3 World War II use During World War II this area was used extensively for military training. There are the remains of ammunition stores dug into the hillside. A fascinating and detailed account of this is given in the publication ‘Happy Valley’ by local historian Russell Reeve. 4 Modern use Happy Valley and the associated woods provide an important resource for the community in terms of recreation, local history and heritage. The overriding management aim has sought to retain the character of the semi-natural woodlands by controlling the encroachment of invasive species such as sycamore and alexander in favour of the natural regeneration with occasional planting of native trees. Attempts to enhance the character of the open area by controlling the spread of bracken and other scrub in favour of species rich grassland has only been partially successful largely due to erratic maintenance. The cliff top complex as a whole provides about 8Ha of important recreational space for residents and visitors and is routinely used by local dog walkers. There are spectacular views of the town, Cromer Pier and the sea and Cromer lighthouse forms a prominent feature in the landscape. 5 Access Pedestrian access is available from Overstrand Road adjacent to Cromer Country Club and from the East Cliff Path leading from Cromer. There is also pedestrian access from the Warren which adjoins Overstrand Road opposite the cricket ground. There is no official access from the east along the cliffs because the public right of way that once existed has long since fallen over the cliff. The Golf Club do not encourage people to attempt to walk along the cliff top next to the golf course. However walkers wishing to walk eastwards to Overstrand village may use one of the two flights of steps descending the cliff to the beach from Happy Valley. The western end of the site has tar-paved paths assisting access by people with disabilities. Much of the site however has informal paths which can be uneven and sloping.
Play area inspections Kier Empty litter / dog bins. Clean graffiti off dog bin and relocate one from entrance. 2 X weekly summer 0.5 X weekly winter Kier Cut back path edges to prevent encroachment 3 X per year Rangers Repair paths and steps to beaches July 2017 Contractor Conservation and heritage Clear vegetation encroaching over historic features (limekilns etc) March 2017 Rangers/Unpaid work unit. Open up views of coast / town where appropriate Dec 2017 rangers Improved interpretation to describe history / heritage context July 2017 AG Grassland management to improve species diversity On-going rangers Wildlife surveys Dec 2017 DW/Rangers Community Involvement Event planned for 13th April April 2017 AG NNDC Friends group July 2017 AG Sustainability Implementation of FC Woodland Design Plan On-going all Investigate grazing to control invasive plants in open areas Completed. Goats AG Management Update management plan (annual review) Jan 2017 AG Marketing Events promoted on NNDC website, facebook and twitter Jan 2017 AG This management plan placed on NNDC website Jan 2017 AG AG = Anne-Marie Gedge, rangers = Martin Hope, Will Fitch, Quintin Ashbee, Kier = Kier Services, DW = Donna Welch 16 Costs Revenue item Cost £ MJ Tree Services – 1465.00 Kier Services – grass cutting 160 Kier Services – Dog bin emptying 420
Management Planning Criteria Approval of this plan will be considered against the following UKFS criteria, prior to submission review your plan against the criteria using the check list below. No. UKFS Management Plan Criteria Approval Criteria Applicant Check 1 Forest management plans should state the objectives of management and set out how the appropriate balance between economic, environmental and social objectives will be achieved. Have objectives of management been stated? Consideration given to economic, environmental and social factors (Section 2.2) 2 Forest management plans should address the forest context and the forest potential and demonstrate how the relevant interests and issues have been considered and addressed. Does the management strategy (section 6) take into account the forest context and any special features identified within the woodland survey (section 4) 3 In designated areas, for example national parks, particular account should be taken of landscape and other sensitivities in the design of forests and forest infrastructure. Have appropriate designations been identified (section 4.2) if so are these reflected through the work proposals in the management strategy (Section 6) 4 At the time of felling and restocking, the design of existing forests should be and any necessary changes made so that they meet UKFS Requirements. Felling and restocking are consistent with UKFS forest design principles (Section 5 of the UKFS) 5 Consultation on forest management plans and proposals should be carried out according to forestry authority procedures and, where required, the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations. Has consultation happened in line with current FC guidance and recorded as appropriate in section 7 6 Forests should be designed to achieve a diverse structure of habitat, species and ages of trees, appropriate to the scale and context. Do the felling and restocking proposals create or improve structural diversity (refer to the plan of operations) 7 Forests characterised by a lack of diversity due to extensive areas of even-aged trees should be progressively restructured to achieve a range of age classes. Do the felling and restocking proposals create or improve age class diversity (refer to the plan of operations) 8 Management of the forest should conform to the plan, and the plan should be updated to ensure it is current and relevant. Has a 5 year review period been stated (1st page) and where relevant achievements recorded in section 3 9 New forests and woodlands should be located and designed to maintain or enhance the visual, cultural and ecological value and character of the landscape. When new planting is being proposed under this plan is it consistent with UKFS and FC guidance on woodland creation
Property Details Name Owner Tenant Email Contact Number 01263 516001 Agent Name (if applicable) Email Contact Number County Grid Reference Single Business Identifier Management Plan Area (Hectares) 4.57 Have you included a Plan of Operations with this management plan? Yes No List the maps associated with this management plan Do you intend to use the information within the management plan and associated plan of operations to apply for the following Felling Licence Thinning Licence Woodland Regeneration Grant Tick to declare management control and agreement to public availability of the plan
4.2 Information Use this section to identify features that are both present in your woodland(s) and where required, on land adjacent to your woodland. It may be useful to identify known features on an accompanying map. Woodland information for your property can be found on the website or the Forestry Commission . Feature Within Woodland(s) Cpts Adjacent to Woodland(s) Map No - Site of Special Scientific Interest Yes No Yes No Special Area of Conservation Yes No Yes No Tree Preservation Order Yes No Yes No Conservation Area Yes No Yes No Special Protection Area Yes No Yes No Ramsar Site Yes No Yes No National Nature Reserve Yes No Yes No Local Nature Reserve Yes No Yes No Other (please Specify): Yes No Yes No Notes Feature Within Woodland(s) Cpts Map No Notes Biodiversity - Bat Species (if known) Yes No Dormouse Yes No Great Crested Newt Yes No Otter Yes No Sand Lizard Yes No Smooth Snake Yes No Natterjack Toad Yes No Biodiversity – Species Yes No Mammals (Red Squirrel, Water Vole, Pine Marten etc) Yes No Reptiles (grass snake, adder, common lizard etc) Yes No Plants Yes No Fungi/Lichens Yes No Invertebrates (butterflies, moths, beetles etc) Yes No Amphibians (pool frog, common toad) Yes No Other (please Specify): Yes No Scheduled Monuments Yes No
Monitoring Indicators of progress/success should be defined for each management objective and then checked at regular intervals. Other management activities could also be considered within this monitoring section. The data collected will help to evaluate progress. Management Objective/Activities Indicator of Progress/Success Method of Assessment Frequency of Assessment Responsibility Assessment Results Maintain a clean and welcoming place which promotes positive public access Green Flag Acreditation External assessment annual NNDC application submitted 2016 Reduce sycamore regeneration in favour of native broadleaves Change in species profile survey annual NNDC Commence 2016 Maintain existin broadleaved trees and prevent competition from vigorous sycamore trees in satisfactory condition survey Eighteen monthly NNDC see formal inspection records Restock with native broadleaved trees Evidence of young trees survey annual NNDC Commence 2016
FC Approval – FC Office Use Only UKFS Management Plan Criteria Approval Criteria Yes No Notes Forest management plans should state the objectives of management, and set out how the appropriate balance between economic, environmental and social objectives will be achieved. Have objectives of management been stated? Consideration given to economic, environmental and social factors (Section 2.2) Forest management plans should address the forest context and the forest potential, and demonstrate how the relevant interests and issues have been considered and addressed. Does the management strategy (section 6) take into account the forest context and any special features identified within the woodland survey (section 4) In designated areas, for example national parks, particular account should be taken of landscape and other sensitivities in the design of forests and forest infrastructure. Have appropriate designations been identified (section 4.2) if so are these reflected through the work proposals in the management strategy (Section 6) At the time of felling and restocking, the design of existing forests should be re-assessed and any necessary changes made so that they meet UKFS Requirements. Felling and restocking are consistent with UKFS forest design principles (Section 5 of the UKFS) Consultation on forest management plans and proposals should be carried out according to forestry authority procedures and, where required, the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations. Has consultation happened in line with current FC guidance and recorded as appropriate in section 7 Forests should be designed to achieve a diverse structure of habitat, species and ages of trees, appropriate to the scale and context. Do the felling and restocking proposals create or improve structural diversity (refer to the plan of operations) Forests characterised by a lack of diversity due to extensive areas of even-aged trees should be progressively restructured to achieve a range of age classes. Do the felling and restocking proposals create or improve age class diversity (refer to the plan of operations) Management of the forest should conform to the plan, and the plan should be updated to ensure it is current and relevant. Has a 5 year review period been stated (1st page) and where relevant achievements recorded in section 3 New forests and woodlands should be located and designed to maintain or enhance the visual, cultural and ecological value and character of the landscape. When new planting is being proposed under this plan is consistent with UKFS and FC guidance on woodland creation
Appendix 2a OPERATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT Risk Assessment Countryside and Parks owned and managed by NNDC Service Countryside and Parks Date 20.01.2017 Activity District Assessment Assessor(s) Annie Gedge Hazard Who might be harmed & How Existing Controls Further Action Required Justification Slips, trips and falls General Public, staff, No trailing leads, or covered in buildings General awareness, removing trip and slip hazards, including entrances to buildings General housekeeping and maintenance Paths and hard surfaces in formal parks and open spaces Public, staff, Formal inspection twice a year for high amenity and once a year for general amenity areas as part of grounds maintenance contract monitoring and ad-hoc informal inspection (records kept) Repairs implemented as necessary Paths, hard surfaces, boardwalks etc in woodland and countryside sites Public, staff, Monthly recorded inspections undertaken by rangers Repairs implemented as necessary Findings to be discussed at weekly team meetings To avoid oversights Natural and unsurfaced paths, public rights of way Public, staff, Monthly recorded inspections undertaken by rangers Repairs implemented as necessary ad hoc shortcuts Public No formal inspection or maintenance Problem areas blocked or allowed to grow over Fallen trees and branches Staff Public Trees adjacent to public areas inspected and maintained to a high standard – failures minimised Specialist tree surgeon contracted contract
cordoned off and paths diverted. Brushcutter, strimmer As above If area cannot be cordoned off, awareness of proximity to members of public and stopping to allow them to pass – no lone working Eye and face protection must be worn (boots standard) Mini tractor and mower As above Trained and competent operators for use of equipment and attachments. Remove keys when leaving equipment. Use only with extreme caution on steep slopes in accordance with training. Use approved ramps to load onto trailer. Knapsack sprayer As above Trained to NPTC PA1 & PA6 Gloves, eye protection and face mask must be worn Stop spraying in windy conditions or near members of public or other persons. see also CoSHH assessment NNDC H&S officer to undertake new CoSH imminently To maintain adequate control Generators Staff Instruction provided in accordance with manufacturers guidance Maintained by competent engineer Not to be used in confined space – ventilation for exhaust fumes Two persons required to lift portable generator (manual handling assessment) Hand tools Staff Inspect tools before use – repair or replace defective equipment. Appropriate tool used for job in hand Tools kept clean and sharp Care to be taken of blades and cutting edges Instruction provided to new operatives Volunteers under supervision PPE to be worn where appropriate (eg gloves, eye protection) Segregate work area from public or be mindful of their presence. User group conflicts Walkers Dogs Cyclists Horses Neighbours Skateboarders Public Dogs Wildlife Designated areas (skateboard parks) Dogs on leads in certain areas Careful management and forethought to avoid overuse by one interest group at the expense of others Avoid rapid changes that cause discontent Colour coded map in Holt Country Park Information notices in segregated areas. Room for everyone with sensible management Designated routes signposted.
Site furniture – disrepair Gates and stiles Seating All Maintenance programme for seats in formal areas Monthly inspection of fixtures in countryside and woodlands Electrocution Electric fences – Thwaite Common All Fence set back to prevent accidental contact Warning signs every 10m Only top wire electrified Handling possible power surge Determine current and likely cause of injury. Containment of livestock at Thwaite Common Vehicular movement Car parks, access points General public or any non- traffic Car parks clearly signed and demarcated Separate designated walkways from vehicles – fixed barriers/fencing or informal obstructions Regularly inspect signage for damage and effect repairs. (by Rangers every quarter – see records) Vehicles and trailer As above Stationary vehicles have keys removed and brakes applied. Trailer wheels chocked if on uneven or sloping ground Appropriate license to be held by operative. Instruction in use of trailer. Cuts, abrasions and needlestick injuries General activities Litter picking Gloves to be worn when picking litter and sharps. Litter picking tool to be used as much as possible. Regular inspection and picking to reduce exposure. Reduce litter by public information and regular emptying of bins. Sharps box for safe containment of sharps. Appropriate storage and removal of refuse. Risk areas (e.g, Pill boxes) inspected regularly (or prevent access) Hazardous substances Fuel storage, pesticides CoSHH assessment. PPE provided and must be worn Storage secured, restricting access to authorised operatives (camouflaged) Store maintained in tidy condition. Minimal quantities kept in store, using only approved and properly labelled containers NNDC H&S officer to undertake new CoSH imminently To maintain adequate control
Appendix 2b EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES RISK ASSESSMENT Risk Assessment Activities Service Countryside & Parks Date 20.01.2017 Activity Organised events, activities and Ranger led visits Assessor(s) Annie Gedge Hazard Who might be harmed & how Existing Controls Further Action Required Justification Slips, trips and falls Footpaths (natural and man-made), fallen branches, steps, ditches etc Visitors and Rangers Pre activity site check, mark / sign routes and diversions. Participants advised of possible hazards in advance of and/or immediately prior to event, and advice on appropriate outdoor wear. Advise on appropriate behaviour. Enforced by Rangers, teachers and parents. (see department general risk assessment) Maintain regular site inspections and actions (see general risk assessment) Regular on-going management of sites (see general risk assessment) Poisonous plants and wild animals Visitors (cuts, bites, abrasions leadings to infections and ill health) Participants advised of potential hazards in advance and/or immediately prior to event. Warning / educational information about specific plants and animals provided in advance and at time of activity. Advise appropriate behaviour and outdoor wear Wildlife with potential to harm, handled only by trained expert or rangers. Children / asn to be supervised by their parent/supervisor at all times. Ranger/trained expert to give instructions on how to study, survey wildlife appropriately. First Aid kit carried Exhibitors / event holders requested to visit site prior to event to assess risks. NNDC staff to advise. Identification, marking and control of poisonous plants (see general risk assessment) Additional training for staff Assess staff level in advance On-going and regular assessment and management of sites