Development will have same effect on the environment as if housing had been built
THE Guernsey Press of 26 June had a front page headline ‘Why the Aggro? As a neighbour to the west of the development, my objections were based on the environmental damage that would result, in particular, the loss of circa 8,000 square metres of species-rich grassland. This on an island that has already lost approximately 98% of such habitat. Just allowing the remaining meadow to return to grazing will not restore that habitat, for it to do so requires a number of years of sympathetic management. This could not be delivered with horses grazing, unless, areas were set aside that could be farmed as traditional hay meadows. At present the remaining field is predominately rye grass, a species that only supports one species of Lepidoptera, the meadow that has been lost held many species of grass and wild flowers, and as a result supported many more invertebrates.
In addition, a wide section of hedgerow has been removed, I am aware that permission was granted to create new access through to the large meadow (access already existed), but a far-wider gap was opened than appeared on the plans, it would seem that this is now being replaced with earth banks, unfortunately the damage done to the hedgerow and its associated wildlife cannot be so easily replaced. What was the reason for this?
The original landscaping proposals contained a large amount of non-native planting. This was brought to the attention of the Planning Authority who recommended that native species should be used, however, to see if Planning’s recommendations have been adopted I would have to visit Frossard House.
Although, the stable area will still be classified as agricultural land, in reality the development as a whole will have the same effect on the environment as if housing had been erected. As it stands there will be a significant reduction in biodiversity. There are ways to mitigate these – firstly, ensure that all planting is of native species. Secondly, the soil currently piled on the larger field should be spread over a three/four metre wide strip around the circumference of the field, and the seed bank held by the soil will help to ensure that the loss of the species-rich grassland can be mitigated in some way. These areas will provide habitat for barn owls to hunt, bats to forage and provide food for various birds, insectivores and seed-eaters alike. If possible, provision should be made to ensure swallows can return to breed.
T J BOURGAIZE
Les Damouettes