Ecology and Environment - Land West Of Broughton Road, Cosby

The proposals aim to enhance the environment and ecological value of the site.

At present the Site is predominantly arable and temporary rye-grass leys with a small coniferous woodland, with a boundary consisting of a mixture of hedges, trees and ditches.The proposals look to maintain these features, with only minor hedge removal required to secure a new vehicular access into the site from Broughton Road and minor hedge removal to facilitate access roads throughout the site

Existing Hedgerows

Existing hedgerows will be retained and buffered through creation of green corridors and new hedgerows will be planted, together to support an increase in local wildlife. Some of the existing rye ley will be enhanced through over seeding to increase species diversity and appropriate mowing management to maintain diversity.

There is scope to create additional and new habitats within the Site such as high-quality ponds, scrub, orchard and trees, creating enhanced and new ecosystems for wildlife.

Existing Woodlands

An existing woodland lies within the site and proposals include the retention of the woodland.

Initial desk-based studies indicate the potential for suitable habitat for birds, bats, badgers, great crested newts and water voles within the Site. Further surveys will be undertaken to identify presence of such species and the level of mitigation and/or compensation required to ensure that these species can be retained within the Site if present and that habitats will be appropriately managed in the long term.