of naturalistic ponds linked by a watercourse and stepping down in level with small weirs.

Existing Ecology : Current management: Ponds dredged as necessary. Current Condition: The ponds are generally in good condition and were dredged in 2010. A good range of native species are present. The eastern pond dries out annually. Scattered scrub comprises a wide range of native species which are fruiting well (species include guilder-rose Viburnum opulus, blackthorn, field maple Acer campestre, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, ash Fraxinus excelsior and hazel Corylus avellana).

Meadows: Ponds

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Grassland is developing into a tussocky sward and appears to be dominated by cock’s-foot Dactylis glomerata and Yorkshire fog. It is dominated by grasses and few herbs are present. Given its tussocky nature, this grassland provides good habitat for small mammals.

Issues :

None.

Potential Functions : • Opportunity for increase in quiet recreation.

Potential Enhancements : The current management regime should be continued. Up to 5 habitat piles for amphibians and reptiles could be constructed in this area, ideally away from paths and areas easily accessible to the public. Quiet places to sit may be provided; there are opportunities to provide benches along this edge.



















Meadows: Ponds

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6.0 Other Open Space Areas

This section contains Actions Plans for all open space areas that have been implemented to date, with the exception of the Meadows which are covered in section 5.0. The majority of the areas in this section are in the ownership of the Trust as at December 2013 but the section also includes some areas that have been implemented but not yet handed over to the Trust, as well as an Action Plan for three small areas of land adjoining Linear Park which are believed to be in private ownership but which could benefit from management and maintenance by the Trust.

The following areas are included in this section:

Arena Park

Cooke’s Field

The Gables

Heartsease Way Link

Hedgerow along A15 and Associated Public Open Space

Leytonstone Lane Green

Linear Park

Little Garth

Local Equipped Areas of Play (LEAPs)

The Pollards

Raymond Mays Way

Setts Green

Springbank Drive Open Space

Tilia Way

Wake Ponds

Additional Areas in Private Ownership

Arena Park

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Location :

Midway along Linear Park.


Primary functions: • Informal park forming part of the linear open space corridor,

providing connection between South Road to the east and The Centre to the west.

• Surface water attenuation area. • Accommodate overhead power lines. Secondary functions: • Habitat creation within the pond and wetland area.

Design Intent :

Informal open space with groups of specimen trees set in species rich grassland, balancing pond and associated structural and wetland planting. Strong wooded boundary against existing housing.

Existing Ecology : Current management: Grass banks are maintained to a short sward. No management of the wet basin occurs. Current Condition: The low lying depression/balancing pond retains shallow water for most of the year. Very few rushes are present. The banks comprise amenity grassland with frequent bristly oxtongue.

Arena Park

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Issues :

The open space lies between the 32m wide gas easement running east-west across the site and an overhead power line, which cover approx. 40% of the area. These two have a significant impact on the landscape proposals within the easement strips and result in the majority of planting being focused along the boundary with residential properties and along the ditch and the pond, outside the easement corridors. Lack of visually significant structural planting to the north and north-western edge of the open space, defining the space and forming a visible boundary.

Potential Functions : • An attractive open space with ornamental planting where easements allow and swathes of seasonal bulb planting throughout.

• A landscaped pond attracting wildlife and providing a visual focal point.

• Scope to accommodate artwork. • Scope for interpretation of planting and wildlife, particularly in

attenuation pond.

Potential Enhancements : In order to achieve the planned character, additional native and semi-native planting needs to be carried out to enhance the boundary vegetation, particularly on the boundary to existing housing on Tennyson Drive/Betjeman Close. Additional large stock tree and understorey planting in groups located within the grassed area to the north and north-west would provide structure and enhance biodiversity. This area presents an ideal opportunity for a spring bulb meadow. These would provide an early nectar source for invertebrates in the spring. Whilst daffodils Narcissus pseudonarcissus, crocus Colchicum species and others, simple tulips Tulipa sp. and snow drops Galanthus species are all likely to do reasonably well, given the clay soils and wet conditions in spring and autumn Snake’s-head fritillary may do particularly well and would look very attractive. Bulbs could be planted in single species, swathes or mixtures. Options to provide colour throughout the summer would be to cultivate narrow strips (possibly sinuous or along path edges) and sow with an annual flower mix, alternatively a wildflower turf could be used in swathes (e.g. http://www.wildflowerturf.co.uk/wildflower-landscape-turf1). Additional paths linking the residential plots and the main path through the Linear Park would make this area more accessible and usable. Additional benches with views towards the pond would provide an opportunity for respite. The attenuation area could be beautiful but at present it is not fulfilling its potential. There are opportunities to improve both the

http://www.wildflowerturf.co.uk/wildflower-landscape-turf1


Arena Park

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area intended to hold water and the bankside vegetation. • Sow or plug plant edges of wet area with native flowering plants

that will tolerate periodic flooding and standing shallow water. Suitable species may include false fox-sedge Carex otrubae, purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria, water mint Mentha aquatica, wild angelica Angelica sylvestris and common valerian Valeriana officinalis.

• Plan to have approximately half of the banks maintained as meadow grassland and half as mown grassland for amenity use. This could be either a simple split across the banks or could be interspaced strips / areas. Prepare areas to be maintained as wildflower meadow for reseeding and turf with a wildflower turf. Wildflower turves aid establishment and help suppress weeds but will still need care to ensure they establish. E.g. http://www.wildflowerturf.co.uk/wildflower-landscape-turf.



















Cooke’s Field

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Location :

South of The Centre.

Existing Functions : Primary functions: • Central community space within the development. • Surface water attenuation area. • Accommodate gas main easement. Secondary functions: • A focal area terminating views from the site access along The

Gables and along The Pollards and Linear Park, therefore of high visual value and importance.

• Equipped play areas for older and younger children. • Accommodate footpath/cycle link along Linear Park. • Heavy use from ball games, pedestrian ‘through traffic’ and

attraction of play area. • A biodiverse area creating opportunities for wildlife habitats.

Design Intent :

Informal open space with occasional specimen trees, balancing pond and associated structural and wetland planting. The pond was intended to be fed by the water run-off from the adjacent future development to the north-west.

Cooke’s Field

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Existing Ecology:

Current management: Grass banks are maintained to a short sward. Current Condition: This low lying depression/balancing pond does not retain water for most of the year and receives little discharge from development areas yet to be built. There is no aquatic vegetation.

Issues : The space currently fails to provide the visual amenity required at this important location. The pond is generally dry as there is little water supply – it was built to take overflows resulting from any extreme storm events and to help absorb the effects of climate change (resulting in more extreme weather) for the entire development. The water supply will increase as new development areas to the west are constructed.

Potential Functions : • A high quality, attractive space functioning as a more formal park at the heart of the site and the end of key vistas.

• A get-together community space outside The Centre with an attractive play area.

• An attractive open space with ornamental planting where easement allows and swathes of seasonal bulb planting throughout.

• A landscaped balancing pond attracting wildlife and providing a visual focal point.


attenuation pond.

Potential Enhancements : • Additional benches with views both towards the pond as well as towards the play area allowing natural surveillance.

• In the attenuation area, create a diverse planting of wide ecological spectrum able to thrive in fluctuating water conditions.

• Additional tree and shrub planting to define the space, enhance biodiversity, provide structure and enhance visual amenity.

• Additional ornamental planting around the pond to help emphasise the key visual role of this area and form an ornamental garden with an opportunity for artwork.

This area presents an ideal opportunity for a spring bulb meadow. These would provide an early nectar source for invertebrates in the spring. Whilst daffodils Narcissus pseudonarcissus, crocus Colchicum species and others, simple tulips Tulipa sp. and snow drops Galanthus species are all likely to do reasonably well, given the clay soils and wet conditions in spring and autumn Snake’s-head fritillary may do particularly well and would look very attractive. Bulbs could be planted in single species, swathes or mixtures.

Cooke’s Field

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Options to provide colour throughout the summer would be to cultivate narrow strips (possibly sinuous or along path edges) and sow with an annual flower mix, alternatively a wildflower turf could be used in swathes (e.g. http://www.wildflowerturf.co.uk/wildflower-landscape-turf1).





















The Gables

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Location : Extending north from Roundabout 2 on Raymond Mays Way towards The Centre.

Existing Functions : Primary function: • One of the main accesses to the site, accommodating pedestrian,

cycle and motorised traffic. Secondary function: • An attractive and inviting green street, creating a positive first

impression on arrival at the site.

Design Intent :

Informal avenue with large trees set in wide species-rich grass verges.

Existing Ecology :

N/A

Issues : • Unmaintained, unattractive road verges and limited tree planting is small sizes fail to create the appropriate quality.

• The roundabout at the north end of The Gables is an unattractive feature on a key vista towards Cooke’s Field and The Centre.

Potential Functions : As existing.

The Gables

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Potential Enhancements : • Replacement of the tarmac infill within the roundabout at the north end of the street with ornamental planting would enhance the vista and soften the character of the road.

• Plant additional trees in verges, of larger size than existing. Features present : (refer to Management Programmes in Section 8.0)


















Heartsease Way Link

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Location :

East edge of the development.


Primary function: • Informal park created around an underground pumping station. Secondary function: • A pedestrian link between Heartsease Way and the open space

along the A15. • Moderate use from dog walking, a common area for incidental

play for local children.

Design Intent :

Informal open space with large groups of structural shrub planting set in amenity grassland to screen the pumping station.

Existing Ecology :

N/A

Issues : Open space lacking definition.

Potential Functions : • Local space for quiet recreation for neighbouring residents.

Potential Enhancements :

Structural trees would define the space and break up this otherwise wide and flat area. Additional tree planting extending into the open space to the A15 would create a visual link and connect this space

Heartsease Way Link

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into the A15 corridor.




















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Location :

Eastern boundary of development site along A15.

Existing Functions : Primary functions: • Forms buffer between residential area and A15. Secondary function: • A footpath and cycle link connecting the open spaces to the south

and north. • A common destination for dog walking. • Hedge is of value for birds.

Design Intent :

Linear village street with housing overlooking open space.

Existing Ecology:

Current Management: This hedge is cut annually in January after fieldfares Turdus pilaris have stripped the berries. It is maintained to a height of ca. 2 m. The hedge has been cut by hand in previous years which has allowed some of that year’s growth to remain and fruit the following year. In the most recent year it was machine flailed which could explain the lack of fruit this year. Current Condition: The hedge has in previous years been a notable resource for wildlife. In December/January 2011 a large flock of waxwings Bombycilla


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garrulus (a rare visitor to the UK) fed from berries in this hedge attracting many bird watchers to the area. It also provided a valuable resource for other winter migrants such as fieldfares.

Issues : Open space and adjacent residential road lacking definition.


Potential Enhancements : • Additional tree planting to define road, frame views and provide structure and screening where necessary.

• The hedge should return to its previous management prescription i.e. to be cut by hand in late winter in order to restore its value to wildlife.




















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Location :

South-eastern area of development site, off Leytonstone Lane.

Existing Functions : Primary function: • A small area of local amenity space.

Design Intent :

A small informal greenspace to provide interest within the residential street.

Existing Ecology:

N/A

Issues : Lacks a clear identity, character and design and therefore fails to fulfil its intended purpose. Edges of grass damaged by vehicle overrun due to narrow width of surrounding shared drives.


Potential Enhancements : Provision of cobbled overrun area for car parking where particular wear occurs. The re-design to be done in consultation with the local residents and options to be developed.



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Linear Park

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Location :

Extends through the eastern part of the development between The Centre and the A15.


Primary function: • Informal park forming a linear open space corridor, providing

connection between South Road to the east and The Centre to the west.

Secondary function: • Incorporates cycle/footpath link. • Walking, cycling and ‘kickabout’. • Accommodates easements for gas main and overhead power lines.

Design Intent :

Semi-natural with hedgerow and ditch on northern edge.

Existing Ecology:

Current management: Regularly mown. Current Condition: Amenity grassland with abundant bristly oxtongue Picris echioides. This area was originally intended to be species rich grassland which failed.

Ditches:

Linear Park

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Current Management: Ditches are mown/flailed annually in the autumn as required. Current Condition : Within Elsea Park most of the wet ditches lack established vegetation (aside from grass) either as planting has failed or was not provided initially. Some wildlife (e.g. small mammals and birds) are likely to be deterred as there is no cover from domestic cats. Water voles Arvicola amphibius have historically been found in ditches along edge of Raymond Mays Way and within the Site (especially in winter months when water levels are higher). Though no surveys have been undertaken in recent years.

Issues : The open space lies within the 32m wide gas easement running east-west across the site as well as an overhead power line. These two have a significant impact on the landscape proposal within the easements and result in the majority of planting being focused along the boundary with residential properties and along the ditch, outside the easement strips. As a result, the park appears bleak and lacks structure. Some new tree planting has not established.

Potential Functions : • An attractive open space with ornamental planting where easements allow and swathes of seasonal bulb planting throughout.

• A landscaped pond attracting wildlife and providing a visual focal point.


attenuation pond.


Replacement of failing trees. Additional planting to be provided to the southern edge of the open space, softening the road kerb and providing all year round interest. Areas have also been identified on the development side of the southern boundary road to the park (Cowslip Crescent and Bluebell Way – see Additional Areas in Private Ownership at the end of this section) which have potential to provide additional visual interest, soften the edge of development and link it with the open space and enhance views afforded from the footpath within the Stray. This area presents an ideal opportunity for a spring bulb meadow. These would provide an early nectar source for invertebrates in the spring. Whilst daffodils Narcissus pseudonarcissus, crocus Colchicum species and others, simple tulips Tulipa sp. and snow drops Galanthus species are all likely to do reasonably well, given the clay soils and wet conditions in spring and autumn Snake’s-head fritillary may do particularly well and would look very attractive.

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Bulbs could be planted in single species, swathes or mixtures. Options to provide colour throughout the summer would be to cultivate narrow strips (possibly sinuous or along path edges) and sow with an annual flower mix, alternatively a wildflower turf could be used in swathes (e.g. http://www.wildflowerturf.co.uk/wildflower-landscape-turf1). Ditches could be turfed using an appropriate wildflower turf (e.g. http://www.tillersturf.co.uk/wildflower-turf-for-suds1) – this would aid establishment. Careful aftercare would be needed and establishment and management instructions should be followed from the supplier to maximise chances of success. Whilst this is more expensive than seeding (which could be undertaken), given the variable flow rates and apparent failure of establishment of original seeding, turfing may improve the rates of establishment. Given these areas are also already overlooked by houses, turfing would also provide improved visual amenity much more quickly. If established this would greatly improve the biodiversity (as well as visual amenity) value of the ditches.




















Linear Park

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Little Garth

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Location :

West of the southern end of Wherry’s Spinney.


Primary function: • Local amenity greenspace. Secondary function: • An open space ending the vista from Wherry’s Spinney.

Design Intent :

Informal open space with ornamental planting, backed by substantial retained hedgerow with trees.

Existing Ecology:

Current Management: This is an area maintained for its ornamental amenity value. There is a central area of amenity grassland around which are a number of low maintenance borders. Current Condition: This area is of fairly limited value to wildlife although some of the plants and shrubs present in the borders are of value to invertebrates for their nectar.

Issues : The lawn is poorly drained and is prone to becoming waterlogged after rain.

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Potential Functions :

• An attractive space for quiet recreation.

Potential Enhancements : The David Wilson showhome adjacent to this area has a front garden area planted with plants to attract bees and butterflies. Suitable plants would include hebe Hebe sp., ice plant Sedum spectabile, lavender Lavundula sp., broom Cytisus scoparius etc. Such plants should be encouraged in all areas of amenity planting on the site and in private gardens. Management should allow plants to set seed and shrubs to fruit. Many plants have attractive berries and seed heads which are also an important food resource for birds during the winter months.



















Local Equipped Areas of Play

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Location :

Various, within residential areas.

Existing Functions : Primary function: • Local Equipped Area of Play (LEAP) • Heavy use for play and as meeting place.

Design Intent :

Lively play areas, attractive to children, with some hedge or ornamental shrub planting in the surrounding space.

Existing Ecology:

N/A

Issues : No specific issues have been identified, other than localised failures of planting.


Potential Enhancements : Monitor planting and replace failed plants as necessary. No significant opportunity for enhancements identified.



Local Equipped Areas of Play

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The Pollards

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Location :

Extending south-east from Cooke’s Field.

Existing Functions : Primary function: • Street with its own distinct character whilst being part of the

main vehicular/cycle/pedestrian network. • A visually important vista linking the heart of the development

with Cooke’s Field and The Centre. Secondary function: • A formal green link between the south-eastern development area

and Linear Park. • Vehicular and pedestrian traffic (dog walking link to the open

spaces).

Design Intent :

Formal avenue with pollarded trees and three storey buildings in mainly hard-landscaped street.

Existing Ecology:

N/A

Issues : The trees have been planted relatively recently and are small. They will require several years’ growth before they are large enough to commence pollarding. Locally sparse planting exposing gable ends and rear garden walls fail to soften the edge to the street.

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As existing.

Potential Enhancements : Additional planting at gable ends to “fill” the space, soften the road edges and make a clearer distinction between the public and the private space.



















Raymond Mays Way

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Location :

Along southern and western boundaries of development site.

Existing Functions : Primary functions: • To bypass Bourne and provide points of access to the

development via roundabouts. Secondary function: • Vehicular bypass with heavy traffic, obstructing the connection

between the development and the Meadows. • Used by birds, mammals and invertebrates as shelter, for foraging

and breeding. • Associated planting provides visual separation between

residential areas and road, filtering noise and pollution and opportunity for habitat creation.

Design Intent :

Semi-natural woodland, hedges and scrub along both sides of road with species-rich verges.

Existing Ecology:

Hedges: Current Management: The hedge along the south side of the road, bounding The Meadows has been maintained high to encourage barn owls Tyto alba to fly up and over the road, avoiding collision with vehicles.

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Current Condition: The hedge is currently an excellent feature for wildlife with plentiful berries. The increased height of the hedge is ideal to help discourage barn owls from flying low over the road where they are likely to be hit by vehicles. Ditches: Current Management: Ditches are mown / flailed annually in the autumn as required. Current Condition: These ditches are very overgrown; however they do support a range of plant species. Water voles have historically been found in ditches along edge of Raymond Mays Way and within the site (especially in winter months when water levels are higher). No survey has been undertaken in recent years. The badger tunnel which connects Setts Green to the Meadows is currently closed due to flooding. P. Ellis confirmed that badgers have used the tunnel previously. The design intention of the tunnel is that a solar panel charges a battery which powers an automatically activated pump which keeps the tunnel clear of water. This system has failed. As a result the tunnel has been closed as in its current condition it presents a hazard to wildlife.

Issues : Provision of allocated and safe connection points for wildlife between the development and the Meadows. Poor pedestrian links from the development to the Meadows. Badgers are now crossing the road (which the tunnels were provided to prevent) and walking along the side of a garden to reach Setts Green. To date there have been at least three badger casualties (P Ellis, pers comms.).


N/A

Potential Enhancements : The low intensity management regime for the hedge should continue. The badger tunnel drainage system should be repaired and maintained in a functional condition as it is an integral part of the mitigation for the development. In order to maintain the suitability of the ditches for water voles and to the impact of routine maintenance the following techniques should be adopted (as recommended in the Water Vole Conservation Handbook, 2011):

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De-silting: • Not all of a ditch should be de-silted in any one year - at least one

third of the ditch should remain untouched in any one year; • De-silting should use an appropriately sized machine which

avoids interfering with the banks; • Work should be undertaken from one bank only working from in

an upstream direction in short stretches; and • Leave gaps of 10- 20 m in areas cleared to leave refuges for water

voles; Vegetation management: • Bankside cutting should be undertaken during mid-July – mid-

September with flail cutters set high to retain 10 – 15 cm of vegetation. Where possible the removal of dense overshading scrub will encourage better bankside cover for water voles. The overall aim of management should be to retain as many different habitats as possible from reed dominated sections to sections of open water;

• Surveys for water vole could also be undertaken to provide more detailed information on their distribution on the site to inform management and also to provide information on site wildlife for use on interpretation boards etc.

















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Setts Green

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Location :

Extends south from Cooke’s Field to Raymond Mays Way.


Primary function: • Badger Protection Zone complying with legislation relating to the

species’ legal protection. Secondary function: • Green link of high biodiversity value, providing link between the

Meadows to the south and Cooke’s Field and Wherry’s Spinney to the north.

• Disturbance by people and dogs to be discouraged.

Design Intent :

Rough grassland and scrub with retained hedgerow and mature trees along east side.

Existing Ecology:

Current management: Grass cut 3 to 4 times a year and the hedge is cut annually in winter. Scattered scrub and trees are not managed. Current Condition: The grass is of no particular biodiversity interest although some flowering species such as fox-and-cubs Pilosella aurantiaca and common vetch Vicia sativa are present. In the north of the area, grassland is dominated by smooth meadow grass Poa pratensis. In

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the south of the area the grassland is dominated by perennial rye grass Lolium perenne and white clover Trifolium repens (this area was reseeded with an amenity grassland mix following earthworks earlier in 2013). The stream which runs along the eastern side of this area has steep earth banks approximately 1 m below the level of the surrounding land, vegetation cover is limited. There are however some aquatic species including brooklime Veronica beccabunga, water forget-me-not Myosotis scorpioides, and rush Juncus sp (not accessible to identify species). Much of this stream passes through a large patch of dense blackthorn Prunus spinosa scrub which has been retained around the badger sett. This section is heavily shaded and has no bankside vegetation. The scrub scattered across this area are presently fruiting. The badger tunnel which connects this area to habitat south of Raymond Mays way is currently closed due to flooding. P. Ellis confirmed that badgers have used the tunnel previously. The design intention of the tunnel is that a solar panel charges a battery which powers an automatically activated pump which keeps the tunnel clear of water. This system has failed. As a result the tunnel has been closed as in its current condition it presents a hazard to wildlife.

Issues : Badgers are now crossing the road (which the tunnels were provided to prevent) and walking along the side of a garden to reach Setts Green. To date there have been at least three badger casualties (P Ellis, pers comms.).


It is desirable for this area to remain as restricted access; however some organised uses could be supported. The presence of the existing fence lends itself to this use. This area also needs to appear attractive and well “looked after” as it is overlooked by neighbouring houses as well as remaining suitable for foraging badgers. A number of options are presented below. Organised uses: • Use of the area by local schools for nature education, outdoor

lessons or story time, gardening). • Use of the area for community events e.g. Easter egg hunt, coffee

morning of home made goods, Santa’s grotto. • Habitat Creation and Management: • Spray off and re-seed the south of the area (which was recently

reseeded as amenity grassland) with species rich flowering lawn seed mix augmented with yellow rattle Rhinanthus minor, this is a species rich mix which can still be maintained at a relatively short sward height (1-15cm) e.g. http://www.wildflowerlawnsandmeadows.com/shop/flowering-lawn-wild-flower-seed-mix/ or http://wildseed.co.uk/mixtures/view/56. If this option is to be adopted the newly sown grassland must be carefully managed in accordance with the seed suppliers instructions or as advised by

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an ecologist to maximise successful establishment. Yellow rattle is a semi-parasitic plant which weakens aggressive grasses and thus aids in the establishment of a more diverse sward

• Some of the reseeded areas can be left longer to create more structural interest.

• As an alternative to seeding a species-rich turf could be laid on suitably prepared ground. Whilst this is a much more expensive option compared to seeding, it is easier to establish and will be attractive more quickly e.g. http://www.wildflowerturf.co.uk/species-rich-lawn-turf1

• The grass in the north of the Sett Green area could be harrowed or raked to create gaps in the sward and oversown with a 100% flower mixture for flowering lawns (supplemented with yellow rattle) such as: http://wildseed.co.uk/mixtures/view/591

• A sweeping curve or areas could also be sprayed off and sown with a colourful native annual flowering plant seed mix. This would be best reseeded annually but is not expensive (and could be done by children).

• Plug plant appropriate wildflowers into the banks of the stream. A more gently sloping section of bank or steps could also be installed to allow access for stream dipping.

• Add and maintain two bird boxes on the mature willows. These could be fitted with live web cams and shown to the local school or on a screen in the foyer of The Centre.

• Creation of a wildlife pond with native aquatic and marginal plants. This should be sited carefully to avoid shade and overhanging trees.

Potential Enhancements : Improvement to existing management regime:

The badger tunnel drainage system should be repaired and maintained in a functional condition as it is an integral part of the mitigation for the development. The fencing south of the SWRR should be examined and any gaps repaired. Two self-closing badger proof gates should be installed at either end of the pedestrian path which crosses Sett Green to prevent badgers accessing the estate and also discourage badgers from accessing Sett Green by coming over the road. Trees and scrub should be pruned only as necessary to restrict encroachment. Reduced pruning will encourage greater accumulations of fruit for birds, small mammals and invertebrates. A sinuous edge should be cut by hand in the blackthorn scrub (avoiding mammal holes). The blackthorn scrub could also be cut back to a height of 2 m – 3 m to prevent it becoming too large and overshadowing the adjacent stream and grassland. When necessary pruning should be undertaken in late January / February to allow wildlife to eat the sloes over winter.

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A number of habitat piles are present. These should be retained. Information on site wildlife should be provided on interpretation boards.




















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Location :

Between Springbank Drive and Coltsfoot Drive

Existing Functions : Primary function: • Neighbourhood Equipped Area of Play within an informal green. • Heavy use from play and as meeting place. Secondary function: • Amenity greenspace within the residential development area.

Design Intent :

A play area set within a local green.

Existing Ecology:

N/A

Issues : Poorly located play area aimed at older children, too close to houses. Very prominent and substantial play area boundary fence is overpowering and gives the play area a sense of entrapment. Lack of structure or character to surrounding space.

Potential Functions : • Increased ornamental character. • Possible creation of a community garden with involvement of

local residents.

Potential Enhancements : The boundary fence to the play area could be removed and, if considered necessary, replaced by a fence of lower height. Additional


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tree, hedge and structural shrub planting to define the boundaries of the space and integrate the play area more effectively. Possibility to redesign the landscape around the play area as a community garden. This would require the support and involvement of local residents, particularly those overlooking the space.



















Tilia Way

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Location :

South-eastern part of development site.

Existing Functions : Primary function: • Street with its own distinct character whilst being part of main

vehicular/cycle/pedestrian network. • The section between Aykroft and Wake Ponds provides the main

entrance to site from the A15 and serves as the ‘front door’ to the development.

Secondary function: • A formal green link extending the landscaped entrance into the

heart of the development.

Design Intent :

Formal avenue with lime trees and formal yew hedge set in wide grass verges.

Existing Ecology:

N/A

Issues : N/A

Potential Functions : N/A

Potential Enhancements : Current management of this area should continue. No significant opportunity for enhancements identified.

Tilia Way

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Wake Ponds

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Location :

South-east corner of development site, adjacent to roundabout 1.


Primary functions: • Surface water attenuation. • Entrance feature to Elsea Park. Secondary functions: • Wildlife habitat. • An amenity for the local residents allowing enjoyment of views

towards the ponds and the accompanying habitat. • Recreation kept outside of the water, no fishing or swimming

allowed.

Design Intent :

Formal open space along housing edge and informal against Raymond Mays Way. A focal landscaped area at the entrance to the site.

Existing Ecology:

Current management: The ponds are dredged as necessary and bulrushes Typha latifolia removed in autumn as necessary to prevent them dominating the ponds. Current management of the reedbeds is carried out in a manner sensitive to their use by birds and the pond weed is managed so that it does not adversely affect the ecological integrity of the ponds. The waterfowl should not be allowed to become excessively

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high as this will affect the potential for the area to be used by amphibians. Current Condition: Comprises two dual purpose ponds; being both ornamental and part of the site drainage strategy. The water in the ponds was turbid and there was good vegetative cover on the banks when inspected. These ponds have fish. The north-western banks of these ponds comprise hard retaining walls. However the remaining banks are earth and they would be suitable for water vole (in the event they passed beneath the A15 roundabout from the local population at Car Dyke).

Issues : N/A


As existing.


Current management of these ponds should continue. No significant potential enhancements identified at this stage.












A – Aquatic Planting







Wake Ponds

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Location :

• Strip of private (?) land at junction of Bluebell Way and Cowslip Crescent;

• Strip of private (?) land at junction of Cowslip Crescent and Spindlewood Drive;

• Strip of private (?) land to the side of property off Marigold Avenue

Existing Functions : Primary function:

• None apparent, other than possible role as visibility splays at road junctions.

Secondary function: • Planting screens gable ends and rear garden fences/ shared

parking area

Design Intent :

Informal area planted with ornamental shrubs.

Existing Ecology:

N/A

Issues : Visually prominent from the footpath within Linear Park. Planting is neglected, giving an unattractive, uncared for appearance.


• Visual amenity. • An opportunity for tree planting away from the easements


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running along Linear Park.


Subject to consent of landowners, EPCT could take responsibility for maintenance of these areas. Seek to improve existing planting with ornamental and semi evergreen planting to soften the edge of built development and screen gable ends and close board fence/boundary wall, and provide greater colour and interest as seen from Linear Park.




















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7.0 Future Open Spaces

The following pages contain brief Action Plans for the areas of open space which appear on the masterplan but which have not yet been implemented. As these spaces are implemented in the future, full Action Plans should be prepared for them.

Bridgend

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Location :

South-western part of development site.

Purpose within Masterplan :

Linear green space forming part of longer open space corridor and also accommodates existing Public Right of Way.

Planned Character :

Village character; wide grass verges along existing ditch, with timber rails and pedestrian bridges accessing housing courtyards.

Envisaged Use :

Walking and informal children’s play.

Management Objectives :

To establish hard-wearing amenity grass with some diversity along ditch. Maintain flowing water in ditch and attractive ditch vegetation.

Brock Bank Lane

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Location :

North-western part of site.


Linear green space forming part of longer open space corridor, also accommodates cycle/footpath link and badger protection zone.

Planned Character :

Rural.

Envisaged Use :

Cycling and walking and informal children’s play. Destroyed badger sett may be re-occupied.


To establish hard-wearing amenity grass along cycle/footpath link, deepen ditch and reform one side to diversify habitat. Establish as much species-rich grassland as possible to cater for potentially returning badgers.

Chequer Tree Green

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Location :

In the middle of the western part of the development site.


A village green with Neighbourhood Equipped Play Area.

Planned Character :

Informal open space with groups of trees set in amenity grassland.

Envisaged Use :

Heavy use from ball games as well as from attraction of play area.


To establish hard-wearing amenity grass and groups of shade forming trees.

Chequer Tree Walk

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Location :

Linking proposed playing fields and south end of existing Wherry’s Spinney.


Wide major linear green space forming part of east-west continuous wildlife corridor through the development site also accommodates cycle/footpath link.

Planned Character :

Semi-rural with strong corridor character from broad hedgerows with trees along both sides.

Envisaged Use :

Cycling, walking and nature study.


To establish free-growing, broad hedgerows and species rich grasslands. Verges with specimen trees and a ditch, as part of the badger protection zone.

Danby Street

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Location :

Runs diagonally through middle northern part of development site.


A broad informal street also accommodates cycle/footpath link and local distributor and access road links.

Planned Character :

Village character with wide sloping verges with trees and clipped hedges.

Envisaged Use :

As a village street with cycling and walking.


To establish and maintain hard-wearing amenity grass verges with some trees and continuous, visually strong, front garden hedges. Long distance view to St Peter’s Church Tower to be maintained. Retain and enhance the hedgerow along at least one side of the footpath in agreement with residents.

Existing Hedge and Ditch at Brock Bank Lane

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Location :

North-western part of development site.


Forms part of badger protection zone and provides strong visual separation between different development parcels.

Planned Character :

Rural backdrop.

Envisaged Use :

Wildlife corridor.


To retain and enhance existing hedgerow and ditch habitat.

Note: will this hedge be retained? Existing Hedge and Ditch between Danby Street and Turners Paddock

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Location :

Middle of north-western part of development site.


Forms strong visual separation between development parcels.

Planned Character :

Rural backdrop.

Envisaged Use :

Wildlife corridor.


To retain and enhance existing habitat.

Manor Farm Development – Structure Planting

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Location :

Middle southern part of site.


Structure planting added to existing hedgerows provides enclosure and wildlife habitat.

Planned Character :

Tall, dense wooded buffer.

Envisaged Use :

Wildlife habitat.


To maintain and enhance a multi-layered woodland belt linked to planting along South West Relief Road.

North Green with Neighbourhood Equipped Play Area

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Location :

North of Wherry’s Spinney.


Local park designated as Open Space in the Local Plan.

Planned Character :

Large village green with more wooded character to the north associated with balancing pond.

Envisaged Use :

All open space uses associated with a local park, including community events and possibly some organised sport.


To establish and maintain hard-wearing amenity grass, shade forming trees, waterside vegetation and rich meadow margins associated with the balancing pond. Long distance views to St. Peter’s Church tower to be maintained.

Ogrey Pool

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Location :

South-western part of development site (subject to Environment Agency approval).


Opportunity to create major new pond and associated habitats from existing ditch linked to wider ditch system.

Planned Character :

Semi-natural waterside character.

Envisaged Use :

Walking and picnicking along access road and footpath link.


To establish and maintain an attractive and safe waterside habitat.

Pantile Square

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Location :



A ‘square’ associated with community facilities, aligned on long distance view to St Peter’s Church.

Planned Character :

Semi-formal hard landscape with seating, also accommodating parking below pleached trees.

Envisaged Use :

Parking and meeting place.


To maintain the square clean and litter free, with healthy trees and seating, making it an inviting place to stay in. Maintain long distance view to church.

Play Area to North-West

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Location :

North-western corner of development site.


Neighbourhood Equipped Play Area.

Planned Character :

To fit into ‘village green’ space.

Envisaged Use :

Heavy use from play and as meeting place.


To establish and maintain hard-wearing amenity grass and specimen trees within an intensively used space.

Playing Fields

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Location :

Far western part of site.


To satisfy standards of the National Playing Fields Association, including a Neighbourhood Equipped Play Area.

Planned Character :

Formal open space with strong wooded enclosure.

Envisaged Use :

Organised ball games and informal ‘kickabout’ with added attraction of Play Area.


To establish and maintain hard-wearing sports turf and amenity grass with species rich margins along existing hedges and new screen planting.

School Avenue

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Location :

Eastern side of Wherry’s Spinney.


To provide distinct link between public open space and proposed primary school, aligned on the parish church beyond.

Planned Character :

Formal flowering tree avenue.

Envisaged Use :

Follows line of access road and cycle/footpath link.


To establish and maintain healthy trees in paving without obstructing long distance view.

New Spinney – North of Playing Fields

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Location :

North of playing fields.


Small wood associated with existing retained trees and hedgerow.

Planned Character :

Semi-natural.

Envisaged Use :

By local wildlife moving through site and informal children’s play.


To establish and maintain an open space with wildlife potential as well as recreational uses.

Swallow View

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Location :

Middle part of development site.


Access road terminating in cycle/footpath link.

Planned Character :

Character dependent on architecture but could be defined by view to potential ‘swallow tower’ adjacent to Willow Pond.

Envisaged Use :

Low key access road.


Maintain view to ‘swallow tower’.

Turners Paddock

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Location :



Large open space acting as buffer zone against existing residential development with cycle/footpath links to Bourne town. Has two Neighbourhood Equipped Play Areas.

Planned Character :

Rural parkland with grazing animals.

Envisaged Use :

Cycling, walking and other informal recreation. Grazing to be considered.


To establish and maintain strong woodland enclosure to the north and different species-rich grasslands and verges.

Western Side of Wherry’s Spinney

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Location :

Middle of development site.


Informal open space and Badger Protection Zone. Cycle/footpath link along housing edge.

Planned Character :

Amenity grassland with hedges and groups of trees as well as grassland suitable for badgers.

Envisaged Use :

Walking and informal children’s play. Badger foraging.


To establish and maintain a robust open space where public access can co-exist with Badger presence.

Willow Pond with Nature Area

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Location :

Middle-western part of site.


To enhance and existing feature and thus add considerable biodiversity to the area, as well as creating a place for informal recreation and nature study.

Planned Character :

Semi-natural.

Envisaged Use :

Informal recreation with educational potential.


To enhance and maintain an existing water feature to provide a safe and species rich nature area. Fishing and high density of waterfowl to be discouraged.


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8.0 Management Programmes

The following pages contain Management Programmes for all existing and proposed vegetation and habitat types within the site.

NOTE: Some of the vegetation/habitats/site furniture described in the Management Programmes may not be referred to within any of the Action Plans at present, e.g. S2, HP, SSS. The Management Programmes anticipate features that are likely to be added as the outline Action Plans in section 7.0 are developed more fully as each open space area is designed in detail.

8.1. Health & Safety

At all times it is a requirement that the relevant British Standards, Statutory Regulations and Codes of Practice are complied with. Particular attention should be paid to the latest issue of the following:

The Food and Environment Protection Act

The Control of Pesticides Regulations

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations

The Code of Practice for the Use of Approved Pesticides in Amenity and Industrial Areas

The Health and Safety Work etc Act

The work prescribed in the Management Programmes should be undertaken using appropriate and well-maintained equipment operated by qualified and supervised staff.

Work should be planned and carried out in a manner and at times to minimise unnecessary disturbance to residents of Elsea Park, as well as taking into account the correct timing of seasonal works such as pruning and hedge cutting to comply with good horticultural practice and any restrictions imposed by ecological constraints.

8.2. Wildlife Legislation

At all times it is a requirement that the following legislation in relation to the SSSI and legally protected species be followed:

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000

Protection of Badgers Act 1992

Conservation Regulations 1992

Management Programmes should be carried out in accordance with best practice in relation to the requirements of the above and any other relevant legislation.

T1 Trees – Retained Existing

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Management Programme - T1 Trees – Retained Existing There are only a few existing mature trees within the development site, making them all the more valuable in adding some instant maturity to certain parts of the site as well as having value as wildlife habitats. (i) Survey and protect trees in accordance with the requirements of BS 5837:2012 prior to start of

construction works within development parcels where trees are located. (ii) Inspect mature trees at minimum two year intervals on Health and Safety grounds. This

inspection and subsequent work shall be carried out by an arboricultural specialist. (iii) Inspect regularly for pests and diseases and treat early.

T2 Trees – Specimen in Streets

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Management Programme - T2 Trees – Specimen in Streets Several proposed character areas at Elsea Park are streets or roads, e.g. The Pollards and Danby Street, and are defined by formal avenue trees or informal specimen trees, either in hard surfaces or grass verges. In these areas trees add scale and distinctiveness, the latter particularly if only a single specie is planted, and may be the only landscape feature to be fitted into a tight, urban layout. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement

due to dry periods (less than 30mm rainfall at the end of a four week period), and subsequent loss of a whole growing season.

(ii) Adjust guy fixings, stakes and ties at the end of growing season or at any other time as necessary to avoid chafing and maintain firm support.

(iii) Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring. (iv) Prune dead, dying, crossing, rubbing and damaged branches and encourage new leader if

necessary. (v) Remove stem growth. (vi) Replace losses with original species and size. (vii) Maintain mulch cover where used but ensure mulch does not cover or fill up irrigation pipes if

installed. (viii) Inspect regularly for stem wounds, pests and diseases and treat early. Years 5-7 (i) Water any replacement trees as (i) above. (ii) Remove guy fixings, stakes and ties in year 5, or when tree deemed firm and self supporting. (iii) Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring. (iv) Prune dead, dying, crossing, rubbing and damaged branches and crown-thin early crowded

branches when operations are easily carried out and arisings are minimal. (v) Remove stem growth. (vi) Inspect regularly stem wounds, pests and diseases and treat early. (vii) Check tree grilles annually and remove sections as necessary. Long Term Management – Years 8-15 and Years 8-10 (i) Prune as (iv) above. (ii) Prune to raise crown as necessary and remove stem growth. (iii) Prune and thin selectively as necessary to maintain long distance views, vistas and views to focal

points. (iv) Check tree grilles annually and remove sections as necessary.

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Years 11-15+ (i) Prune as Years 5-7 (i), (ii) and (iii) above. (ii) Inspect as (vi) above and consult arboriculturalist on issues about damage, disease, proximity to

walls, fences, lighting columns and other service facilities. Carry out felling and tree surgery work as deemed necessary.

T3 Trees – Specimen in General Public Open Space

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Management Programme - T3 Trees – Specimen in General Public Open Space It is envisaged that most of these trees will be in grassed areas and will have practical functions, such as being used for play and providing welcome shade, as well as helping to develop a parkland or wooded character to the public open spaces. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Adjust guy fixings, stakes and ties at the end of growing season or at any other time as necessary to avoid chafing and maintain firm support.

(iii) Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring. (iv) Prune dead, dying, crossing, rubbing and damaged branches and encourage new leader if

necessary. (v) Remove stem growth. (vi) Replace losses with original species and size. (vii) Maintain mulch cover where used but ensure mulch does not cover or fill up irrigation pipes if

installed. (viii) Inspect regularly for stem wounds, pests and diseases and treat early. Years 5-7 (i) Water any replacement trees as (i) above. (ii) Remove guy fixings, stakes and ties in year 5, or when tree deemed firm and self supporting. (iii) Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring. (iv) Prune dead, dying, crossing, rubbing and damaged branches and crown-thin early crowded

branches when operations are easily carried out and arisings are minimal. (v) Remove stem growth. (vi) Inspect regularly stem wounds, pests and diseases and treat early. Long Term Management – Years 8-15+ (i) Prune as Years 5-7 (i), (ii) and (iii) above. (ii) Inspect as (vi) above and consult arboriculturalist on issues about damage, disease, proximity to

walls, fences, lighting columns and other service facilities. Carry out felling and tree surgery work as deemed necessary.

T4 Trees – Pleached

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Management Programme - T4 Trees – Pleached Pleaching allows trees to be used in tight urban spaces without creating unacceptable shade or problems with branch encroachment on to buildings, street lights, etc. Pleached trees are very characterful but require horticultural expertise to develop successfully, and are only envisaged in the character area ‘Pantile Square’.

T5 Trees – Pollarded

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Management Programme - T5 Trees – Pollarded Pollarding of trees should ideally only be carried out as a planned operation to provide a certain size wood for harvesting or to create a specific character as envisaged at ‘The Pollards’ within the development site. Once the process is started a continuous programme should be put in place to ensure the trees later do not become top heavy and unsafe. Pollarding requires arboricultural expertise.

H1 Hedges – Retained Existing

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Management Programme - H1 Hedges – Retained Existing The objective is to increase the habitat potential of the hedges, which also have mature trees in them, whilst maintaining them as attractive features particularly where located within or close to residential areas. (i) Survey and protect hedges prior to start of construction works within Zones where hedges are

located. (ii) Cut hedges to agreed heights and timings, remove dead wood and replant gaps as appropriate. (iii) Consult arboricultural specialist on issues of health and safety of mature trees.

H2 Hedges – New Native

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Management Programme - H2 Hedges – New Native The objective is to develop hedges which attract a wide variety of wildlife. Neatly trimmed hedges have less value in this respect and free-growing hedges should be allowed to develop wherever possible. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Check regularly that tree shelters, rabbit guards and rabbit fencing are securely fixed and functional.

(iii) Re-firm soil around any loose plants without compacting. (iv) Apply slow-release fertiliser to hedge lines in spring from Year 2. (v) Reduce all hedge plants with 1/3 in Year 2 if not cut back at the time of planting in Year 1. Prune

weak plants or plants suffering wind rock by 50% in Year 1/Year 2 to encourage new stem growth and root development.

(vi) Replace losses with original species and size in Years 1-3 only. (vii) Remove competing vegetation from hedge lines between 1 March to 30 September before weeds

and grass set seed, by hand weeding or chemical means as appropriate. (viii) Maintain any mulch cover to original depth. (ix) Remove rabbit guards in Year 3 unless rabbit damage envisaged. Years 5-7 (i) Continue cutting regimes established in earlier years to achieve functional requirement for

individual hedges. (ii) Evaluate benefit of traditional ‘laying’ of some hedges to create denser long term barrier or screen.

Hedges for ‘laying’ should not be cut for 2-5 years prior to this operation. Long Term Management Refer to Years 5-7.

H3 Hedges – Ornamental

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Management Programme – H3 Hedges – Ornamental The objective is to develop and maintain hedges with dense leaf cover from the base to the top whilst keeping roads, drives, cycleways, footpaths and sightlines unobstructed. Hedge height to reflect design intent and identified functions and enhancements of each open space. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Re-firm soil around any loose plants without compacting. (iii) Apply slow-release fertiliser to hedge lines in spring from Year 2. (iv) Prune dead, dying and broken branches and reduce weak plants to encourage new stem growth

and root development. (v) Selectively trim hedge plants to promote bushy growth and optimum flowering. (vi) Remove competing vegetation from hedge line between 1 March to 30 September by hand

weeding or chemical means and before weeds and grass set seed. (vii) Replace losses with original species and size to maintain hedge without gaps at all times. (viii) Maintain mulch cover to original depth. Years 5-7 (i) Water any late replacement plants as Years 1-4, (i). (ii) Prune and trim as Years 1-4, (iv) and (v) and employ cutting regimes appropriate to each different

species to achieve healthy hedges of god shape, fulfilling original design concepts for different character areas.

Long Term Management Refer to Years 5-7.

SP Structure Planting

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Management Programme - SP Structure Planting – planted mainly as bare-rooted transplants, whips and shrubs The major element of structure planting associated with Elsea Park is along both sides of Raymond Mays Way, but it is also found on a different scale in several character areas like ‘Turners Paddock’, ‘North Green’, ‘Arena Park’ and ‘Linear Park’. In some areas broad hedgerows will have a structural role, such as in ‘Chequer Tree Walk’. In all cases the objectives of the plantations are to create enclosure, visual mass and wildlife habitats, and in the case of Raymond Mays Way, to filter noise and pollution. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Check regularly that tree shelters, rabbit guards and rabbit fencing are securely fixed and functional.

(iii) Re-firm soil around any loose plants without compacting. (iv) Apply slow-release fertiliser to plant stations in spring from Year 2. (v) Prune weak plants or plants suffering wind rock by 50% in Year 1/Year 2 to encourage new stem

growth and root development. (vi) Replace losses with original species and size for Years 1-3 only. (vii) Remove competing vegetation from all plant stations to a diameter of not less than 600mm and

not more than 800mm between 1 March to 30 September. This may be by mechanical or chemical means as appropriate.

(viii) Maintain any mulch circles to plant stations to original depth. (ix) Eradicate the following injurious pernicious and noxious weeds by spot treatment with selective

herbicide: Broad leaved dock (Rumex ssp) Curled dock (Rumex ssp) Spear thistle (Circium ssp) Creeping or field thistle (Circium ssp) Willow herb (Epilobium ssp) Ragwort (Senecio ssp) Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica)

(x) Strim, where applicable, grass within plantations twice annually, ensuring no strimmer damage to plant stems and BEFORE seed development to any of above undesirable weeds.

(xi) Assess the desirability of removing tree shelters and rabbit guards. (xii) Regularly remove litter and debris. (xiii) Chemically spray base of rabbit proof fence lines to maintain tidy appearance if considered

important. (xiv) Inspect areas regularly which, because of their location and access, may attract fly-tipping,

including along fences and back gardens. Remove deposited material at the earliest opportunity to avoid further accumulation and possible health hazard.

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Years 5-7 (i) Remove tree shelters and rabbit guards as necessary. (ii) Thin nurse species/vigorous species such as Alder and Willow as necessary to avoid climax trees

such as Ash and Oak becoming suppressed. (iii) Prune back to half height plants with weak growth or die-back and also tall, heavy shrubs suffering

wind rock and to encourage new stem growth and root development. (iv) Assess the need to thin above vigorous species and woodland edge species like Field Maple and

Crab Apple near roads, road signs, lighting columns and footpaths. Thin early to avoid long-term ongoing maintenance liability. Stump treat early thinnings when re-growth is not desired.

(v) Assess the need to carry on with weed eradication of weeds as in Year 1-4, (ix). (vi) Maintain rabbit proof fencing in safe and functional order. (vii) Assess the presence of rabbits and engage professional rabbit warrener as necessary to action

problems in areas without rabbit proof fencing. (viii) For fly-tipping see Years 1-4, (xiv). (ix) Treat fence lines as Years 1-4, (xiii). Long Term Management – Years 8-15+ Years 8-10 (i) Selectively thin shrubs within plantations and on edges to retain balance of species. Thin or

coppice vigorous species such as Willow, Elder and Dog Rose to reduce competition with less vigorous, preferred species. The aim is to achieve a varied shrub layer inside plantations and a graded edge.

(ii) Thin nurse tree species where there is direct competition with climax tree species. (iii) Prune trees to maintain clear stems and well balanced crowns if in prominent locations and

remove dead, dying and broken branches. (iv) Treat fence lines as Years 1-4, (xiii). (v) For fly-tipping see Years 1-4, (xiv). Years 11-15+ (i) Thin nurse tree species to prevent suppression of shrubs and to enable climax tree groups to

develop without competition. Tree spacing should typically be 5-6 metres. (ii) Remove rabbit fencing. (iii) Employ arboricultural specialist to inspect plantations and to carry out felling and tree surgery

work as necessary in the interest of public safety. (iv) Refer to all other operations in Years 8-10 and action as necessary.

SH1 Shrub Planting - Native

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Management Programme – SH1 Shrub Planting – Native Native shrub planting will form part of structure planting and hedges, but will also be found in groups throughout public open spaces, where the objective is to let species grow to their natural shape and height to increase habitat potential and interest from flower, fruit and autumn colour. Some coppicing of species like Dogwood, Hazel and Willow will add to these objectives. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Check regularly that rabbit guards are securely fixed and functional. (iii) Re-firm soil around any loose plants without compacting. (iv) Apply slow-release fertiliser to plant stations in spring from Year 2. (v) Remove competing vegetation within planted area between 1 March and 30 September, before

weeds and grass set seed, by hand weeding or chemical means as appropriate. (vi) Prune weak plants or plants suffering wind rock by 50% in Year 1/Year 2 to encourage new stem

growth and root development. (vii) Replace losses with original species and size in Years 1-3 only. (viii) Maintain any mulch cover to original depth. (ix) Remove rabbit guards in Year 3 unless rabbit damage envisaged. Years 5-7 (i) Prune or thin whole branches at ground level, to keep roads, cycleways, footpaths and sightlines

unobstructed at all times. (ii) Coppice vigorous species as appropriate. Long Term Management Refer to Years 5-7.

SH2 Shrub Planting - Ornamental

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Management Programme – SH2 Shrub Planting – Ornamental It is envisaged that ornamental shrubs will be planted within residential areas where the objective is to develop a green structure as far as possible with what may be limited available areas for planting outside private front gardens. Careful consideration should be given to choice of species to minimise need for maintenance operations like pruning, and to fulfil design objectives for the main character areas/ masterplan features. Non-rampant groundcover shrubs with groups of specimen taller shrubs above should be considered in this respect. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Re-firm soil around any loose plants without compacting. (iii) Apply slow-release fertiliser to planted areas in spring from Year 2. (iv) Remove by hand weeding competing vegetation within planted areas between 1 March and 30

September before weeds and grass set seed. (v) Prune weak plants or plants suffering wind rock by 50% in Year 1/Year 2 to encourage new stem

growth and root development. (vi) Replace losses with original species and size in Years 1-3 only. (vii) Maintain any mulch cover to original depth. Years 5-7 (i) Where shrubs are planted at high densities for instant impact and where they have established

well and are spreading, remove whole plants along edges of roads and footpaths to minimise the need for pruning. Remove plants as early as possible so that the whole plant can be pulled out without the need for stump/root treatment.

(ii) Reduce spread of shrubs as necessary by removing outer branches at ground level, aiming to retain natural height and shape of species wherever possible.

(iii) General thinning, pruning and removal of dead wood will still be necessary to achieve optimum flower and leaf cover. These operations should be led by a suitably qualified supervisor.

(iv) Hand weed shrub beds as necessary and before weeds and grasses set seed. (v) Treat pests and diseases early. Long Term Management (i) Refer to Years 5-7, (ii), (iii) and (iv). (ii) Rejuvenate shrubs that have outgrown their location or become shapeless, bare or woody by

coppicing or hard pruning. Most shrubs, including groundcover shrubs, respond to this treatment by quickly producing fresh growth.

(iii) Apply slow release fertiliser in spring to shrubs that have been heavily pruned or coppiced.

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(iv) Profuse growth after coppicing should be selectively thinned early to avoid over-crowded branch system, making shrubs more prone to pests and diseases.

(v) Replace short-lived shrubs with same species or consider use of more robust species without losing original design intention.

HP Herbaceous Planting and Grasses

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Management Programme – HP Herbaceous Planting and Grasses Herbaceous plants and grasses, with the exception of wildflower plug planting, are envisaged only being used within residential areas. Within general public open space, in housing, herbaceous plants and grasses may be used as low maintenance groundcover or as special feature/focal point planting. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure healthy establishment and to avoid the need for replacement


(ii) Re-firm soil around any loose plants without compacting. (iii) Apply slow release fertiliser to planted areas in spring in Year 2 and Year 3 only. (iv) Remove, by hand weeding, competing vegetation within planting beds between 1 March and 30

September, before weeds and grass set seed. (v) Replace losses with original species and size in Years 1-3 only. (vi) Maintain any mulch cover but ensure plants are not buried. Years 5-7 (i) Where plants are placed at high densities for instant impact and where they have established well

and are spreading, remove whole plants along edges of roads and footpaths and re-use in gaps where these may have developed.

(ii) Split plants in densely covered beds and re-plant gaps as necessary. (iii) Remove self-seeded plants to avoid over-crowding. (iv) Hand weed within plant beds between 1 March and 30 September before weeds and grasses set

seed. (v) Remove dead foliage and flower heads as considered necessary and otherwise maintain plantings

to good horticultural practice suited to individual species. These operatives should be led by a suitably qualified supervisor.

Long Term Management Refer to Years 5-7.

G1 Grasslands – Species Rich Grazed

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Management Programme – G1 Grasslands – Species Rich Grazed Establishment Period In the early years, outcomes (to achieve maximum floral diversity) can be specified as: • sward height by the beginning of the growing season not to exceed 50 mm (20 mm or less is

preferable); • a high proportion of sown grasses and wild flowers allowed to flower and set seed before mowing and

grazing in mid-summer; and a • scarcity of creeping thistle, welted thistle, spear thistle, clustered and broadleaved dock by year five. Establishment – Year 1 (i) Once the new sward reaches 100-150 mm in height it should be cut to a height of 50-70 mm.

Cutting may need to start early in the first spring (especially for swards sown in late summer/early autumn) and continue at regular intervals into late autumn. Remove arisings after each cut.

(ii) Cutting can pose a threat to ground nesting birds, especially skylark and lapwing, which are often attracted to the sparse vegetation cover of new swards. Ideally cutting should be minimised between April and mid-July. If cutting is necessary care should be taken to avoid any nests of ground-nesting birds, such as lapwing.

(iii) If the grassland is establishing very well as an alternative to mowing graze with a large number of sheep for short periods, but remove if there is any sign of damage to the ground. As a guide, once an average sward height of 50-70 mm has been achieved, stock should be removed and only returned once the sward has grown to over 100 mm. For newly established grassland, grazing with sheep is ideal because they are light on their feet and have a nibbling grazing action.

(iv) Perennial weeds should be dealt with as soon as possible by topping, spot treatment or weed wiping.

Establishment - Years 2 – 5 (i) Do not cut or graze from mid-February to late July, however, some topping to 200 mm during this

time may be required to manage patches of tall weeds; (ii) Hay cut annually late July / August to ca. 50 mm. Leave the 'hay' to dry and shed seed for 1-7 days

then remove from site. Alternatively, smaller turfed areas can be strimmed and raked or mown to 50-75 mm and cuttings removed in late summer / early autumn (once plants have set seed);

(iii) Graze the re-growth for the remainder of the growing season to c 50mm and again in early spring if needed. Monitor ground conditions during this period and remove livestock if the ground is becoming poached – sheep or cattle may be used, however sheep are less likely to damage the ground in the early years of establishment;

(iv) Do not apply fertilizer (dunging is allowable by aftermath grazing livestock). Long Term Management (i) If practical the field should only be subject to light grazing pressure. Light grazing is taken to be

0.4-1 livestock units per hectare (Flora Locale, 2009). E.g. a pasture of two hectares would

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correspond to 2 two year old + cows or 3 cows of one-two years in age (or more for smaller breeds e.g. Dexter). An appropriate number of livestock should be calculated using Table 1 based on the size of the area to be grazed.

(ii) Livestock should be managed organically if possible (e.g. avoid the use of avermectins) to increase the health of the soils and diversity of invertebrate fauna.

(iii) The Trust should decide whether to target spring flowers or summer flowers. • To target spring flowers grazing should not take place between April and May with only light

grazing in February to March (if the site is not waterlogged) and over the summer months. • To target summer wildflowers, the field should only be lightly grazed between April –

September. Resting the pasture for some periods during the summer would be beneficial. (iv) Livestock should be removed when vegetation is sparse and no longer growing, or before, if the

ground becomes wet and liable to damage. Suggested height of vegetation: 50–150 mm. (v) Docks and thistles (e.g. creeping, spear) should be controlled by cutting just as they come into

flower (typically mid-June) or their leaf rosettes spot-sprayed when young, using an appropriate herbicide applied using a hand-held sprayer or weed wiper.

(vi) Ragwort should be pulled (in mid-June), or leaf rosettes spot-sprayed in spring before grazing animals are put in the field.

(vii) Herbicide should never be applied using a spray boom as herbicides will kill other non-target wild flowers.

Table 1: Livestock Units per Hectare Livestock Livestock Unit per hectare

Dairy Cow 1.0

Beef cow 1.0

Cattle over 2 years old 0.7

Cattle 6 months to 2 years old 0.6

Lowland ewe and lamb 0.12

Ram and teg over 6 months old 0.15

Ewe following and / or store lamb 0.08

Horse 1.0

Pony 0.8

These values are for medium-sized breeds. Large breeds will have approximately 20 per cent higher LU values and small breeds will be approximately 20 per cent lower, for each category (1 LU corresponds to a weight equivalent of 650kg per unit). (Table 1 values taken from Appendix 4 of Entry Level Stewardship Environmental Stewardship Handbook Fourth Edition – January 2013 (Natural England, 2013).

G2 Grasslands – Species Rich Hay Meadow

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Management Programme – G2 Grasslands – Species-Rich Hay Meadow Establishment Period In the early years, outcomes (to achieve maximum floral diversity) can be specified as: • sward height by the beginning of the growing season not to exceed 50 mm (20 mm or less is

preferable); • a high proportion of sown grasses and wild flowers allowed to flower and set seed before mowing and

grazing in mid-summer; and a • scarcity of creeping thistle, welted thistle, spear thistle, clustered and broadleaved dock by year five. Seeded Areas - Year 1 (i) There will often be a flush of annual weeds from the soil in the first growing season. Control this

weed growth by topping or mowing to prevent them setting seed. Be aware that most of the sown meadow species are perennial and will be slow to germinate and grow and will not usually flower in the first growing season.

(ii) The vegetation will need to be topped in the first spring and summer, probably several times, to prevent the growth and flowering of tall weeds including creeping thistle, clustered and broadleaved dock, spear thistle and sow-thistle. Avoid cutting in the spring and early summer if the mixture is autumn sown and contains yellow rattle, or if the mixture has been sown with a nurse crop of cornfield annuals. These sown annuals should be allowed to flower, then in mid-summer cut and the vegetation removed.

(iii) The sward should be lightly grazed or mown, to 50-75 mm in early July and arising removed. (iv) Cut back sown annuals before they die back, set seed and collapse: this cut will give the developing

meadow plants the space they need to develop. (v) Do not apply fertilizer. Turfed Areas – Year 1 (i) Water the turf thoroughly, for the first week, depending on the weather. If the soil is not soaked

before laying it is important to check that this initial watering soaks through to the soil beneath the turf. During this watering check by lifting a corner of the turf to ensure that the soil is damp.

(ii) Do not allow the turf to dry out during the time it establishes, which is roughly 2-3 weeks. (iii) For the first growing season it is important to water the turf occasionally, during extended dry

spells. (iv) In late summer / early autumn (once plants have set seed) strim and rake or mow to 50-75 mm and

remove cuttings. An open sward over the winter ensures healthy, disease free plants which can benefit from what light is available to them during these months.

(v) Do not apply fertilizer Turfed and Seeded Areas: Establishment - Years 2 – 5 (i) Do not cut or graze from mid-February to late July, however, some topping to 200 mm during this

time may be required to manage patches of tall weeds;

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(ii) Hay cut annually late July / August to ca. 50 mm. Leave the 'hay' to dry and shed seed for 1-7 days then remove from site. Smaller turfed areas alternatively can be strimmed and raked or mown to 50-75 mm and cuttings removed late summer / early autumn (once plants have set seed);

(iii) Mow or graze the re-growth for the remainder of the growing season to ca. 50 mm and again in early spring if needed. Monitor ground conditions during this period and remove livestock if the ground is becoming poached.

(iv) Chain harrow in October if necessary to maintain and open sward and to create gaps for yellow rattle.

(v) Do not apply fertilizer (dunging is allowable by aftermath grazing cattle). Turfed and Seeded Areas - Long-Term Management Management same as for as Establishment – Years 2-5.

G3 Grasslands – Species Rich Verges

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Management Programme – G3 Grasslands – Species-Rich Verges Establishment Period – Year 1 (i) There will often be a flush of annual weeds from the soil in the first growing season. Control this

weed growth by topping or mowing to prevent these setting seed. Be aware that most of the sown meadow species are perennial and will be slow to germinate and grow and will not usually flower in the first growing season.

(ii) The vegetation will need to be topped in the first spring and summer, probably several times, to prevent the growth and flowering of tall weeds including creeping thistle, clustered and broadleaved dock, spear thistle and sow-thistle. Avoid cutting in the spring and early summer if the mixture is autumn sown and contains yellow rattle, or if the mixture has been sown with a nurse-crop of cornfield annuals. These sown annuals should be allowed to flower, then in mid-summer cut and the vegetation removed.

(iii) The sward should be lightly grazed or mown, to 50-75 mm in early July and arisings removed. (iv) Cut back sown annuals before they die back, set seed and collapse: this cut will give the developing

meadow plants the space they need to develop. (v) Do not apply fertilizer. Establishment - Years 2 – 5 (i) Avoid cutting whilst the verge is still flowering; (ii) If the verge is to be cut only once, cut later in the year, to allow the flowers to set seed (approx.

August / September); (iii) For verges requiring two cuts (usually for safety reasons), make the first cut prior to flowering

(approx. March / April), then allowing the verge to flower, making the second cut after seed has set. (iv) To prevent the loss of structural diversity an area of verge should be left uncut. On wide verges this

can be a strip at the back of the verge. On narrow verges consider leaving short sections or bays at intervals along the stretch of road. Every few years (approx. 3-5), a full width cut should be made late in the year, to encourage species diversity and prevent scrub and saplings growing.

(v) Following the cut, verge cuttings should be removed from the verge, either by bailer or by hand. Removal of these cuttings will prevent enrichment of the soil and a build-up of a mat of vegetation, which would lead to the loss of wildflowers.

(vi) Where possible, the sustainable after-use of verge cuttings is advocated. (vii) Avoid leaving hay or silage bales on verges – these will rot down and enrich the soil, leading to a

reduction in biodiversity. (viii) Avoid the use herbicides and/or pesticides. (ix) Avoid carrying out management to adjacent features in wet conditions as machinery will rut the

verge. (x) Litter should be removed regularly. (xi) Should any invasive species (such as Japanese knotweed) establish e.g. through fly tipping, these

should be managed promptly according to a specialist management regime. Japanese knotweed must not be cut or strimmed and should only be treated in-situ.

(xii) All management actions and their schedule should be agreed in advance with the local highways authority. Any management required to maintain safety for road users (e.g. maintenance of visibility splays and sight lines) must take precedence over the above management prescription.

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Long Term Management Management same as for as Establishment – Years 2-5.

G4 Grasslands – Amenity within Structural Open Space

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Management Programme – G4 Grasslands – Amenity within Structural Open Space These grasslands have to be robust enough to withstand intensive use from general informal recreation as well as providing wildlife habitats. Where areas are large enough the two objectives will be easy to accommodate with room for separate grasslands and verges for different purposes. For narrow corridors of land, the wildlife habitats may only be narrow strips along woodlands or ditches, but these should still be developed and maintained to form part of the network of wildlife habitats planned for the whole of the development site. The management of species-rich grasslands and verges is dealt with separately under G1, G2 and G3. Establishment Period – Years 1-7 Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure early establishment and to avoid the need for re-seeding due

to dry periods (less than 30mm rainfall at the end of a four week period), and subsequent loss of potentially a whole growing season.

(ii) Remove litter and debris prior to mowing and mow regularly to develop dense, hard-wearing sward. Do not mow in periods of prolonged dry weather.

(iii) Cut to maintain sward to 30-50mm, as appropriate. (iv) All boundaries of grass areas shall be kept tidy, and management shall extend right up to any

building line, wall, fence, service marker, manhole cover, signpost or other obstruction. (v) Cuttings may be dispersed and left evenly spread over areas unless otherwise agreed with

Ecological Clerk of Works, but accumulation of cuttings which might cause damage to the underlying sward, shall be removed.

(vi) Gang mower, rotary or cylinder mowers may be used depending on location and size of area. Years 5-7 Refer to Years 1-4, (ii) – (vi). Long Term Management Refer to all operations as in Years 5-7.

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Management Programme – G5 Grasslands – Amenity within Public Open Space in Housing It is not envisaged that there will be a lot of grassed areas outside front gardens within the housing areas but, e.g. small greens with trees in grass may feature within these areas and the following will apply. Establishment Period – Years 1-4 (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure early establishment and to avoid the need for re-seeding due


(ii) Remove litter and debris prior to mowing and mow regularly to develop dense, hard-wearing sward. Do not mow in periods of prolonged dry weather.

(iii) Cut to maintain sward to 20-30mm, as appropriate. (iv) All boundaries of grass areas shall be kept tidy, and management shall extend right up to any tree,

building line, wall, fence, service marker, manhole cover, signpost or other obstruction. (v) Cuttings shall be removed from grassed and paved surfaces upon completion of each cut. (vi) Areas of bulb planting shall not be mown until seven weeks after bulbs have flowered. (vii) Marked accumulation of leaves shall be removed in autumn and winter up to Christmas. (viii) The edges of shrub beds shall be regularly trimmed and re-formed to original lines once a year as

necessary, using a half moon edging iron. (ix) Grass edges against kerbs and hard surfaces shall be re-cut annually to prevent encroachment of

grass, but leaving no gap between turf and adjoining hard surface. (x) Gang mower, rotary or cylinder mowers may be used depending on location and size of area. Years 5-7 Refer to Years 1-4, (ii) – (x). Long Term Management – Years 8-15+ Refer to all operations as in Years 5-7.

G6 Grasslands – Sports Turf

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Management Programme – G6 Grasslands – Sports Turf The establishment and maintenance of sports turf is a specialist operation and management varies depending on the type of play planned. The following indicate the basic operations required throughout the year for winter sports turf and fine sports turf. An experienced Groundsman will time operations correctly depending on weather, wear and tear. Winter Sports Turf (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure early establishment and to avoid the need for re-seeding due


(ii) Fertilise, harrow, roll and spike to maintain a good playing surface. (iii) Cut football and rugby pitches to recommended heights and move pitches at least once a year if

space permits to change pattern of wear from season to season. (iv) Rectify wear and tear at end of season, especially at goal mouths. Re-seed or turf with correct grass

seed mixture or turf and protect and water this through summer to ensure good establishment. (v) Maintain, replace and store as necessary goalposts and boxes and maintain clear white marker

lines at all times. Fine Sports Turf (i) Water as deemed necessary to secure early establishment and to avoid the need for re-seeding due


(ii) Control weed and fungal growth. (iii) Fertilise and water. (iv) Brush, dragmat and spike. (v) Make up levels to maintain flat and true surfaces with no undulations or holes. (vi) Re-seed and over-seed with correct grass seed mix and protect and water treated areas to ensure

establishment. (vii) Cut to recommended heights using cylinder mower.

G7 Grasslands - Mown Footpaths

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Management Programme – G7 Grasslands – Mown Footpaths Mown grass paths feature in the Meadows to indicate permissive routes through an area important for habitat management where limited access is desirable. Similar mown paths are envisaged through other landscape features where the scale of the space allows for larger areas of species-rich grasslands. Management of grass paths is self-explanatory but the following should be considered: (i) Explain via information boards, newsletters and on the Trust website the importance of limiting

access to certain areas. (ii) Clearly signpost routes and cut these during the growing season, ideally, to minimum widths

allowing two people to walk side by side. (iii) Anticipate short-cuts and permit these to create longer and shorter walks.

PDD Ponds, Ditches and Drainage Systems

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Management Programme – PDD Ponds, Ditches and Drainage Systems At the beginning of the development there was one existing pond on site, two wet ditches and several dry. Added to these are now Wake Ponds and the three habitat ponds in the Meadows. The objective of the ponds and ditches is to create a series of linked habitats fed by natural drainage and the existing water table, and which are suitable for colonisation by invertebrates and nationally threatened animals such as Water Voles. The aim is also wherever possible to provide a transition of vegetation from aquatic to marginal to species-rich grasslands or margins. For Wake Ponds, the Meadows ponds, Willow Pond (existing retained) and ditches, see separate Action Plans. The formation of Ogrey Pool will require the agreement of the Environment Agency and plans for the pool have not been submitted yet. General short term and long term management operations are as below: • Litter pick water and pond margins on a weekly or monthly basis depending on severity of problem. • Carry out clearance work to wet ditches to maintain water flow but only in accordance with

ecological advice so that habitats of protected species are not disturbed. • Clear excess silt and debris from silt traps and entrance grids to underground culverts annually in the

autumn after leaf fall. • Lift manhole covers once a year minimum during wet weather in winter months to check that drains

are running freely. Remove any blockages. • Inspect life saving equipment on a weekly basis and replace as necessary.


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FIGURES

Figure 1 Masterplan

Figure 2 Areas Covered by Management Regime

X/J

OB

S/0

000_

Xxx

xxxx

xxxx

/7_C

AD

/000

0_01

Additional areas to potentially be covered by the Trust’s management regime

Open space implemented to date

LEGEND

Ordnance Survey Sources:

© LDA Design Consulting LLP. Quality Assured to BS EN ISO 9001 : 2008

No dimensions are to be scaled from this drawing.All dimensions are to be checked on site.Area measurements for indicative purposes only.

DRAWING TITLE

Key Plan to Open Space Areas

Wake Ponds

Linear ParkLinear Park

Raymond Mays Way

Raymond Mays Way

Arena Park


Little Garth

Heartsease Way Link

LEAP


LEAP

LEAP

Cooke’s Field

Play Area

Roundabout 2

Roundabout 1

Community Centre

Wherry’s Spinney

The Pollards

Setts Green

Tilia Way

The

Gab

les

The Meadows

Hedgerow

Along A15

PROJECT TITLE

ELSEA PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN

This drawing may contain: Ordnance Survey material by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reference number 0100031673OS Open data / © Natural England / © DEFRA / © DECC / © English Heritage. Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2013 | Aerial Photography - Bing Maps

DWG. NO. 3534_004_A

DATE Dec 2013 DRAWN PBlSCALE@A3 NTS CHECKED ChCSTATUS Draft APPROVED ChC

ISSUED BY Peterborough T: 01733 310471

Elsea Park Management Plan · Elsea Park Management Plan 3534 2 signs.htm). Noticeboards could give information on, for example, wildflower plants that might be seen and management

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