STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN 2017 - 2021
August 2016 Prepared for: - The Friends of Stonehouse Park
Prepared by: - Mark Hamilton Landscape Services 8 Kirkton Avenue Bathgate West Lothian EH48 1EN
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
CONTENTS
Page no.
SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION Property Details and Ownership Location Area Summary
1 1 1 2
SECTION 2 - CONTEXT 4 Background Woodland History and Past Management Table 1 Previous Schemes and Licences Designations Table 2 Native Woodland Survey for Scotland SRDP/IACS Registration
4 5 5 5 6
SECTION 3 - DESCRIPTION 7 Site Description Surrounding Land Use Boundaries Services Topography Drainage Soils Cultural Heritage Table 3 Ecology Landscape
Heritage Features
7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 9 10
SECTION 4 – WOODLAND DESCRIPTION 11 Composition Woodland Types Table 4 Age and Condition Ground Flora Fauna Deadwood Other Habitats Management Units/ Compartments Table 5 Table 6
NVC Woodland Types
11 12 13 13 14 14 14 15
Compartment Summary Compartment Descriptions
15 16
Path Descriptions
19 21 21
SECTION 5 – PUBLIC ACCESS Introduction Table 7 Recreational Use Management Access
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
CONTENTS
Page no.
SECTION 6 - ANALYSIS 22 Constraints Herbivores Plant Health Silviculture Recreation Management Access Anti-Social Activity Services Protected Species Opportunities Silviculture Biodiversity Recreation Management Access Education and Community Habitat and Access Networking
22 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 26 26 27 27 28 29 29
SECTION 7 - EVALUATION 30 Evaluation Process Table 8
Summary of Evaluation Silvicultural Value Biodiversity Value Landscape Value Recreational Value Amenity Value Cultural Heritage Value
30 30 31 31 32 32 32
SECTION 8 – MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS 34 Management Vision Long Term Management Objectives Obligations and Responsibilities Woodland Management Proposals General Thinning Selective Thinning Group Felling Veteran Tree Management Regeneration Management Enrichment Planting Infill/woodland Edge Planting Invasive Species Control Ivy Treatment Wayleave Management Access Proposals Bank Stabilisation Requirements Rebuild and Upgrade Paths New Woodland Paths Unsurfaced Paths Drainage Works
34 34 34 35 35 36 36 37 37 38 39 39 39 40 40 41 41
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
CONTENTS
Page no. Path Corridor Clearance
42
Recreation Area Seating Grassland Management Signage Fencing Woodland Boundary Enhancements
42 43 43 43 44 44 45 45 48 48 48
Recreation Proposals
Site Monitoring Future Projects and Linkage Implementation Funding Priority and Timing Table 9 Proposals and Priorities
APPENDIX 1
Work Plan
APPENDIX 2
Ecological Assessment
APPENDIX 3
Photosheets
MAPS
MAP 1 MAP 2 MAP 3 MAP 4 MAP 5 MAP 6 MAP 7 MAP 8 MAP 9
Location and Context Designations and Constraints Concepts Woodland Types and Growth Stage Existing Access and Site Features Compartments and Woodland Cover Woodland Management Proposals Access Proposals Future Projects/Linkage
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION Property Details and Ownership Stonehouse Park, more formally known as the Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park, is an area of public open space in Stonehouse owned and managed by South Lanarkshire Council. Stonehouse Park encompasses areas of riverside woodlands which are the subject of this Management Plan. In this plan Stonehouse Park it is frequently referred to as “The Park” and Stonehouse Park Woods referred to as “The Woods” There is a strong sense of community ownership associated with the Park and the Friends of Stonehouse Park (FoSP) is an active community group involved in the ongoing management of the Park. This Management Plan stems from a feasibility study commissioned through funds raised by FoSP to investigate potential improvements to the Park with a view to restoring it to its former glory. Location Stonehouse Park is located on the northern edge of the town of Stonehouse, which lies on the edge of Avon Water valley. The Park consists of formal recreational areas of maintained grassland and sports pitches, and also incorporates areas of mature woodland which occupy the steep slopes of the Avon Water valley. The Park is located at National Grid Reference NS 752 471, and the woodland are located adjacent to the Park to the east at NS 748 471. The Park is within the Woodlands In and Around Towns (WIAT) support area, but outwith the WIAT priority area, the nearest of which is centred on Larkhall, 2km to the northeast. Its location presents an opportunity to tap into woodland management grant assistance available through the Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS). (Refer to Map 1 – Location and Context). Area Stonehouse Park extends to 14.94ha. Of this 7.76 ha is formal maintained Parkland and recreational areas, and the remaining 7.18 ha is occupied by woodland and related open space. (Refer to Map 2 – Designations and Constraints)
1
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Summary The woodland is connected to the formal areas of the Park via a network of paths but is often perceived by visitors as a separate entity, rather than part of the greater whole. FoSP would like to alter this perception and to integrate the woodland more fully with the remainder of the Park and encourage increased levels of use of the Woods. This Management Plan has identified a number of silvicultural and access issues which need to be addressed to achieve this goal, and the purpose of the Plan is to identify and address these issues through a programme of prescribed works. The proposals for management have been set out in a work plan with outline prescriptions for each of the items of work, and budget costs set against these. The works have also been prioritised in terms of importance and impacts to assist with budgeting and future fund-raising efforts. Some proposals have been identified by local people following a series of community consultation exercises. Other proposals are identified as aspirational which sit outwith the scope of the woodland management plan, but have been discussed and assessed in outline with a view to the potential development of these in the future. The budget for the implementation of the management has been categorised under the following headings and is summarised in the following table: -
Work Type Woodland Management Proposals
Priority High
Outline Budget £ 32,299
Medium Low Total
£ 4,087 £ 4,130 £ 40,516
Access Proposals
High Medium Total
£ 49,433 £ 9,920 £ 59,353 *1
Other Recreation Proposals
High Medium Low Total
12,132 9,205 200 £ 14,305
Grand Total
£ 121,405
*1 This figure excludes the costs associated with repairing the eroded river bank, which is required to facilitate the access and management proposals. However it does include an indicative sum for engineering input. Stonehouse Park Woods are located within the Woodlands In and Around Towns (WIAT) grant eligible area. Most elements of the woodland improvement proposals would be eligible for grant assistance available through WIAT*. An estimate of the grant income potentially available has been made against for grant eligible items and a net overall cost calculated based on a successful WIAT bid.
2
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Costs High Priority Medium Priority Low Priority Overall Cost (Budget)
£ 92,977 £ 23,367 £ 4,180 £ 121,405
Estimated Income (WIAT)*
£ 64,919
Anticipated Net Cost (ex VAT)
£ 56,486
* Estimated based on WIAT funding rates – availability and levels of support available have yet to be determined. Full details of the costs are included in the Work plan (ref. Appendix 1 – Work Plan).
3
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 2 - CONTEXT Background The Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park, known locally as Stonehouse Park, is an area of public open space in Stonehouse, South Lanarkshire. A Feasibility Study is being undertaken on the Park at the behest of FoSP to assess the current condition of the Park and to identify opportunities for improvements. As part of the Study this Woodland Management Plan has been commissioned to focus on the woodland areas associated with the Park; to assess the current condition of the Park’s woodlands in terms of their contribution to the Park and the wider area and to develop management proposals for their ongoing management and maintenance. Woodland History and Past Management Stonehouse’s public Park was sponsored by a former native of Stonehouse, Alexander Hamilton. Hamilton made his fortune as head of the Victoria Carpet Company in Kidderminster and later making khaki uniforms for the troops in the Great War. It was his wish that he could leave something for the town. The council purchased land from Holm farm for the purpose of creating a public Park. On 30th May 1925 Alexander Hamilton presented the Park, bandstand and fountain to his native town. The Park was named for his grandfather and namesake. The Park overlooks one of the most spectacular views of the Avon valley. In August 1942, Sir Harry Lauder visited the Park, and is quoted as saying… “It’s a bonnie Park; yin o’ the nicest I’ve ever been in, an’ something Stonehoose folk should be rale prood o’ ”. In terms of the woodland history little is recorded. Woodland similar to the existing remnants of ancient woodland is likely to have occupied the Avon Water Valley, with sections of more accessible wooded slopes, such as those present at Stonehouse Park, cleared by man in the past for use as grazing land. It is likely that much of the existing woodland cover was established as part of the Park development and the re-conversion of the ground from agricultural use. The woodland was composed of a mix of broadleaved and coniferous woodland with species typical of policy woodlands in the area introduced. In 2005 South Lanarkshire Council applied for FCS grant to cover the felling and restocking of coniferous areas located on the valley slopes of the Dunavon Burn which were becoming increasingly unstable. (Refer to Map 2 – Designations and Constraints) The felling works were implemented and the areas restocked, although the current woodland composition and spacing indicates that extensive natural regeneration also occurred alongside the planting and now dominates the character of the woodland within these areas.
4
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Table 1 - Previous Grant Schemes / Licences
Plan Reference
Activities
Grant Scheme SFGS Activities
32900190 (Cpts 110b &110 c)
Contract Start date
Contract End date
Area (ha)
02/02/2005
02/02/2015
2.17 2.17 2.17
Felling Restocking
(Refer to Map 2 – Designations and Constraints) Designations The woodland area is approximately 550m upstream of the Avondale Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which is part of the Clyde Valley Woods Special Area of Conservation. It is recognised that Stonehouse Park woodland has an existing and potential role as part of a wider woodland habitat in the area. (Refer to Map 2 – Designations and Constraints) Although the woodlands are not designated as ancient woodland, they possess many characteristics of the ancient valley woodlands located alongside the Avon Water, and form an important woodland habitat link within the valley. An Ecological Assessment carried out as part of the Stonehouse Park Feasibility Study has assessed the woods as being of regional importance in terms of their context and character. The native woodland survey of Scotland (NWSS) records the majority of the woodlands within the Park (and the adjoining woodland area to the east) as native woodland and provides some useful baseline information on the nature and nativeness of the woodland composition, as noted in the following table. Table 2 - Native Woodland Survey for Scotland (NWSS) Woodland Type Native woodland
Native woodland
Native woodland
Cpt. Ref(s) Stonehouse Park Woodland, Cpt 1 (part), Cpt 2 (part), Cpt 3, Cpt 4 (part) Cpt 4 (part), Mainly adjacent woodland area Cpt 2 (part), Mainly adjacent woodland area
Dom. Habitat Upland mixed ashwood
Cover % 100
Native % 85
Dominant structure Establishe d regen.
Natural regen. % 80
Invasive species % 0
Upland mixed ashwood
90
90
Pole-stage Immature
85
5
Wet woodland
100
90
Pole-stage Immature
88
0
5
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
The survey shows that the woodland areas are largely native in character and form an important component of the native woodland habitat network associated with valley of the Avon Water. SRDP/IACS Registration At present only part of the woodland area has been registered under the Integrated Administration and Control System (or IACS - the EU system to administer payments under the common agricultural policy), with the areas that are registered covered by one field reference IACS Details Business Reference Number (BRN): - 161336 Main Location Code (MLC): 83/544/0027 Field Identifier (FID) NS74951/47138. The remaining areas will need to be registered if the area is proposed to go forward for an application for FCS Grant assistance.
6
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 3 – GENERAL DESCRIPTION Site Description Stonehouse Park woodlands are located in the valley of the Avon Water and occupy steeply sloping ground, and areas of “haugh” or flood plain on the southern edge on the river (referred to locally as “The Bogs”). The woodlands occupy bankings facing the river and also extend southwards along the valley of a small tributary burn (the Dunavon Burn) which feeds into the river, arising on agricultural land on Dunavon Farm, to the south of Manse Road. Surrounding Land Use To the east of the woodlands is Stonehouse Park which is an area of recreational greenspace and largely maintained as amenity grassland. In the south west corner of the woodland is St. Ninian’s Church and Cemetery. To the west woodland extends along the Avon Water valley under private ownership. The Avon Water forms a key site and land-use change boundary along the northern edge of the woodlands. Land north of the river, to the east of Stonehouse Park, and south of Manse Road is mainly in agricultural use as grazing. Boundaries The woodland boundaries are generally well defined to the north by the Avon Water, to the east by the amenity grass areas making up recreational open space within Stonehouse Park, and to the south by pathside hedging, churchyard boundary fencing and walls, and short sections of agricultural field boundaries which are in poor repair. The western boundary against adjoining woodland is less distinct and is demarcated by an avenue of mature sycamore trees which follow the line of an old field boundary. Services An 11kv overhead electrical powerlines passes through the woodland, with an associated wayleave of ~20m cut through the woodland and maintained by periodic clearance of woody tree and shrub growth. (Refer to Map 2 – Designations and Constraints) No other services are thought to affect the sites. Topography The topography of the site is generally steep, with the slopes associated with the valleys of the Dunavon Burn and the river terrace formed by the Avon Water dominating the character of the area. The highest point within the woodland is located at the top of the slopes of the Avon Water valley just north of churchyard of St. Ninians Church (Grid reference NS 748 470) at an elevation of 150 m above ordnance datum (aod). The lowest point is located on the edge of the Avon Water at the bottom of the valley slope next to Linthaugh Bridge (Grid reference NS 751 473), sitting at an elevation of 100m aod. The steepness of the wooded slopes and associated natural drainage and seepage along the slopes has resulted in incidences of landslip.
7
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Drainage The areas occupying the valley sides of the Dunavon Burn drain towards the burn, with water from the slopes and upwelling springs collecting to form flushes and then seeping through the soils to the watercourse. The arising water is sometimes coloured by red ochre which is probably leaching from the soils in the area, or may relate to former mining activity in the area. Similarly, the valley slopes along the Avon Water have areas of wet flush which spread to the base of the valley slopes. To the east, drainage is intercepted by collector drains for the main path route and culverted at various points below the path to the watercourse. In some instances the culverts are blocked or partially choked resulting in path drainage issues, and may also be a factor resulting in bankside erosion which is undermining the path in places. On the slopes of the Avon Water valley west of the Dunavon Burn, water emerging from the hillside spreads along the base of the valley slope into the flat area of flood plain between the wooded slopes and the river. On some sections of valley slopes water emerges from springs and forms of wetland habitat consisting of small areas of swamp and fen. The flood plain area is formed from alluvial soil deposits and is relatively freely drained, but the local name of “The Bogs� indicated that under certain conditions the area can become inundated and be very wet, possibly through a combination of the drainage pattern and periodic flooding of the river. Soils The soils on the site are generally classified as Brown Earths on the National Soil Survey for Scotland 1:250,000 scale database. The 1:25,000 scale database classifies the valley slopes as freely draining brown earth soils of the Darvel Association, and the riverside to be freely drained mineral alluvial soils. Soils in the flat area of flood plain west of the Dunavon Burn are classified as Soil Complexes, and consist of a combination of brown earths, with gleyed soils on wetter sections of the lower valley slopes, along with layers of alluvial deposition on the flood plain. (Soil Survey of Scotland Staff. (1970-1987). Soil maps of Scotland (partial coverage) at a scale of 1:25 000. Macaulay Institute for Soil Research, Aberdeen.) Cultural Heritage There are a number of features of archaeological interest recorded within and adjacent to the woodlands. There are no historic monuments recorded within the woodlands themselves, but a number of features of interest are recorded close by. Other features of interest have been identified from historic maps and confirmed by site survey. The following table sets out recorded and identified features of interest: Table 3 - Heritage Features Source Historic Scotland
Name Stonehouse
OS Grid Reference NS 75521 46774
Classification Conservation 8
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Source
Name
OS Grid Reference
Classification Area
Historic Scotland Historic Scotland
St Ninian's Church And Graveyard Linthaugh Bridge
NS 74812 47011
Listed Building
NS 75102 47377
Listed Building
St Ninian's Parish Church, Including Boundary Walls, Gate piers And Railings, Vicars Road, Stonehouse Millheugh Road, Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park Bandstand Stonehouse, Vicars Road, Stonehouse Church, War Memorial Plaque, War Memorial Window
NS 75267 46699
Listed Building
NS 75124 47191
Listed Building
NS 75267 46699
Stonehouse, Lawrie Street, Stonehouse Station Stonehouse, Millheugh Road, Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park, Bandstand
NS 75216 46946
St Ninian's Parish Church, Church Of Scotland, Churchyard, Gate Pier, War Memorial(S) (20th Century). Railway Station.
NS 75124 47191
Bandstand
Stonehouse, St Ninian's Church, Glebe Cemetery Stonehouse, Millheugh Road, Linthaugh Bridge Stonehouse, Manse Road, St Ninian's Church, Churchyard And Martyr's Tomb, War Memorial
NS 74880 46940
Pit
NS 75102 47377
Road Bridge.
NS 74812 47011
RCAHMS
Stonehouse, St Ninian's Church
NS 74780 47020
Burial Ground, Church, Covenanters Grave, War Memorial (20th Century) Cist
RCAHMS
East Mains, Stonehouse
NS 74700 46800
Historic Scotland
Historic Scotland
Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments (RCAHMS)
RCAHMS RCAHMS
RCAHMS RCAHMS RCAHMS
Holy Well. St Ninian's Well
Ecology Most of the ecological interest in the Park is focussed in and around the woodland areas. There are a range of woodland types and open ground habitats represented on the site forming a diverse mosaic of habitats and contributing to the ecological value and status of the site. Diversity within the Woods is evident in terms of species composition of the woodlands, and the richness and range of ground flora present on the site. There is a complex relationship between the topography of the site and drainage patterns and the habitats which have developed in association with these, and this relationship is sensitive to disturbance and alteration. The steepness of the wooded slopes has historically resulted in low levels of disturbance through human activity, and much of the woodland remains relatively undisturbed, with a high quality of woodland ground flora indicative of ancient woodland sites present. 9
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Site sits alongside the Avon Water and adjacent areas of farmland, forming a mosaic of riparian and woodland edge habitats Landscape The woodland occupies prominent slopes facing onto the Avon Water, and is highly visible when viewed from the north looking back across the across the Avon Water Valley. The woodland forms part of a larger landscape extending along the Avon Water and composed of valley woodlands of a similar type and appearance. The woodland also occupies the small and steeply incised valley of the Dunavon Water which extends south westwards back from the Avon Water Valley. The woodland is less prominent when viewed for Stonehouse village to the south and the A71 road corridor with only the edge of the woodland visible along the top of the valley slopes of the Dunavon Burn. The southern edge of the woodland borders the formal recreational areas of Stonehouse Park and is fringed by a more formal woodland composed of beech hedging and groups of ornamental shrubs including laurel, privet and rhododendron. Beyond this fringe the woodland takes on a much more informal and natural character. The skyline of the woodland is dominated by broadleaved trees, but also contains a few mature conifers which extend in height far above the broadleaf canopy and are particularly prominent on the skyline. The formal parts of Stonehouse Park are also located on prominent slopes along the edge of Millheugh Road, with the woodlands siting alongside and framing views from the north and east looking onto the park. Views out from the Park northeastwards along the Avon Water valley are very attractive and add greatly to the appeal of the site. Views outwards from the woodland areas are constrained by the presence of the trees, but extended glimpse views are available from a number of vantages, and there are attractive views visible form the wooded slopes down onto the open habits occupying the flood plain of the Avon Water.
10
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 4 - WOODLAND DESCRIPTION Composition The composition making up the woodland varies in terms of the proportions of tree species present, and with the site’s varied topography. Semi-mature and early mature woodland areas located on the upper sloping ground along the River Avon Valley are dominated by Sycamore and ash, with some birch, hawthorn, willow and alder represented To the western edge of the valley slopes is an area of open ground into which natural regeneration is gradually encroaching and extending the woodland cover. The regeneration is occurring in small groups and is composed mainly of hawthorn, elder and willow. There is a narrow strip of woodland occupying the edge of the Avon Water. This consists mainly of mature alder with distinctive groups of willow and ash also present. Other components of the riverside woodland include young birch and sycamore, with the sycamore for the most part represented by younger regeneration. Canopy height ranges from 8-16m and stem diameters are 20-60cm dependant of species and age of the trees. Along the valley slopes of the Dunavon Burn are recently planted and regenerated woodland areas established following the felling works carried out in 2000. These are dominated by birch, ash and willow species and are very densely stocked. Other species represented in these areas include hawthorn, beech, rowan and wild cherry in much smaller proportions. Tree heights in this area range from 6-10m and stem girths generally range from 5-20cm. More mature areas of broadleaf woodland are dominated by ash, sycamore, willow, and beech, with some alder, birch, and hawthorn also present. The canopy height ranges from 8m up to ~18m for area which are dominated by sycamore and ash. Stem diameters for the more established semi-mature and early mature trees range from 25cm up to 70cm. Regeneration is occurring throughout the woodland areas with ash, sycamore and beech being the main components. As a result, the stocking levels (density of trees) are high and ranges from 5,000-25,000 stems per hectare. There are a few mature individual conifer trees and small groups present, consisting of Douglas fir and Sitka spruce. These are left over remnants form the felling works carried out in 2000 and are generally in poor condition. The mature conifer groups extend high above the level of the dominant broadleaf canopy and are at a height 22-24m, with stem diameters ranging from 60-90 cm. Refer to Map 4 – Woodland Types and Growth Stage Woodland Types An ecological assessment was carried out to inform the Stonehouse Park Feasibility Study, and is included as an appendix to the plan. (Refer to Appendix 2 – Ecological Assessment) The remit of the ecological assessment was extended to include areas of adjoining valley woodland to the west of Stonehouse Park for which opportunities for future management or access proposals may be identified stemming from the feasibility study. The report identifies a variety of NVC woodland types identified within the woodland areas, with many of the woodland areas being described as transitional between types. The following table lists the woodland types identified and describes typical characteristics and identified locations.
11
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Table 4 - NVC Woodland Types NVC Type W6
Description
Typical Characteristics
Location
Wet Woodland (Common alder Stinging nettle)
Associated with moist soils especially where there has been substantial deposition of mineral matter, or on flood plain mires. Common alder is usually dominant. Other species can include crack willow, grey willow, common osier, Downy birch, elder and hawthorn, with oak, sycamore and ash as occasional species.
One area was tentatively identified on an area of the flood plain which is currently dominated by butterbur and is largely unwooded. Located close to the overhead powerline and wayleave where it crosses the flood plain.
W7
Wet woodland (Alder/ ash – Yellow pimpernel)
Typical of moist and very wet mineral soils. Occurs in sites where there is no great tendency for peat accumulation. Alder is the main dominant species with ash common as well. Other species may include sessile oak and sycamore where the soils are not permanently moist. Shrub species include grey willow, hazel, and hawthorn. Other tree species may include bird cherry, blackthorn, elder, holly, rowan and guelder rose.
Located on wetter sections of valley slope and generally associated with hillside springs and riparian margins. Along the eastern edge of the Dunavon valley the woodland is described as W10 with some elements of typical W7 woodland present.
W8
Lowland Mixed Broadleaf Woodland (Ash/ Field maple- dogs mercury)
Ash, field maple and hazel are characteristic but may also play a minor role in some woodland areas, with blackthorn, dogwood, elder, guelder rose goad willow, common osier, hawthorn sometimes locally dominant.
This type was identified to the western end of the adjoining woodland areas on a section of the Avon Water valley slopes.
W9a
Upland mixed broadleaf woodland (Ash/Rowan – Dogs Mercury)
Commonly found by streams and flushes in north-west Britain. Ash and hazel are usually dominant with downy birch and rowan often present and sometimes co-dominant. The field layer is usually a complex mosaic of ground flora with no single species dominating.
Present over large wooded sections of the Avon Water and Dunavon Burn valleys, and is the predominant woodland type represented, and sometimes transition with W10 woodland on drier slopes.
W10
Lowland Mixed Broadleaf
Associated with base-poor brown earth soils. Pedunculate oak and silver birch usually
Located on the drier slopes of the Avon Water valley, with 12
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
NVC Type
Description Woodland (Oak/ birch with bracken, bluebell, and bramble)
Typical Characteristics dominates, often with ash and sycamore. Lesser woodland components include holly, wild cherry, crab apple, with alder and aspen on damper soils. Hazel and hawthorn are the dominant shrub components.
Location beech and sycamore present and often dominant in the woodland canopy and regeneration layers.
Age and Condition (Refer to Map 4 – Woodland Types and Growth Stage) The majority of trees are young or semi-mature and are in good or reasonable health at present, but are often spindly as a result of high stocking levels and intense competition for light. There are few mature or veteran trees represented on site, and most of those present are suffering mainly from issues relation to senescence, including susceptibility to fungal pathogens and wind damage. The woodland areas vary in terms of their condition mainly according their locations (in terms of tree stability) The woodlands are generally underthinned which has resulted in a dense upper canopy of tall and spindly trees due to intense competition for resources. Mush of the woodland occupies steep and wet valley sides, with issues relation to soil erosion and tree stability arising as a result. The presence of ground flora helps to bind and stabilise sloping ground and reduce the effects of erosion. The density of the woodland canopy results in shading which limits ground flora and consequently increase the impact of water erosion on the slopes. Ash trees are abundant and form an important component of the woodlands current composition. The onset of Chalara Ash Dieback which results from a fungal infection (now classified as Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is to be anticipated in the area and is likely to have a major impact on the future management and composition of the woodlands. Ground Flora The woodland areas have been largely undisturbed by human activity in the past and most areas are categorised as Ancient Woodland with an abundant representation of ancient woodland indicator species present in the ground flora layer. The Ecological Assessment which was carried out for Stonehouse Park involved a brief vegetation survey which identified 100 plant species, with 21 of these being tree and shrub species and the remainder making up the ground flora. The report recognises that the NVC plant communities represented on the site are of a similar type and quality typical of other sections of valley woodlands along the Avon Water, including the Avondale SSSI/SAC (Site of special Scientific Interest/Special Area of Conservation) located 2km downstream (Refer to Map 1 – Location and Context), and the woodland should be recognised as being at least of regional importance in nature conservation terms.
13
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
The banks of the Avon Water are prone to disturbance due to natural processes and the river also provides a route for the transportation for plant propagules from upstream areas. One species which is suspected to have recently arrived on site as a result of this is Japanese knotweed, an invasive non-native and a prescribed weed species. Its presence is a concern both in terms of biodiversity issues and the amenity of the site and is one species identified within the ecological assessment for control to safeguard both the site and also to avoid its spread and impacts on areas of conservation value further downstream. (Refer to Appendix 3 – Ecological Assessment) Fauna Badgers are known to be present with one large active sett recorded within the woodland area, and evidence of badger activity in the form of badger trails and snuffle holes. Evidence of roe deer is visible in the form of minor fraying damage to young saplings, from impacts on ground flora with selective browsing affecting some of the more palatable species (e.g. dog’s mercury) On the stretch of the Avon Water occupied by the woodland, otters have been recorded in the past, and the features present along the stretch of the river associated with the Park The woods support a diverse bird life, indicating the availability of a range of food sources and habitat. The presence of mature and over-mature trees and the proximity of watercourses and adjacent open countryside suggests that the woodlands are likely to be a very suitable habitat for bats. Deadwood Deadwood habitat is well represented with standing deadwood and fallen deadwood stems, limbs and branches occurring frequently on the woodland floor. Timber arising from the felling of the areas of mature conifer in the Dunavon Valley was for the most part removed from site, but some timber was utilised on site to form temporary roadways for accessing some sections of the woodland, and in particular across wetter sections of slope. These timber roads have substantially been left in place and are gradually rotting down. One temporary crossing of the Burn was also formed using timber form the felling operations, along with a large culvert. Both the culvert and timber bridge were left in place at the end of the felling contract. Other deadwood in the woodland has arising through more natural processes, with large and diameter stems and limbs forming fallen deadwood throughout areas of more established woodland, and an abundance of smaller diameter timber arising from small branch failures and fallen twigs. Other Habitats Woodland forms the dominant habitat within the site. Woodland types vary according to the ground conditions, and there is a range of sub-canopy communities represented, ranging from typical native woodland flora, to sections of swamp and fen along hillside springs and associated wet flushes, and some areas with a dominance of one or two species, most notably ivy on the north-western slopes of the Avon Water valley.
14
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
A key feature of Stonehouse Park Woods is the large area of flat open ground located to the east of the Dunavon Burn, and between the woodland valley slopes and the Avon Water. This area is known locally as “the Bogs” and is a natural feature associated with the flood plain of the river. “The Bogs” forms an area of open habitat which supports a range of plant communities. The eastern portion of the area was traditionally used as a recreational area and was historically mown on a regular basis to maintain it as an accessible area of grassland for public use. In recent times access to the area for grass cutting equipment has become severally limited by riverside erosion which has affected the management track into the area from the east. For a number of years the grassland has been left to grow rank, and although it still supports a range of attractive grassland species, it may gradually be losing floristic diversity. These “non-woodland” habitats are important contributors to the biodiversity value of the woodland as a whole and are worthy of retention. (Refer to Appendix 3 – Ecological Assessment) Management Units / Compartments The woodland has been divided into 4 compartments to assist future management. These compartments are based on distinct woodland types and physical features. Subcompartments have been added to enable the production of targeted management proposals. Table 5 - Compartment Summary
Cpt
Cpt area
Sub Cpt.
S.C. Area (ha)
1
1.53
1a
0.93
1b
0.60
2a
0.51
2b
0.15
2c
0.72
2d
0.43
2e
0.82
3a
0.21
3b
0.83
3c
0.11
3d
0.11
4a
0.71
4b
0.37
4c
0.38
4d
0.30
Total
7.18
2
3
4
Total
2.63
1.26
1.76
7.18
Refer to Map 6 – Compartments and Woodland Cover
15
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Table 6 – Compartments Summary Description Cpt. 1
2
Subcpt. 1a
Location
Key Features
Located to the south on the western side of the Dunavon burn
Young woodland restocked after felling in 2005 on wet, shallowly sloping ground. Restocking mix unknown and largely overtaken/replaced by natural regeneration of ash, birch and willow. Young woodland restocked after felling in 2005. Restocking mix unknown and largely overtaken/replaced by natural regeneration of ash, birch and willow Drier more steeply sloping ground with wet flushes Sub-total Mixed woodland with mature conifer trees scattered throughout, mostly with stability issues. Dominated by remnants of tall mature conifers which are suffering wind damage. There is a mature avenue of sycamore along the edge of the area to the west. Mature and semi-mature broadleaf woodland with occasional canopy gaps dominated by grassland Mature and semi mature mixed broadleaf woodland with high proportion of non-native trees consisting of sycamore and beech, with ash and willow. Mosaic of habitats including marshy grassland, small areas of fen/swamp associated with springs, mature woodland and younger scrub woodland forming and attractive fringe. Powerline with wayleave cuts through the woodland area. Sub-total
1b
Located to the south on the eastern side of the Dunavon burn
2a
Located on a steeply sloping raised spur of land above the valley of the Dunavon Burn Located on the upper top ridge of the upper valley slope above the flood plain of the Avon Water,
2b
2c
2d
2e
Located on the upper section of the valley slope above the Avon Water flood plain. Located along the lower slope of the Avon Water valley above the flood plain.
Located on the lower slopes of the Avon Water valley above the flood plain to the western edge of the area.
Area (ha) 0.93
0.60
1.53 0.51
Habitat Type Native upland ashwood W9a (W7a)
Native Lowland mixed deciduous woodland W10 (W7)
Near native upland ashwood W9 (W10)
0.15
Near native upland ashwood W9 (W10)
0.72
Near native upland ashwood W9 (W10)
0.43
Near native upland ashwood W9 (W10)
0.82
Wet Woodland W7a (Ash/Alder) and Marshy grassland mosaic W11/MG9/MG10 and Wetland habitats S7/ M28
2.63 16
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Cpt. 3
4
Subcpt. 3a
Location
Key Features
Wet section of sloping ground located at the junction of the Avon Water and Dunavon Burn Valleys
Sections of bare slope resulting from wet ground conditions, with regeneration of ash occurring in patches, Semi and early mature sycamore and hawthorn dominates more mature woodland areas located on drier slopes and along the top of the valley fringing the formal Park area. Mainly semi-mature mixed broadleaf woodland dominated by sycamore and ash with willow, birch, alder, rowan and birch also present. Alder dominated mature/semi-mature woodland. Narrow strip of steep sided riverbank with some semi-mature ash, hawthorn and sycamore also present Semi-mature woodland dominated by ash with some sycamore also present. Narrow and steep section of slope which appears to be supported by revetment work. Largely inaccessible for management works. Sub-total Flat open grassland area, formerly maintained with a circular grass path route present and kept open mainly through visitor use. Fringed by woodland to the north, south and east Open area with visible items of debris in upper soil layers, mainly brick and rubble. Dominated by large patch of butterbur.
3b
Located on the slopes above the main management access route (path section BD)
3c
Located on steep banksides of Avon Water and adjacent to footpath
3d
Located on a section of very steep riverbank to the western edge of the woodland, close to Linthaugh Bridge, and below the formal Park areas.
4a
Flat open area on the flood plain of the Avon Water, west of the Dunavon Burn
4b
Located to the east of the open grassland area and west of the powerline wayleave on flatter open ground associated with the Avon Water flood plain Located along the edge of the River Aon north of the open
4c
Attractive riverside woodland strip dominated by mature alder.
Area (ha) 0.21
Habitat Type Native Lowland mixed deciduous woodland W10 (W7)
0.83
Native upland ashwood W9a and Native Lowland mixed deciduous woodland W10 (W7)
0.11
Native upland ashwood W9a
0.11
1.26 0.71
Native upland ashwood W9a
MG13/0V28 grassland and Lowland Wet woodland W7
0.37
Disturbed ground (Wet Woodland W6d?) and Native upland ashwood W9
0.68
Native upland ashwood W9a
17
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Cpt.
Subcpt.
4d
Location
Key Features
grassland area making up Cpt 4a.
Incorporates an attractive river beach popular with visitors. Some japanese knotweed present Mature alder dominated woodland with some sycamore, ash and willow also present. Some japanese knotweed present. Inform path follows the edge of the river and links into the adjoining woodland ownership. Sub-total
1.76
TOTAL
7.18
Located north of Cpt 4b and forming an attractive woodland strip along the edge of the Avon Water.
Area (ha)
0.30
Habitat Type
Native upland ashwood W9 and Native Lowland mixed deciduous woodland W10
18
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 5 - PUBLIC ACCESS Introduction Sections of the network of paths serving Stonehouse are designated as Core Paths forming part of the strategic path network serving South Lanarkshire. The core path route which runs through the Park along the southern edge of the woodland connects with the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 74 (Glasgow to Gretna). The woodland paths link to the path network within Stonehouse Park, which are mainly of tarmac construction, and these paths in turn linking to external Core Path routes. For the purposes of this Management Plan the woodland paths have been identified using path nodes to define start/ end and intersection points and using these to identify path sections making up the woodland path network. The paths making up the woodland path network have been categorised into 4 main types as follows:
Surfaced pedestrian routes Surfaced management access routes Grass paths Unsurfaced paths
Table 7 - Path Descriptions Refer to Map 5 – Access Features Path Route
AG
EG
GD
BD
Description Surfaced pedestrian routes 1.5-2 m wide red blaes path following the eastern edge of the Dunavon Burn, and linking from the western tarmac access into the Stonehouse Park area from Manse Road 1.5-2 m Red blaes path linking from St Ninians cemetery. Initially follows the line of a historic path route then chicaned down the valley slope to meet with path along the Dunavon Burn at point G
1.5-2 m Red blaes path following the line of the Dunavon Burn from the culverted junction at G to the edge of the Avon Water at point D,
Surfaced management access routes 3m wide path running along the edge of the Avon Water. The path sits on the riverside bank between 2
Comments
Length
Initially steep path with short chicane sections. Surface is badly eroded. Crosses the Dunavon Burn vial a large culvert at point G.
113 m
Steps present at point A along with bollards, restricting certain types of user. Path surface is variable but generally edges are overgrown and the surface is badly eroded, particularly on steeper sections (section HG) Surface is badly eroded. The path crosses from the west side to the east side of the burn and back via large culverts locate at points I and L.
153 m
Path is suffering from drainage and erosion issues, and in particular has
139 m
162 m
19
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Path Route
D-M-K
OP
PH
Description and 5m above the river level. At point D there is a wide sleeper bridge crossing over the Dunavon Burn providing for both pedestrian and periodic vehicle access to the woodland areas beyond.
Grass paths This path forms a loop around the edge of the Open grassland area located on the flood plain of the Avon Water in Cpt 4a
Unsurfaced paths This path is in the form of a narrow desireline with cuts across the valley slope through Cpts 2c and 2e. The path is muddy and unsurfaced, and links a short distance into the adjacent woodland area to the east. This path section continues on from section OP and follows a welldefined line along the top of the valley slope and the beech avenue to link with a historic path and a new desire line which ties in with the surfaced path route section EH at point H.
PQ
Path section PQ is a short section of desireline which leads into the woodland from the corner of St Ninian’s churchyard/ cemetery area.
CM
This section of path forms an attractive route along the edge of the Avon Water through a riverside section of mature alder woodland.
M1-M3-M2
These short path sections for a short loop off the grass paths in Cpt 4a to the edge of the Avon Water and the river beach which has formed on the shores at this location
Comments collapsed on two sections near point B, with the banking having slumped into the River. The bridge crossing at D is missing its handrail, which currently lies on the riverbank slope beside the bridge.
Length
Unsurfaced path route with a tight grass sward which appears to be maintained as short grass, either through use or possible by periodic strimming.
315 m
This path negotiates steep and slippery sections of slope and is only useable by the able-bodied. The route is likely to follow the line of a badger trail and is also used my mountain bikers. The pathline crosses a couple of wet sections with poor drainage and is heavily poached through use on these sections. The route is used by mountain bikes, and users have laid branchwood down to assist with crossing the wet areas. This path takes advantage of a gap in the boundary fence enclosing the cemetery and involved crossing grasses areas within the cemetery which is not ideal (or appropriate) The path is clearly defined and well-used and links for a short distance into the adjoining woodland areas to the east of C The paths are well used and kept clear through frequent use, with no formal provision made for access.
157 m
64 m
31 m
213
95 m
In general the woodland paths are in poor repair, suffering largely from a lack of drainage which in turn leads to erosion issues. The resultant scouring action of water over the paths has 20
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
resulted in the washing out of the path surface layers and exposed the loose aggregate forming the path base. Many of the paths are timber edged, with these acting to trap water once it reaches the path and exacerbating the erosion issue. Erosion is extensive on some sections, to the extent that sub-base geotextile material and culverts have been exposed. Path drainage is generally in the form of shallow and narrow open grips dug along the upslope edge of the path and leading to culverts. These grips are subject to infilling through soil creep/ incidents of land-slip. In wet weather puddles form of the paths and these have developed into severely poached sections of path in places, with water unable to drain from these areas. Recreational Use Recreational use of the woodland areas is limited, with the focus historically being the flat open grassland area in Cpt 4a 9 (�the Bogs�) which was historically maintained by mowing. There is a low provision in terms of recreational features in the woodland area, with these being focussed more on the formal Park area. The woodland areas associated with the Park are well used by locals for walking and exercising, and for dog walking. Management Access Access to the woodland areas for management purposes is severely restricted by the topography of the steep and undulating woodland slopes, and by landslip issues which are affecting historic routes. Severe erosion and landslip issues are occurring along the edge of the main management access track along the edge of the Avon Water (Refer to Map 5 Access routes - Path Section B-J) The track is a ~4m wide construction, but has been severely narrowed in two places through land slips on the river bank, and is currently unsuitable for maintenance vehicles, and somewhat treacherous for pedestrians.
21
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 6- ANALYSIS Constraints -
Herbivores
There are few issues currently relating herbivore impacts on the woodland. Low levels of deer damage is occurring and is evidenced by occasional frayed tree stems, but the success of tree regeneration within the woodlands indicates that the impact on the woodland ecosystem is light and generally tolerable. Population levels visiting the woodland are likely to be kept in check by the high levels of use made of the woods by people, often accompanied by dogs. There is a high population level of grey squirrel present in the woodlands, and a subsequent high level of damage to the crowns of susceptible young and semi-mature trees through bark stripping and eventual dieback. The control of both deer and grey squirrel is recommended under the Clyde and Avon valley Forest Habitat Network report (SNH 2000). -
Plant Health
Currently the woodland areas at Stonehouse Park are in a generally healthy condition. Fungal pathogens and gradual deterioration of tree health is notable on a number of the remnant veteran trees which form avenues along historic field boundaries, but otherwise there are few plant health issues evident in the woods. Chalara ash dieback is however spreading rapidly throughout Britain, and is anticipated at some point to have a major impact, particularly in light of the high proportion of ash trees present within the woodlands and along the wider Avon Water valley. There is no obligation for a landowner to take any particular action if infected ash trees are identified within areas of their ownership unless a plant health authority serves a statutory Plant Health Notice requiring action. Current advice the aims at managing the disease by slowing the spread and lessen the impact of the disease. Younger trees are the most vulnerable to the disease, and are rapidly killed. If disease levels are low, selective thinning of diseased and suppressed trees is recommended. Regeneration of ash is encouraged with a view to identifying trees with inherent resistance to the disease, and no planting of nursery produced ash is advocated in the meantime.
-
Silviculture
There are few silvicultural restrictions constraining the management of the woodland areas. Options for the management of groups of retained mature conifers are limited owning to the height and maturity of the trees making up the groups, which sit exposed above the protection of the general woodland canopy and are subject to wind damage as a result. This damage is occurring on an ongoing basis with trees suffering from windblow or windsnap. The size of the trees affected is a concern in terms of public safety.
22
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
The situation will not be improved by selective thinning to encourage an improvement in the form and stability of the trees, as they are already largely mature and unlikely to respond to such treatments, and are already exposed and vulnerable. Therefore group felling to safely takedown the trees in a controlled and managed manner is the only sensible option. Removal of these conifer groups through felling will also fit with other management objectives relating to biodiversity and amenity. -
Recreation
Refer to Map 5- Access Features The main recreational use made of the woodland is for walking and dog exercising. Levels of use are high, but somewhat limited by the poor condition of the woodland paths which particularly use in wetter weather. National Cycle Route 74 is located to the west of Stonehouse Park and links from Manse Road into Park along the main tarmac track running to the south of the woodland areas (Refer to Map 5 - path route b-f-a). Some mountain biking activity is occurring on sections of the woodland path network, but is at a generally low level. This activity seems to focus currently on unsurfaced path routes and may be contributing to path erosion on these sections as well as on surfaced routes. There is also a risk of conflict with other users and a concern over disturbance to wildlife and habitats. -
Management Access
Refer to Map 5- Access Features Management access for site maintenance of woodland management operations is currently extremely limited. Access is restricted to the use of narrow pedestrian paths which have entrance restrictions installed which need to be negotiated. The path network is only suitable for access with small-scale pedestrian operated equipment. Access into woodland areas is further restricted by steeply sloping ground and wet ground conditions associated with natural drainage lines and flushes. Machinery access has been taken into the woodlands in the past via the management track which links from the corner of Stonehouse Park at point B along the lower slopes of Compartment 3b, and crosses the Dunavon Burn via a sleeper bridge giving access to compartments 2 and 4. Due to erosion of the bankings on the Avon Water, access along this route is currently severely restricted. Sections of the riverside slopes have settled and slumped to the river’s edge. These sections show evidence of having previously been shored up and supported, with demolition rubble and sections of revetment work in the form of stacked concrete bags evident. The cause of the subsidence of the bankings is unclear, but is likely to be a combination of natural river forces undercutting the banking, and blocked path drainage resulting in a buildup of ground water on the slopes supporting the path, and leading eventually to landslips.
23
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Re-instatement of access along this route is a priority in terms of the longer-term management and maintenance of the woodland areas beyond, particularly if the area is to be maintained for public recreational use. Management access to Compartment 1 is limited by a lack of suitable tracks and wet ground conditions. Any former drainage in the compartment has been adversely affected by recent felling operations and impeded by timber extraction routes and wheel ruts. Currently there is little need for management access within the area, but in the longer term, management access will need to be addressed. -
Anti-Social Activity
There is a little evidence of anti-social behaviour within the woodlands which are for the most part well used. The only issues identified were the presence of litter in the woodland and the inappropriate use of paths by motorbikes and quad bikes, which was reported by local people at consultation events. Litter in the woodland was noted at only a few locations, most noticeably along the edge of the woodland next to St Ninians cemetery (much of which may be wind-blown, and around a log on the edge of Compartment 4a, at the base of the wooded slope, the log being used as a venue for outdoor drinking evidenced by cans, bottles and broken glass. No incidents of vandalism were noted within the woodlands, and the presence of motor and quad bikes appears to be an irregular and infrequent occurrence. Large items of debris are sometimes deposited along the channel of the Dunavon Burn which are unsightly and form a risk of channel blockage and flooding, but are generally reported and removed before issues arise. Fly tipping was noted, largely historic and related to former management of the formal Park, with most items relating to grounds maintenance. Two locations were noted along the edge of Compartment 1a and 3b where waste was disposed of by tipping into the edge of the woodland down a steep slope. At the north-eastern edge of the cemetery area there is an area used for storage of excess soil and old graveside flowers which encroaches into the edge of the woodland. A large dead sycamore tree stands at this corner, and its demise may have resulted from the buildup of soil and compost waste around its base. -
Services
The main service feature affecting the woodland is an overhead electrical supply which runs through the woodland areas in compartment 2 and across the flat valley floor through compartment 4 to cross the Avon Water to supply properties to the north. A further single line overhead service to the Park House runs uphill through the Park and skirts the corner of compartment 3b. No other services are thought to directly impact on the woodland areas, although it should be noted that there are overhead roadside services running along the edge of Manse Road. The only other services which indirectly impact on the woodland relates to foul water services which are located upstream on the Dunavon Burn. These are thought to occasionally overflow and end up in the burn resulting in incidents of pollution evidenced by discoloured water and unpleasant odours.
24
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
To the west of the Park there is an area of landslip on the slopes of the adjacent woodland. It was noted during the woodland survey that outflow from a sewage service was flowing into the Avon Water close to this point resulting in pollution to the watercourse.
-
Protected Species
There are a number of species present within and in the vicinity of Stonehouse Park which will need to be taken into account when planning woodland management works. These include : Birds In general woodland management works are discouraged during the bird nesting season to avoid disturbance to breeding pairs. Some bird species are re-listed and subject to special protection under EU legislation. Bats All bat species in the UK are protected as are their rooting sites. Bats are likely to be resident in Stonehouse Park, and are most likely to be present in mature and veteran trees. The edges of the Avon Water and Dunavon Burns provide ideal feeding habitat for bat species. Badgers Badgers and their setts are protected species. As a result any management works proposed will need to mitigate for their presence and should to avoid the breeding season. A licence for woodland management operations will be required for any proposed woodland management operations. Otters It is not clear that otters are present on the stretch of the Avon Water near to Stonehouse Park, but there would seem to be a high likelihood that they will at least visit the area, if not take up residence. Otters are also subject to protection, and woodland management operations likely to disturb otters, holts or active sites will require a licence. Amphibians. Although not recorded recently in the area, there are a range of habitats suitable for frogs and newts in the form of small hillside pools, swamp and fen areas, and frequent hillside flushes. Newts were historically known to be present in one hillside pool adjacent to the Park. It is not known if these were common or great crested newts, but nonetheless woodland management operations should seek to identify and safeguard wetland habitats which may support their presence. Great crested newt is a protected species. Fish The Avon Water is a well-stocked and managed angling river. Woodland management operations should seek to safeguards and avoid disturbance to the river and it fauna and flora, either by direct disturbance or through the use of herbicides or other application of chemicals on site. Forest and Water Guidelines and guidance provided directly by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA )should be observed at all times.
25
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Opportunities -
Silviculture
In view of the location of the woodland areas in relation to other riverside woodlands along the valley and the contribution of the woodland to the local forest habitat network, the most appropriate management aim is that of nature conservation. The woodlands also form an integral part of an area of public open space, and management of the woodlands should also aim to maximise the amenity and accessibility of the woodlands for public recreational use. To this end a management regime which maintains woodland cover and treats the woodland to increase the nativeness of the woodland composition to enhance biodiversity values is proposed. The woodland is densely stocked in terms of tree numbers and canopy cover. Much of the woodland is semi or early-mature in age, and is suitable for thinning treatments. Targeted thinning to reduce the proportion of non-native trees and reduce the density of the canopy to favour ground flora development which will help to enhance the biodiversity value of the woods. Similar selective treatment of the woodland regeneration layers to favour native trees appropriate to the site will help steer the future composition of the woodland towards more typical native types. One key concern for the future management of the woodlands is the risk of Chalara Ash Dieback spreading through the woodland. Currently there are no defences to prevent this likelihood, and management of the ash component of the woodland will require some vigilance, with infected trees targeted for removal during thinning operations to restrict the rate of spread. Access to the woods areas is restricted due to site gradients which limit the potential for management of the site as a timber resource. Nonetheless timber arising from woodland management operations should, where possible, be extracted and utilised. Timber which cannot be extracted can be left on site to contribute to the deadwood habitat of the site. Opportunities include:
Woodland thinning to reduce competition and increase light levels Targeted felling to remove dangerous and unstable trees Targeted thinning to reduce the presence of non-native trees and non-native seed sources Targeted thinning to control the risk and spread of tree diseases Management of regeneration to steer the future composition of the woodland towards native woodland types Creation of both standing and fallen deadwood habitats Potential utilisation of timber on site Small scale extraction of excess timber to market
26
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
-
Biodiversity
The woodlands are located within the Avon Water Valley and are typical of the woodlands making up an important wildlife corridor and forest habitat network along the valley. Many of the woodlands along the river are recognised for their biodiversity value and have been designated in recognition of their conservation values and the need to protect them from disturbance. The composition of the Stonehouse Park Woods includes a high proportion of non-native trees largely planted when the Park was initially developed, and these have regenerated along with more typical native trees species to form mixed broadleaf woodland which is largely but not wholly native. A range of native woodland types are indicated by the soils, topography, drainage, and ground flora present across the site which potentially provides a range of woodland habitats to benefit biodiversity in the area. In addition there is a range of open habitat types represented adding to the biodiversity values of the site. There were identified in the Ecological Assessment report (Refer to Appendix 2 – Ecological Assessment) There are opportunities to safeguard and enhance both woodland and open habitats present on the site with a view to increasing their biodiversity values, both as individual habitat types and as a complex of integrated habitats. Opportunities for the woodland areas include:
-
Increasing of light levels to support typical ground flora through thinning of the woodland canopy and management of regeneration. Selective thinning to favour native trees Management of regeneration to steer the future composition of the woodland towards native woodland types Management of open grassland areas to encourage wild flora Management of wetland habitats to maintain light levels and hydrology and to safeguard these from the management operations Control of invasive non-native species. Enrichment planting particularly to favour native woodland elements which are not successfully regenerating or are present only in limited proportions.
Recreation
Recreational use of the woodlands is currently limited as a result of the poor condition of the paths within the site. Path routes are restricted to two main routes which provide access along the Dunavon Burn and Avon Water, and which converge at the edge of “the Bogs” which provides the main area of recreational open space outwith the formal Park area. The use of the paths may also be reduced through a lack of awareness of how the path network connects with Stonehouse Park. Similarly the use of more informal use may be restricted. The Bogs area in the Cpt 4 is marked of old maps as a recreational ground and was formerly well used for picnics, gala days/sports days (including the traditional “Duck Race” held on the Avon Water), outdoor games and other recreational activities.
27
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
The lack of management access in recent times has resulted in a decline in general use, and the area is mainly frequented only by dog walkers. Re-instatement of management access to the area, alongside with a re-instatement of a grassland management regime would help to return the area as a valuable recreational area for the local community, and is one of the key aims of FoSP. Opportunities to enhance the recreational value of the woodlands include: -
Improvements to woodland paths and drainage provision of site signage and map boards to promote existing routes and to guide visitors
Management Access
Management access to the recreation area located in the Avon Water Flood plain (Cpt 4a – “The Bogs”) was historically available along the riverside path section B-D (Refer to Map 5 – Access Routes). Two sections of riverbank supporting the path have washed out and resulted in landslip Options to re-route the path are limited by the steepness of the wooded bankings above the river, and it seems that the most practical solution would be the re-instatement of the path. This will require some major engineering works to stabilise the river banks. There are indications that revetment work has been carried out in the past with rubble material and concrete “sandbags used to form a supporting edge to the River. The natural process of the rivers erosive action has undermined these former efforts and may affect other sections in the future. There is an opportunity to undertake a more robust programme of engineering along the river edge to stabilise the bankings in the longer term through the installation of gabion work. Full consultation with SEPA and other statutory bodies including South Lanarkshire Council will be required. An engineering perspective is required to look at the feasibility of such work, looking not only at the sections of riverbank currently affected but other sections adjacent to these would be recommended. Such a study would aim to identify the cause and likely extents of the riverside erosion into the foreseeable future, and from there to identify potential solutions and impacts, with specifications for the work. For any works undertaken a SEPA licence will be required. This would only be granted with strict conditions applied which will require to be adhered to. An engineering solution will face a number of technical difficulties. Issues include:
access for plant and materials the existing tree canopy and working room avoidance of pollution resulting from the works avoidance of un-necessary disturbance to the river channel and bed control/diversion of the river to accommodate the works mitigation of any impacts arising from implementation of a solution the avoidance of fish spawning periods, the avoidance of bird nesting periods avoidance of disturbance to EU protected species such as otter and bats
Other options to re-instate a management access to the woodland areas involving the creation of a new route across the woodland slopes are limited and likely to face similar
28
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
levels of engineering and environmental difficulty, and would of necessity result in the undesirable disturbance and potential loss of large sections of existing woodland canopy. Without a suitable access for vehicles, management operations for both grass maintenance and woodland management would be restricted to pedestrian operated equipment which would restrict the extent of any such operations, with some operations being totally unfeasible, and would also increase the overall costs for site management. Opportunities: Opportunity to investigate and long-term engineering solution to re-instate management access Opportunity to implement recommendation of engineering report Opportunity to utilise re-instated management route for management purposes, and to accommodate community events on site. -
Education and Community
There are opportunities to involve local schools and community groups in the development and management of Stonehouse Park woods. The woods have good potential to offer an attractive and safe venue for outdoor teaching. Currently such activities are hampered by poor access and a lack of site interpretation, seating or managed open areas providing a suitable gathering point. There are opportunities to develop site features which will provide opportunities for learning, and to develop these in conjunction with local schools and local groups. Community consultation carried out as part of the Stonehouse Park Improvements Feasibility Study elicited a strong and positive response from local people and visitors, with a number of improvements and suggestions made regarding the Park. Of those comments relation to the Woodland Opportunities: Provision of site signage and interpretation Provision of a suitable teaching area with rustic outdoor seating Provision of seating and interpretation and stations which highlight particular features of interest or views Provision of a nature trail and heritage trail Provision of nature stations for insect hunts, tree and plant identification and other educational activities -
Habitat Network and Access Connectivity
There may be opportunities to work in partnership with adjacent landowners to develop a programme of woodland management which encompasses adjoining areas of woodland with a view to improving the condition, structure and biodiversity values of the woodlands over a wider area. Such proposals would also aim to meet the needs and aspirations of adjacent landowners, and may offer opportunities for the development of access opportunities to support activities such as tourist development in the area.
29
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 7 - EVALUATION Evaluation Process To assist with setting priorities and forming proposals the reserve has been assigned values based on the following five characteristics, silviculture, biodiversity, landscape, recreation and amenity. The table below provides a summary of the evaluation with further discussion of each category below. Table 8 - Summary of Evaluation Category Silviculture
Current Value Low
Potential Value Low
Threats
Potential Improvements
Threat of non-native regeneration.
Removal of on-site nonnative seed source trees.
Threat of windthrow.
Safe-guarding of mature trees through a process of veteranisation
Loss of mature and veteran trees Possible threat of Chalara Ash dieback disease.
Programme of thinning and management to maintain a strong native woodland element within the woodland canopy Sanitary/selective felling of diseased trees as part of scheduled thinning operations
There are a number of restrictions to management, mainly relating to steeply sloping terrain and a lack of access. The woodlands form a prominent and attractive feature in the landscape and are located in an area of recognised landscape value. Management of the woodland will generally require that management operations avoid the loss of canopy cover, and will restrict management operations to selective thinning and small-scale group felling. The woodland areas are primarily native in character, but the composition of the woodland has altered over time as a result of agricultural use and planting with policy woodland and areas of conifer for amenity and to provide a more economic timber resource. In recent times management activity has been limited and the woodlands have been primarily managed for amenity, recreation, and biodiversity. The last major management intervention was implemented in the year 2000, with the areas of conifer woodland along the Dunavon Burn cleared and restocked to native woodland. A few mature conifer groups were retained on site which are suffering from wind damage, and are limited in terms of amenity and biodiversity benefits. Access to the woodlands for management purposes is severely restricted by steep slopes, wet ground, and erosion issues. Currently management access is restricted to small-scale equipment taking access along main footpath routes. Improvements to the accessibility of the woodland areas for management purposes will increase the longer term sustainability of the woodland by providing scope for site management and timber operations. 30
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Category Biodiversity
Current Value Medium
Potential Value Medium
Threats
Potential Improvements
Disturbance
Minimise disturbance through the provision of suitably designed and waymarked access routes
Loss of diversity due to canopy closure. Windblow
Thinning to increase light levels within the woodland Management of the woods under a continuous cover management regime to avoid loss of woodland canopy in any period.
Enrichment planting to diversify the woodland composition The habitat survey commissioned to inform the Park and woodland management plans categorises the woodland areas as being of Regional Importance in terms of biodiversity. The woodlands and associated ground flora are good examples of native woodland types both in terms of trees and indicative ground flora. In addition to the woodland habitats, there are small areas of open habitat on the woodland slopes, and large areas of open grassland and rough grassland habitats located on the low, flatter valley levels associated with the flood plain of the Avon Water. The woods link with a wider woodland habitat network including areas of SSSI woodland, and are host a wide range of fauna. There are a number of threats with potential to adversely affect the biodiversity value of the woodlands, mainly arising from the presence and spread of non-native tree and plant species. Category Landscape
Current Value Medium
Potential Value Medium
Threats
Potential Improvements
Conifer dominated areas not in keeping with surrounding landscape.
Restructure conifer areas through clear-felling, group felling, and restocking
Retain continuous canopy Short term cover and manage the disturbance through woodland through thinning tree felling and rather than clear-felling thinning operations. The woodlands form part of a wider and visually attractive landscape along the Avon Water Valley. Stonehouse Park Woods occupy prominent slopes valley and link visually with adjoining woodland forming an attractive vista from a number of viewpoints along the valley and from the top of the valley to the north. The woodlands also form an attractive backdrop to the formally maintained area of Stonehouse Park. Felling and loss of canopy cover would have a detrimental (If relatively short-term) impact on 31
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
these views. Woodland management should aim instead to maintain woodland cover throughout the management period and beyond, with woodland operations restricted to thinning and small-scale group felling. Category Recreation
Current Value Low
Potential Value High
Threats
Potential Improvements
Lack of access for management and maintenance
Encourage visitors into the woodlands through interpretation, signage, and access management
Deterioration of main paths through erosion/ drainage issues.
Manage recreational open space and bring back into use.
Potential to establish heritage/ nature trails The woodlands are served by a path network linking to the formal areas of Stonehouse Park, but use of the woodland walks for recreation is generally limited, partly owing to the poor condition of the paths, and partly through a lack of awareness of the links available. The paths become overgrown during the summer period fading a further discouragement to their full use. There is potential to implement path corridor clearance and path improvement works along with the installation of site map boards and waymarking to make better use of the woods as a more integrated feature within the Park. Category Amenity
Current Value Medium
Potential Value Medium/High
Threats
Potential Improvements
Gradual decline due to lack of management, windthrow, plant health issues.
Selectively remove nonnative trees over time and steer towards a mainly native woodland composition Remove remnant conifers which are out of keeping with the Avon Water Valley woodlands.
The woodlands are primarily riparian in character, and are dominated by a mix of broadleaf trees. Remnant mature conifer trees currently provide visual interest above the main woodland canopy but are gradually succumbing to wind damage and will be lost from the views in the future. Within the woodlands there are a variety of woodland and open habitats ranging from steep sided wooded valley slopes, watercourses, springs, wetland habitats and open grass areas. A key attractor for visitors is the interface between the woodlands and the Avon Water. The section of the Avon Water flowing past the woodland occupies a wide and shallow boulder strewn channel with a series of shoals and rapids and is highly appealing. In addition there are sections of sand banks forming short beach sections which are popular with visitors. Category Cultural Heritage
Current Value Medium
Potential Value Medium
Threats
Potential Improvements
No likely change
Potential for interpretation of site features and historic 32
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
background of the woodlands and their environs.
There are numerous and varied features of interest located both within and in areas adjacent to Stonehouse Park. Most of the key features of interest are low key and not obvious to the casual visitor, but add considerably to the character of the area. There is potential to highlight features of local interest through the provision of map boards and interpretative materials. There may also be an opportunity to develop a heritage trail with links to St Ninian’s churchyard.
33
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
SECTION 8 -MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS Management Vision The following is suggested as a simple and straightforward Management Vision:‘To manage Stonehouse Park Woods as an area of biodiversity, recreational, and amenity value for the benefit of local people and visitors’ Long-Term Management Objectives To manage and promote the woods and an integral component of Stonehouse Park by:
Maintaining the woodlands in a safe condition To improve management access into the woodland Provision and maintenance of an inclusive path network offering accessibility to a wide range of users Provision of site signage and furniture to encourage visitors To make full use of the heritage present in the area through interpretation signage To maintain areas of open space as areas for community recreation and for biodiversity To manage the woodlands as native woodland in keeping with the character of the Avon Water valley To improve linkage between the woodland areas and adjacent areas of valley woodland.
Obligations and Responsibilities Stonehouse Park was gifted to the people of Stonehouse by Alexander Hamilton and has passed into the care of South Lanarkshire Council who are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the area. There are no statutory designations which apply to the woods and as a result no associated obligations. There are no known outstanding obligations arising worm grants applied for on the woodland areas, with felling works carried out in the year 2000 successfully restocked and the areas out of contract. There is an overhead powerline which runs through the woodland, with the responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the line and the wayleave falling to Scottish Power. The Avon Water forms part of the River Clyde catchment and is a major watercourse within the catchment. Statutory responsibilities for regulatory control of the watercourse fall to the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), and adjacent landowners being responsible for the management of their land in a manner that safeguards water quality. Woodland Management Proposals Refer to Maps 7 - Woodland Management Proposals -
General Thinning
General thinning is proposed for areas which are densely stocked and dominated by one species or has a mix of species representative of the desired NVC type. Thinning will aim at re-spacing these areas to reduce crowding and competition.
34
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Areas of young trees which have successfully established through planting of regeneration have formed dense thickets with intense competition occurring between individuals as a result. Stocking in some areas is currently >20,000 stems/ha, and it is proposed that these areas are thinned out to reduce stocking levels to ~3,300 stems /ha (~1.5m spacing). Initially it is not proposed to be selective in terms of thinning to favour particular species, but non-native trees and trees with health issues should be targeted for removal as part of the operation. In economic terms the areas involved are small-scale, and the trees being treated of a relatively small stature and are unlikely to provide timber revenue. Consequently it is proposed that timber arisings should be disposed of by chipping on site General thinning Thin areas to re-space the crop. Thinning intensity to aim at removing 10%-50% of the group canopy (dependant on stocking and vigour) Extract timber from accessible woodland areas to market Stack arisings into habitat piles Chip and disperse small diameter arisings (<10cm diameter) -
Selective Felling
Selective Thinning is proposed for areas which have a mix of species and include the presence or dominance of vigourous and competitive species which threaten the future diversity of the woodland, and in particular out-compete native woodland elements. Within areas of more mature woodland it is proposed that a proportion of non-native trees, which act as a seed source for unwanted regeneration, are targeted for removal. The removal of a proportion of these trees from the woodland canopy will also increase light levels within the woodland and help support the development of ground flora, regeneration, and sub-canopy woodland layers. The proposed thinning intensity will be relatively low. Timber arising from the operations should be extracted where practical, but owing to the limitations of access for machinery, and the steep ness of the woodland slopes, it is likely that much of the timber will be sectioned and left on site to form habitat piles. These should be left in suitable locations and secured against the possibility for rolling downhill. Tree crowns should be chipped and dispersed on site. It is likely that any revenues from timber extracted will be low and will not come near to covering costs. Selective thinning Selectively remove ~10% of the group canopy, targeting non-native trees for removal. Extract timber from accessible woodland areas to market Stack large diameter arisings into habitat piles, Chip and disperse small diameter arisings (<10cm diameter) -
Group Felling
Areas of retained mature conifer trees are gradually being lost to wind damage in the form of stem breakages or windthrow. It is proposed that these groups are felled and cleared for restocking to native woodland. Group felling
35
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
-
Fell areas of coniferous woodland Manually fell trees inaccessible slopes. Sned out stems Chip arising lop and top and disperse. Where feasible convert into sections and extract timber from site Where access is restricted leave stems in full length to secure against rolling and retain as deadwood habitat.
Veteran Tree Management
The majority of trees in Stonehouse Woods are young, semi-mature or early-mature aged between 15 and 50 years, with few trees aged over 50 years. A notable exceptions to these are the areas of retained mature conifers which are aged ~80-90 years and are likely to have been planted at the time the Park was created. These are suffering for wind damage and gradually being lost to the canopy. Further notable exceptions are lines of mature beech and sycamore which form avenues along what may have been former agricultural field edges. These are aged >150 years and are also gradually senescing with some in poor condition. In the case of the beech avenue located along the top of the valley slope in Cpt 2c, a number of the trees have health issues, and all have extensive crowns casting a heavy shade resulting in sections of bares slope with no regeneration, shrub growth or ground flora surviving below. The Ecological report for the site suggests the treatment of these trees and some other mature specimens by “Veteranisation”. This would involve crown treatments designed to mimic natural processes with a view to and to form standing deadwood habitats, and carried out in conjunction with crown reduction to make the trees safe for long-term retention. A number of trees have been identified for potential treatment within the woodland. Veteranisation Reduce tree crowns from selected individual trees Reduce/remove diseased or damaged limbs for safety Remove limbs to imitate storm damage breakages and form standing deadwood habitat. Breakdown and gather arisings to form habitat piles Chip and disperse small diameter arisings (<10cm diameter) -
Regeneration Management
Within areas of established woodland a high proportion of tree regeneration is represented by non-native species, and in particular beech, sycamore, and norway maple, all of which are shade tolerant and well adapted to conditions under a dense woodland canopy. The Ecological Assessment carried out for the Park and woodland areas highlights beech in particular as being an undesirable successor species within the woodland composition owing to its tendency to cast heavy shade and eventually dominate the woodland canopy layer to the detriment of native tree species and ground flora. (Refer to Appendix 2 – Ecological Assessment) Both beech and sycamore can outcompete native tree species and result in a loss of woodland diversity In these woodland areas components of the typical native woodland
36
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
types which do not freely regenerate due to dense shading and competition and are gradually are lost to the woodland. In conjunction with woodland thinning proposals which aim at reducing the dominance of non-native canopy trees and to increase light levels within the woods, it is proposed that tree regeneration is selectively treated to target non-native species for removal, and to thus favour native tree regeneration, supported by enrichment planting. Enrichment planting Selectively thin out the woodland regeneration layer, targeting non-native species. Treat stumps where required (for stumps >3cm diameter) with herbicide to prevent coppice regrowth. Retreatment of cut stumps where required. Pull young seedlings where further regeneration occurs. Where deer damage is evident on retained native regeneration, erect 1.2m shelters to safeguard from herbivore damage and to identity for future maintenance -
Enrichment Planting
Enrichment planting is proposed where the desired composition of the regeneration layer is not being achieved, and also for areas proposed for group felling. Where existing regeneration is dominated by one or two species respacing of the regeneration layer and enrichment planting is also proposed to encourage the development of the desired native woodland composition. Enrichment planting is also proposed to establish a shrub layer below the woodland canopy which is currently generally absent. Enrichment planting also offers an opportunity to establish species which are appropriate to the site and which might be expected as part of the woodland composition as part of the indicated NVC types, but which are noticeably absent or rare (e.g. hazel, rowan), and to bolster desirable species present in the woodland but which are not freely regenerating (e.g oak). Enrichment planting Carry out enrichment planting into canopy gaps Carry out enrichment planting in conjunction with regeneration management works Plants to be 45-90cm nursery transplants, and preferably from a registered local source for native species. Trees to be pit planted Erect 1.2m shelters to safeguard from herbivore damage and to identity for future maintenance Maintain trees and shelters to ensure establishment. -
Infill Woodland Edge Planting
There are opportunities to expand the woodland area on the eastern edges of subcompartment 2c and 2e where the woodland is gradually spreading out onto than open area of the valley slopes.
37
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
It is proposed that groups of planting are established to create new woodland habitat on these slopes to link with other regenerated areas and to provide an habitat connection to the riverside woodlands in Cpt 4d, and the adjacent woodland ownership to the east. Woodland edge planting will consist mainly of native shrub species and will provide a low level cover which is generally lacking within the woodland. It is proposed to establish groups of woodland edge planting along the base of the valley slopes to provide new wildlife habitat and shelter both for wildlife and for users of the recreational grassland area. Infill planting/ Woodland edge planting Plant groups into selected areas of open slope and on woodland edges Plants to be 45-90cm nursery transplants, and preferably from a registered local source for native species. Trees to be pit planted Erect 1.2m shelters on trees to safeguard from herbivore damage and to identity for future maintenance Woodland edge planting to be established using short (0.6m) tree shelters or rabbit guards. Maintain trees and shelters to ensure establishment. -
Invasive Species Control
Japanese knotweed is present on site, colonising and spreading along the banks of the Avon Water, both within the Stonehouse Park woodland areas and in the adjacent woodland to the west and upstream from the Park. Treatment of these invasive plants in the proximity of the watercourse will require a licence from the SEPA. Treat Japanese knotweed Treat areas of invasive weed by physical application of herbicide directly onto stems/leaves, or by stem injection. Monitor and re-treat as required. Small patches of Rhododendron are present along the woodland edge within Cpt 1b, and are likely to have been established as ornamental specimens to form an amenity edge between the woodland and the formal Park areas. There is no major issue indicated by these areas spreading and encroaching through the woodland, but there is potential for this to occur in the future. It is proposed that an acceptable level of non-native shrubs are defined in terms of the location extent, and that these areas are maintained to the accepted areas for amenity. Where encroachment occurs further into the woodland areas, this growth should be cut back. Treatment should be carried out in accordance with FC guidelines (refer to FC Practice Guide “Managing and Controlling invasive Rhododendron” Rhododendron treatment Cut bushes >1.3m in height and stump treat. Foliar spray bushes<1.3m in height. Monitor for regrowth and re-treat where required.
38
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
-
Ivy Treatment
Areas of dense ivy growth are present within the woods, most notably in Cpt 3. Whilst ivy is a normal component of woodland ecosystems and can provide feeding, nesting and roosting sites for woodland fauna, its present as dense growth extending high into the crowns of standing trees can be an issue particularly in relation to the reduction of light levels reaching the woodland floor, and in terms of tree stability, particularly on steep and unstable slopes. Treatment of a number of affected trees within Compartment 3 which form a risk to the main path route, and of one feature conifer tree located at the path node A in Cpt 1a is proposed. It is anticipated that ivy treatment would be a periodic management task which may be suitable for local volunteers to undertake. Ivy treatment Treat ivy in identified areas to reduce adverse impacts of standing live trees and ground flora. Treatment will involve the removing short sections of the ivy stems around the base of the trees and allowing the growth above to die back. -
Wayleave Management
Management of the wayleave is the responsibility of the relevant utility companies and is normally carried out under a large contract covering large areas or regions. The management generally consists of periodic visits and the wholesale clearance of woody vegetation present within the wayleave corridor. It is proposed that group edge planting is carried out to reduce the ongoing maintenance requirement along the line of the wayleave. Use of native shrub species which are capable of coppicing freely will establish an edge which can be retained as a long-term woodland feature, and form a structured woodland edge to benefit local wildlife. Wayleave management Plant groups on woodland edges Plants to be 45-90cm nursery transplants, and preferably from a registered local source for native species. Trees to be pit planted Woodland edge planting to be established using short (0.6m) tree shelters or rabbit guards. Maintain trees and shelters to ensure establishment. Access Proposals -
Bank Stabilisation Requirements
Management access is restricted. The key route available to access the woodlands from the Park is route BD, is a ~3-4m wide surfaced path which provides a link from the formal part area to the open “haugh” area from which point access to the base of the woodland slopes of compartments 2, 3 and 4 are available.
39
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Landslip along the edge of the path has resulted in subsidence and erosion of the path to the point that it no longer offers the potential for vehicular/ management access. Revetment work is potentially required as a solution to the subsidence of the riverside bankings in Cpt 3c which is resulting in the erosion of the main access route serving the woodland areas. It is recommended that the issue is looked at by a qualified engineer to assess the cause, extent of the issue, to recommend potential solution(s), and assess remedial works in terms of feasibility and likely cost.
Revetment Work Develop consults brief for engineering study Issue brief on a tender basis Review results of the study and take action as required Re-instate path following engineering works.
-
Rebuild and Upgrade Path Routes
The woodland paths through the Dunavon Burn valley are severely eroded and in need of a major upgrading. Damage to the paths is largely the result of a lack of suitable edge drainage, and the paths are for the most part in need of a complete rebuild to form suitable pedestrian routes. It is proposed that paths are re-constructed along the existing path lines, with suitable drainage installed along the edges of the path. Given the steep-sloping nature of the pathline through the valley, it is proposed that the path surface is specified as a semi-bound surface, (e.g. Ultitrec® or similar products) which will form a semi-sealed surface and reduce the impacts of water scour. Sections of the management access path alongside the Avon Water will require upgrading if and when the riverbank landslip issues are resolved. A similar specification to the appropriate width is proposed for the re-instatement of this route following engineering works. One set of steps are installed to negotiate a short section of boundary hedgebank between St Ninian’s churchyard and the woods at point E (refer to Map 8 – Access Proposals) Rebuild and upgrade path routes Excavate path routes to original widths to loosen and regrade sub-base material Level and compact remnant materials. Lay Terram® geotextile over path base to supress weed growth. Lay new sub-base to path to ~125mm depth and roll to camber/crossfall. Lay 50mm of semi-bound surfacing, compact and roll to camber Remove existing steps and form ramp to link to St Ninian’s churchyard -
New Woodland Paths
It is proposed that a new section of woodland path is created to form an extended loop through the western portion of the woods and forming a link between the Dunavon Burn path route and “the Bogs” and riverside path alongside the Avon Water. The path will follow a historic route initially through Cpts 2a, 2b, and 2d. A suitable line will need to be selected to negotiate the valleyside and the route probably will need to be chicaned in places to reduce gradients. The selected pathline should seek to avoid
40
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
drainage issues , springs, and flushes, both to avoid disturbance to these existing areas of conservation interest, and for ease of construction. New woodland paths Identify and mark out appropriate path route. Excavate path routes to 2m widths. Arisings spoil to be laid out along the lower edge of the path to form a verge, with gaps left to accommodate culverts/ drainage at intervals. Lay Terram® geotextile over excavated base to supress vegetation growth. Lay sub-base to path to ~125mm depth and roll to camber/crossfall. Lay 50mm of semi-bound surfacing, compact and roll to camber -
Unsurfaced Paths
Informal unsurfaced paths/ desire lines are present within the woodland and are generally kept open through use. The main path of this type follows a line along the edge of the Avon Water from the open grassland in Cpt 4a. The unsurfaced and informal nature of the path is in keeping with the natural setting found along the riverside, and is well drained owing to the nature of the alluvial soils on which they are formed. The path extends into the neighbouring woodland property to the west and peters out when it reaches a steep spur of the valley slope which extends to the river’s edge. Other paths leading through the woodland areas appear to be exploratory and lead to dead ends/ impassable ground.
No works are proposed for the unsurfaced paths within the area.
-
Drainage Works
Drainage is required along existing, and will need to be provided for proposed new, path routes. It is proposed that drains takes the form of open grip drains located along the upper edges of path routes to catch surface and ground water from sloping ground above, and led to culverts installed at frequent intervals to carry the water below path surfaces and let to issue below the path. The frequency of proposed culverting will help to minimise the required depth and carrying capacity of the edge drainage, and will minimise disturbance to the natural drainage regimes on woodland slopes. Land slip on these steep slopes is to be anticipated and is likely to result in periodic blockage or infilling of open edge drains. It will therefore be necessary to periodically maintain the path drainage by clearing them out and re-profiling where necessary. This may be a suitable task for local volunteers. Path drainage will also need to be looked at in terms of the major landslip of sections of the riverbanks along the Avon Water which are affecting the main management access route, with blocked path drainage potentially being a contributing factor to the landslip on these sections. Outwith the requirements for maintaining paths, no other drainage works are proposed. The costs of drainage works have been included in the overall costs for path works.
Drainage Install suitable grip drains along the upper edges of path sections and lead to culverts or other suitable outlets. Maintain drains periodically to ensure their correct function.
41
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
-
Path Corridor Clearance
Dense regeneration of young woodland has resulted in the establishment of young trees close to the edges of woodland paths. These encroach into the path corridor and restrict access. In addition mature trees and shrubs can also encroach on the woodland paths through seasonal growth or as a result of wind damage and/or unstable rooting, leading to leaning trees affecting path routes. Proposed new path routes through the woodland will also encounter edge tree growth which impacts on the path corridors. It is proposed that the edges of existing and new paths are treated to create a clear path corridor, with trees currently encroaching or likely to encroach in the future targeted for pruning back or removal. Clear path corridors Identify trees and shrubs for treatment, either pruning or removal Clear trees and encroaching branches to achieve a clear path corridor 4m wide x 7m high. Plants to be 45-90cm nursery transplants, and preferably from a registered local source for native species. Stack large diameter arisings into habitat piles, Chip and disperse small diameter arisings (<10cm diameter) Recreation Proposals -
Recreational Field
It is proposed that recreational grassland area in Cpt 4a (“the Bogs”) is developed as a focal point for community events and outdoor activities. The differential mowing regime proposed to maintain the grassland will identify open areas for community activities, and for the most part no further works are proposed in the area There is however potential for specific areas to be developed to cater for outdoor learning activities , and to provide a locus for community events such as those run in conjunction with the local Gala Day. One potential feature could involve the construction of an amphitheatre formed by a low earth bound (preferably low enough and wide enough to enable mowing) which can act as a meeting area and outdoor classroom area. Seating could be installed and there is an opportunity to utilise timber from the proposed woodland management works to form log seats which should fit with the natural setting and hopefully prove to be robust and low maintenance items. The log seats would entail use of ~2m lengths cut from the butts of felled trees, with a flat slab of timber off one face to create a seat. The slabbed face should be set at a slight angle with notches cut into the surface for drainage. To avoid issues with mowing it is proposed that any such seating be installed into a hardcore base to be maintained along with woodland paths. Recreational Area
42
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Identify areas of recreational open space within Cpt 4a and maintain by regular mowing Create low earth amphitheatre to form an outdoor classroom/ teaching area. Install log benches at agreed locations, bearing in mind the need for mower access
-
Seating
Opportunities for the installation of two bench seats have been identified along the access route from Manse Road leading to the woods and into Stonehouse Park. It is proposed that these benches are in the style of those already in place within the formal Park. Other seating could be installed within the woodland areas at suitable rest points on slopes and locations offering views. It is proposed that these benches are less formal, and log seating similar to that proposed in the woodland recreational area is proposed at these locations. Where suitable timber is unavailable, single user perch seats may be a suitable option/alternative. (Refer to map 8 – Access Proposals).
Seating Install formal benches at locations identified locations Install log seats at key rest and viewpoints (e.g at or near points H, P, C, D and J, and in the recreational are in Cpt 4a – refer to Map 8 – Access Proposals). Install benches with a hardcore base to reduce ongoing maintenance costs.
-
Grassland Management
Areas of open grassland are located in Compartment 4a. The grassland was formerly management as a recreation area but lack of management access in recent times has resulted in the development of a taller, denser rank sward. Whilst this type of vegetation has its own habitat benefits, it is proposed that at least part of the area is returned to management to form a useable area of recreational open space for community use. It is therefore proposed that a differential mowing regime in re-instated to manage this grassland area for the duel benefits of the community and for wildlife. This will require the re-instatement of management access to the site, and seasonal mowing timed to maximise opportunities for wildflower development. (2-3 cuts /annum) Formal grass paths and recreational open space may be mown on a more frequent basis to produce a low tight sward for to accommodate community activities. Grassland management (Dependant on creation of suitable machinery access) Mow open grassland areas in Compartment 4a at two intervals/annum using a tractor mower/mulcher. If feasible remove cuttings to suitable composting area, or as animal feed. Define and mow recreational areas and grass path routes around the area 2-3 additional times over the growing season using a tractor mower to maintain a short and attractive sward for recreational use. -
Signage
Stonehouse Park is well known to local people but its associated areas of valley woodland are less well known or visited. The relatively low levels of use made of the woodland areas is thought to result from a number of factors including dense and encroaching vegetation and the poor condition of paths. However one cause is suspected to be a simple lack of awareness of the access provision within the woodland and the various path links and loop walks available through the area.
43
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
To this end it is proposed that a series of map boards are installed at the entrances into the woodland, preferably styled in the same fashion as other Park signage to emphasise the association of the woodlands as part of Stonehouse Park. The site is relatively small and few fingerposts or waymarks will be required. There may however be opportunities for interpretive signage to be installed within the woodland or to highlight adjacent features of heritage interest (e.g. St Ninian’s churchyard)
Signage Install site information/map boards at the main woodland entry points Install waymarkers where required to guide access Install information/interpretation boards for features of interest.
-
Fencing
Few of the boundaries to Stonehouse Park Woods march with agricultural land and in this respect do not need stockproof boundaries to safeguard against livestock. Some sections historical and derelict fencing are present within the woodland. These are proposed for removal. The small agricultural field to the south east of St. Ninians churchyard marches with the woodland edge and access route from Manse Road into the Park. This fence is largely derelict and not stock proof. It is proposed that these fences are replaced to safeguard the woodland from stock and to improve the amenity of the entrance into the Park. It is proposed to link one of the churchyard paths to the proposed woodland path network by removing a short section of old metal palisade fencing and installing a kissing gate at appoint F (Refer to Map 8 – Access Proposals).
Fencing Remove derelict fencing from boundaries and the woodland areas Erect new boundary fencing on woodland edges at the Manse Road entrance Remove short section of metal palisade fence and install kissing gate.
-
Woodland Entrance Enhancements
Entrances into the woodland are low key and are generally drab and un-appealing. Metal bollards have been installed to provide robust barriers to prevent vehicle use of pedestrian paths. These are functional but unattractive to the eye, and cannot easily be remover or lowered to allow for management access. There is also a clutter of posts and signage of various types located at the entrance off Manse Road. It is proposed that the house style for signage and furniture for the Park is adopted, and that woodland signage and barriers are designed to reflect these, with a view to emphasising the association between the formal Park and the woodland areas
44
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Site Monitoring Monitoring of the site should be carried out on a regular basis to record management impacts (both positive and negative) and to inform ongoing woodland management requirements. Monitoring Carry out walk-though inspection of the site on a bi-monthly basis. Monitor and record for tree safety issues annually Monitor and record access issues annually Monitor fenced boundaries annually Future Projects and Linkage (Refer to Map 9 – Wider Access Network) FoSP aim to maintain and develop Stonehouse Park as a valuable community resource. The Park is a key area of public open space for the community and offers opportunities as a hub for a wider network of access linking to adjacent areas of nature conservation and amenity value. The group also recognises the potential to extend management activity outwith the Park boundary to positively enhance adjacent areas of woodland and associated habitats. In this section the potential for future management and access projects extending outwith the Park are discussed in brief. Most routes identified lie outwith the Park and are in private ownership, and thus would require discussion with and the agreement of the owners prior to further investigations. None of the proposals have at this stage been costed, or have been included in the budgeting figures for the management of the Woods. There are potential links to areas outwith the Park to extend access along the Avon Water to connect with other existing paths and rights of way, and there are aspirations amongst local people to form a more extensive path network to make linking out from Stonehouse Park. Many of these routes face problems as a result of the topography of the valley and associated drainage and ground stability issues, and few of the identified path routes identified would be suitable for all user groups, but there is potential to investigate further key routes and options relating to these. The following table outlines routes identified by FoSP as aspirational links both within and external to the Park. Each route is briefly described and a broad level of “Feasibility” has been assigned following a brief site visit, and based largely on the technical aspects and issues perceived in the formation of a walkable route. The routes have been indicated on Map 9 – Wider Access Network with numbered references to identify each.
Route Reference
Description
Feasibility
Issues/Constraints
1
Routes through adjacent woodland
Low
Limited by gradients and ground conditions. Several sections would be only traversable using boardwalk. Will require short bridge crossing at the western end to link to core path.
45
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Route Reference
Description
Feasibility
Issues/Constraints
2
Routes through adjacent woodland to link to Manse Road Riverside path and uphill link to upper level
Low
Limited by gradients and ground conditions.
Low
Limited by gradients, ground conditions, and landslip issues
4
Riverside path
High
Existing desire line along riverside
5
Proposed link between existing and aspirational route within the Woods
Low
Limited by gradients and ground conditions
6
External path around cemetery, partly in the Woods.
Medium
Dense scrub growth, overgrown hedging. Agricultural interests.
8
Connecting bridge crossing Connecting bridge crossing Existing desireline, anglers path
Medium
Cost. Agricultural interests
Medium
Cost. Agricultural interests
High
Agricultural interests
10
Existing farm access routes
High
Unsurfaced, rough tracks. Agricultural interests
11
Line of former railway
Medium
Route no longer discernible in places. Agricultural interests
12
Line of former railway
High
Agricultural interests
13
Connecting bridge crossing
Medium
Cost. Agricultural interests
3
9 7
Routes 1 and 7 are proposed routes which link to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Horse Poolâ&#x20AC;? located to the west of Stonehouse Park. This area is formed by a meander in the Avon Water and can be accessed via a well-constructed track from Manse Road which is accessible to the public. A potential link from Stonehouse Park to the Horse Pool and an obvious route would be a link through the adjacent woodland area to the west (Route 1). However the steep, wet, and unstable nature of the woodland slopes in this area makes such a route technically very difficult without extensive engineering and drainage work. Route 7 may be possible by creating access onto the opposite bank of the Avon Water from the Stonehouse Park area to link with a riverside desire line formed by anglers, and back across the River at the top of the Horse Pool Meander, linking with the existing track from Manse Road. This solution would require two new pedestrian bridge crossings to be formed (Route references 8 and 9). Remnants of a former crossing in the form of planks and concrete filled oil drums are reportedly still evident upstream from Stonehouse Park. Route 3 follows the edge of the river and meets with a section of slope which has landslipped in the past. The route is proposed to ascend from this point uphill, negotiating a steep section of slope through a dense section of young trees to link with Route 1. The section ascending the hillside is wet and slippery and presents a number of engineering difficulties. Route 4 is a section of desireline with exists on the ground and potentially offers a link to a potential bridge crossing point (Route reference 8). The route is informal and no surface 46
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
improvements would be proposed, in keeping with the proposed treatment of path section CM within the Woods. Route 5 is a link within the Stonehouse Woods area to link between a proposed path route HN and Route 6. This would require the negotiation of a particularly steep section of the woodland slope which is reasonably dry underfoot, but would require a number of chicanes to reduce the overall gradients. Route 6 is a strip of flat ground which follows the outside edge of the adjacent cemetery wall. The route is currently heavily overgrown with dense hawthorn scrub which could be easily cut back and managed to accommodate the route. The route along the western edge of the cemetery runs through an agricultural filed/paddock on adjacent land. Route 10 is a proposed path route which would run from Millheugh Road at the base of the valley to the west of Linthaugh Bridge, and link into the Avondale SSSI area. The proposed routes are relatively informal and currently make use of farm access tracks and desirelines. There is potential for this route to extend northwards along the Avon Water to connect with Larkhall. Route 11 is a potential path route leading north from the viaduct along the line of a former railway to link with the farm tracks of Kittymuir and Kittymuirhill Farms forming a return loop with Millheugh Road. Route 12 represents a proposed circular walk from Stonehouse Park eastwards along the Avon Water (Route 10), and linking with the line of the former railway which returns to the edge of the village. Remnants of the railway line are still visible on the ground and are particularly evidenced by the bridge supports of the railway viaduct which crossed the valley. Much of this route is walked currently, but would require a bridge crossing over the Avon Water (Route reference 13) at the viaduct to complete the circuit. The major cost elements in establishing these routes as circular walks are the bridge crossings required over the Avon Water, with each involving a span of ~25m or more and are likely to require the input of a structural engineer. FoSP also recognise an opportunity to extend woodland management activities within the woodlands to include treatment of the adjacent woodland to the east. These areas are relatively young areas of woodland which have largely arisen through regeneration and are densely stocked, and, like Stonehouse Park woodland, have a proportion of non-native tree species. The adjacent woodland occupies steep and inaccessible ground and woodland management treatments would largely have to be carried out manually, with little potential for machinery access or timber extraction. Improving access to these woodland sections is technically difficult due to the steep ground, wet ground conditions, and slope stability issues, and would as a result be costly with little financial benefit being returned. The inaccessibility of the wooded slopes has a positive benefit in terms of nature conservation, providing a relatively secluded and undisturbed area of woodland habitat which offers a refuge for local wildlife. A brief survey of the woodlands indicates that they would benefit from general thinning to reduce stocking densities and increase light levels to benefit ground flora, both for biodiversity and also to help stabilise slopes, and selective thinning treatments to target nonnative trees for removal. There are also patches of invasive Japanese knotweed present along the riverside which could be targeted for removal.
47
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Potential benefits of managing the adjacent woodland area in conjunction with Stonehouse Park Woods would include economies of scale, and the treatment of both areas of woodland under one management regime would result in a uniformity of treatment and avoid a visual disparity resulting from differing management regimes and treatments. All of the future aspirations affecting land outwith Stonehouse Park will require discussions with and the agreement of the landowners concerned.
Future Projects and Linkage Investigate the potential to form external links from Stonehouse Park to adjacent features of interest to the east and west, forming extended circular walking routes Investigate the potential for linkage to St. Ninians churchyard and the development of an interpretive heritage trail based around the old church Investigate the potential for woodland management of adjacent riverside woodland areas (possibly through a formal management agreement with the adjacent landowner).
Implementation The proposals have been quantified and an outline budget set. The costs given are based on the current costs of using commercial contractors. There will also be some additional costs related to professional contract management and supervision of the works and time for sample marking of the areas to be thinned. No account has been taken of the potential impact of inflation. A number of the proposals have potential for implementation using volunteers and through community engagement though no account has been made of any cost variations that this method of implementation may require. Funding The extent to which the woodland management proposals proposed under this management plan will depend on the availability of an adequate budget to fund the works. It is anticipated that significant elements of the woodland management works proposed in the work plan would attract funding under the Forestry Commission’s FGS grant scheme. Grant assistance from other sources may also be available for access improvement and habitat management and enhancement works. Priority and Timing The proposals have each been given a priority rating (high, medium or low) within the Work Programme. The timing for many of the proposals has a degree of flexibility and could be moved forward or back a number of years to suit site conditions and budgetary limitations.
48
STONEHOUSE PARK WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
Table 9 – Summary of Management Proposals
Proposal
Quantity
Unit
Woodland Management Proposals General thinning
1.36
ha
Selective thinning
2.14
ha
Group felling – mature conifers
0.15
ha
Selective fells – mature conifers
~40
trees
Regeneration management
3.39
ha
Enrichment planting
0.79
ha
Infill/woodland edge planting
0.86
ha
11
trees
Wayleave management
0.45
ha
Control of Invasive species
400
m2
1
item
777
m
1.8 m 3.0 m
42 139
m m
1.8 m
420 8
m m
Recreation Proposals Threshold Sign
1
Information/ map boards
5
item item
Waymarker signs Vehicle barrier
3 1
Bollards
6
item item item
Teaching area/ gathering space
75
m2
Individual tree works
Access Proposals Engineering Study – report of bank stabilisation options for Management Access Clear path corridors Rebuild/ repair paths
Construct new surfaced paths Construct ramp/ remove steps
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services Assessment of Ecological Values and Opportunities Stonehouse Park June 2016
cameron ecology ltd 9 Woodlands Drive, Drumpellier, Coatbridge ML5 1LE Tel: 01236 428577 Mobile: 07946 100 188 Email: cameron@cameronecology.co.uk
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 2
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 2 Methods................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 Review of Existing Information...................................................................................2 2.2 Walkover Survey........................................................................................................3 2.2.1 Limitations ......................................................................................................................3 2.3 Evaluation Methods...................................................................................................4
3
Summary of Desk Study Information ...................................................................... 5
4
Habitat and Species Walkover Results .................................................................... 6
5
Assessment of Existing Conservation Value............................................................. 8
6
Management Recommendations and Enhancement Opportunities ......................... 8
7
3.1.1 3.1.2 4.1.1 4.1.2
6.1 6.2
Nature Conservation Designations.................................................................................5 Existing Information Provided ........................................................................................5
Phase 1 Habitat Survey and NVC Results........................................................................6 Protected species baseline .............................................................................................7
Management Recommendations................................................................................8 Enhancement Opportunities ......................................................................................9
Conclusions .......................................................................................................... 10
Figure 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Phase 1 Habitat Survey and NVC results
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-1-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
1 Introduction Stonehouse Park lies on the northern edge of Stonehouse, in South Lanarkshire, on northfacing ground above the River Avon. The Park is roughly 12 ha in total, with half of it comprising formal parkland, and the remainder being semi-natural woodland, scrub, grassland, and wetland. There is an additional 3 ha of privately-owned woodland that is connected to the Park. Cameron Ecology Ltd was commissioned by Mark Hamilton Landscape Services to undertake an assessment of ecological values and opportunities at Stonehouse Park. The purpose of this assessment is to provide more specific ecological input to the development of the woodland and access management plan being drawn up by Mark Hamilton Landscape Services. This work involved the following elements: 1. A walkover survey of the semi-natural habitats present, including the adjoining woodland; 2. Identification of the NVC woodland types present, together with target notes; 3. An assessment of the conservation value of the habitats present; and 4. Outline recommendations for ecological management and enhancement, including potential to increase the biodiversity potential of the formal areas of the park. This report sets out the findings of this work.
2 Methods This section of the report sets out the methods used to deliver the above elements. These are described in more detail below.
2.1
Review of Existing Information
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services provided relatively detailed information prior to the site walkover. This included maps dividing the area into broad habitat types, maps noting the presence of introduced species and other site notes of relevance. This information was reviewed prior to the site walkover and enabled effort to be targeted to areas of potential interest. Publically available information about designations provided by SNH was also consulted. The Native Woodland Survey of Scotland (NWSS)1 was also consulted as a desk study source. 1 Native Woodland Survey of Scotland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; viewed online at http://maps.forestry.gov.uk/imf/imf.jsp?site=fcscotland_ext& on 19 June 2014.
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-2-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
Walkover Survey
2.2
Field survey included the following surveys:
Phase 1 habitat survey2 was undertaken to identify the broad habitat types present. The area surveyed is shown in Figure 1. Habitats were also classified where appropriate using the National Vegetation Classification (NVC)3. The NVC is a classification system that recognises that certain plants are often found growing together. The NVC groups these into recognisable vegetation communities by publishing descriptions of the range of species found in these communities together with their relative abundances. Search for field signs of badger. Field signs of badger are described in the following references: Neal and Cheeseman (1996)4, Bang and DahlstrØm (2001)5, SNH (2001)6 and Sargent and Morris (2003)7. The area searched is the same as the habitat survey area and is shown in Figure 1; Search for field signs of water vole and otter. This survey was limited because in many places safe access to the water’s edge was not possible due to the steepness of the banks. Accessible areas were checked during the course of the walkover. Field signs of these species described in more detail in Strachan & Moorhouse (2006)8 and Chanin (2003)9; Generalised walkover assessment of structures and trees present in relation to their potential to support bat roosts; and A watching brief for other protected or otherwise notable species.
2.2.1 Limitations As noted above it was not possible to safely access some of the watercourse edges, and steep slopes and dense vegetation in places meant that not every part of the site was covered during the walkover. As with all surveys, the survey date will have had an influence on the findings, and some plant species that flower later in the season may have been overlooked. In general terms the timing of the walkover is good to cover woodland vegetation, as it allows spring flowering plants to be recorded. Overall it is considered that a good understanding of the plants and habitats at this site has been gained from the work undertaken.
2 Nature Conservancy Council 1990 Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey – a technique for environmental audit Joint Nature Conservancy Council, Peterborough 3 Rodwell, J.S. (ed), 1991 et seq British Plant Communities Vols 1-5 Cambridge University Press, Cambridge 4 Neal, E. and Cheeseman, C. (1996). Badgers. Christopher Helm, London 5 Bang, P. and DahlstrØm, P. (2001). Animal Tracks and Signs. Oxford University Press, Oxford 6 Scottish Natural Heritage (2001). Scotlands Wildlife: Badgers and Development, Scottish Natural Heritage, Battleby 7 Sargent, G. and Morris, P. (2003). How to find & Identify Mammals. The Mammal Society, London 8 Strachan, R. and Moorhouse, T. (2006). Water vole conservation handbook 2nd ed. Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford 9 Chanin P (2003). Monitoring the Otter Lutra lutra. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Monitoring Series No. 10, English Nature, Peterborough
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-3-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
2.4
June 2016
Evaluation Methods
This report uses a standardised approach to the evaluation of the ecological value of the features present, following guidance from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM). Designated features are usually straightforward to assign a value to as most designations have an intrinsic value level associated with them. For example a Site of Special Scientific Interest is a national level designation and so is notionally of â&#x20AC;&#x153;nationalâ&#x20AC;? value. Nondesignated receptors are assigned a value using these same principles, relying on suitable guidance where this exists. The table given below is intended to illustrate the approach to valuing ecological features. Table 1 Approach to Valuing Ecological Features Level of Value
Examples
International
An internationally designated site (e.g. SAC), or site meeting criteria for international designations. Species present in internationally important numbers (>1% of biogeographic populations).
National
A nationally designated site (Site of Special Scientific Interest, SSSI, or a National Nature Reserve, NNR), or sites meeting the criteria for national designation. Species present in nationally important numbers (>1% UK population). Large areas of priority habitat listed on Annex I of the EC Habitats Directive and smaller areas of such habitat that are essential to maintain the viability of that ecological resource.
Regional (Natural
Species present in regionally important numbers (>1% West Central Belt Natural Heritage Zone
Heritage Zone or
population).
Local Authority Area)
Sites falling slightly below criteria for selection as a SSSI. Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserves, Local Nature Reserves.
Local
Areas of semi-natural ancient woodland smaller than 0.25 ha. Areas of habitat or species considered to appreciably enrich the ecological resource within the local context, e.g. species-rich flushes or hedgerows.
Negligible
Usually widespread and common habitats and species.
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-4-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
4 Summary of Desk Study Information 4.1.1 Nature Conservation Designations The review of information about designations highlighted that the nearest statutory nature conservation designation is the Avondale Site of Special Scientific Interest, which is also designated as part of the Clyde Valley Woodlands Special Area for Conservation. This internationally important area of woodland is approximately 500m downstream at its nearest point. Looking at the designations present in the wider context, there are relatively few SSSIs and SACs in the surrounding area, and those that do exist are often designated for their woodland interest. Thus woodland in a general sense (and ancient woodland in particular) are amongst the most valuable habitat resources in this landscape context from a biodiversity point of view. The Clyde Valley woodlands are ancient woodland areas that appear to have had continuous woodland cover for very long periods of time, possibly since prehistoric times. Ancient woodland of this kind is considered to be important for nature conservation. There are two reasons why the proximity of this designation is important in relation to the management of woodland within Stonehouse park: 1. In terms of context, it means that the woodland in Stonehouse Park is more valuable. These woodland areas are in effect outliers from the designated area of woodland. Fragmentation of the woodland habitat over time has been one of the main reasons why the SSSI/SAC designations are considered necessary. Some of the woodland at Stonehouse Park would be examples of remaining fragments that could possibly have been included if it had been large enough and/or continuous with the Avondale SSSI area. 2. The second reason these areas are important is because the condition and quality of these woodlands can have a direct influence on the condition of the SAC woodland downstream. Gorge woodlands and woodland along watercourse corridors generally are important as wildlife corridors. Plants and animals have been shown to move along these corridors. Natural river processes including erosion and sediment transport can move plant propagules (e.g. fragments of Japanese knotweed roots or giant hogweed seeds) downstream. Management of upstream areas can have a direct influence on the quality of the habitats downstream. The most obvious example of this is in controlling invasive nonnative species such as Japanese knotweed. Controlling such species improves the habitat in the site itself, but also improves the effectiveness of control of these plants downstream. There is also scope for positive effects, including acting as a source for native plants and animals.
4.1.2 Existing Information Provided Mapped information and notes provided by Mark Hamilton Landscape Services included the following:
Mapped extents considered to be ancient semi-natural woodland; Mapped extents considered to be long-established woodland of plantation origin; Maps showing the broad habitat types, including wet areas/wetland features, and the growth stage of trees within woodland areas; Maps showing the occurrence of a number of non-native species;
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-5-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
Maps showing other notable features including badger setts, a former hedge, eroded river bank sections and a river beach.
This information was reviewed prior to the site walkover, to enable effort to be targeted appropriately.
5 Habitat and Species Walkover Results 5.1.1 Phase 1 Habitat Survey and NVC Results The walkover identified the following Phase 1 habitats as being present:
Broad-leaved Semi-Natural Woodland (including some areas that have have plantation within them) – for the purposes of Phase 1 Habitat survey, all the areas of woodland have been coded as semi-natural broad-leaved woodland. The phase 1 classification system is intended to be applied for relatively large scale areas. Thus although there are some small areas within the woodland that have been planted with coniferous trees and other areas where the trees have been planted, it has all been classed as semi-natural for the purposes of this assessment. In further support of this classification is that in most of these areas there is some ground vegetation that is characteristic of native woodland. Primarily by looking at the ground flora in these areas a number of woodland NVC communities have been recorded in the survey area. NVC communities are named after the main species that are normally found in them. In this case the woodland communities recorded are: o W7 Alnus glutinosa – Fraxinus excelsior – Lysimachia nemorum woodland. This is a wet woodland category. Most of the areas coded as belonging to this community were from the wetter sub-community W7a, the Urtica dioica sub-community. Within these areas there were many areas of flushed wet woodland characterised by plants such as opposite-leaved golden saxifrage (Chrysosplenium oppositifolium). o W8 Fraxinus excelsior – Acer campestre – Mercurialis perennis woodland – This is a more open type of ash woodland with brambles (Rubus fruticosus agg.) and a variety of plants that indicate richer soils such as stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). o W9 Fraxinus excelsior – Sorbus aucuparia – Mercurialis perennis woodland – the most ‘natural’ character areas of woodland in the survey area are from this vegetation community. The most distinctive plant in the ground flora is dog’s mercury (Mercurialis perennis), present in extensive carpets in places. There are a number of ferns including male-fern (Dryopteris filix-mas), and often a well-developed shrub layer shrub layer with hazel (Corylus avellana) and sometimes blackthorn (Prunus spinosa). These are high quality areas of native woodland. o W10 Quercus robur – Pteridium aquilinum – Rubus fruticosus woodland – this woodland type is a drier and more open woodland with birch species in the canopy, and was found mostly in the south-west of the survey area. Disturbed Ground – there is an area of disturbed ground around the north-western edge of the open area of grassland. This area is dominated by the large-leaved
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-6-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
plant butterbur (Petasites hybridus). This area seems to have been disturbed through the use of the area as a tip. Improved and Semi-Improved Grassland – Around the edges of the survey area are agricultural fields, planted with perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne). These are predominantly the vegetation community MG6 Neutral Grassland – Unimproved – The grassland in the interior of the woodland was quite variable and was not surveyed in detail. Wetter areas included some MG13 Agrostis stolonifera – Alopecurus geniculatus, there was also some OV28 Agrostis stolonifera – Ranunculus repens. There are likely also other grassland communities, the overall finding is that these are areas of grassland that are probably very wet at times, perhaps especially so in the winter period. Fen – small fragments of vegetation were recorded from fen communities, such as a stand dominated by flag iris (Iris pseudacorus), corresponding to the NVC community M28 Iris pseudacorus – Filipendula ulmaria mire. Swamp/Sedge Bed – A sedge-bed which appears to be fed by a series of springs was recorded on sloping ground at target note 10. Unfortunately, this area had been damaged by a fire at the time of the site visit. It appeared that some if not all of this area was dominated by lesser pond-sedge (Carex acutiformis). If this is the case the most appropriate NVC code for this area may be S7 Carex acutiformis swamp. This is a relatively uncommon vegetation type in the context of South Lanarkshire, and it may be worth clarifying the vegetation type once the vegetation here has recovered from the fire damage. Running Water – The River Avon forms the northern boundary of the survey area. Amenity Grassland/Parkland with Trees – Outside of the woodland the park is of course maintained as a more formal area with mown grassland. There are also avenues of trees planted around the margins of these areas.
5.1.2 Protected species baseline On 26 May 2016, a walkover including a search for protected species signs was undertaken as described above. Badger feeding signs were noted in a number of locations, and a number of setts had already been highlighted. These appear to be in use despite relatively close proximity to well used paths and frequent use of the woodlands by dog walkers. No other protected species evidence was recorded, however otter are known to be present throughout the Avon system and it is very likely that features used by otters are present on the banks of the river in this section.
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-7-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
6 Assessment of Existing Conservation Value The following factors have been taken into account in evaluating the ecological importance of the existing woodlands:
The landscape context; the functional ecological connectivity with the Clyde Valley SAC woodlands; the presence of a varied native woodland ground flora; the presence of woodland where native broadleaved trees form a substantial component of the canopy; the presence of semi-natural habitats in open space within the woodland; the presence of a native shrub-layer in places (hazel, blackthorn etc); the varied age structure of the woodland; and the evidence of some natural regeneration of native tree species.
Taking all of the above into account it is very clear that the woodland within and adjacent to Stonehouse Park comfortably meets the criteria listed in Table 1 for regional importance for nature conservation.
7 Management Recommendations and Enhancement Opportunities This section of the report makes use of the baseline information to identify management recommendations and enhancement opportunities associated with the park.
7.1
Management Recommendations
The following management recommendations are suggested for consideration: 1. There are three invasive non-native plants that should be controlled. In order of priority these are: Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) and flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum). 2. Consider removal of beech regeneration, especially in areas with native woodland ground flora. 3. There are unstable slopes in parts of the site, including in one area where a former tip has been exposed in places. It is recommended that disturbance to this area is avoided. Tree planting may help in the long term to stabilise slopes in this area. 4. In other areas there are steep slopes with wet flushes and native woodland ground flora typical of the wettest sub-community of W7. Any new paths should avoid cutting across these flushed areas.
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-8-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
7.2
June 2016
Enhancement Opportunities
The existing mix of woodland, grassland and wetland habitats in the semi-natural part of the park is considered to be a good mix from an ecological point of view. In terms of the age structure of the trees themselves there are few if any that might be considered veteran trees, and relatively little large diameter standing deadwood. In addition to this, the largest trees within the woodland appear to be Beech (Fagus sylvatica), planted in a line suggesting that they are derived from a former hedge running down towards the Avon. Beech is not a native tree, and would have been planted here in order to form a hedge. Beech trees supress the native woodland ground flora. There is an opportunity to attempt ‘veteranisation’ of some of these trees to create standing deadwood habitat that will provide invertebrate and other wildlife habitat (potential bat roosts, woodpecker holes etc). Veteranisation is a management technique that seeks to mimic natural processes such as lightning strikes and damage such as ‘messy’ limb loss following gales. Selectively applied together with some crown reduction this technique can provide relatively long term provision of stable standing deadwood. The beech trees provide an opportunity to trial this technique without risking the loss of valuable mature/semi-mature native trees. Veteranisation is a process that takes time. In the interim, consideration could be given to provision of bat boxes to compensate for the relatively low availability of roost opportunities for bat species that roost in tree holes. In terms of biodiversity enhancement opportunities for the formal parkland, the most obvious enhancement opportunity would be the creation of a section of wildflower meadow. Aiming to manage some of the amenity grassland as a wildflower meadow would provide educational opportunities and would also hopefully have aesthetic value. An appropriate target NVC community would be the mesotrophic grassland community MG5 Centaureo-Cynosuretum cristati grassland. This is a form of neutral grassland with common knapweed (Cynosurus cristatus). An appropriate place to establish a wildlflower meadow would be adjacent to the existing woodland, forming a buffer between the woodland and the formal park grassland. Other locations may also be suitable. There are a number of management techniques for establishing wildflower meadows and all have advantages and disadvantages. The primary management objective in creating a wildflower meadow is to reduce the nutrient status of the soil in order that wildlfowers are able to compete with grasses. There are three main approaches to this management objective; topsoil stripping, deep ploughing, and chemical manipulation of the soils. Topsoil stripping is perhaps the most effective. It removes much of the existing seed bank which may be an advantage if vigorous amenity grassland cultivars are to be removed. Deep ploughing inverts the soil profile and thus buries the seed bank and high nutrient status topsoil. Chemical manipulation (usually by adjusting pH) is usually only used if a calcareous or acid grassland is the target community. In this case a neutral grassland is considered the appropriate grassland community. An alternative (or complimentary) approach is the introduction of plants that are partially parasitic on grasses, such as yellow rattle (Rhinanthus minor). These plants can reduce the vigour of grasses and so allow other species to grow. Once the nutrient status of the area has been reduced appropriately, suitable seed or plant material can be sown. This can either be from a responsibly sourced seed company, or collected as hay from an existing wildlflower meadow and strewn on the area as appropriate.
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
-9-
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
8 Conclusions The woodland area is an important ecological resource in the context of South Lanarkshire, supporting high quality native woodland habitats. The most pressing threat to the quality of these habitats is the presence of a number of invasive non-native species. Management effort to control these plants will help secure the native woodland flora for the long term, and should be a priority. This management will also help reduce the pressure from these plants on the nearby Clyde Valley Woodlands SAC. The primary biodiversity management opportunities in the woodland relate to the presence of mature beech trees. There may be an opportunity to create some standing deadwood habitat whilst potentially reducing the spread of beech (which is not native to this part of the country and not normally found in these woodland types). The primary biodiversity opportunity identified for the formal parkland is to create a wildflower meadow area in an area that is currently formal amenity grassland. There may be advantages from a biodiversity point of view if this could be positioned adjacent to the existing woodland.
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
- 10 -
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
APPENDIX 1: Species List and Target Notes Vascular Plants
Scientific name Acer platanoides Acer pseudoplatanus Aesculus hippocastanum Agrostis capillaris Agrostis stolonifera Ajuga reptans Alchemilla glabra Alliaria petiolata Allium ursinum Alnus glutinosa Alopecurus geniculatus Alopecurus pratensis Anthriscus sylvestris Arabis hirsuta Bellis perennis Betula pubescens Caltha palustris Carex acutiformis Chamaecyparis lawsoniana Chamerion angustifolium Chrysosplenium oppositifolium Cirsium arvense Cirsium vulgare Claytonia sibirica Conium maculatum Conopodium majus Cornus sanguinea Corylus avellana Crataegus monogyna Cruciata laevipes Cytisus scoparius Dactylis glomerata Dryopteris felix-mas Epilobium montana Equisetum arvense
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
Common name Norway maple Sycamore Horse-chestnut Common bent Creeping bent Bugle Smooth ladyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mantle Garlic mustard Ramsons Alder Marsh foxtail Meadow foxtail Cow parsley Hairy rock-cress Daisy Downy birch Marsh marigold Lesser pond-sedge Lawson Cypress Rosebay willowherb Opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage Field thistle Spear thistle Pink purslane Hemlock Pignut Dogwood Hazel Hawthorn Crosswort Broom Cockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot Male fern Broad-leaved willowherb Field horsetail
- 11 -
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
Scientific name Equisetum fluviatile Fagus sylvatica Fallopia japonica Festuca rubra Ficaria verna Filipendula ulmaria Fragaria vesca Fraxinus excelsior Galium aparine Geum urbanum Hedera helix Heracleum sphondylium Holcus lanatus Holcus mollis Hyacinthoides non-scripta Iris pseudacorus Juncus effusus Luzula sylvatica Mercurialis perennis Narcissus sp Neottia ovata Persicaria bistorta Petasites hybridus Phalaris arundinacea Picea sitchensis Pinus sylvestris Plantago lanceolata Poa annua Prunus avium Prunus laurocerasus Prunus padus Prunus spinosa Ranunculus acris Ranunculus repens Ribes sanguineum Rosa canina agg Rubus fruticosus Rubus idaeus
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
June 2016
Common name Water horsetail Beech Japanese knotweed Red fescue Lesser celandine Meadowsweet Wild strawberry Ash Cleavers Wood avens Ivy Hogweed Yorkshire fog Creeping soft-grass Bluebell Flag Iris Soft rush Great woodrush Dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mercury Daffodils Common twayblade Common bistort Butterbur Reed canary-grass Sitka spruce Scotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pine Ribwort plantain Annual meadow-grass Bird cherry Laurel Gean Blackthorn Field buttercup Creeping buttercup Flowering currant Dog rose Brambles Raspberries
- 12 -
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
Scientific name Rumex crispus Rumex obtusifolius Salix caprea Salix pentandra Salix purpurea Sambucus nigra Senecio vulgaris Silene dioica Sorbus aucuparia Stellaria holostea Symphoricarpus albus Symphytum tuberosum Taraxacum officinale Taxus baccata Telmia grandiflora Teucrium scorodonia Tillia x europaea Trifolium repens Tussilago farfara Typha latifolia Ulmus glabra Urtica dioica Veronica beccabunga Veronica chamaedrys Veronica persica Vicia cracca Viola reichenbachiana Weigela cf florida
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
June 2016
Common name Curled dock Broad-leaved dock Goat willow Bay willow Purple willow Elder Groundsel Red campion Rowan Greater stitchwort Snowberry Common comfrey Dandielion Yew Fringecups Wood sage Lime White clover Coltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot Bulrush Wych elm Stinging nettle Brooklime Germander speedwell Common field-speedwell Tufted vetch Early dog-violet Weigela
- 13 -
Stonehouse Park Ecology Assessment
June 2016
Target Notes
Easting 274919 274875 274764 274735 274725
Northing 647248 647239 647178 647139 647152
Number 1 2 3 4 5
274693 274665 274508 274800
647120 646999 646806 647137
6 7 8 9
274753 647078 274965 646999 274833 647079
10 11 12
Mark Hamilton Landscape Services
Text small patch of Japanese knotweed, 3m x 3m larger stand of Japanese knotweed, 20m x 20m Japanese knotweed - 20m x 20. possibly been sprayed? Japanese knotweed 5m x 2m Japanese knotweed, 10m x 10m Abundant Mercurialis but also patchy Japanese knotweed between here and TN5, with a large stand near this location Large common twayblade (orchid) colony, over 100 plants. fox earth stand of flag iris (M28) large sedge bed on steep slope appears to have been burnt. Mostly Carex acutiformis? stand of bluebells Badger sett
- 14 -
Stonehouse Park Woodland Management Plan
Stonehouse Park is located on slopes over the Avon Water and offers attractive views over the valley. The maintained formal parkland (left of picture) and woodland areas (right) are most often regarded as separate and distinct, rather than parts of the whole.
The entrance to Stonehouse Park from Manse Road leads onto the main woodland access from the south. The entrance is low key and has an untidy feel, with a clutter of disparate signage, bollards and old posts, and nothing highlighting the Park or the Woods.
The entrance into the Woods from the south is initially steep. Path erosion is occurring, made worse by timber path edges which hold water on the paths. Vehicle restrictors (bollards) are effective but have an industrial look, and vary in look at the different entry points.
The woodlands consist mainly of mixed broadleaf woodland, with distinctive age ranges present through the site. Recently felled areas were restocked and regenerated forming an attractive but densely stocked young woodland dominated by a few key species.
Much of the woodland consists of areas of semi-mature and early mature trees which occupy the slopes of the Avon Water valley, and forms a dense canopy on the valley slopes. Native species are present in mix with sycamore and beech, which threaten to dominate the future woodland composition.
There are few mature trees, those present being historic avenue features located on old field boundaries, and some remnant groups of mature conifers retained after recent felling works. The mature broadleaves and veteran trees with extensive crowns casting heavy shade, and many are senescent.
Stonehouse Park Woodland Management Plan
The level flood plain (known by locals as “The Bogs”) was until recently maintained as a recreational area, but access for maintenance is currently unavailable due to path erosion issues. Lack of periodic grass cutting risks a loss of floristic diversity and woodland encroachment, and the loss of a venue for community use.
The edge of the Avon Water is accessible and natural river beaches formed where the river shoals is popular with visitors, with desireline through the riverside woods forming a short loop from “The Bogs”. In the foreground Japanese knotweed has established in alluvial sediments and is spreading through the attractive woodland flora.
Although Stonehouse Park Woods are not classified as Ancient Woodland the ground flora present is an indication that the sites were historically wooded. There is an attractive range of indicator species present, although shading of the dense canopy is restricting its success and spread in much of the woodland.
Access to the woodland and grassland areas is restricted by the topography of the site. A key access runs along the edge of the Avon Water as a 3m wide track. Bankside erosion has resulted in subsidence of the path, restricting access. There are few other options to access the woods, and remedial works will entail major engineering to stabilise the river bank.
The woods are generally well used, with few issues relating to antisocial behaviour. Some fly tipping has occurred historically, and there is evidence of outdoor drinking and mountain biking activity with some detrimental impacts. Litter is uncommon, and seems to gather in a few locations, and is likely to be windblown.
There is a strong community interest in Stonehouse Park and the area offers a popular venue for recreation and social events. The “Duck Race” event pictured above was organised by the FoSP and held after the local Gala day, and included a consultation to canvas local views and aspirations for the Park.