English Heritage Stonehenge Environmental Improvements Project ...

English Heritage 

Stonehenge Environmental Improvements 

Project 

Phase II Botanical Surveys 

September 2008

September 2008 

11108605R_Botanical_DW_09-08 


Chris Blandford Associates





CONTENTS 

SUMMARY 

1.0 INTRODUCTION 

2.0 METHODOLOGY 

3.0 RESULTS 

4.0 EVALUATION 

TABLES 

1. Criteria used in evaluating the relative botanical importance of habitats 

2. Results of the evaluation process for Site V 

3. Results of the evaluation process for Site W 

4. Results of the evaluation process for Site X 

5. Results of the evaluation process for Site Y 

6. Results of the evaluation process for Site Z 

FIGURES 

1.1 Location of Sites and Areas Surveyed Within Sites 

APPENDICES 

A. Botanical survey results, site V 

B. Botanical survey results, site W 

C. Botanical survey results, site X 

D. Botanical survey results, site Y 

E. Botanical survey results, site Z 









SUMMARY 

A botanical survey was undertaken of targeted habitats within the shortlisted site options for new visitor 

facilities, currently being considered for the Stonehenge Environmental Improvements Project. The aims 

of the survey were to identify the plant species and communities present and to evaluate these in relation 

to their nature conservation importance. 

The survey identified species and communities of arable fields, improved and semi-improved grassland, 

unimproved calcareous grassland, scrub and coniferous and broadleaved plantations. The areas of 

greatest value for nature conservation in terms of their flora were areas of unimproved calcareous 

grassland within sites W, X and Z, which were evaluated to be of local (W and X) and international (Z) 

importance. However, other areas also had some value, for example unimproved or semi-improved 

calcareous grassland at sites W and Z, old broadleaved plantation at site X and arable fields that support 

an uncommon arable weed species at sites X and Z. 









1.0 INTRODUCTION 

1.1 Purpose of the Survey 

1.1.1 This report sets out the results of a botanical survey for the Stonehenge Environmental 

Improvements Project. The purpose of this study is to inform a baseline against which the 

effects of development options and proposals can be assessed in relation to impacts on 

ecological and nature conservation resources.. 

1.1.2 The scope of the study includes: 

• Identification of plant species and communities present within and around shortlisted site 

option Appraisal Areas; and 

• Evaluation of the identified plant species and communities in relation to their nature 

conservation importance. 

1.2 Study Area 

1.2.1 The Study Areas within and around the shortlisted site options for new visitor facilities 1 chosen 

for the purposes of the botanical surveys are shown on Figure 1.1. 

1 

The Future of Stonehenge – Public Consultation (English Heritage, July 2008) 

September 2008 1 Phase II Botanical Surveys 



2.0 METHODOLOGY 

2.1 Field Survey 

2.1.1 Botanical surveys were carried out from May to July 2008, and the methodologies used are 

described below. The locations of sites and parts of sites are illustrated in Figure 1.1. 

2.1.2 Nomenclature for plant species follows Stace 2 , except where this differed within National 

Vegetation Classification community names 3 . 

2.1.3 In each area surveyed, all species identified were recorded and a broad indication of their 

frequency and abundance was given using the DAFOR scale. In addition, in many areas, a 

quadrat or quadrats of a size appropriate to the habitat or community (in accordance with 

guidelines set out in the ‘National Vegetation Classification: Users Handbook’ 4 ) were placed in 

homogenous and representative stands of the different vegetation types present. The species 

present within the quadrat(s), and their abundance, were recorded using the DOMIN scale. 

Notes were also taken of the general features of the area, its appearance and structure. Where 

possible the plant communities present have been referred to the most appropriate National 

Vegetation Classification (NVC) community 2 . 

2.2 Evaluation 

2.2.1 Habitats and communities were evaluated using a combination of criteria, guidance and 

frameworks, such as those outlined by Ratcliffe 5 , including size, diversity, naturalness, rarity, 

geographical position and fragility, the criteria for the selection of sites for SSSI designation 6 , 

criteria for the selection of County Wildlife Sites in Wiltshire 7 , criteria for the selection of 

Important Arable Plant Areas 8 and Wiltshire Habitat Action Plans 9 . Further detail regarding the 

criteria used in evaluating habitats within the site is provided in Table 1. 

2.2.2 Species were evaluated using the red data list for vascular plant species 10 , Scarce Plants in 

Britain. 

2 

Stace C. 1997 New Flora of the British Isles second edition. Cambridge University Press. 

3 

Rodwell, J.S. (ed) et al 1991-2000. British Plant Communities Volumes 1-5. Cambridge University Press. 

4 

Rodwell J.S. 2006 National Vegetation Classification: Users Handbook. JNCC 

5 

Ratcliffe, D., 1977. A Nature Conservation Review, Volume 1. Cambridge University Press. 

6 

Nature Conservancy Council , 1989. Guidelines for selection of biological SSSIs. Nature Conservancy Council. 

7 

Wiltshire and Swindon Biological Record Centre, 2004. The County Wildlife Sites Project: Criteria for site selection, 3 rd draft. 

Wiltshire and Swindon Biological Record Centre, 

8 

Byfield, A. and Wilson, P. (2005). Important Arable Plant Areas: Identifying priority sites for arable plant conservation in the 

United Kingdom. Plantlife International, Salisbury, UK. 

9 

Wilkinson, S. (ed) 2008. Wiltshire Biodiversity Action Plan. Wiltshire Biodiversity Action Plan Steering Group. 

10 

Cheffings, C.M. and Farrel, L. (eds.), 2005. The Vascular Plants Red Data List for Great Britain. JNCC. 




Table 1 Criteria used in evaluating the relative botanical importance of habitats 

Value 

Examples of Evaluation Criteria 

International Importance • High importance and rarity, international scale and limited potential for 

substitution; 

• A internationally designated site (Special Area of Conservation SAC, Special 

Protection Areas SPA); 

• Presence of Internationally rare species; 

• Woodland: Semi-Natural Ancient Woodland greater than 20ha including a 

combination of type stands; 

• Grassland: Unimproved and species-rich grassland greater than 0.5 ha including 

internationally rare habitats; 

• Arable sites with threshold scores of more than 90 points 11 . 

National Importance • High importance and rarity, national scale, or regional scale with limited 

potential for substitution; 

• A nationally designated site (Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), National 

Nature Reserves (NNRs) etc.; 

• A viable area of a priority habitat identified in the UK BAP, or of smaller areas of 

such habitat which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole; 

• Woodland: Semi-Natural Ancient Woodland greater than 5ha; 

• Grassland: Unimproved grassland greater than 10 hectares; over 10 positive or 

unimproved grassland indicators; 

• Arable sites with threshold scores of 45-89 points. 

Regional Importance • High or medium importance and rarity, local or regional scale, and limited 

potential for substitution. 

• Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a Nationally Scarce 

species (occurs in between 16 to 100 10km squares of the national grid) or in a 

Regional BAP or relevant Natural Area on account of its regional rarity or 

localisation; or 

• Woodland: Semi-Natural Ancient Woodland between 2 and 5ha; 

• Grassland: Unimproved grassland greater than 0.5 hectares, over 10 positive or 

unimproved grassland indicators. 

County Importance • High or medium importance and rarity, local or regional scale, and limited 

potential for substitution. A site designated as being of County Importance i.e. 

County Wildlife Site (CWS); 

• A viable area of Key Habitat identified in the County BAP; 

• Any regularly occurring locally significant population of a species which is listed 

in a County Red Data Book, BAP or County Rare Plant Register on account of its 

regional rarity or localisation; 

• A regularly occurring locally significant number of a County important species; 

• Woodland: Semi-Natural Ancient Woodland greater than 0.25 ha with 10 or 

more AWIS; 

• Grassland: Unimproved grassland greater than 0.5 hectare with 6 positive or 

unimproved grassland indicators; 

• Arable sites with threshold scores of 30-44 points. Vascular ; 

• Plants: According to KWT 2005 12 , >150 points (locally scarce or rare in County 

= 25 points). 

11 

Byfield, A. and Wilson, P. (2005). Important Arable Plant Areas: Identifying priority sites for arable plant conservation in the 

United Kingdom. Plantlife International, Salisbury, UK. 

12 

Kent Wildlife Trust, 2005 Local Wildlife Sites in Kent Criteria for Selection and Delineation. Kent Wildlife Trust. 




Value 

Examples of Evaluation Criteria 

Local Importance • Low or medium importance and rarity, local scale; 

• A site designated as being of Local Importance by Oxford City Council i.e. a Site 

of Local Interest of Nature Conservation (SLINC); 

• Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species listed as being 

Locally Scarce which occurs in 100-500 10km squares in the UK; 

• Areas of habitat identified as being of Local Value in the relevant Natural Area 

profile; 

• Woodland: Semi-Natural Ancient Woodland/ Mature plantation smaller than 

0.25 ha with 3 or more AWIS; 

• Grassland: Unimproved or rich semi-improved grassland greater than 0.5 hectare 

with 3-4 unimproved grassland indicators; 

• Vascular Plants: According to KWT 2005, >100 points (locally scarce or rare in 

County = 25 points); 

Parish Importance • Low or medium importance and rarity, local scale; 

• Areas of habitat considered to appreciably enrich the habitat resource within the 

context of the Parish or Neighbourhood e.g. species-rich hedgerows/ or adjacent 

to habitat of County Value or above; 

• Area of woodland with 2 or more AWIS species, or >0.25ha of mature 

plantation/semi-natural woodland; 

• 1-3 unimproved grassland indicators; 

• Vascular Plants: According to KWT 2005, >50 points (locally scarce or rare in 

County = 25 points). 

Negligible Importance • Very low importance and rarity, local scale; 

• Sites or areas, which support few or no habitats, communities or species 

populations of nature conservation interest. 




3.0 RESULTS 

3.1 General 

3.1.1 The locations of sites and parts of sites are illustrated in Figure 1.1. Appendices A-E summarise 

the results of the botanical survey for sites V to Z respectively. 

3.2 Site V 

3.2.1 The southern part of Site V comprises the existing car parking areas for Stonehenge (Appendix 

A, S). The southern part of this is largely under hard standing but verges and banks of speciespoor 

amenity grassland are present. These are dominated by perennial rye-grass Lolium 

perenne and a small number of other common species of such grasslands, such as daisy Bellis 

perennis Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. and white clover Trifloium repens, and is 

referable to the NVC community MG7 Lolium perenne-Trifolium repens perennial rye-grasswhite 

clover grassland. Shrubs, mostly hawthorn Crataegus monogyna are also present in some 

of the grassland. The northern part of the car park has larger areas of species-poor amenity 

grassland very similar to that in the southern part. 

3.2.2 Immediately to the north of the car park is a pasture of poor semi-improved grassland 

(Appendix A, N), which supports a range of grass species and a small number of common 

grassland herbs. 

3.3 Site W 

Arable 

3.3.1 E 3 is an arable field. The arable weed flora is very species-poor and sparse throughout the 

majority of the field, although localised patches with a more species-rich and abundant 

community are present on some of the margins and corners, particularly the south west corner 

(where the quadrat was located). This supports a range of common arable weed species, such 

as barren brome Anisantha sterilis, common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum, common poppy 

Papaver rhoeas, field pansy Viola arvensis and field speedwell Veronica persica, and is best 

referred to the NVC community OV3 Papaver rhoeas-Viola arvensis common poppy-field pansy 

community. 




Grassland 

3.3.2 W3 is a species-poor improved or semi-improved pasture supporting a limited range of 

common grassland species that is referable to the NVC community MG6 Lolium perenne- 

Cynosorus cristatus perennial rye-grass-crested dog’s-tail grassland. 

3.3.3 E1 forms the banks of the track that bisects the Site from north to south. Although of variable 

species-richness they consist of coarse-grained unimproved calcareous grassland dominated by 

upright brome Bromopsis erecta, referable to the NVC community CG3 Bromus erectus upright 

brome grassland, and which is typical of low levels of grazing or cutting. Other species present 

that are characteristic of such grasslands include bird’s-foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus, greater 

knapweed Centaurea scabiosa and the Red Data Book Near Threatened species sanfoin 

Onobrychis vicifolia. 

3.3.4 E4 is a small species poor pasture referable to the NVC community MG7 Lolium perenne- 

Trifolium repens perennial rye-grass-white clover grassland. 

Plantations 

3.3.5 W1, W2 and E2 are coniferous plantations that are very similar in species composition. The 

canopy is dominated by Scot’s pine Pinus sylvestris and the shrub layer is variable in density, 

with hawthorn and elder Sambucus nigra the most common species. The field layer is speciespoor 

and quite grassy in places, although bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. is patchily abundant. 

The field layer includes very few characteristic woodland species. The woodland as a whole is 

not referable to an NVC community, although the shrub layer could be referred to W21 

Crataegus monogyna-Hedera helix hawthorn-ivy scrub. 

3.4 Site X 

Road verges 

3.4.1 The verges of the A344 comprise of relatively species-poor grassland dominated by false oatgrass 

Arrhernatherum elatius, referable to the NVC community MG1 Arrhernatherum elatius 

false oat-grass grassland. 

South Western Quadrant 

3.4.2 SW1 is a small area of species-rich unimproved calcareous grassland referable to the NVC 

community CG2 Festuca ovina-Avenula pratensis sheep’s fescue-meadow oat grass grassland. It 




supports a good range of characteristic species, including sheeps fescue Festuca ovina, upright 

brome, crested harir-grass Koeleria macrantha, meadow oat-grass Helictotrichon pratensis, 

dwarf thistle, Cirsium acaule, horseshoe vetch Hippocrepis comosa, salad burnet Sanguisorbia 

minor and common thyme Thymus polytrichus. It appears to be maintained by relatively heavy 

rabbit grazing, and this is reflected in the relatively high frequency of common ragwort Senecio 

jacobea and the presence of the Red Data Book Near Threatened species hounds-tongue 

Cynoglossum officinale. Scrub is present around the edges of the grassland, which includes 

hawthorn, wild privet Ligustrum vulgare, buckthorn Rhamnus catharticus and elder. 

3.4.3 SW2 is species-poor improved grassland (NVC MG7) dominated by a very small number of 

common grasses and herbs, such as soft brome Bromus hordaceous, perennial rye-grass, white 

clover and dandelion. 

South Eastern Quadrant 

3.4.4 SE1 is a developing broadleaved plantation that forms a southern extension of the Fargo 

Pantation. It has a canopy dominated by sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, although beech Fagus 

sylvatica and ash Fraxinus excelsior are also present. Except on the edges there is little in the 

way of a shrub layer, although elder is locally abundant in the centre (and appears likely to 

pre-date the plantation). The field layer is species-poor with very few characteristic woodland 

species, and is patchily dominated by, for example, rough-meadow grass Poa trivialis and nettle 

Urtica dioica. 

3.4.5 SE2 is an area of developing grassland on an ex-arable field. The sward is patchy, with frequent 

bare patches which support a range of common arable weed species. Sheep’s fescue and 

upright brome are the most common grass species, with sanfoin, ribwort plantain Plantago 

lanceolata and white clover. With time this grassland may develop into CG2 or CG3 grassland, 

although many of the characteristic species are not currently present. 

North Eastern Quadrant 

3.4.6 NE1 is a plantation, of which the southern part has a canopy dominated by sycamore and ash. 

The shrub layer is variable in density with hazel Corylus avellana the most abundant species. 

The field layer is moderately species-rich and supports a number of woodland species such as 

wood speedwell Veronica montana and dog violet Viola riviniana. Although it is likely that this 

area was originally a plantation, it has now developed a relatively semi-natural structure and 

can be considered a relatively species-poor example of the NVC community W8 Fraxinus 

excelsior-Acer campestre-Mercurailis perennis ash-field maple-dog’s mercury woodland. 




3.4.7 The northern part of NE1 is broadly similar in species composition, although (rather sickly 

looking) pine Pinus sp. forms an abundant component of the canopy here. 

3.4.8 NE2 is an area of relatively species-poor grassland that has developed on an area previously 

occupied by part of the Fargo Plantation. 

North Western Quadrant 

3.4.9 NW1 includes a number of different habitats and communities. The south western part is 

unimproved calcareous grassland very similar to that within SE1 on the southern side of the 

A344. The tumulus in the north eastern part supports species-poor grassland dominated by 

false oat-grass, and scrub is present in the north western corner and along the southern edge. 

3.4.10 NW2 is an arable field in which the arable weed flora is generally sparse and species-poor, 

although this is more abundant and species-rich on the margins and in corners. Here a range of 

common arable weed species are present, of which field speedwell, field forget-me-not 

Myosotis arvensis, cut-leaved crane’s-bill Geranium dissectum and field pansy are 

conspicuous. Of note is the presence of a small number of plants of the Red Data Book Near 

Threatened species dwarf spurge Euphorbia exigua. The community is best referred to the NVC 

community OV15 Anagallis arvensis-Veronica persica scarlet pimpernel-field speedwell 

community. 

3.5 Site Y 

Road Verges 

3.5.1 Grassy road verges (C) are present on either side of both the A344/A360/B3086. These are 

relatively similar in structure and species composition throughout. They are mostly speciespoor 

and dominated by false oat-grass. However, some areas, particularly where false oat-grass 

is less abundant, are more species-rich, including a number of species characteristic of 

unimproved calcareous grasslands, such as upright brome, common knapweed and burnet 

saxifrage Pimpinella saxifraga. These grasslands can be referred to the NVC community MG1 

Arrhernatherum elatius false oat-grass grassland. Small plantations of beech are present on the 

northern side of the A344, either side of the Airman’s Corner junction. 

North Western and South Western Quadrants 

3.5.2 NW and SW are arable fields. At the time of survey the crop in NW was at a relatively early 

stage of development so the arable weed flora was distributed more or less throughout the 




field. It comprised a range of typical arable weed species, including black bindweed Fallopia 

convulvulus, shepherd’s purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, common fumitory Fumaria officinalis, 

field and grey speedwell Veronica persica and polita, and can be referred to the NVC 

community OV7 Veronica persica-Veronica polita field speedwell- grey speedwell community. 

3.5.3 The crop within SW was more fully developed and as a consequence the arable weed flora 

was very limited in extent and confined to small field margins and corners. It was broadly 

similar in species composition to that within NW, although some species, such as black grass 

Alopecurus myosuroides, cut-leaved crane’s-bill and ivy-leaved speedwell, that were absent 

from NW were present in relative abundance in SW. 

3.5.4 There is a recently planted relatively species-poor hedge dominated by hawthorn between the 

field in SW and the adjoining road verges of the A360/B3086. 

South Eastern and North Eastern Quadrants 

3.5.5 SE and NE comprise very species-poor grasslands dominated by perennial rye-grass and 

cocksfoot Dactylis glomerata respectively, which can be referred to the NVC community MG7 

Lolium perenne-Trifolium repens perennial rye-grass-white clover grassland. 

3.6 Site Z 

Road verges 

3.6.1 Grassy road verges are present on either side of the B3086 and the Packway that are broadly 

similar in structure and species composition throughout. They are relatively species-poor NVC 

community MG1 Arrhernatherum elatius false oat-grass grassland. Small amounts of scrub, 

including bramble and blackthorn are also patchily present and trees have been planted on the 

northern side of the Packway to the south of Rollestone Camp. 

South Western and South Eastern Quadrants 

3.6.2 SW and SE are arable fields with very similar arable weed floras, which were largely confined 

to field margins and corners. The most abundant species throughout is cut-leaved crane’s-bill, 

although a range of other species is present, including barren brome, cleavers Galium aparine, 

thistles Cirsium spp., common poppy and knotgrass Polygonum aviculare. Of note was the 

presence of a small population of the Red Data Book Near Threatened species dwarf spurge 

Euphorbia exigua in the north western corner of NW. 




North Eastern Quadrant 

3.6.3 NE1 is an area of apparently ungrazed unimproved calcareous grassland with scattered scrub. 

The grassland is dominated by upright brome and, although variable in species-richness and 

relatively course-grained, it still retains a good range of species characteristic of unimproved 

calcareous grasslands, including the Red Data Book Near Threatened species sanfoin. It can be 

referred to the NVC community CG3 Bromus erectus upright brome grassland. There are a 

number of patches in which Canadian goldenrod is locally dominant, particularly in the south 

western corner. The scrub is variable in density, but there are still many areas of open 

grassland. However, the presence of shrub seedlings and young plants in the sward indicates 

that scrub is continuing to develop and increase within the compartment, at the expense of the 

grassland. Hawthorn is the most abundant shrub species and bramble is locally abundant. 

3.6.4 NE2 was surveyed only from its southern and western boundaries and appears to be a semiimproved 

grassland in which crested dog’s tail Cynosorus cristatus, cocksfoot, perennial ryegrass, 

bulbous buttecup Ranunculus bulbosus and daisy are all frequent or abundant. A small 

number of species characteristic of unimproved calcareous grassland are present, including 

upright brome and salad burnet. It can best be referred to the NVC community MG6 Lolium 

perenne-Cynosorus cristatus perennial rye-grass-crested dog’s-tail grassland. 

North Western Quadrant 

3.6.5 NW comprises closely mown grassland within Rollestone Camp. It is variable in species 

composition but is mostly intermediate between unimproved calcareous grassland (CG2 

Festuca ovina-Avenula pratensis sheep’s fescue-meadow oat grass grassland) and more 

improved amenity type swards (MG6 Lolium perenne-Cynosorus cristatus perennial rye-grasscrested 

dog’s-tail grassland). A number of small areas on banks associated with structures set 

within the grassland support a more unimproved form of calcareous grassland which is 

referable to the NVC community CG2 Festuca ovina-Avenula pratensis sheep’s fescue-meadow 

oat grass grassland. 




4.0 EVALUATION 

4.1 Site V 

4.1.1 Table 2 summarises the results of the evaluation of nature conservation value for the areas 

within Site V in terms of their flora. 

Table 2 Results of the evaluation process for Site V 

Area 

Importance 

(see Table 1) 

Comments 

S Negligible Small areas of species poor grassland with species-poor shrubs/scrub. 

N Negligible Species poor grassland 

4.2 Site W 


within Site W in terms of their flora. 

Table 3 Results of the evaluation process for Site W. 

Area 

Importance 

(see Table 1) 

Comments 

W1 Parish Relatively varied shrub layer and moderate range of species. 

W2 Parish Relatively varied shrub layer and moderate range of species. 

W3 Negligible Species-poor grassland 

E1 Local Unimproved calcareous grassland with a range of characteristic species. 

E2 Parish Relatively varied shrub layer and moderate range of species. 

E3 Negligible 

Arable weed flora comprising common species, and of very limited 

extent. 

E4 Negligible Species-poor grassland 

4.3 Site X 


within Site X in terms of their flora. 

Table 4 Results of the evaluation process for Site X. 

Area 

Importance 

(see Table 1) 

Comments 

C Negligible Species-poor grassland 

SW1 

Local 

Species-rich unimproved calcareous grassland, which represents one of 

the few areas of semi-natural habitat within the Stonehenge area. 

SW2 Negligible Species-poor grassland 

SE1 Negligible Species-poor plantation 




Area 

Importance 

(see Table 1) 

Comments 

SE2 Negligible Species-poor grassland, though has potential to increase in value. 

NE1 

Parish 

Moderately species-rich (including small number of ‘woodland species) 

old broadleaved plantation that has developed semi-natural structure. 

NE2 Negligible Species-poor grassland 

NW1 Local 

Includes an area of species-rich unimproved calcareous grassland, which 

represents one of the few areas of semi-natural habitat within the 

Stonehenge area. 

NW2 Parish 


extent. However, Red data Book Near Threatened dwarf spurge present. 

4.4 Site Y 


within Site Y in terms of their flora. 

Table 5 Results of the evaluation process for Site Y. 

Area 

C 

SW 

Importance 

(see Table 1) 

Parish 

Negligible 

Comments 

Mostly species-poor grassland, but with some more species-rich parts 

supporting number of species of unimproved calcareous grassland. 


extent. 

SE Negligible Species-poor grassland. 

NE Negligible Species-poor grassland. 

NW Negligible Arable weed flora comprising common species. 

4.5 Site Z 


within Site Z in terms of their flora. 

Table 6 Results of the evaluation process for Site Z. 

Area 

Importance 

(see Table 1) 

Comments 

C Negligible Species-poor grassland 

SW Negligible 


extent. 

SE 

Parish 


extent. However, Red Data Book Near Threatened dwarf spurge present. 

NE1 International 

Relatively species-rich unimproved calcareous grassland that forms part 

of the Salisbury Plain Special Area of Conservation (designated under 

European law) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (designated under 

UK law). 

NE2 International 

Semi-improved grassland that forms part of the Salisbury Plain Special 

Area of Conservation (designated under European law) and Site of 

Special Scientific Interest (designated under UK law). 

NW 

Parish 

Mostly semi-improved grassland, but includes significant elements of 

unimproved calcareous grassland. 








APPENDIX A 

BOTANICAL SURVEY RESULTS, SITE V 









Area S N 

Habitat 

Amenity 

grass and 

shrubs 

Poor semiimproved 

grassland 

DAFOR or DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR 

NVC Communities 

MG7 

W21 

Species 

Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn D 

Ligustrum vulgare Wild privet R 

Prunus domestica Plum R 

Rhamnus cathartica Buckthorn R 

Sambucus nigra Elder R 

MG7 

Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass O 

Bromopsis erectus Upright brome O 

Bromus hordeaceus Soft brome F/LA 

Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot F F/LA 

Festuca rubra Red fescue F/LA 

Helictotrichon pubescens Downy oat-grass R 

Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog O 

Lolium perenne Perennial rye-grass D O 

Poa annua Annual meadow-grass F LA 

Poa pratensis Smooth meadow-grass O F/LA 

Achillea millefolium Yarrow R 

Bellis perennis Daisy O F 

Cerastium fontanum Common mouse-ear O 

Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle O 

Glechoma hederacea Ground ivy R O 

Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain R 

Plantago major Greater plantain R 

Ranunculus bulbosus Bulbous buttercup O F 

Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion O O 

Trifolium repens White clover O F/LA 

Urtica dioica Nettle R 

Veronica chamaedrys Germander speedwell R 

Veronica serpillifolium Thyme-leaved speedwell R 

DAFOR scale 

D Dominant 

A Abundant 

F Frequent 

O Occasional 

R Rare 

L Locally 

Domin scale 

10 91-100% cover 

9 76-90% cover 

8 51-75% cover 

7 34-50%cover 

6 26-33% cover 

5 11-25% cover 

4 4-10% cover 

3





APPENDIX B 

BOTANICAL SURVEY RESULTS, SITE W 









Area E3 

W3 

E4 

E1 

W1 W2 E2 

Unimproved 

Improved 

calcareous 

Coniferous Coniferous Coniferous 

Habitat Arable Improved grassland grassland 

grassland 

plantation plantation plantation 

DAFOR or DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DAFOR DAFOR DAFOR 


MG7/ 

Species 

OV3 OV3 Species 

MG6 MG6 OV23 Species 

CG3d Species 

NA NA NA 

Alopecurus myosuroides Black grass R 2 Anisantha sterilis Barren brome R Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn R Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore R 

Anisantha sterilis Barren brome O/LA 5 Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass R O/LA Rubus fruticosus agg. Bramble O Fraxinus excelsior Ash R 

Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass R Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot F 6 F/LA Sambucus nigra Elder R Larix decidua Eurpoean larch O R 

Poa annua Annual meadow-grass F Festuca rubra Red fescue F/LA O Pinus sylvestris Scots pine D D D 

Poa trivialis Rough meadow-grass R 4 Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog R Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass F/LA Sorbus aucuparia Rowan R R 

Lolium perenne Perennial rye-grass R F/LA Bromopsis erectus Upright brome A Sorbus intermedia Swedish whitebeam R 

Anagallis arvensis Scarlet pimpernel R 1 Phleum bertolonii Small cat's-tail A 5 Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot O Taxus baccata Yew O 

Arctium minus Lesser burdock R Poa trivialis Rough meadow grass F/LA 6 Fetuca ovina Sheeps fescue F 

Cerastium fontanum Common mouse-ear R 3 Poa pratensis Smooth meadow-grass F Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn F F A 

Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle R Anagallis arvensis Scarlet pimpernel R Ilex aquifolium Holly R 

Euphorbia helioscopa Sun spurge R/LO 1 Carduus nutans Musk thistle LO Achillea millefolium Yarrow R Ligustrum vulgare Wild privet R 

Fumaria officinalis Common fumitory R Centaurium erythrea Common centaury R Agrimonia eupatoria Common agrimony R Prunus spinosa Blackthorn O 

Galium aparine Cleavers O 1 Cerastium fontanum Common mouse-ear O Anthriscus sylvestris Cow parsley O/LA Rhamnus cathartica Buckthorn O O 

Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved crane's-bill R 1 Cirsium arvense Creeping thistle O Centaurea scabiosa Greater knapweed O Rosa canina Dog rose O R O 

Geranium pyrenaicum Hedgerow crane's-bill R Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle R R Cirsium acaule Dwarf thistle R Rubus fruticosus Bramble F/LA A/LD O/LA 

Geranium robertianum Herb Robert R Daucus carota Wild carrot R Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle O Rubus idaeus Raspberry R 

Geum urbanum Wood avens R Erodium cicutarium Common stork's-bill R Galium aparine Cleavers O Sambucus nigra Elder F F F 

Hypericum perforatum Perforate St. John's wort R Galium verum Lady's bedstraw R Galium verum Lady's bedstraw R Ulmus glabra Wych elm R 

Lamium album White deadnettle R Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved crane's-bill R Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved crane'sbill R Viburnum lantana Wayfaring tree R 

Lamium purpureum Red deadnettle R/LF 1 Geranium molle Doves-foot crane's-bill O Geranium pyrenaicum Hedgerow crane'sbill R 

Myosotis arvensis Field forget-me-not R/LF 4 Geum urbanum Wood avens R Hypericum perforatum Perforate St. John's wort R Hedera helix Ivy R 

Papaver rhoeas Common poppy O 2 Hypochaeris radicata cat's-ear R Knautia arvensis Field scabious O 

Persicaria aviculare Knotgrass O Leontodon autumnalis Autumn hawkbit O Lamium album White deadnettle R Dryopteris dilatata Broad buckler fern R 

Senecio vulgaris Groundsel R Linaria vulgaris Common toadflax R Lamium maculatum Red deadnettle R 

Silene alba White campion R Medicago lupulina Black medick O Lathyrus pratensis Meadow vetchling R Anisantha sterilis Barren brome F F/LA R 

Sonchus asper Prickly sowthistle O/LA 4 Myosotis arvensis Field forget-me-not R Linaria vulgaris Toadflax R Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass F/LA R R 

Sonchus oleraceous Smoth sowthistle R/LF 3 Ranunculus bulbosus Bulbous buttercup R Lotus corniculatus Bird's-foot trefoil F Brachypodium sylvaticum False brome R 

Stellaria media Chickweed O/LA 4 Rumex crispus Curled dock R Medicago lupulina Black medick O Bromus erectus Upright brome R R 

Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion R 1 Rumex obtusifolius broad-leaved dock R Onobrychis vicifolia Sanfoin F Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot F/LA 

Urtica dioica Nettle R 1 Senecio jacobea common ragwort R Ononis repens Restharrow O Festuca rubra Red fescue R 

Veronica arvensis Wall speedwell O/LF 3 Silene alba White campion R Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain O Poa annua Annual meadow-grass LF 

Veronica persica Field speedwell F/LA 5 Sonchus asper prickly sowthistle O Ranunculus bulbosus Bulbous buttercup O Poa trivialis Rough meadow-grass LA 

Viola arvensis Field pansy O/LF 5 Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion O Sanguisorbia minor Salad burnet R 

Torilis japonica Upright hedge-parsley R Senecio jacobaea Ragwort O Agrimonia eupatoria Common agrimony R 

Crop 7 Trifolium pratense Red clover O Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion O Anthriscus sylvestris Cow parsley O 

Trifolium repens White clover F 4 F Trifolium pratense Red clover R Arctium minus Lesser burdock R 

Urtica dioica Nettle O/LF O/LA Trifolium repens White clover O Cicerbita macrophylla Blue sowthistle R 

Veronica arvensis Wall speedwell R Urtica dioica Nettle O Cirsium arvense Creeping thistle F/LA 

Veronica chamaedrys germander speedwell R Vicia cracca Tufted vetch R Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle R R 

Veronica persica Field speedwell F 3 Vicia sativa Common vetch R Conium maculatum Hemlock R 

Dipsacus fullonum Teasel R 

Positive indicator for unimproved calcareous grassland (National Vegetation Classification communities CG2, 3, 4 and 5) Galium aparine Cleavers F/LA F/LA O 

Red Data Book Near Threatened Geranium robertianum Herb Robert O R O/LA 

Geum urbanum Wood avens O O O 

DAFOR scale Domin scale Glechoma hederacea Ground ivy O R O/LA 

D Dominant 10 91-100% cover Heracleum sphondyllium Hogweed O 

A Abundant 9 76-90% cover Lamium album White deadnettle R 

F Frequent 8 51-75% cover Myosotis arvensis Field forget-me-not R 

O Occasional 7 34-50%cover Senecio jacobaea Ragwort R 

R Rare 6 26-33% cover Silene vulgaris Bladder campion R 

L Locally 5 11-25% cover Solanum dulcamara Bittersweet O F 

4 4-10% cover Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion O 

3

APPENDIX C 

BOTANICAL SURVEY RESULTS, SITE X 









Area C SW1 SW2 SE1 SE2 NE1 NE2 NW1 NW2 


grassland 

Unimproved 

calcareous 

grassland 


grassland 


grassland Scrub Arable 

Improved 

Broadleaved Poor semi-improved 

Arable Arable 

Habitat 

Scrub grassland Broadleaved plantation 

plantation grassland 

(margin) (corner) 

DAFOR or DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DAFOR DOMIN DOMIN 


MG1 CG2d CG2d W21 MG7 NA NA MG6c/CG3 W8 MG1/MG6 MG1 W21 OV15 

Species 

Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore D 8 (3, sdlngs) F/LA 7 O 

Betula pendula Silver birch R O 4 R 

Fagus sylvatica Beech O 4 R 

Fraxinus excelsior Ash F 7 F/LA 7 R 

Malus sp. Apple species R 

Pseiodotsuga mensiezii Douglas fir R 

Pinus sp. Pine sp. LA 

Tilia cordata Small-leaved lime R 

Cornus sanguinea Dogwood O 

Corylus avellana Hazel O A 7 O O 

Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn F O O 1 O A 

Euonymus europaeus Spindle O O R R 

Ligustrum vulgare Wild privet O R A 

Rhamnus catharticus Buckthorn O R 

Rubus fruticosus agg. Bramble O F/LA 1 O/LA A/LD 

Sambucus nigra Elder O F/LA 4 R O/LA 

Viburnum lantana Wayfaring tree O R 

Viburnum opulus Guelder rose O 

Hedera helix Ivy O/LA 

Agrostis stolonifera Creeping bent F/LA 4 

Anisantha sterilis Barren brome O O O 

Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet vernal-grass R 

Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass D O/LA 3 D R 2 

Brachypodium sylvaticum Wood false brome O R 

Briza media Quaking grass O R 

Bromopsis erectus Upright brome F 3 F/LA 

Bromus hordaceous Soft brome O O A O O 

Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot O R O F 4 R 

Festuca ovina Sheeps fescue A 8 F O 

Festuca rubra Red fesce F/LA A 8 

Helictotrichon pratensis Meadow oat-grass O 

Helictotrichon pubescens Downy oat-grass O 

Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog O R F/LA 3 R 

Koeleria macrantha Crested hair-grass O 2 

Lolium perenne Perennial rye-grass R F O 

Poa annua Annual meadow-grass O O R 

Poa trivialis Rough meadow-grass A F/LA 3 O O 

Carex flacca Glaucus sedge F 3 

Carex spicata Spiked sedge R 

Achillea millefolium Yarrow F 3 

Anagalia arvensis Scarlet pimpernel LF 3 

Aphanes arvensis Parsley-piert R 

Arctium minus Lesser burdock R R R 

Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort R 

Arum maculatum Lords and ladies R O 

Bellis perennis Daisy O 

Bryonia dioica White bryony R 

Centaurea scabiosa Greater knapweed R F 3 

Cerastium fontanum Common mouse-ear O O O F O 

Chamanerion minus Small toadflax R 1 

Cirsium acaule Dwarf thistle O 3 O 

Cirsium arvense Creeping thistle F/LA R R R LA F 1 O 1 

Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle R R 

Conium maculatum Hemlock R R 

Convulvulus arvensis Field bindweed F 

Crepis vesicaria Beaked hawks-beard R R 

Cynoglossum officinale Hounds tongue R R 

Epilobium sp. Willowherb sp. R 

Euphorbia exigua Dwarf spurge R 

Fallopia convulvulus Black bindweed LF 4 

Filipendula vulgaris Dropwort R 3 

Fumaria officinalis Common fumitory O 3 

Galium aparine Cleavers O F/LA 1 O O/LF O 

Galium mollugo Hedge bedstraw O 

Galium verum Lady's bedstraw F 4 R 

Gentianella amarella Autumn gentian R 

Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved crane's-bill R F 3 

Geranium robertianum Herb robert F/LA 6 

Geranium sp. Crane's-bill sp. R 

Geum urbanum Wood avens O 2 F/LA 5 R 

Glechoma hederacea Ground ivy F 3 F/LA 4 O/LA O 1 O/LF 

Helianthemum nummularium Common rock rose A R 

Heracleum sphodylium Hogweed O 

Hieracium pilosella Mouse-eared hawkweed F/LA 

Hippocrepis comosa Horseshoe vetch F/LA 5 

Hypericum perforatum Perforate St. John's wort R 

Lamium album White deadnettle O F F/LA O 

Lamium purpureum Red deadnettle R 

Lapsana communis Nipplewort O 

Leontodon autumnalis Autumn hawkbit F 1 

Leontodon hispidus Rough hawkbit O 2 

Lepidium draba Hoary cress R 

Leucanthemum vulgare Ox-eye daisy R 

Linaria vulgaris Toadflax R R R 

Linum catharticum Fairy flax O 3 

Lotus corniculatus Birds-foot trefoil F/LA O 

Medicago lupulina Black medick O 1 O O 1 

Myosotis arvensis Field forget-me-not R O R O O/LF F 3 

Onobrychis vicifolia Sanfoin F/LA 

Pastinaca sativa Wild parsnip O O O 

Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain O F 3 F/LA F 3 R 

Plantago media Hoary plantain R R 

Potentilla reptans Cinquefoil F/LA O/LF 

Prunella vulgaris Self-heal F 3 

Ranunculus bulbosus Bulbous buttercup R O F R 

Rumex acetosa Common sorrel R R 

Rumex obtusifolius broad-leaved dock R R 

Rumex sanguineus Wood dock R 

Sanguisorbia minor Salad burnet F 3 

Scabiosa columbaria Small scabious R 

Senecio jacobaea Ragwort F 2 O F 1 

Senecio vulgaris Groundsel R R 

Sherardia arvensis Field madder R F 2 

Silene alba White campion F R O R R R 

Silene vulgaris Bladder campion R 

Sissymbrium officinale Hedge mustard O 3 

Sonchus arvensis Perennial sowthistle R 

Sonchus asper Prickly sowthistle R F 1 1 

Succisa pratensis Devil's-bit scabious R 

Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion F 3 A O F F 

Thymus polytrichus Common thyme O/LA 

Trifolium pratense Red clover R 1 

Trifolium repens White clover R F/LA F/LA F 2 

Urtica dioica Nettle F/LA F/LA F/LD 9 F/LA 4 O/LD 

Verbascum thapsus Mullein R 

Veronica arvensis Wall speedwell R 

Veronica chamaedrys Germander speedwell F/LA 3 O O 

Veronica hederifolia Ivy-leaved speedwell F 1 O/LF 

Veronica montana Wood speedwell O 

Veronica persica Field speedwell R F/LA 4 5 

Vicia cracca Tufted vetch R 

Viola arvensis Field pansy R LF 2 

Viola hirta Hairy violet O 

Viola odorata Sweet violet R 

Viola riviniana Dog violet O 

DAFOR scale Domin scale Positive indicator for unimproved calcareous grassland (National Vegetation Classification communities CG2, 3, 4 and 5) 

D Dominant 10 91-100% cover Red Data Book Near Threatened 

A Abundant 

9 76-90% cover 

F Frequent 

8 51-75% cover 

O Occasional 

7 34-50%cover 

R Rare 

6 26-33% cover 

L Locally 

5 11-25% cover 

4 4-10% cover 

3

APPENDIX D 

BOTANICAL SURVEY RESULTS, SITE Y 









Area C SW SE NE NW 

Field 

margin Arable Improved grassland Improved grassland Arable 

Habitat Poor semi-improved grassland 

DAFOR or DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN DOMIN DAFOR Present DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DOMIN 


MG1 MG1 OV7 MG7 MG7 OV7 OV7 

Species 

Agrostis stolonifera Creeping bent O 5 

Alopecurus myosuroides Black grass F + 4 

Anisantha sterilis Barren brome F O 1 

Arrhenatherum elatius False oat-grass A/LD 9 5 A R LA 

Bromopsis erectus Upright brome O/LA 3 

Bromus hordaceous Soft brome O 2 O 

Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot F/LA 4 5 A A 9 

Elytrigia repens Common couch R 

Festuca arundinacea Tall fescue O/LA 

Festuca ovina Sheep's fescue O 

Festuca rubra Red fescue O/LA 5 O 

Lolium perenne Perennial rye-grass F D 9 A 5 

Phleum pratense Timothy F 3 

Poa annua Annual meadow-grass R + 2 

Poa trivialis Rough meadow-grass R O O 

Achillea millefolium Yarrow O 1 R 

Agrimonia eupatoria Common agrimony O 

Anthriscus sylvestris Cow parsley O 4 

Aphanes arvensis Parsley piert O 

Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort O R 

Atriplex prostrata Spear-leaved orache R 

Capsella bursa-pastoris Shepherds purse + 1 O 2 

Centaurea nigra Common knapweed O 

Centaurea scabiosa Greater knapweed O/LF 4 R 

Cerastium fontanum Common mouse-ear R 

Chenopodium album Fathen R 1 

Cirsium arvense Creeping thistle O R 

Cirsium vulgare Spear thistle R R 

Coronopus squamatus Common swinecress + R 

Fallopia convulvulus Black bindweed + F/LA 4 

Filipendula vulgaris Dropwort R 

Fumaria officinalis Common fumitory + 1 O 2 

Galium aparine Cleavers O + 1 

Galium verum Lady's bedstraw O 

Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved crane'sbill O R + 5 

Geranium pyrenaicum Hedgerow crane'sbill R 

Glechoma hederacea Ground ivy O 

Heracleum sphondyllium Hogweed O/LA 5 O 1 O 

Hypochaeris radicata Cat's-ear R 

Lamium album White deadnettle O 3 

Lamium purpureum Red deadnettle O 

Leontodon autumnalis Autumn hawkbit O 

Linaria vulgaris Common toadflax R 

Lotus corniculatus Bird's-foot trefoil R 

Matricaria discoidea Pineappleweed + 

Medicago lupulina Black medick R R 2 

Myosotis arvensis Field forget-me-not O + 

Onobrychis vicifolia Sanfoin R 

Papaver rhoeas Common poppy + 1 O 1 

Pastinaca sativa Wild parsnip LF 2 R 

Persicaria aviculare Knotgrass + O 1 

Pimpinella saxifraga Burnet saxifrage LF 

Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain F 5 

Potentilla reptans Cinquefoil R 

Prunella vulgaris Self-heal R 

Ranunculus bulbosus Bulbous buttercup R 

Ranunculus repens Creeping buttercup O R 

Reseda lutea Mignonette R 

Rumex acetosa Common sorrel O 

Rumex crispus Curled dock R R 

Rumex obtusifolius Broad-leaved dock O 4 R 

Senecio jacobea Common ragwort R 

Senecio vulgaris Groundsel O + 1 

Sherardia arvensis Field madder + O 1 

Silene alba White campion R 

Silene vulgaris Bladder campion R 

Sonchus asper Prickly sowthistle O 1 

Sonchus oleraceous Smooth sowthistle R 

Stellaria media Chickweed O 

Taraxacum officinale agg. Dandelion F 1 F/LA 4 F 1 R 1 

Torilis nodosa Knotted hedge-parsley + 1 

Tragopogon pratensis Goat's-beard R 

Trifloium pratense Red clover O 4 R 

Trifolium repens White clover O 2 F/LA 3 R O 

Tripleurospermum inodorumScentless mayweed + 1 

Urtica dioica Nettle F/LA 3 

Veronica arvensis Wall speedwell + R 

Veronica hederifolia Ivy-leaved speedwell + 5 

Veronica persica Field speedwell + F 2 

Veronica polita Grey speedwell + 1 O 3 

Vicia sativa Common vetch R O 

Viola arvensis Field pansy O 1 

Crop 9 

DAFOR scale Domin scale Positive indicator for unimproved calcareous grassland (National Vegetation Classification communities CG2, 3, 4 and 5 

D Dominant 10 91-100% cover Red Data Book Near Threatened 

A Abundant 

9 76-90% cover 

F Frequent 

8 51-75% cover 

O Occasional 

7 34-50%cover 

R Rare 

6 26-33% cover 

L Locally 

5 11-25% cover 

4 4-10% cover 

3

APPENDIX E 

BOTANICAL SURVEY RESULTS, SITE Z 









Area C SW/SE NE1 NE2 NW 

Habitat 


grassland Arable 

Unimproved 

calcareous grassland 

Semiimproved 

grassland Semi-improved grassland 

DAFOR or DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DAFOR DOMIN DAFOR DAFOR DOMIN DOMIN DAFOR scale Domin scale 


OV3/ CG3d 

CG2 CG2 

D Dominant 10 91-100% cover 

Species MG1 OV15 W21 CG3d MG6 MG6 MG6 CG2 

A Abundant 9 76-90% cover 

Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn R F/LA 1 F Frequent 8 51-75% cover 

Euonymus europaeus Spindle R O Occasional 7 34-50%cover 

Ligustrum vulgare Wild privet O R Rare 6 26-33% cover 

Malus sylvestris Apple species R L Locally 5 11-25% cover 

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn LA 

Rhamnus catharticus Buckthorn O 4 4-10% cover 

Rosa canina Dog rose R 3

South East Office The Old Crown High Street Blackboys Uckfield East Sussex TN22 5JR T 01825 891071 F 01825 891075 E mail@cba.uk.net W www.cba.uk.net 

London Office 1 Swan Court 9 Tanner Street London SE1 3LE T 020 7089 6480 F 020 7089 9260 

Directors 

C J Blandford BA DipLD MLA FLI • M E Antonia BSc EnvSci RSA DipPA • M Holland BA DipLA MLI • D Watkins BSc MSc AMIEnvSci 

Chris Blandford Associates is the trading name of Chris Blandford Associates Ltd Registered in England No 3741865. Registered Office: 29 High Street Crawley West Sussex RH10 1BQ

English Heritage Stonehenge Environmental Improvements Project ...

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