APPENDIX 8A - National Infrastructure Planning

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8A
Desktop Data

DESKTOP STUDY DATA
Designated Wildlife Sites
Site Name/
Designation
Reason for designation Approx.
distance /
direction
from works
International Designations - Ramsar
The Wash
Ramsar
Roydon
Common
Ramsar
Dersingham
Bog
Ramsar
Ouse
Washes
Ramsar
Important over-wintering site for migrant wildfowl and wading birds. One of the North Sea's largest breeding
populations of common seal and some grey seals. The sublittoral area supports a number of different marine
communities including colonies of the reef-building polychaete worm Sabellaria spinulosa.
Ramsar criterion 1 - The Wash comprises extensive saltmarshes, major intertidal banks of sand and mud,
shallow water and deep channels.
Ramsar criterion 3 - The inter-relationship between components including saltmarshes, intertidal sand and mud
flats and the estuarine waters. The saltmarshes and the plankton in the estuarine water provide a primary
source of organic material which, together with other organic matter, forms the basis for the high productivity of
the estuary.
Ramsar criterion 5 – Bird assemblages of international importance (species with peak counts in winter).
Ramsar criterion 6 – Species/populations occurring at levels of international importance.
See Natura 2000 form for list of qualifying species.
Roydon Common is an area of lowland mixed valley mire surrounded by heathland. The valley mire is a complex
series of plant communities grading from wet acid heath through valley mire to calcareous fen. It is considered
to be one of the best examples in Britain.
Ramsar criterion 1 - The site is the most extensive example of valley mire-heathland biotope within East Anglia
(the vegetation communities reflect the influence of both base-poor and base-rich water).
Ramsar criterion 3 - The vegetation communities of the site have a restricted distribution within Britain and it also
supports a number of acidophilic invertebrates outside their normal geographic range and six British Red Data
Book invertebrates.
Dersingham Bog Ramsar site is East Anglia's largest remaining example of a pure acid valley mire, and
supports extensive bog, wet heath and transition communities over peat. The bog habitats are a remnant of the
transition mires that formerly existed between this former shoreline and the now mostly land-claimed
saltmarshes around The Wash.
Ramsar criterion 2 - The site supports an important assemblage of invertebrates (nine British Red Data Book
species have been recorded).
The Ouse Washes is a seasonally-flooded, traditionally managed washland supporting nationally and
internationally important numbers of wintering wildfowl and nationally important numbers of breeding wildfowl.
The site is also valued for its grassland and aquatic floral communities.
6.7km
North
8km
Northeast
12km
Northeast
13.6km
South

Site Name/
Designation
Reason for designation Approx.
distance /
direction
from works
Ramsar criterion 1 - The site is one of the most extensive areas of seasonally-flooding washland of its type in
Britain.
Ramsar criterion 2 - The site supports several nationally scarce plants, invertebrate records indicate the site hold
relic fenland fauna and the site supports a diverse assemblage of nationally rare breeding waterfowl (see Natura
2000 form for species lists).
Ramsar criterion 5 - The site supports an internationally important assemblage of wintering wildfowl.
Ramsar criterion 6 - The site supports wintering species / populations occurring at levels of international
importance (see Natura 2000 form foe species lists).
International Designations – Special Protection Areas (SPA)
The Wash
SPA
Ouse
Washes
SPA
Article 4.1 qualification (79/409/EEC) - During the breeding season the area regularly supports Sterna albifron
and Sterna hirundo. Over winter the area regularly supports Cygnus columbianus bewickii and Limosa
lapponica.
Article 4.2 qualification (79/409/EEC) - Over winter the area regularly supports numerous important species
populations and an internationally important bird assemblage (see Natura 2000 form for species lists).
Article 4.1 qualification (79/409/EEC) – The site supports populations of European importance of bird species
listed on Annex I of the Directive during the breeding season and overwinter (see Natura 2000 form for species
lists).
Article 4.2 qualification (79/409/EEC) – The site supports populations of European importance of migratory bird
species during the breeding season and over winter and an internationally important bird assemblage (see
Natura 2000 form for species lists).
International Designations – Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
The Wash
and North
Norfolk
Coast SAC
Roydon
Common
and
Dersingham
Bog
SAC
Annex I habitats listed on the designation: Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time;
mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide; coastal lagoons; large shallow inlets and bays;
reefs, Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand; Spartina swards; Atlantic salt meadows;
Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs.
Annex II species: Otter, grey seal and harbour seal.
Annex I habitats that are a primary reason for selection of this site:
Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix.
Roydon Common and Dersingham Bog represent the largest and best examples of M16 Erica tetralix –
Sphagnum compactum wet heath in East Anglia. This vegetation community is part of a lowland mixed valley
mire, a complex series of plant communities grading from wet acid heath through valley mire to calcareous fen.
This gradation is of outstanding interest. The mire is extremely diverse and supports many rare plants, birds and
insects, including the dragonfly Sympetrum scoticum, a northern species with a very local distribution in southeast
England. Birds protected at European level occurring in the heathland at this site include European nightjar
6.7km
North
13.6km
South
6.7km
North
8km and
12km
Northeast

Site Name/
Designation
Norfolk
Valley Fens
SAC
Ouse
Washes
SAC
Reason for designation Approx.
distance /
direction
from works
Caprimulgus europaeus, hen harrier Circus cyaneus and merlin Falco columbarius.
Depressions on peat substrates of Rhynchosporion.
Dersingham Bog represents Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion in eastern England. There
are examples of this habitat type present in natural bog pools of patterned valley mire, in flushes on the margins
of valley mire and locally in disturbed areas associated with trackways and paths in mire and wet heath. Mosaics
containing this habitat type are important for bog orchid Hammarbya paludosa.
Annex I habitats present as a qualifying feature, but not a primary reason for selection of this site
European dry heaths.
Annex I habitats that are a primary reason for selection of this site
Alkaline fens: Norfolk Valley Fens is one of two sites selected in East Anglia, in eastern England, where the
main concentration of lowland Alkaline fens occurs. This site comprises a series of valley-head spring-fed fens.
Such spring-fed flush fens are very rare in the lowlands. Most of the vegetation at this site is of the small sedge
fen type, mainly referable to M13 Schoenus nigricans – Juncus subnodulosus mire, but there are transitions to
reedswamp and other fen and wet grassland types. The individual fens vary in their structure according to
intensity of management and provide a wide range of variation. There is a rich flora associated with these fens,
including species such as grass-of-Parnassus Parnassia palustris, common butterwort Pinguicula vulgaris,
marsh helleborine Epipactis palustris and narrow-leaved marsh-orchid Dactylorhiza traunsteineri.
Annex I habitats present as a qualifying feature, but not a primary reason for selection of this site:
Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix
European dry heaths
Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies: on calcarious substrates (Festuco-Brometalia).
Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt laden soils (Molinion caeruleae).
Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae).
Annex II species that area a primary reason for selection of this site:
Narrow-mouthed whorl snail Vertigo angustior. At Flordon Common a strong population occurs in flushed
grassland with yellow iris Iris pseudacorus maintained by light grazing.
Desmoulin’s whorl snail Vertigo moulinsiana Norfolk Valley Fens is one of several sites representing this species
in East Anglia. Within Norfolk Valley Fens there are a number of marginal fens around pingos – pools that
formed in hollows left when large blocks of ice melted at the end of the last Ice Age. These are very ancient
wetlands and several support strong populations of V. moulinsiana as part of a rich assemblage of Red Data
Book and Nationally Scarce species in standing water habitat.
Annex II species that are a primary reason for selection of this site:
Spined loach Cobitis taenia populations are present within the River Ouse catchment. The Counter Drain, with
its clear water and abundant macrophytes, is particularly important, and a healthy population of spined loach is
known to occur.
10.5km and
12km
East
13.6km
South

Site Name/
Designation
Reason for designation Approx.
distance /
direction
from works
National Designations – Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
The Wash
SSSI
East Walton
Common
and
Adcock’s
Common
SSSI
Ouse
Washes
SSSI
Islington
Heronry
SSSI
River Nar
SSSI
The whole area is of exceptional biological interest. The intertidal mudflats and saltmarshes represent one of
Britain's most important winter feeding areas for waders and wildfowl outside of the breeding season. Enormous
numbers of migrant birds, of international significance, are dependant on the rich supply of invertebrate food.
The saltmarsh and shingle communities are of considerable botanical interest and the mature saltmarsh is a
valuable bird breeding zone. In addition the Wash is also very important as a breeding ground for Common
Seals.
East Walton Common and Adcock’s Common are separate areas about 1km apart but totalling 62ha in size.
Notable for the chalky ridges and active springs which result in a mosaic of habitats ranging from open water
and fen through to chalk grassland and scrub. The site contains some of the finest unimproved grassland
remaining in Norfolk. The species-rich chalk grasslands contain 7 locally rare plants and the damp depressions
on Adcock’s Common support a nationally rare plant community. The two commons have a rich invertebrate
fauna with 28 Red Data Book and 79 nationally scarce species recorded (mostly associated with the fen
habitats). Notable birds on site include snipe, woodcock, green woodpecker, nightingale and reed warbler.
There are features of geological interest within the site but these are not within the remit of this report.
The Ouse Washes SSSI covers the land between (and including) The Hundred Foot/New Bedford River and the
Old BedfordRiver/Counter Drain. The washland is subject to regular winter flooding and undergoes traditional
cattle grazing and hay cutting management. It supports large numbers of wintering and breeding wildfowl and
waders and has important unimproved neutral grassland and aquatic floral and faunal communities.
Is an isolated stand of mature oak which supports the largest colony of grey herons Ardea cinerea in Norfolk.
Dykes adjacent to the site provide ideal foraging grounds for this species.
The River Nar SSSI is a liner site following the course of the River Nar for 40km from King’s Lynn at the
northwest extreme. Within the study area the site starts in King’s Lynn and runs south past the power station
(approximately 1km east) before turning east and passing below the village of Setchey.
The River combines the characteristics of a southern chalk stream and an East Anglian fen river and in
combination with adjacent terrestrial habitats is considered an outstanding river system of its type with a diverse
flora of over 70 species of riverine and bankside plants including many eutrophic and mesotrophic species. The
section of the river running through the focused study area and buffer zone is less physically diverse than the
upper reaches but possesses contrasting flora. The river is known locally for its brown trout Salmo trutta and
seasonal flooding of adjacent land has created a rich diversity of habitats including rough fen and wet woodland.
Important bird species recorded along the site include kingfisher, marsh harrier, lapwing, snipe and several
species of warbler and tit. Twelve species of dragonfly have been recorded, this represent an outstanding
assemblage for the UK.
6.7km
North
10.5km and
12km
East
13.6km
South
4km
West
Within the
Corridor

Site Name/
Designation
Reason for designation Approx.
distance /
direction
from works
National Nature Reserves (NNR)
The Wash
NNR
Roydon
Common
NNR
Dersingham
Bog
NNR
The Wash NNR is the southeastern part of The Wash SSSI and represents a site of international importance for
nature conservation. The Wash NNR is the largest National Nature Reserve in England. It is one of the most
outstanding coastal wetlands in Great Britain and comprises open deep water, permanent shallow water,
intertidal sand, mudflat and saltmarsh. The saltmarsh is of considerable botanical interest and is valuable for
breeding birds such as redshank. The large expanses of intertidal sand and mud hold enormous concentrations
of invertebrate life, which make this one of Britain’s most important feeding areas for waders and wildfowl.
Roydon Common NNR covers the area of the Ramsar site of the same name. The mire is very diverse and
supports many uncommon plants such as black bog-rush, bog orchid, marsh fern, cranberry, bog asphodel,
common cotton-grass, all three species of sundew and carpets of sphagnum moss. The pools are important
breeding grounds for a variety of dragonflies including the broadbodied chaser and black darter. Uncommon
birds including nightjar and curlew breed on the site. Hen harrier, merlin and sparrowhawk use the common as a
roosting site in the winter. The site is owned and managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust.
Dersingham Bog NNR covers the area of the Ramsar site of the same name. The reserve comprises three
distinct habitats: mire, heath and woodland. This NNR is part of the Sandringham Royal Estate and is managed
for wildlife by Natural England. Species of interest include shelduck, nightjar, tree pipit, woodlark and black
darter dragonfly.
Local Nature Reserves – none within 1km of the Corridor
N/A None within 1km of the Corridor N/A
County Wildlife Sites (CWS)
West Winch
Common
CWS
Adjacent to
the River
Nar CWS
Saddlebow
Reedbeds
CWS
A large area of grazed semi-improved and unimproved neutral grassland crossed with frequent hedge-lined
dykes. (Surveyed in 1994).
The site is part of a disused railway line and contains un-grazed, unimproved neutral grassland to the east and
west and a small area of Phragmities dominated fen in the centre. (Surveyed in 1985).
A large area of Phragmities dominated fen habitat surrounded by earth banks. The habitat is managed on a
rotational basis creating areas of open water providing habitat for birds. Scentless mayweed has colonised the
earth banks, this plant is scarce in Norfolk. (Surveyed in 1995, boundary revised in 1998).
6km
North
8km
Northeast
12km
Northeast
Adjacent to
east
boundary of
Corridor
0.8km
North
1km
North

Priority habitats and species data (summarised)
Priority
habitats/species
Flora & habitats
Badger
Bats
Otter
Water vole
Other mammals
Birds
Amphibians
Reptiles
European eel
Baseline data
General information on habitats and flora is held within designated wildlife site citations. The Norfolk Biodiversity
Information Service provided records of two Schedule 9 plant species: Canadian waterweed Elodea Canadensis
outside the Corridor (to the northeast) and giant hogweed Heracleum mantegazzianum, also outside the Corridor (to
the west).
A review of the habitat inventory database on MAGIC Map reveal only one priority habitat within the Corridor,
Traditional Orchard. There is one small area of this habitat, to the west of Golden Ball Farm in the central part of the
Corridor.
There are no records of badger within the Corridor, but there are records in the wider area to the east, south and
northwest.
There are no bat records within the Corridor but there are records within the wider area. There a records for pipistrelle
(species unknown) in West Winch, North Runcton and north King’s Lynn. There is a soprano pipistrelle record at the
A47 crossing of the River Great Ouse, there is a noctule record in Clenchwarton and a brown long-eared bat record in
the vicinity of Wiggenhall St Germans.
While there are no records for otter within the Corridor, there are records (approximately 1km north) associated with
the River Nar which runs through the Corridor. It is therefore reasonable to assume that otter also use the section of
the Nar within the Corridor. Otter is also a qualifying feature of The Wash SAC (which is approximately 6.7km north at
its closest point).
No records of water vole were obtained within the Corridor, but they have been recorded in the wider area (3 records
north of the Corridor 2.5km – 7.4km, 2 records southwest of the Corridor 7km – 8km).
There are a number of hedgehog records just outside the Corridor (including the West Winch Saddle Bow areas).
There is a record for brown hare outside the Corridor (west of the River Great Ouse). Common seal has been
recorded adjacent to the Corridor (at the confluence of the River Great Ouse and the Ouse Relief Channel).
Extensive bird records were obtained for the site and the wider area and are reported in the detailed ornithological
assessment provided at Technical Appendix TA-E The majority of records relate to sites designated for their bird
communities and are outside the Corridor.
Two amphibian records were received during the desktop search, both outside of the Corridor. One record was for
common toad near West Lynn and the other was for great crested newt on the A47 near Terrington St Clement
(approximately 6km from the site). During the 2011 surveys the ponds were assessed as having Poor suitability for
great crested newts and no newts were found during survey.
There is a record for grass snake in grid square TF6316 which is approximately 1km east of the Route Corridor.
There are records for European eel near to the Centrica power station which appear to be associated with the Ouse
Relief Channel and connected drains.

LocationofNatura2000Sites
LocationofSitesofSpecialScientificInterest(SSSI)

COUNTY: Norfolk SITE NAME: RIVER NAR
DISTRICT: West Norfolk
Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife
and Countryside Act 1981.
Local Planning Authority: Breckland District Council, Kings Lynn & West Norfolk
Borough Council.
National Grid Reference: TF 897198 to TF 622184 Area: 233.43 (ha) 576.8 (ac)
Length of River SSSI: 40.5 km
Ordnance Survey Sheet 1:50,000: 133, 144 1:10,000: TF 61 NW, SE, SW,
TF 71 NE, SE, SW,
TF 81 NE, NW, SW,
TF 91 NW
Date Notified (Under 1949 Act): – Date of Last Revision: –
Date Notified (Under 1981 Act): 1992 Date of Last Revision: –
Other Information:
New site.
Description and Reasons for Notification:
The River Nar originates as a spring-fed stream, west of Mileham in Norfolk and flows for
42 km before joining the River Great Ouse at Kings Lynn, where a sluice prevents the
penetration of seawater at high tide. The River combines the characteristics of a southern
chalk stream and an East Anglian fen river. Together with the adjacent terrestrial habitats,
the Nar is an outstanding river system of its type.
The solid geology of the catchment is dominated by chalk of the Upper Cretaceous, which
is overlain by glacial drift deposits of varying thickness. The source of the Nar lies in an
area of clays, sands and gravels, though near Castle Acre this gives way to exposed chalk.
At West Acre the Nar flows over the river valley gravels and then over alluvial silt from
Narborough through the fens. The river water is base-rich, alkaline and recharged by clear
springs flowing from the underlying chalk.
The upper Nar has a wide range of natural physical features incorporating riffles, pools,
gravel beds and meanders, whilst the lower reaches below Narborough are embanked and
steep sided with water flowing sluggishly through a predominantly arable flood plain. The
variation in physical features and the influence of the underlying chalk give rise to a rich
and diverse flora. Amongst the 78 species of riverine and bankside plants are many
eutrophic and mesotrophic species, including 5 pondweeds and 8 bryophytes.
The flora of the first 10 km of the river, to West Lexham, is typical of a calcareous,
lowland ditch community with an abundance of starwort Callitriche spp. and reed sweetgrass,
Glyceria maxima. The next 12 km of the River, to Narborough Mill, is fast flowing
over stoney substrates and is rich in chalk stream plants including narrow-leaved waterparsnip,
Berula erecta; mare’s-tail, Hippuris vulgaris; greater tussock-sedge, Carex
paniculata; water crowfoot, Ranunculus pseudofluitans var. vertumnus and opposite-leaved
pondweed, Groenlandia densa. The wet margins, with a constantly high water table typical
of chalk streams, support a wide range of emergent plants. The final 18.5 m is embanked
and although less physically diverse than the upper reaches, it possesses a contrasting flora
with several species not found in the upper river. These plants are characteristic of sluggish
flows and include 3 pondweeds, Potamogeton spp.; 2 water crowfoots, Ranunculus spp.;

hornwort, Ceratophyllum demersum; water-milfoil, Myriophyllum spicatum; and river
water-dropwort, Oenanthe aquatica.
The Nar is well-known locally for its brown trout, Salmo trutta. Since 1985, trout numbers
have increased steadily; pike, Esox lucius, numbers have remained fairly stable whilst
roach, Rutilus rutilus, and eel, Anguilla anguilla, have continued to be the dominant species
in the river. A further 11 species have been recorded in the Nar although they contribute
only a small amount to the total fish biomass e.g.: chubb, Leuciscus cephalus; tench, Tinca
tinca; gudgeon, Gobio gobio; rudd, Scardinius erythrophthalamus; bullhead, Cottus gobio;
rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri; spined loach, Cobitis taenia; and roach x bream, Abramis
brama, hybrids.
The chalk acts as a natural aquifer and thus maintains flows throughout the year, peaking in
the spring with frequent flooding of adjacent land. This has led to the development of a
range of adjacent semi-natural inundation communities and wetland habitats. Many have
their water-tables intricately linked to and therefore dependent on the river whilst others are
dependent on seasonal inundation. In the upper reaches of the river extensive areas of
traditionally managed unimproved pasture survive. A combination of summer cattle grazing
and hay making have encouraged the establishment of a variety of wetland species,
including southern marsh orchid, Dactylorhiza majalis subsp. praetermissa; yellow rattle,
Rhinanthus minor, and bogbean, Menyanthes trifoliata.
Where land adjacent to the river is seasonally flooded and has not been reclaimed as
pasture, areas of rough fen and unmanaged scrub remain. Further downstream this scrub
has developed into mature wet woodland, dominated by alder carr. The result is a river
corridor of considerable importance to wildlife. Although the river channel can be regarded
as nationally important in its own right, the quality and type of adjacent habitats increases
its value for fauna which use both the river and floodplain. Breeding birds include snipe,
lapwing, redshank, sedge and grasshopper warblers.
The variations in river profile including slope, width and depth are important factors in the
provision of nesting sites for kingfishers and sand martins, and the combination of water
meadow, fen, scrub and woodland in the upper Nar provides feeding and resting grounds
for a number of other birds including grey wagtail, reed warblers, teal, marsh harriers,
willow and marsh tits. Entomological studies are incomplete but 12 different species of
dragonfly were recorded in 1991 at several locations along the Nar; this represents an
outstanding assemblage for the UK.

COUNTY: Norfolk SITE NAME: ISLINGTON HERONRY
DISTRICT: West Norfolk
Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife
and Countryside Act 1981
Local Planning Authority: West Norfolk District Council
National Grid Reference: TF 568189 Area: 1.2 (ha) 2.9 (ac)
Ordnance Survey Sheet 1:50,000: 131 1:10,000: TF 51 NE
Date Notified (Under 1949 Act): N/A Date of Last Revision: N/A
Date Notified (Under 1981 Act): 1984 Date of Last Revision: –
Other Information:
A new site.
Reasons for Notification:
Islington Heronry is a small, isolated stand of mature oaks surrounded by fenland which
supports the largest colony of Grey Herons Ardea cinerea in Norfolk. There is an average
of about 80 occupied nests each year and the adjacent dykes provide ideal feeding
conditions for the birds.
Several species of woodland birds, such as Great Spotted Woodpecker, are also present in
the wood and represent isolated populations separated from nearby woods by many
kilometres of farmland.

County Wildlife Site
(Ref No: 404)
Site Name: Saddlebow Reedbeds Parish: King's Lynn
Grid Reference: TF 615181 Area: 6.9 ha
Site Description:
This is a large area of fen with a small area of encroaching scrub. It is surrounded by earth banks
colonised by tall herb species. The site is managed on a basis of cyclic succession which has
resulted in the creation of several pools within the fen area which are now being left to recolonise.
Although the site does not support a large number of plant species, such a large area of
fen is uncommon and provides an important habitat for many bird species.
The fen is dominated by reed (Phragmites australis) with occasional patches of great willowherb
(Epilobium hirsutum), hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) and hedge bindweed (Calystegia
sepium).
Spoil from the creation of fen pools has been used to build the surrounding earth banks. These are
colonised by scentless mayweed (Tripleurospermum maritimum) which is scarce in Norfolk,
hemlock (Conum maculatum), nettle (Urtica dioica), cleavers (Galium aparine) and cock's-foot
(Dactylis glomerata). Other species include rye-grass (Lolium perenne), wild carrot (Daucus
carota) and cornflower (Centaurea cyarius).
To the north is an area of dense hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and elder (Sambucus nigra) has
developed over the fen vegetation.
Survey date: 1995; Boundary revised: 15/06/1998

Survey date: 1995; Boundary revised: 15/06/1998

County Wildlife Site
(Ref No: 402)
Site Name: Adj. River Nar Parish: King's Lynn
Grid Reference: TF 621177 Area: 0.8 ha
Site Description:*
This is part of a disused railway line situated close to the River Nar.
To either end of the site is neutral unimproved grassland with impeded drainage. These areas are
ungrazed and consequently the sward is rather rank. Grasses dominate but other species include
chervil (Chaerophylum temulentum), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), hogweed (Heracleum
sphondylium), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), black knapweed (Centaurea nigra), ribwort plantain
(Plantago lanceolata) and reed canary-grass (Phalaris arundinacea).
The centre of the site consists of a small area of fen vegetation which is dominated by reed
(Phragmites australis) and surrounded by dense hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) scrub.
Based on the 1985 habitat survey (NWT)
Survey date: 1985

Survey date: 1985

County Wildlife Site
(Ref No: 390)
Site Name: West Winch Common Parish: West Winch
Grid Reference: TF 628147 Area: 89.5 ha
Site Description:
This extensive site occupies the fenland edge. It comprises a large area of well-grazed neutral
grassland crossed with frequent hedge-lined dykes. The grassland is drier to the north and
possibly semi-improved, but damper and unimproved to the south with frequent damp hollows and
occasional standing water. The sward does not appear to be particularly diverse being generally
dominated by a few grass species although there is much local micro-topographical variation and
a good scrub-grassland matrix in places.
Semi-improved and unimproved neutral grassland is the dominant habitat throughout the site. The
sward was well grazed at the time of survey. Dominant grasses include perennial rye-grass
(Lolium perenne), yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus), common bent (Agrostis capillaris) with
frequent crested dog's-tail (Cynosurus cristatus), timothy (Phleum pratense) and creeping bent
(Agrostis stolonifera). Annual meadow-grass occurs on patches of bare ground, while cock's-foot
(Dactylis glomerata) is present in less heavily grazed areas. Herbaceous species include common
sorrel (Rumex acetosa), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), common mouse-ear (Cerastium fontanum)
and white clover (Trifolium repens). Where scrub is present, ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea)
and dog's mercury (Mercurialis perennis) are found underneath. Thistle (Cirsium spp.) and
common ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) are present on drier banks with silverweed (Potentilla
anserina), lesser spearwort (Ranunculus flammula), marsh thistle (Cirsium palustre) and redshank
(Polygonum persicaria) restricted to damper hollows, largely in the south where occasional pools
are present. Here the main drain held water at the time of survey although the majority of the
remainder were dry, although supporting a marginal flora of soft rush (Juncus effusus), compact
rush (Juncus conglomeratus), common reed (Phragmites australis), sweet-grass (Glyceria spp.)
and fool's water-cress (Apium nodiflorum). The dykes are in places lined by hawthorn (Crataegus
monogyna).
Hedges and scrub is frequent across the site although particularly dense along the north east
boundary where species include hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa),
elder (Sambucus nigra) and young oak (Quercus robur) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior). Clumps of
bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) are frequent. Gorse (Ulex europaeus) is present in the south
where it is heavily grazed, assuming a prostrate form, and ungrazed in the north east.
The site has a varied microtopography with numerous hollows and old drains particularly in the
south. Poaching is frequent in the damper areas and the abundance of perennial rye-grass (Lolium
perenne) in the north suggests semi-improvement.
Survey date: 1994

Survey date: 1994

NATURAL AREA 37 - THE FENS
Abstract of relevant targets
Wildlife occurs throughout the Natural Area in a range of habitats found in both rural and
urban areas. Farmed land is an important habitat and, due to the presence of high quality
agricultural soils, arable farmland comprises a major proportion of the habitats now present
within The Fens Natural Area. This widespread habitat includes important features such as
hedgerows and mature trees, ditches and ponds, drains and small watercourses and rough
grassland such as is found alongside tracks and on road verges. These habitats give much
of the character to the Natural Area and support a wide range of species, including some
that have undergone dramatic recent declines such as skylark and grey partridge.
The habitat features of The Fens which relate to this site include arable farmland, ditches
and watercourses.
Open water (represented by large rivers and drains and ponds) form one of the most
abundant and characteristic habitat types for the Natural Area.
The objectives for The Fens Natural Area which are relevant to the proposal site are;
Objective 1: The sustainable management of characteristic wildlife habitats and
species in order to maintain the character of the Natural Area.
- Sensitive management of waterside grasslands and banks to favour many species of
plant and animal which are characteristic of Fenland.
- An increase in the uses to which farmland is put.
- Sympathetic management of farmland to benefit wildlife eg through leaving stubbles
as seed sources for over-wintering birds and creative use of Set Aside.
- Control introduced species such as the mink where they are known to be having an
adverse effect on nesting birds.
- Sympathetic management of all ditches, drains and rivers for the benefit of wildlife.
- Develop effective water level management for all wetland sites.
- Seek a long-term remedy for the unseasonal flooding of the Ouse Washes.
- Ensure all wetland sites have sufficient water of the right quality to sustain their
wildlife interest.
Objective 2: The restoration of characteristic wildlife habitats and species where
these
have declined, in order to enhance the essential character of the Natural
Area.
- Maintain the present breeding population of the skylark and seek to reverse the
decline in its population.
- A diverse cropping pattern, sensitive use of agrochemicals and an increase in winter
stubbles and arable margins so that characteristic farmland birds such as grey
partridge and skylark will be seen frequently in the countryside.
- Halt the decline in the population of the song thrush and enhance its population
levels.
- Maintain and expand the population of the brown hare to pre 1970`s levels by 2010.
- Restore pipistrelle bat to pre 1970 numbers through changes in farming practice to
encourage healthy invertebrate populations, and through sympathetic timber
treatment.

- Increase the populations of breeding waterfowl in the Fens so that the drumming of
snipe in spring once again becomes a common sound.
- The restoration of at least 1 river system, with re-instatement of flood plain
grasslands, meanders etc.
- To ensure that water voles are present throughout their 1970`s range by 2010. It may
be necessary to consider habitat management and translocation to areas where they
have been lost.
- The restoration of riverine habitats so as to make the area suitable for the otter to
become a common sight.
Objective 3: The consolidation of rare species populations to a point where they are
felt to be sustainable, with re-establishment of extinct species where
suitable habitat exists and the reasons for original loss have been
understood and overcome.
- Maintain the present distribution of the white clawed crayfish by limiting the spread of
crayfish plague, limiting the spread of non-native crayfish and by maintaining
appropriate habitat conditions.
- Identify and maintain key populations of the depressed river mussel (Pseudanodonta
complanata) and Witham orb mussel (Sphaerium solidum), both of which have
similar habitat requirements, by 2000.
- Improve our knowledge and understanding of the requirements of the Spined loach
and seek to improve the management of watercourses for this species.

HabitatInventoryRecords

kj
!P !
!(
$ $+$
-
!
!P
!P
^_ $
!P
-
$ !P
$
!
$
! !
$
Kilometres
0 0.5 1 2
Key
Rev Description Drawn Approved Date
Project:
Title:
Drawing No:
Date:
Study Area
! Badger
$+ Common Pipistrelle
!( Common Toad
^_ Grass Snake
kj Great Crested Newt
$ Noctule
!P Otter
$ Pipistrelle
- Red Squirrel
$ Soprano Pipistrelle
$ Unidentified Bat
!P Water Vole
This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material
with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf
of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office
© Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes
Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings. License No. 100024241 2009.
Genesis Centre
Birchwood Science Park
Warrington WA3 7BH
Tel 01925 844004
Fax 01925 844002
email tep@tep.uk.com
King's Lynn
King's Lynn Desktop Search Area
20.01.10
G1907.030
Drawn: Checked: Approved:
SMC
CG
CG

TF5617
TF5716 TF5816
Giant Hogweed
#*
TF5815
Hedgehog
!(
TF5915
Eurasian Wigeon
!(!( Goosander
Eriocheir sinensis
#* !( European Turtle Dove
!( Black-necked Grebe
Common Seal
Eurasian Teal !(!( !(
Eurasian Wigeon
!(!(
European Eel
European Eel
!( European Greenfinch
European Eel
!(
TF5714 TF5914
TF6214
TF6015
TF6217
Barn Swallow
!(
Hedgehog
!(
Chinese Muntjac
#*
TF6316
West European Hedgehog
!(
TF6315
Kilometres
0 0.25 0.5 1
Key
This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the
permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her
Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised
reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution
or civil proceedings. Licence No. 100024241 2012.
Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown
copyright 2012.
Project:
Title:
#*
!(
This map includes data from the following sources:
- Ordnance Survey
- English Heritage
- National Grid
Rev Description Dwn App Date
Date:
Search area
Non-native species
Species of conservation
concern
1km squares containing
non-native species
1km squares containing
records for species of
conservation concern
Genesis Centre
Birchwood Science Park
Warrington WA3 7BH
Tel 01925 844004
Fax 01925 844002
email tep@tep.uk.com
King's Lynn
Desktop Search Information
Updated 2012
TEP Ref No:
17/02/2012 G1907.189
Drawn: Checked: Approved:
AP
VJG
EJS

Count of ABUNDANCE REFERENCE
NAME TF5617 TF5714 TF5716 TF5815 TF5816 TF5914 TF5915 TF6015 TF6214 TF6315 TF6316 Total
Barn Owl 2 2 4
Black Tern 1 2 3
Black-Backed Gull 2 10 12
Black-headed Gull 1 4 5
Black-necked Grebe 2 2
Blue Tit 1 1
Bohemian Waxwing 2 1 3
Brent Goose 1 1
Brown Hare 2 2
Brown Long-eared Bat 1 1
Bullfinch 1 2 1 4
Cetti's Warbler 1 1
Common Bullfinch 1 1 2
Common Goldeneye 2 14 16
Common Kestrel 1 1
Common Kingfisher 1 1 3 2 7
Common Moorhen 1 1
Common Nightingale 1 1
Common Redshank 1 1
Common Sandpiper 2 2
Common Snipe 2 2
Common Starling 1 3 4
Cygnus columbianus subsp. bewickii 1 1
Eurasian Curlew 1 1
Eurasian Sparrowhawk 1 1
Eurasian Tree Sparrow 1 1
Eurasian Wigeon 1 1 2
European Golden Plover 2 2
European Shag 1 5 6
European Turtle Dove 2 1 3
Fieldfare 2 2
Garganey 1 1
Goosander 14 4 16 34
Grass Snake 1 1
Great Bittern 1 1 2
Great Cormorant 3 3
Great Northern Diver 3 3
Greater Scaup 3 26 29
Green Sandpiper 1 15 16
Green Woodpecker 1 1 2
Grey Partridge 1 1
Grey Wagtail 5 1 6
Hedge Accentor 1 1 2
Herring Gull 3 33 36
House Martin 2 2
House Sparrow 1 1 2
Jack Snipe 3 3
Killdeer 1 1
Larus arg. subsp. cachinnans 2 45 47
Larus argentatus subsp. argentatus 1 1
Larus argentatus subsp. cachinnans 3 3
Larus fuscus subsp. graellsii 11 11
Larus michahellis subsp. michahellis 1 1
Lesser Black-backed Gull 2 41 43
Linnet 2 1 3
Long-eared Owl 1 1
Long-tailed Duck 2 2
Mallard 2 2
Mediterranean Gull 1 3 4

Merlin 2 2
Northern Fulmar 1 1
Northern Lapwing 1 1
Peregrine Falcon 2 2
Pipistrelle 1 1
Red-breasted Merganser 1 7 8
Red-throated Diver 1 1 2
Reed Bunting 1 3 2 6
Ring Ouzel 1 1
Ruddy Duck 1 1
Ruddy Turnstone 1 1
Ruff 1 1
Short-eared Owl 3 3
Sky Lark 1 1
Skylark 2 3 5
Slavonian Grebe 3 3
Smew 8 14 22
Song Thrush 1 1 1 3
Stock Pigeon 1 1
Stonechat 5 5
Tufted Duck 1 2 3
Turtle Dove 1 1
West European Hedgehog 1 1 1 1 1 2 5 12
Whooper Swan 1 1 2
Willow Warbler 1 1
Winter Wren 2 2
Yellow Wagtail 1 1
Yellowhammer 1 2 3
Total 1 42 1 42 1 1 2 313 15 2 32 452

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8B
Habitat Survey

General Details:
PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY
Site Name King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project
Job Number 1907 Doc. Ref. 1907.054
Site Location South of Kings Lynn - East Route Corridor
Date(s) 6/7/8/ September 2010
Surveyor(s) Lee Greenhough & Chris Barrett
Weather Dry and sunny.
Constraints No constraints, the survey was undertaken in the optimal survey season.
Methods JNCC Phase 1 Habitat Survey (2007)
Drawing Ref. G1907.055 Target Notes 1907.061
Survey Results:
Written Checked Authorised
Initial LG EJS EJS
Habitat Type Protection Target Note(s)
Plantation/broad-leaved woodland TN4
There is a linear strip of plantation/broad-leaved woodland associated with the River Nar which
runs north/south through the centre of the route corridor. The woodland borders both sides of
the river channel and has a mixed age-range. The woodland strip contains naturally seeded and
planted specimens including ash (Fraxinus excelsior), sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), cherry
(Prunus spp), alder (Alnus glutinosa) and oak (Quercus robur). The understory along the river
bank contains tall ruderal, scrub and dead wood.
Scattered broad-leaved trees TN2
Mature broad-leaved trees of various ages were present within the route corridor. The majority
are associated with buildings acting has wind breaks including the Gas Distribution Station in the
east.
Scattered scrub
A patch of scattered willow (Salix sp) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) scrub can found in a
number of locations throughout the survey area, mainly adjacent to field boundaries.
Mesotrophic neutral grassland TN8
A parcel of mesotrophic grassland is located in the southeast of the route corridor (adjacent to
the eastern side of the railway track). This area contains tall grasses and herbs. The site is
used as a motor-cross race circuit with bare earth tracks throught the field.
Semi-improved neutral grassland TN5/6/8
There is a linear area of land extending to the west and east of the River Nar (near Rose
Cottage) which has had works carried out in recent years to create field drainage channels. The
area appears to have been seeded with a commercial grassland mix on completion of the works
and is currently outside the arable management regime of adjacent fields.
1907.054 1

Habitat Type Protection Target Note(s)
Tall ruderal TN7
To the north of the survey area are stands of tall ruderal herbs located adjacent to (east and
west) the power station.
Arable
The survey corridor is dominated by agricultural farmland in various stages of cultivation. These
arable fields contain cereal crops, root crops and fallow land.
Amenity grassland
A small parcel of amenity grassland is located within the grounds of the water sports centre in
the far northwest of the route corridor.
Hedgerows NBAP/UKBAP TN3
The corridor contains hedgerows of various type including species-poor defunct and speciespoor
intact. The hedgerows are generally in the northwest of the route corridor with the most
significant examples along High Road. None qualify as ‘Important’ under the Hedgerows
Regulations (1997).
Ponds UK BAP TN7/8/9
There are three ponds located within the Eastern Route Corridor. Two ponds in the north: one is
located at the edge of the road within an area of tall ruderal herbs (TN7) and the other is by New
House Farm (TN9) and is a fishing ponds used by local anglers. The pond in the south (TN8) is
associated with the motor-cross track, it is a relatively new man-made pond and has fishing
points around its perimeter.
Ditches (Wet or Dry) TN1
Field drains comprised of slow flowing and steep sided ditches dissect the survey site. A number
of ditches were wet at the time of the survey and it appears others are seasonally wet. The
majority of these ditches are managed and during the survey it was notable that some had been
strimmed both within the channel and along the banks. There are no buffer strips between
majority of the ditches and the arable fields, the exception being the area of recent works near
Rose Cottage on the east and west side of the River Narr.
The River Narr runs north/south through the centre of the site. The varying profile of the river
creates a mix of habitat types, with lush bankside vegetation present where the river is not
shaded by trees. Adjacent to the east bank is a wet ditch which forms the boundary between
the wooded banks of the river and the arable fields. The River Narr is designated as a Site of
Special Scientific Interest.
The Ouse Relief Channel forms the western boundary of the route corridor, it is a wide manmade
watercourse with steep banks containing minimal vegetation due to the tidal nature of the
channel and the management regime (grazing and/or cutting).
Summary:
The intensive agricultural use of the area limits the biodiversity of the landscape. However, the
ditches, the River Ouse Relief Channel and the River Narr provide green/blue corridors
throughout the East Route Corridor and improve the wildlife value of the area. These aquatic
habitats have potential to be utilised by water vole, otter and amphibians.
Water vole populations may be present within the site’s drainage ditches although in limited
numbers judging by the unsympathetic management of the ditches.
Otters have been recorded within easy ranging distance (1km) of the survey site. The network
of drainage ditches within and surrounding the site appear to link to the River Narr and the Ouse
Relief Channel. As a minimum, the site provides dispersal or connective habitat, but otter may
also use the site for shelter and foraging, particularly the River Narr.
There are two ponds within the route corridor and a further pond just off-site near the power
1907.054 2

station. The ponds within the route corridor are fishing ponds and considered to provide suboptimal
conditions for newts. The pond east of the power station appears to be a SuDS
waterbody related to the roundabout, this has a mix a reed and open water and appears to
provide potentially suitable newt habitat. To date no records of great crested newt have been
identified in the area.
1907.054 3

! !!
!
A A A A A
! !
!
!
! ! !
Ap
A Sac A A A A
A A A !
!
!
!
!
A A A
A A
Qr
Sxf
!
A A
A A
! !! !!
TN9
! !
H
A
!
A
M G M G M G M G
A A
A A A A A
A A A A A
A A A A A
A A A A A
A A A A A
TN4
A A A A A A A
A A A
A A A
MG MG MG MG
A A A A
SAI SA A I SA
A A A A
!
! MG MG MG
MG MG MG MG MG
A A A
A A A A A A
M G M G M G MG MG MG
MG MG MG MG MG
!!! Md
!
!
TN6
TN1
TN5
TN3
SAI
A
SAI
A
S I
S I
S I
S I
H
Cs
Qr
H
TN7
Ap
AA AA A A A
! Cm
Sxf
Md
E
Pop
Pop
E
E
A A
A A
A A A
A A A TN2 A AI A
Cm
A A G MG !!!!
A
MG MG
A AI A
Ap
G MG MG MG
A A A A A A A AI A
G MG Cm
MG MG
G MG MG MG
A A A A A A A AI A
G MG MG MG
G MG MG MG
H
A ! A A A A A A A A
G MG MG MG
!
TN8
A
Cm
Sx A A A
A A A A
A A A A
A A A A
A A
Sxc
A
Fe
H
H
EE
!
E
E
EE
E EE
Sxc
H
E EEE
!
H
Sxf
H
A A A A A
A A A A A
A A A A A
Metres
0 50 100 200
This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the
permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her
Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised
reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution
or civil proceedings. Licence No. 100024241 2010.
Project:
Title:
Drawing No:
Date:
Key
E
Plantation broadleaved woodland
Species-poor intact hedge
Species-poor defunct hedge
! Scattered broadleaved trees
MG
SI
A
A
East Route
Scattered scrub
Mesotrophic neutral grassland
Poor semi-improved grassland
Arable cultivated/disturbed land
Amenity grassland cultivated
disturbed land
Tall ruderal herb
Standing water
Dry ditch
Wet ditch
Hardstanding
H Target Notes (TN1 - TN9)
Species codes:
Ap - Sycamore Md - Apple
Cm - Hawthorn Pop - Poplar species
Cs - Sweet chestnut Sac - Rowan
Fe - Ash
Sx - Willow species
Sxf - Crack willow
B Amended tree layer 26/10/11 DH CLG
Revision Amendment Date Dwn Appvd
Genesis Centre
Birchwood Science Park
Warrington WA3 7BH
Tel 01925 844004
Fax 01925 844002
email tep@tep.uk.com
King's Lynn Connection
East Route Phase 1 Habitat Survey
G1907.055b
TEP Ref No:
27-09-10 G1907.055b
Drawn: Checked: Approved:
AP
LG
CG

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8C
Bat Survey

BAT TREE SURVEY REPORT FORM
1.0 GENERAL DETAILS
Site Name King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project
Job Number 1907 Doc. Ref 1907.085
Site Location South of Kings Lynn - East Route Corridor
Date(s) Ground-based tree assessment: 20 th December 2011 & 7 th February 2012
Aerial Inspection of trees: 8 th March 2012
Surveyor(s) Lee Greenhough and John Crowder
Weather Cold, dry and clear with a slight breeze on all visits
Seasonal
Constraints
None. The survey was undertaken during winter period when the foliage
has fallen from deciduous trees providing a relatively unobstructed view of
tree features.
Methods Trees were assessed from the ground during the daytime. Binoculars
were used to allow a close view of interesting features. A photographic
record and detailed notes were taken in the field and cross-referenced with
the tree survey document for the area.
Drawing Ref: D1907.004 (sheets 1 to 9)Tree Constraints Plan
Supported by Survey Data Sheets Ref: x1907.013 and x1907.014
Written Checked Authorised
Initial LG EJS EJS
2.0 PRE-EXISTING DATA FOR SITE
2.1 A desktop study was undertaken in 2010 and records were updated in 2012. There
are no bat records within the Corridor but there are records within the wider area.
There a records for pipistrelle (species unknown) in West Winch, North Runcton and
north King’s Lynn. There is a soprano pipistrelle record at the A47 crossing of the
River Great Ouse, there is a noctule record in Clenchwarton and a brown long-eared
bat record in the vicinity if Wiggenhall St Germans.
3.0 SITE DESCRIPTION:
3.1 The proposals site is characterised by intensively managed agricultural fields with an
associated network of steep sided and generally managed field drains. Trees are
sparse in this landscape and are mainly associated with residential properties or the
River Nar.

Bat Tree Survey Report Form
4.0 FIELD SURVEY RESULTS:
4.1 During the initial survey visit in December 2011, trees within the vicinity of the
proposed alignment that had features associated with bat roosts (cavities, cracks,
peeling bark, mature ivy growth, epicormic growth etc) were identified and notes on
their suitability to support roosting bats were made.
4.2 In February 2012 when further information was known on the alignment, an additional
visit was undertaken to determine which if any trees could be lost under the
proposals. This was followed by an aerial survey of trees at risk of removal in March
2012. This survey used rope access and torches and an endoscope to undertake a
close inspection of any potential roosting features and was carried out by a licensed
bat ecologist and an arborist.
4.3 All tree IDs in the following table relate to the Tree Constraints Plan (D1907.004
sheets 1 to 9) and the supporting Survey Data Sheets (x1907.013 and 1907.3014).
Tree
Survey
ID
Description Photo
T4 Oak with immature ivy and no visible
cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
T5 Oak with immature ivy and no visible
cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
1907.085 2 of 5

Bat Tree Survey Report Form
T6 Oak with immature ivy and no visible
cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
T7 Oak with immature ivy and no visible
cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
T9 Oak with some ivy growth and a few
small cracks/cavities
MEDIUM BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
T10 Oak (thin stemmed) with immature ivy
and no visible cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
1907.085 3 of 5

Bat Tree Survey Report Form
T11 Oak with immature ivy and no visible
cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
T12 Oak with immature ivy and no visible
cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
T21 Oak (isolated from other trees) with
immature ivy and no visible cavities
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
G29 Crack willow with some scars and
possible cracks.
MEDIUM BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
1907.085 4 of 5

Bat Tree Survey Report Form
G29 Alder with some ivy cover but trees are
thin stemmed and ivy growth is
relatively young.
LOW BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
G29 Crack willow with rib cracks.
HIGH BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
G29 Group of crack willows and alder with
peeling bark, scars and possible
cracks.
MEDIUM BAT ROOST POTENTIAL
5.0 SUMMARY:
The only tree removal likely to be required under the proposals will be to achieve safety clearances
where the line crosses the River Nar. In this area, tree group G29 contains a number of trees with
features associated with bat roosts. It is currently believed that only one of these trees may require
removal. This tree has high potential to support roosting bats due to the presence of a cavity
behind an occluded rib crack. However an inspection of this cavity with an endoscope did not find
any current of historic evidence of bat activity. Further photographic evidence is provided on the
following sheets.
Use of bat roosts is seasonal an updated survey information will be required if removal of this tree is
confirmed. This information will inform licensing and mitigation requirements.
1907.085 5 of 5

Rib crack. Pocket of decay most
likely to be present behind occluded
rib, resulting in an ideal dry hollow
habitat cavity. High Bat potential
Past woodpecker activity
above open stem cavity.
Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

Delaminating bark may
provides Bat habitat
Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

T2
Cavity concealed behind
occluded rib crack. High
Bat potential at this
point
Open stem cavity low Bat
potential at this point.
Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

Active point where two stems rub together. Low
habitat potential due to near constant movement.
Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

Partially occluded rib crack on
lower stem, runs vertically into
an area totally occluded,
resulting cavity behind rib at
the higher point provides high
Bat potential
Occluded rib crack
Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

Ravencroft Arboricultural Services

CrossSectionOfStemIndicatingCavity
Formation
Historicwound
RollingWound
wood
Cavitytorearofwoundwooddevelopsovertime,
creatingperfecthabitatforbats.Thisareaof
decayisoftentotallyconcealedwhenviewedfrom
thefrontoftheopenorpartiallyoccludedcavity.
Rollingwoundwoodmayalsorestrictinspection.
RavencroftArboriculturalServices

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8D
Water Vole and Otter Survey

OTTER AND WATER VOLE SURVEY
1.0 GENERAL DETAILS
Site Name Kings Lynn Connection
Job Number 1907 Doc. Ref 1907.071
Site Location Kings Lynn, Norfolk
Date(s) 9 th , 10 th 11 th August 2011
Surveyor(s) Liz Seal and Lee Greenhough
Weather Warm with a light breeze. Scattered light rain showers
Seasonal
Constraints
Survey was taken within the optimal survey period. Light rainfall did
not affect the prevalence of field signs. Some sections of the drains
were inaccessible due to dense bramble but in these areas spot
checks were undertaken.
Methods Walking along the River Narr and banks of drains looking for signs of
otter and water vole activity, including sprints/latrines, burrows/holts
and feeding remains. A boat was used to access some areas of the
River Narr.
Drawing Ref: G1907.101 Water Vole Survey East Corridor
Written Checked Authorised
Initial KG EJS EJS
2.0 PRE-EXISTING DATA FOR SITE
2.1 A desktop study was undertaken in 2010 and records were updated in 2011.
The following sources of information were consulted regarding water vole and
otter records:
Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service (NBIS)
Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT)
Environment Agency (EA)
National Biodiversity Network (NBN)
Natural England (NE)
2.2 Otter is a qualifying feature of The Wash Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
which lies approximately 7km north of the proposals site.
2.3 Otter have been recorded on the River Narr approximately 1km north of the
proposals site (where the A47 crosses the river).
2.4 No records for water vole were identified within the proposals site but 5 records
were held within the wider area (3 records north of the site between 2.5 and
7.5km; 2 records southwest of the site between 7 and 8km).
File ref: 1907.071 Page 1 of 4

3.0 WATER VOLE & OTTER SURVEY RESULTS
Habitats
3.1 The proposals site is characterised by intensively managed agricultural fields with
an associated network of steep sided and generally actively managed (either by
the Inland Drainage Board or the Environment Agency) field drains.
3.2 At the time of survey many of the field drains were dry, but the survey was
undertaken in August at the height of summer and 2011 had been an
exceptionally dry year. Furthermore, most drains were either clear of vegetation
or contained stands of phragmites or typha indicating they contain water during
at least part of the year. Very few drains contained scrubby vegetation such as
bramble and saplings, which would indicate the drain no longer held water.
3.3 The River Narr, which is part designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest
(SSSI) runs north south through the proposals site. In the north the River is
heavily managed, with steep sided, close mown banks which are largely devoid
of trees. Although a fringe of marginal vegetation is maintained along the
water’s edge for much of this section and aquatic vegetation is visible within the
watercourse.
3.4 In the south (where the river is designated as a SSSI) the habitat is more varied
with shallower banks at the water’s edge, although engineered earth banks (for
flood defence) are present, they are set back from the main water course. The
banks are tree-lined with species including white willow, weeping willow,
common alder, Lombardy poplar and hawthorn. There is a varied mix of marginal
vegetation along the banks forming relatively wide areas extending into the
channel and onto the low banks of the river. Aquatic vegetation is visible within
the watercourse.
Field Evidence
3.5 The location of the surveyed drains is presented on Drawing G1907.101 and a
summary of the findings is given in the table below:
Drain
Number
Notes
1 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
2 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
3 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
4 Drain dry at the time of survey.
5 Drain dry at the time of survey.
6 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
7 Drain mainly dry at the time of survey, although some water was present
at the north end adjacent to the roundabout.
8 Drain dry at the time of survey.
9 Drain dry at the time of survey.
10 Drain dry at the time of survey.
11 Drain 11 runs for nearly 2km along the toe of the engineered earth bank
that separates the River Narr in the west from the agricultural fields in the
east. Access to survey this drain was restricted in places due to the
File ref: 1907.071 Page 2 of 4

3.0 WATER VOLE & OTTER SURVEY RESULTS
Habitats
3.1 The proposals site is characterised by intensively managed agricultural fields with
an associated network of steep sided and generally actively managed (either by
the Inland Drainage Board or the Environment Agency) field drains.
3.2 At the time of survey many of the field drains were dry, but the survey was
undertaken in August at the height of summer and 2011 had been an
exceptionally dry year. Furthermore, most drains were either clear of vegetation
or contained stands of phragmites or typha indicating they contain water during
at least part of the year. Very few drains contained scrubby vegetation such as
bramble and saplings, which would indicate the drain no longer held water.
3.3 The River Narr, which is part designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest
(SSSI) runs north south through the proposals site. In the north the River is
heavily managed, with steep sided, close mown banks which are largely devoid
of trees. Although a fringe of marginal vegetation is maintained along the
water’s edge for much of this section and aquatic vegetation is visible within the
watercourse.
3.4 In the south (where the river is designated as a SSSI) the habitat is more varied
with shallower banks at the water’s edge, although engineered earth banks (for
flood defence) are present, they are set back from the main water course. The
banks are tree-lined with species including white willow, weeping willow,
common alder, Lombardy poplar and hawthorn. There is a varied mix of marginal
vegetation along the banks forming relatively wide areas extending into the
channel and onto the low banks of the river. Aquatic vegetation is visible within
the watercourse.
Field Evidence
3.5 The location of the surveyed drains is presented on Drawing G1907.101 and a
summary of the findings is given in the table below:
Drain
Number
Notes
1 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
2 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
3 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
4 Drain dry at the time of survey.
5 Drain dry at the time of survey.
6 Water vole burrows, feeding remains and droppings present.
7 Drain mainly dry at the time of survey, although some water was present
at the north end adjacent to the roundabout.
8 Drain dry at the time of survey.
9 Drain dry at the time of survey.
10 Drain dry at the time of survey.
11 Drain 11 runs for nearly 2km along the toe of the engineered earth bank
that separates the River Narr in the west from the agricultural fields in the
east. Access to survey this drain was restricted in places due to the
File ref: 1907.071 Page 2 of 4

Drain
Number
Notes
dense vegetation, but spot checks were made along the full length. The
drain was dry at the time of survey and contained a variety of both
scrubby and swampy species indicating that while the habitat is likely to
be damp it is unlikely to hold significant amounts of water for any long
periods of time.
12 Drain dry at the time of survey.
13 Drain dry at the time of survey.
14 Access for survey was limited by dense vegetation, but spot checks were
made along the full length of the drain. Water was present in the drain
but levels were low.
Small mammal burrows, old feeding remains and old droppings present
which appear to be a mix of water vole and bank vole.
15 Drains 15 and 16 are closely paralleling drains immediately surrounded by
a narrow area of unmanaged grassland at the top of the banks and
separated by a field hedge. Drain 15 (in the north) was dry at the time of
survey.
16 Drains 15 and 16 are closely paralleling drains immediately surrounded by
a narrow area of unmanaged grassland at the top of the banks and
separated by a field hedge. Drain 16 (in the south) was dry at the time of
survey.
17 Drain 17 is a relatively new drain linking the River Narr in the east to the
Relief Channel in the west. It is a wide drain with shallow banks and
areas of marginal vegetation. Unlike the majority of drains in the area,
the banks are not immediately surrounded by arable land and the grass
banks exhibit signs of waterfowl grazing. Evidence of bank vole activity
was identified during survey. The shallow nature of the banks may limit
the value of the habitat for this species, but it may still provide important
ranging and foraging habitat.
18 Although the drain was dry on the date of survey, the dominant species
present was phragmites and it looked as if it held water recently and
could be suitable for water vole.
19 Drain 19 is similar to Drain 17. It connects the River Narr in the east to
the Relief Channel in the west. It is a wide drain with shallow banks and
areas of marginal vegetation and the grass banks exhibit signs of
waterfowl grazing. Non-arable grassland immediately borders the drain.
Old water vole feeding remains were found during survey but no burrows
or droppings were found. The shallow nature of the banks may limit the
value of the habitat for this species, but it may still provide important
ranging and foraging habitat.
20 Drain dry at the time of survey.
21 Small mammal burrows, old water vole feeding remains and old water
vole droppings present.
River Narr No evidence of water vole activity was found along the River Narr,
evidence of mink (a predator of water vole) was found.
The areas of dense marginal vegetation along the banks of the river
provide opportunities for otter laying up areas. A number of mammal
tracks were found running from/to the river (on the west bank of the river
at the north end near Drain 12 and south of Drain 12 and on the west
side of the river between the River Narr and Drain 18 (Drain 18 connects
to the Relief Channel).
File ref: 1907.071 Page 3 of 4

4.0 ADDITIONAL NOTES
Mink scats and probably mink footprints were found along the banks of the River Narr
at two locations; in the north (just outside the proposals site) at the bridge crossing to
White House Farm and in the south near the railway bridge crossing. This species is
known to predate on water vole.
Bank vole droppings and feeding remains were found along Drain 17. Possible bank
vole feeding remains were found along Drain 14 and 19.
Two badger latrines were found near Drain 12 (on near the west corner of the drain
and the other in the filed further south). The chewed leg of a deer was also found in
the same field and is presumed to have been carrion remains foraged by badgers.
Deer droppings (species unknown) were found in the base of Drain 18 (which was dry
during the survey but had extensive phragmites cover on the banks of the drain.
5.0 SUMMARY
Water vole
Although water vole were only recorded at Drain 14 in the centre of the site and
along Drains 1, 2, 3, and 6 in the northwest, this may be a factor of the low water
levels at the time of survey, which in turn may be a factor of the unusually dry
season.
Given homogenous nature of the majority of the drains and the links between many of
the drains, it must be considered that many have potential to support this species in
the future.
Otter
No evidence of an otter holt was found during survey, however it is recognised that
they can be difficult to locate.
Although no otter spraints were found during survey, the suitability of the habitat and
the records within 1km means the species is likely to present and therefore it is
assumed that otter use this stretch of the river. Furthermore, the network of drains
(particularly Drains 17 and 19), provide good connectivity between the River Narr and
the Relief Channel are likely to be used by some degree by any otters on the River
Narr, especiallygGiven the large home range of this species.
File ref: 1907.071 Page 4 of 4

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8E
Breeding Bird Survey

BREEDING BIRD SURVEY RECORD
General Details:
Site Name King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project
Job Number 1907 Doc. Ref 1907.084
Central NGR TF617166
Site Location South of Kings Lynn - East Route Corridor
Date(s) Visit One – 27 th May 2011 (start 0700hrs, end 1100hrs)
Visit One – 30 th June 2011 (start 0700hrs, end 1130hrs)
Surveyor(s) Lee Greenhough
Weather Visit One – Hot and sunny
Visit One – Cool with light breezes
Seasonal
None. Timing of survey visits was in line with BTO guidelines for Breeding
Constraints Bird Survey methodology (BBS).
Methods Two morning visits to site using transect method based on BTO Breeding Bird
Survey.
Drawing Ref(s): See Drawings G.1907.074 (visit one) G.1907.075 (visit two)
Existing Data:
Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service – last updated 2012
No bird records were held within the site (East Route Corridor) but the following bird records were
provided for the area including the West and Central Route Corridors and a 1km buffer zone:
Barn Owl
Black Tern
Black-Backed Gull
Black-headed Gull
Black-necked Grebe
Blue Tit
Bohemian Waxwing
Brent Goose
Brown Hare
Brown Long-eared Bat
Bullfinch
Cetti's Warbler
Common Bullfinch
Common Goldeneye
Common Kestrel
Common Kingfisher
Common Moorhen
Common Nightingale
Common Redshank
Common Sandpiper
Common Snipe
Common Starling
Cygnus columbianus bewickii
Eurasian Curlew
Eurasian Sparrowhawk
Eurasian Tree Sparrow
Eurasian Wigeon
European Golden Plover
European Shag
European Turtle Dove
Fieldfare
Garganey
Goosander
Great Bittern
Great Cormorant
Great Northern Diver
Greater Scaup
Green Sandpiper
Green Woodpecker
Grey Partridge
Grey Wagtail
Hedge Accentor
Herring Gull
House Martin
House Sparrow
Jack Snipe
Killdeer
Larus arg. subsp. cachinnans
Larus argentatus argentatus
Larus argentatus cachinnans
Larus fuscus graellsii
Larus michahellis michahellis
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Linnet
Long-eared Owl
Long-tailed Duck
Mallard
Mediterranean Gull
Merlin
Northern Fulmar
Northern Lapwing
Peregrine Falcon
Red-breasted Merganser
Red-throated Diver
Reed Bunting
Ring Ouzel
Ruddy Duck
Ruddy Turnstone
Ruff
Short-eared Owl
Skylark
Slavonian Grebe
Smew
Song Thrush
Stock Pigeon
Stonechat
Tufted Duck
Turtle Dove
Whooper Swan
Willow Warbler
Winter Wren
Yellow Wagtail
Yellowhammer

Breeding Bird Survey Record
Habitat Description:
Kings Lynn East Route Corridor is situated to the south of Kings Lynn, with a railway line running
along the eastern boundary separating the site from the village of West Winch. The survey area is
dominated by arable agricultural land and its associated hedgerows and ditches. The River Nar flows
through part of the survey corridor site. The survey area is intensively farmed with crop rotation.
Survey Results:
BTO
Species
Code
Species
Visit 1
-number
recorded
Visit 2
-number
recorded
Breeding
within
corridor
Conservation status
B Blackbird 1 4 C(4 p)
BC Blackcap 1 1 Pr
BT Blue Tit 1 2 C fam
C Carrion Crow 1 1 Pr
CC Chiffchaff 1 1 Po (1p)
CH Chaffinch 2 1 Pr
GO Goldfinch 0 1 C fam
G Green Woodpecker 1 0 - A
GR Greenfinch 1 1 Po
GT Great Tit 1 1 C fam
HS House Sparrow 1 1 C UK R
K Kestrel 1 1 C A
KF Kingfisher 1 0 - Sch 1 A
MA Mallard 2 2 C fam A
MG Magpie 1 1 C (1P)
MH Moorhen 0 1 C juv
MS Mute Swan 2 5 C fam
PW Pied Wagtail 1 1 C juv
R Robin 1 1 Pr (1p)
RB Reed bunting 3 3 Pr (2p) UK A LBAP
RO Rook 1 1 C (1P)
RW Reed Warbler 3 3 Pr (3p)
S Skylark 5 1 Pr (4p) UK R LBAP
SF Spotted Flycatcher 1 1 C (1p) UK R LBAP
ST Song Thrush 2 0 Po UK R
SL Swallow 0 2 Po A
WH Whitethroat 6 4 Pr (4p) A
WP Woodpigeon 0 2 Po
Y Yellowhammer 3 2 C(2p) UK R LBAP
Species Per Visit 25 sp. 26 sp.
TOTAL SPECIES 29 sp.
Key: C = Confirmed; Pr = Probable; Po = Possible; N = Not; p = Pair; fam =Family; Juv= juvenile.
LBAP = Local BAP; UK = UK BAP; R = Red List; A = Amber List; Sch 1 = Schedule 1.
Additional Notes:
In addition to the breeding bird surveys, extensive Vantage Point surveys, Wintering Bird surveys and
Autumn Migration surveys and Spring Migration surveys have been undertaken across all three Route
Corridors. The findings of these surveys are reported in TEP Ornithological Report 2009-2011 (Ref:
1907.041r6)
File ref: 1907.084 2 of 3

Breeding Bird Survey Record
Summary:
The results of the desktop study revealed that a range of BoCC have been recorded within the wider
locality around the corridor route since 1997. Important birds of conservation concern recorded since
1997 included dunnock, linnet, reed bunting, song thrush, starling, skylark and yellowhammer.
A total of 29 bird species were observed during the 2011 breeding bird survey at Kings Lynn East
Corridor Route; 25 species in the early visit and 29 species in the late visit.
One Schedule 1 species was observed during the 2011 survey. Six UKBAP species (house sparrow,
reed bunting, skylark, song thrush, spotted flycatcher and yellowhammer) were recorded on site during
the survey. Of these species house sparrow, spotted flycatcher and yellowhammer have been
classified as confirmed breeders on site. Reed bunting and skylark have been classified as probable
breeders on site.
Species covered by the Norfolk BAP recorded during the survey include reed bunting, skylark, spotted
flycatcher and yellowhammer only.
Eight amber listed species which are not UKBAP species (green woodpecker, kestrel, kingfisher,
mallard, swallow and whitethroat), were also recorded during the survey.
The site is considered to have local importance for breeding birds since it supports a range of bird
species including a number of declining BoCC bird species although some species may not be
breeding at Kings Lynn East Corridor Route. The site supports moderate numbers of breeding reed
bunting, skylark and yellowhammer. This importance is concentrated on the mature tree belts within
the route corridor and the hedgerows and ditches on the site boundaries.
House sparrows breed in buildings and forage in the associated farmland edges. Song thrushes
breed in woodland, woodland edges, parkland and gardens with shrubby cover. They build their nest
in a tree or shrub usually close to the trunk. Spotted flycatchers also breed in woodland edges and
gardens as well as scrub. Reed bunting breed along the ditches in small bushes or hedges.
Yellowhammers breed in hedgerows, tall ruderal herbs and bramble patches. Skylarks are ground
nesting birds and breed in open areas of land including cereal crops.
Other BoCC which are probable or confirmed breeders within the Kings Lynn East Corridor Route site
include kestrel, mallard, swallow and whitethroat. Kestrel will breed in farm buildings or in tree
cavities. Mallard breed near any type of fresh water in a variety of habitats. The nest is usually built in
cover on the ground, among tall vegetation and will also use small islands and occasionally raised
sites in tree forks or holes or large nests of other species. Swallows are summer migrants and build
nests in buildings which have an open aspect. Whitethroat will build nests in a variety of habitats from
patchy low scrub, rough grasslands, waste ground, embankments and young plantations.
The associated ditches, hedgerows and scrub headlands provide nesting and foraging opportunities
and have value for house sparrow, yellowhammer and a variety of other species.
Additional Surveys:
An evening survey for Barn owls was carried on both visits and concentrated on the locations of barn
owl records (off site to the northeast and to the southeast. Trees and buildings were assessed during
the during the breeding birds survey visits and close inspection of suitable buildings outside the
Corridor in the north were also undertaken. No evidence of barn owl activity was recorded. Although
a few tawny owl pellets were found off site to the north.
There is a SSSI designated for herons (Isslington Heronry SSSI) approximately 4km to the west of the
East Route Corridor. This site was observed during the Vantage Point Surveys across the period
2009-2011. No records of herons were made at any time during the surveys.
File ref: 1907.084 3 of 3

GR food
#*
HS
ST food
#*
WH
RW ( ( PW food
RW
WH
þ (
RO fam
,
B
GR
MA
CC (
S (
MS fam
#*
RW þ
GR food
SF food
ST food
WH
BT fam
:
,
S (
S (
RB/
E
:
:
S S:
: :
:
:
:
:
:
RB/
WH
E ( G
Y
BC ( (
GT fam
CH ( C
Y
MG fam (
KF
WH þ
#*
CH (
#*
WH (
#*
K
(food
:
: :
:
:
MS fam
MS
RB þ /
R þ
F
Y (
MA juv
Meters
0 62.5 125 250
:
This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the
permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her
Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised
reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution
or civil proceedings. Licence No. 100024241 2010.
Project:
Title:
Drawing No:
Date:
Key
:
:
B B :
: :
:
:
:
:
:
: :
:
:
þB þB :
B food
( B
B /
E
B /
F
B juv
B
B
BC
BT
C
CC
CH
G
GR
GT
HS
K
KF
MA
fam
#*
,
East Route Corridor
Aggressive encounter between
two blackbirds
Blackbird giving alarm call
Calling blackbird
Blackbird with food
Singing blackbird
Female blackbird
Male blackbird
Juvenile blackbird
Family of blackbirds
Directional flight line
Survey route
Bird point count
Blackbird
Blackcap
Blue Tit
Carrion Crow
Chiffchaff
Chaffinch
Green Woodpecker
Greenfinch
Great Tit
House Sparrow
Kestrel
Kingfisher
Mallard
Genesis Centre
Birchwood Science Park
Warrington WA3 7BH
Tel 01925 844004
Fax 01925 844002
email tep@tep.uk.com
King's Lynn Connection
Breeding Bird Survey Visit 1
27th May 2011
G1907.074
MG
MS
PW
R
RB
RO
RW
S
SF
ST
WH
Y
Magpie
Mute Swan
Pied Wagtail
Robin
Reed Bunting
Rook
Reed Warbler
Skylark
Spotted Flycatcher
Song Thrush
Whitethroat
Yellowhammer
TEP Ref No:
18-07-11 G1907.074
Drawn: Checked: Approved:
AP
LG
CG

,
GR
#* WH food R ( CH BT juv þ
#*
RW (
GT fam
RO food
S food
HS
WH (
C food
CC þ
MG
#*
(
MS fam
WR (
RB food
WR BT juv
CH þ
RW (
BC (
WH (
BT juv RB
B (
WH ( RW (
MA
MH juv
Y food
#*
#*
#*
SF juv
,
,
B ( Y (
K
MA
S (
RB (
WP
SL food
WP
GO fam
WR þ
PW juv
,
MH juv
B (
B (
Meters
0 62.5 125 250
:
This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the
permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her
Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised
reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution
or civil proceedings. Licence No. 100024241 2010.
Project:
Title:
Drawing No:
Date:
Key
:
:
B B :
: :
:
:
:
:
:
: :
:
:
þB þB :
B food
( B
B /
E
B /
F
B juv
B
fam
#*
B
BC
BT
C
CC
CH
GO
GR
GT
HS
K
MA
MG
,
East Route Corridor
Aggressive encounter between
two blackbirds
Blackbird giving alarm call
Calling blackbird
Blackbird with food
Singing blackbird
Female blackbird
Male blackbird
Juvenile blackbird
Family of blackbirds
Directional flight line
Survey route
Bird point count
Blackbird
Blackcap
Blue Tit
Carrion Crow
Chiffchaff
Chaffinch
Goldfinch
Greenfinch
Great Tit
House Sparrow
Kestrel
Mallard
Magpie
MH
MS
PW
R
RB
RO
RW
S
SF
SL
WH
WP
Y
Genesis Centre
Birchwood Science Park
Warrington WA3 7BH
Tel 01925 844004
Fax 01925 844002
email tep@tep.uk.com
King's Lynn Connection
Breeding Bird Survey Visit 2
30th June 2011
G1907.075
Moorhen
Mute Swan
Pied Wagtail
Robin
Reed Bunting
Rook
Reed Warbler
Skylark
Spotted Flycatcher
Swallow
Whitethroat
Woodpigeon
Yellowhammer
TEP Ref No:
19-07-11 G1907.075
Drawn: Checked: Approved:
AP
LG
CG

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8F
Amphibian Survey

1. General Details:
AMPHIBIAN MONITORING RECORD: 2011
Site Name Kings Lynn B Power Station Connection
Job Number 1907 Doc. Ref 1907.092
Site Location Kings Lynn
Date(s) 19 th May 2011
Seasonal The survey was undertaken within the core amphibian survey season
Constraints (mid April to mid-May).
Methods Torch survey, egg search and terrestrial refuge search
Surveyor(s) Elizabeth Seal
Drawing Ref: G1907.55b Phase 1 Habitat Survey East Corridor
2. Pre-existing Amphibian Data:
Source Distance
from site
Location
Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service 6km Near Terrington St Clement
3. Survey Results:
(a) Aquatic Habitat Description
Pond Description
1 This is a large kidney-shaped pond near the Police Investigation Unit and east of
the Power Station. The pond is immediately bordered by High Road in the
south, a roundabout in the east and a new local access road in the north.
The pond appears to be man-made with several inflow pipes apparently leading
from the adjacent roads and ornamental shrub planting between the water’s
edge and the adjacent roads. Marginal vegetation is present along much of the
pond edge but large areas of open water remain (although at the time of survey
duckweed was prevalent across the pond surface).
The pond had a large duck population, litter was prevalent within and around the
pond and an oily sheen was present on the water surface in some areas.
2 This is a large heart-shaped fishing pond adjacent to a commercial garage off
High Road. The pond has areas of marginal vegetation and is immediately
surrounded by mown grass with scattered areas of scrub and trees. There is a
tall conifer hedge to the north separating the fishing pond area from the
commercial garage driveway and parking area.
The pond appears to have a large fish population and the water is very murky.

Kings Lynn Power Station B Connection
Amphibian Survey Record: 2011
(b) Great crested newt habitat suitability assessment
Pond 1
SI Ref Description of Index Measure SI score
SI1 Geographic location A 1.0
SI2 Pond area (to nearest 50m 2 ) 0.2ha (2,000m 2 ) 0.8
SI3 Pond permanence Never drying 0.9
SI4 Water quality Poor 0.33
SI5 Shading % 10% 1.0
SI6 Presence of waterfowl Major 0.01
SI7 Presence of fish Possible 0.67
SI8 Pond density in area 2 ponds within 1km 0.55
SI9 Terrestrial habitat quality Moderate 0.67
SI10 Macrophyte cover in pond 10% 0.4
Overall HSI for Pond: POOR 0.43
Pond 2
SI Ref Description of Index Measure SI score
SI1 Geographic location A 1.0
SI2 Pond area (to nearest 50m 2 ) 0.1ha (1,000m 2 ) 0.95
SI3 Pond permanence Never drying 0.9
SI4 Water quality Poor 0.33
SI5 Shading % 30% 1.0
SI6 Presence of waterfowl Minor 0.67
SI7 Presence of fish Major 0.01
SI8 Pond density in area 2 ponds within 1km 0.55
SI9 Terrestrial habitat quality Moderate 0.67
SI10 Macrophyte cover in pond 20% 0.5
Overall HSI for Pond: POOR 0.45
1907.092 2 2011

Kings Lynn Power Station B Connection
Amphibian Survey Record: 2011
(c) Torch Survey Results:
Pond
1
2
Survey date
19th May
2011
19th May
2011
Shoreline
covered
Great crested
newt
Smooth newt
(male)
Palmate newt
(male)
Female small
newt
Toad
75% 0 0 0 0 0 0 ? 1 3 11.1 N
90% 0 0 0 0 3 0 Y 3 2 11.1 N
(d) Egg Search Results:
No amphibian eggs were found during survey in either pond.
(e) Terrestrial Search Results:
1907.092 3 2011
Frog
Fish
Turbidity
Veg Cover
Air temp C o
Rain?
Wind?
Light
wind
Light
wind
There were many potential refuge features (largely plastic rubbish and dumped rubble
but also some old reptile survey sheets of roofing felt) around Pond 1. Potential refuge
features were more limited around Pond 2.
No amphibians were found during survey around either pond.
4. Survey Summary:
The following table summarises the population sizes of amphibians in the individual
ponds and the overall metapopulation sizes.
Pond
Great crested
newt
Smooth newt Toad Frog Fish
Pond 1 0 0 0 0 ?
Pond 2 0 0 3 0 Y
Site 0 0 3 0 Y
5. Evaluation:
There are no historical records of great crested newts within 5km of the ponds. The
HSI assessment recorded both ponds as having Poor habitat suitability for great crested
newts. No newts were found during the survey in May 2011.

King’s Lynn B Power Station Connection Project – Environmental Statement
APPENDIX 8G
Correspondence

Freepost RSKS-HKSY-GSJU
National Grid Community Relations
PO Box 3028
BRISTOL BS1 9FF
Louise Oliver
Natural England
Consultation Service
Hornbeam House
Electra Way
Crewe Business Park
Crewe CW1 6GJ
Date: 25 August 2011
Dear Louise
0800 804 7681
nationalgrid@kingslynnconnection.com
www.nationalgrid.com/kingslynnconnection
National Grid King’s Lynn B connection project: Minutes from site meeting 12 August 2011
I am writing following the meeting that your colleague Jen Small attended on 12 August, regarding National Grid’s
proposals to construct a new overhead line near King’s Lynn. This line would connect Centrica’s proposed power station
at King’s Lynn to the existing 400,000 volt (400 kV) Norwich to Walpole overhead line. We are very grateful for the
information and guidance Jen provided to the team with respect to the River Nar SSSI.
We took minutes during the meeting and I attach a copy of these with this letter for your information. Jen has today
confirmed her acceptance of these minutes as an accurate record of the meeting.
Separately, we are grateful to Jen for confirming for us exactly where the River Nar SSSI ends, and for responding to
the consultation on boreholes which we understand Natural England has received from the Environment Agency.
The feedback provided by Natural England and landowners will be taken on board in National Grid’s further refinement
of a proposed alignment for the new overhead line and I will consult with you again as the proposals develop.
If you have any queries on the project, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Yours sincerely
Andrew J Connolly
Project Manager
Securing our energy supply for future generations.
National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ■ Registered office: 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5EH Registered in England and Wales No. 2366977.

National Grid: King’s Lynn B Connection project
Meeting on 12 August 2011, 9.30am
In attendance:
• Jen Small, Natural England
• Rob Fielden, National Grid
• Barry Cullimore, National Grid
• Carolyn Gratty, TEP
• Liz Seal, TEP
• Lee Greenhough, TEP
• Rod Dennis, Grayling
Team is alongside the River Nar, south of Dairy Farm and Nar Hideaway and north of the existing Norwich to Walpole
overhead line.
National Grid (NG): (Introduction to King’s Lynn B connection project and purpose of the meeting to discuss potential
temporary works which could affect the River Nar SSSI).
NG: There would be a temporary roadway along the field and onto this bank. We’d need to alter the height of only
one of the banks. We’re discussing the potential for a bridge to go across with the Environment Agency.
NG: This option would help keep traffic down on local minor roads.
NG: We are looking at another option, that would be outside the SSSI though.
Natural England (NE): Would you build the flood bank up again?
NG: Yes.
NE: It’s a chalk river upstream and fenland down here, and is artificially constrained. As long as we cover protected
species areas, it would be okay to temporarily surface these areas. Would you be taking down these trees?
(indicates)
NG: We’d need to clear a space between these bushes here. We’re hoping to avoid trees but it may be necessary to
remove some. The temporary road locations aren’t fixed though, we need an exact route for the overhead line in
order to confirm these.
NE: There might be bats in those trees. I’d like those trees to stay if possible
NG: (Current proposed route shown on a map)
NG: A lot of the drains have been filled in around here.
NG: The overhead line would go roughly here. In terms of clearances for sag and movement of the line, about 12
metres out to the furthest point on the arms would be needed, plus an extra 10 metres, so 22 metres each side, 44
metres in total.
NE: When would the work start?
Securing our energy supply for future generations.
National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ■ Registered office: 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5EH Registered in England and Wales No. 2366977.

NG: 2014 or 2015. We still have to ensure everyone is happy with the route we are proposing and further survey
would needs to be done.
NE: Would the tree clearances take place outside the main bird breeding seasons?
NG: Yes.
NG: the willow tree there (on the east side of the River Nar) may have to go, depending on the final position of the
line. If it does need to go, we’d do this at a time suitable for you. Are trees generally a problem, or is it more wildlife?
NE: The latter.
NG: We’d be happy to plant here to fill the gaps and provide some mitigation.
NE: That would be great.
NG: We need to get the Environment Agency out on site. The EA is happy with a temporary crossing here from our
consultation with them to date. They just need to get around the watercourses. Regarding the trees, it is easier for
them to maintain without them.
NG: Temporarily altering the height of the flood bank east of the River Nar was the Environment Agency’s suggestion.
NE: What materials would you be using for these temporary works?
NG: There would be stone roads, laid on a geogrid membrane covered with compacted stone. The temporary bridges
would be craned into position from the stone roads/crane pads. The topsoil would be scraped from the surface before
creating stone roads and temporary work areas. The pads either side of the river to support the bridge may need to be
concrete.
NE: Would this be removed afterwards?
NG: Yes.
NG: We’d need to clear a section of this hedgerow and install a culvert here (indicates base of the slope west side of
the River Nar). We’d bring in material to build up to the level of this bank. We’d be using cranes, piling rigs, 360 o
machines – heavy plant basically
NE: Where would that equipment be stored at night? Away from the river?
NG: Yes. Depending on the job, we’d need equipment for different amounts of time – but we wouldn’t park
equipment near the river bank. No site compound would be near the River Nar.
NE: Would there be any diffuse pollution into the Nar, such as oil?
NG: We would use drip trays to catch any leaking from vehicles. Can’t 100% guarantee there would be no run off in
wet conditions but we would work to avoid this.
Securing our energy supply for future generations.
National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ■ Registered office: 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5EH Registered in England and Wales No. 2366977.

NG: You can see a similar site that we have set up for the Norwich to Walpole overhead line refurbishment work if you
like.
NE: No, that’s fine thank you.
NG: A scaffold like that one on the Norwich to Walpole line (indicates) would need setting up for this work.
NE: Okay.
NG: (indicates a possible location for the temporary road). Ideally the line would go between the two willows here.
NG: We would like to go with you to look at the area for another temporary bridge further north.
Team moves further north on the riverside footpath to a location near to a potential pylon location adjacent to the
River Nar (interim alignment tower position 4).
NE: What surveys are taking place?
NG: Different environmental surveys are taking place, including bats, watervoles, badgers, swans and other birds. We
have found some mink on the River Nar.
NE: There is a county-wide report on mink numbers, I’d be interested in your findings.
NG: There are currently no signs of protected species on the river but surveys are ongoing.
NG: Do you know why the SSSI ends at this point? (indicates)
NE: The natural course of the river has been altered and the channel modified beyond this point.
NG: We’ve assumed the designation ends here from the maps that we have.
NE: I will check this for you.
NG: (Possible location for the line shown on map) The tower here would be 5 to 10 metres from the bank. The arm
would stick out about 8 metres from the centre point of the tower, roughly level with the legs of the pylon. There
would be another tower over there (indicates further south and east of the river). Where the river kinks, we would
need about 10 metres clearance either side of the new line for safety purposes.
NG: Where the trees break (indicates a natural break in the trees to the south), potentially all of the trees to the left of
there would go in the worst case but we’d hope to not have to remove all of those. Here’s where we’d hope to have
this tower (indicates), but it does depend on the views of landowners. We are still talking to the landowners
concerned.
NE: The landowner wants it on the corner, there?
NG: Yes. The tower would be outside the SSSI but for clearance we may need to cut the trees in the SSSI.
NG: The purple areas on this plan indicate areas for EPZs, where we would put our pulling machines. The location of
these can be moved though, and they certainly won’t be in the River Nar – they’ll be outside the banks.
Securing our energy supply for future generations.
National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ■ Registered office: 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5EH Registered in England and Wales No. 2366977.

NG: The farmer has asked us to move the pylon that’s on this plan. He wants to farm around the pylon, the location of
the pylon has repercussions on the use of the land.
NG: Quite a few trees would have to go from here potentially. Ideally we’d leave as much as possible. But we're telling
you the worst case scenario.
NG: We could plant other trees further over there. (indicates)
NE: Planting along here would help mitigate the loss over there, if the Environment Agency is happy.
NE: At this end, the trees are more mature (indicates those in the SSSI) . At the shorter section, my preference
would be to take out the scrubbier ones. The alders are nice here.
NG: Some history – other alignments we’ve looked at had a tighter turn up there, almost 90 degrees. That avoided the
SSSI but had other associated issues such as greater visual impact.
NE: If we can plant more alders that would help mitigate the loss over there. Keeping the existing alders there
would be our preference. But I appreciate the constraints you are working under. The ash there won’t become nicer
trees.
NG: Under this plan, all of these alders would need to go. There is also the potential for a temporary bridge that would
have to be bigger than the one further south because of the banks. We would need cranes either side of the river, or
we’d launch a bridge from one side.
NG: We are looking at an option to bridge the Nar near those barns, and then come down this field – this is assuming
the bridge is sufficient and the landowner is happy.
NG: Planting new trees in the farmer’s field might be difficult.
NE: I’d prefer on the bank close to the river channel where it would create a mosaic of light and shade on the River
Nar.
NE: Would you do bat surveys if you were to remove these trees?
NG: Yes.
NG: We’ve picked little up so far around here.
NG: How far does the SSSI boundary extend?
NE: To the break of the slope. Strictly speaking it ends here (indicates top of the bank). Normally it would just be the
river channel itself, but I’ll check this.
NE: Is there water there? (indicates end of the tree group)
NG: It floods in winter just there and it very damp.
Securing our energy supply for future generations.
National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ■ Registered office: 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5EH Registered in England and Wales No. 2366977.

NE: In terms of the SSSI designation, where there are no adjacent land parcels, the SSSI is to the break of the slope.
If you’re impacting on these areas, Natural England would need to be consulted.
NG: Borehole investigations are to be done, we will run the plan for these past you.
NE: How deep would the boreholes be?
NG: Around 10 metres. An application is in with the Environment Agency for permissions to be do this work.
NE: That’s fine, the Environment Agency will consult us on this. You wouldn’t need to submit your plans to us for
consultation as well.
NE: Please can the minutes of our meeting today be copied to Louise [Oliver] and I?
NG: Yes.
NG: Our preference is to avoid those trees but of course this is a balancing act.
NE: These alders might offer some protection of diverse habitats.
NE: Please send me your latest plans.
NG: We’re moving forward with the plans Natural England have already.
NE: Fine. Louise [Oliver] will respond to you on this. Please send the borehole drawings to Louise. The Environment
Agency recommends you consult Natural England informally before making an application, that way it can speed
things up.
NG: Okay. Do you have any other questions?
NE: No, thank you.
Contact details exchanged. NG is available to discuss any aspect of the project and answer any queries.
[ENDS]
Securing our energy supply for future generations.
National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ■ Registered office: 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5EH Registered in England and Wales No. 2366977.

Date: 05 July 2012
Our ref: 54446
Your ref: 1907.075 – Version 5.0
Tim Ross
TEP
BY EMAIL ONLY
Dear Tim
Page 1 of 1
Customer Services
Hornbeam House
Crewe Business Park
Electra Way
Crewe
Cheshire
CW1 6GJ
T 0300 060 3900
Planning consultation: KING’S LYNN B POWER STATION CONNECTION PROJECT HABITAT
REGULATIONS ASSESSMENT NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS REPORT
Thank you for your consultation on the above dated 03 May 2012 and further information supplied
since that time.
Natural England is a non-departmental public body. Our statutory purpose is to ensure that the natural
environment is conserved, enhanced, and managed for the benefit of present and future generations,
thereby contributing to sustainable development.
The application site is in a location where potential for effects to the Wash Site of Special Scientific
Interest (SSSI) and The Ouse Washes SSSI were identified . These SSSIs correspond to the Wash
Special Area of Conservation (SPA) and The Ouse Washes SPA respectively.
Natura 2000 site – No objection
Natural England advises that the proposal, if undertaken in strict accordance with the details submitted,
is not likely to have a significant effect on the interest features for which The Wash SPA and The Ouse
Washes SPA have been classified. Natural England therefore advises that it will not be necessary to
undertake an Appropriate Assessment to assess the implications of this proposal on these sites
conservation objectives. 1
We would be happy to comment further should the need arise but if in the meantime you have any
queries, please do not hesitate to contact Ross Holdgate on 0300 060 4657. For any new
consultations or issues, please contact consultations@naturalengland.org.uk.
We really value your feedback to help us improve the service we offer. We have attached a feedback
form to this letter and welcome any comments you might have about our service.
Yours sincerely
Ross Holdgate
Land Use Operations
1 This reply comprises our statutory consultation response under provisions of Article 20 of the Town and Country
Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2010 Regulation 61 (3) of the Conservation of
Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (The Conservation Regulations) and Section 28(I) of the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).