Supporting Documentation - Renfrewshire Council

As the proposed turbine is located in an open area, away from woodland and moorland it is unlikely that
wildcats will be present.
Amphibians and Reptiles
There are a large number of these creatures found across Scotland. Of all of the types found, Great
Crested Newts, Natterjack Toads, Sand Lizards, and all Marine Turtles are designated as European
Protected Species and so are protected under Schedule 2 of the Habitat Regulations 1994 (as amended
in Scotland). Therefore, if a development is likely to disturb or endanger any of these specific species, a
licence is likely to be required.
The proposed turbine location is located in a field approximately 316m away watercourse it is unlikely that
the above named species will be present.
Non-native Invasive Plant Species
Japanese Knotweed is a Schedule 9 Species, on the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as amended and
it is an offence to introduce or cause this species to spread in the wild. It is easily spread by parts of the
root or stem and its root systems can spread to a distance of up to 7m from the plant.
SNH have not recorded Japanese Knotweed in the area and a site walkover failed to record any in the
proposed area of works or nearby. In addition, it is unlikely to be found in open field areas such as that
used for the proposed turbine. Should it be identified at the site of the proposed turbine during
construction it will be eradicated and disposed of according to SNH and SEPA guidance. The expected
method, should the plant be identified, would be to use a glyphosate based weed killer according to
relevant guidance in consultation with SEPA. Should the plant be found near a watercourse, the range of
herbicides available for use is restricted and written permission would need to be obtained from SEPA.
Habitat Protection
The turbine’s position is located within a field within Hartfield Farm, conserving field margin habitats
maintained at the site. The construction access will border the field boundaries using previously used
access where possible.
2.2.2.1 Summary
Overall, no sightings or evidence of the species listed was seen during the site visit.
Given the unlikely potential for the species listed to be present on site we do not anticipate any further
investigation required other than that detailed above.
Based on guidance notes given by Scottish Natural Heritage – Protected Species
http://www.snh.gov.uk/protecting-scotlands-nature/protected-species/
2.2.3 Ornithology
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) considers climate change to be the biggest threat to
birds and other wildlife; they believe that the development of wind power generation in the UK can be
achieved in harmony with the natural environment rather than at the expense of it. Switching to green
energy solutions such as wind powered electricity will minimise climate change and subsequently reduce
the threat to birds. Therefore, with careful location of wind turbines and respect to sensitive bird species,
wind turbines will have no significant adverse impact on bird populations or their habitat and will ultimately
benefit birds.
Waterman Group, Renewable Energy, 2/4 Canning Street Lane, Edinburgh, EH3 8ER T:0131 221 7020
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Farm\Documents\Reports\CIV12920_1202xx_Hartfield_Supporting Turbine Assessment_225kW.docx