Ecological Enhancements

As nearby ponds provided habitat for Great Crested Newts (GCN), their presence was also assumed in the pond within the site boundary, originally used as a water supply for grazing livestock. Full GCN surveys were undertaken and a derogation licence from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) was obtained.

In order to protect this valuable pond habitat, a buffer zone was enforced using stock‐proof fencing, allowing the enclosed habitat to develop without grazing pressure and to naturally re‐establish marginal vegetation around its perimeter.

Bat roost potential was identified in several trees on or immediately adjacent to the site. As part of the enhancement works a total of 9 artificial bat boxes were installed on trees in suitable locations within the site boundary. These boxes provide roosting opportunities which are not found within the existing stock of trees within the site boundaries.