Page 2 of the design brief.

A two-year rescue programme has been undertaken by the Saxon Gate Toad Lift to aid the migration of frogs and toads to and from the breeding pond to their terrestrial habitat. Records show that more than 2,500 adults and 14,000 froglets and toadlets were rescued during the 1999 migrations (February - April, June - July) respectively. This work has engendered a certain amount of local community interest. Over 1,000 people have signed a petition urging that the conservation value of the area be considered in any future planning. Local soundings suggest that most people are happy with the presence of wildlife and feels that their quality of life would be diminished if the amphibians, mammals, birds, insects and plants were to disappear.

The adoption of the following recommendations in the design brief for the Local Centre development site and the area designated as Public Open Space to the west of Saxon Pool, would help to ensure that the value of the area is enhanced not only for the benefit of wildlife, but also for local people.

· It is crucial to retain the existing hedgerows on the site as these form valuable wildlife corridors through which wildlife can migrate.

· Widen the existing hedgerows by planting native species of local provenance. Suitable species include fruiting shrubs that will not grow too tall such, as rose, dogwood and spindle.

· Incorporate a new native species hedgerow into the development plans in order to separate the Local Centre development from any development that may take place on the area of mown grass immediately north of Saxon Pool. This would create a valuable wildlife corridor to link the existing habitats.

· Work on site should aim to minimise damage to existing hedgerows and trees. Minimal damage should be achieved by utilising the planned access area to the north west corner of the development site. Maintain an appropriate distance, specified by the District Arboricultural officer, from the base of the hedges to prevent work from damaging tree roots, either directly or by compaction. Where necessary erect protective fencing.