# file3

VEG:
The common lies at the north-eastern extremity of the Frensham Commons complex (but does not lie within the SSSI). During the site visit there was only sufficient time to make a brief examination of the common from the track running along the southern edge. The aerial photograph survey suggests that the whole site is wooded.

The major portion appears to have a mixed canopy dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional/frequent {\it Pinus sylvestris}, occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, plus locally occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Castanea sativa}. The shrub layer has much of the introduced and invasive {\it Prunus serotina} in addition to occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}. The field layer contains abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with locally occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Locally occasional decent-sized fallen dead trees noted.

Along the eastern edge of the site, a strip of wet broadleaved woodland follows the course of a stream. This has a canopy dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} with occasional {\it Salix cinerea}. Field layer species present include {\it Mentha aquatica, Scrophularia aquatica, Lycopus europaeus, Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Persicaria hydropiper}.

MANAGE:
No management apparent. Note that "Wet woodland" features among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: yellowhammer, blue tit, nuthatch, chaffinch, wren, willow warbler, green woodpecker, robin, tree pipit, rabbit.

VEG:
The common comprises four small, widely separated individual pieces of land in the area to the north of Tilford (Waverley district).

A). This portion lies within a more extensive area of relatively recent (i.e. 10-20 yr old) conifer plantation ({\it Pinus} sp.). It was only possible to view the general area from a bridleway running to the north and it was not possible to actually visit this part of the common itself.

B). This portion lies adjacent to the B3001 Farnham Road. This area appears to have been derived from conifer woodland which has been drastically thinned to leave around 10-20 per cent cover (i.e. scattered trees) of {\it Pinus sylvestris}. One mature tree of {\it Quercus robur} also noted. Beneath this is what appears to be a nursery of seedling/sapling {\it Rhododendron} spp. etc. In bewteen these are patches of tall ruderals. Apparently this area forms part of the garden complex to an adjoining large house. Alongside the road is a bank (fenced in places) with several mature trees of {\it Quercus robur} plus some saplings of this species and also of {\it Q. cerris}. Other species on the bank include abundant {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} plus locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. 

C). Section at Milford village adjoining a minor road and a track. Adjacent to the latter in the NW corner is a small bare ground car park provided by Milford Parish Council. Along the southern edge of this area are stands of both planted conifers and also of mixed woodland. The former is a small stand of planted {\it Pinus sylvestris}, while the latter also contains what may be planted {\it P. sylvestris} accompanied by self-seeded trees of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}. The field layer comprises scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with leaf litter plus abundant carpets of the moss {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum} with some {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}. Locally occasional undershrub of {\it Ulex europaeus} plus sapling {\it B. pendula} and {\it Q. robur}. Locally occasional taller trees of {\it Q. robur} along the roadside.

Much of the remainder of the common comprises an even-aged woodland of {\it B. pendula} with locally occasional, generally sub-mature {\it Q. robur} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}. Occasional small groups of {\it P. sylvestris} also present. Field layer again dominated by {\it P. purum} with occasional {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and some leaf litter. Locally occasional {\it Ligustrum vulgare} plus rare {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} in shrub layer.

Noted to the east of the car park within this area were three apparently pollarded trees of {\it Q. robur}. These are around 56-60 years old at present and were cut while quite young and are now about 10m tall and developing an attractive crown shape.

In the centre of the common is a clearing which has a complex mosaic of tall {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent tall bushes of {\it Ulex europaeus} and locally occasional {\it Erica cinerea}. Frequent sapling {\it B. pendula} and occasional {\it Q. robur}, plus rare taller tree of {\it P. sylvestris}. Occasional patches of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent/abundant {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}, plus scattered fronds of {\it P. aquilinum}.

D). The most northerly portion, also adjacent to the B3001. Most of this area appears to have been over-planted with trees of {\it Pinus sylvestris} which are now reaching maturity. Beneath the main canopy are scattered smaller trees of {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica, Sambucus nigra, Prunus} sp., and {\it Quercus robur}. The field layer is largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Urtica dioica} alongside a track. Clumps of {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}, locally frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea} and rare {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Abundant leaf litter. One large tree of {\it Fagus sylvatica} noted next to track, plus locally occasional seedlings of {\it Castanea sativa}.

Alongside the road is a band of broadleaved woodland with (planted?) mature trees of {\it F. sylvatica} and (self-seeded ?) {\it Q. robur}. Also present are numerous self-sown saplings of {\it F. sylvatica}.

MANAGE:
Management differs on the various parts of the common. Part A appears to lie within a much larger area of private forestry. Part B forms part of the grounds of a private house and appears to be used as a tree nursery. Part C appears unmanaged, apart from use of a small part as a car park by the Parish council and there is also a small area of maturing, planted {\it P. sylvestris}. Part D appears unmanaged at present, but there appears to be a population of planted, now mature, {\it Fagus sylvatica}. 

UK Biodiversity Action Plan "Priority Habitats": "Lowland heathland", "Lowland dry acidic grassland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: skylark and silver studded blue butterfly (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus robin, blackbird, green woodpecker, carrion crow, magpie, chaffinch, meadow pipit, yellowhammer, meadow brown butterfly, grey squirrel, rabbit.

The SSSI as a whole is of national importance for its bird, reptile and invertebrate populations. The commons are one of the few sites in Britain to carry all six of the native reptiles, including sizeable populations of sand lizard, a "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The community of breeding and wintering birds is exceptionally rich and includes species associated with heath, open water and woodland. In recognition of its ornithological importance, the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The invertebrate fauna is numerous and diverse (notes for SSSI as a whole): Twelve species of  grasshoppers and crickets (\it Orthoptera) occur including the nationally rare large marsh grasshopper {\it Stetophyma grossum} - also a UK BAP "Priority Species". 

The fly (Diptera) fauna includes three nationally rare species: {\it Asilus crabroniformis} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), {\it Thyridanthrax fenestratus} and {\it Chrysogaster macquarti}. The nationally scarce beetle (Coleoptera) {\it Altica ericeti} and the nationally rare bug (Hemiptera) {\it Micrantha marginalis} have also been recorded. The site supports several nationally scarce butterflies (Lepidoptera) including silver-studded blue {\it Plebejus argus} (UK BAP), white letter hairstreak {\it Strymonida w-album} and purple emperor {\it Apatura iris}. The commons also support important populations of spiders, bees and wasps.
 
The heathlands are of outstanding importance for reptiles, most notably the nationally rare sand lizard {\it Lacerta agillis} (UK BAP "Priority Species") and smooth snake {\it Coronella austriaca}. Hankley Common may also be a possible site for natterjack toad {\it Bufo calamita} (UK BAP "Priority Species").

The SSSI is one of the richest for birds in Southern England. Breeding birds specifically associated with the heathland include woodlark and nightjar (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus Dartford warbler, stonechat, whinchat and curlew. Birds which breed in the areas of woodland include all three British woodpeckers, woodcock, redstart, tawny owl, nightingale and hawfinch. The open expanse of heath, scrub and unimproved grassland provide important wintering grounds for certain notable species including great grey shrike and raptors.

VEG:
The common forms a significant element of the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Common SSSI complex (Waverley district). The SSSI as a whole includes some of the finest remaining lowland heathland on the Lower Greensand in Southern England. Most of the common lies within the SSSI (see map).

The SSSI as a whole lies mainly on the strongly acid, leached, podzolic soils of the Folkestone and Sandgate Beds of the Lower Greensand, which are highly infertile. Variations in drainage, topography and management account for the wide diversity of habitats present. Heathland resulted from the Neolithic clearance of woodland but the national extent of this habitat has declined in recent years due to agricultural change and afforestation.

The habitat map for the common has been prepared with reference to two separate Phase 1 surveys of the site. These are the NCC Phase 1 survey of 1982, which excluded the south-western part of the site which is managed as a golf course, plus a Phase 1 survey of the golf course itself conducted in 1989 (see references). Further target notes etc. were made during a visit to the north-eastern part of the site, with Yagden Hill forming a useful vantage point.

Within the SSSI, heathland communities range from dry heath through "humid" and wet heath to mire. Scattered scrub and trees are present in most parts of the heath and broadleaved/coniferous woodland covers approximately half of the SSSI. Open water habitats contribute significantly to the interest of the site, ranging from acid boggy pools and ditches to large ponds.

The diversity of habitat types is responsible for a remarkable flora and fauna. The heath and bog habitats are particularly valuable. As their national extent has declined, so too have the populations of plants and animals associated with them. The site supports several plants with a restricted distribution, but is best known for its animal populations.

Hankley common has the most extensive tracts of dry heath within the SSSI, but the habitat is also well represented on the other commons. Dry heath is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, often at 80-90 per cent cover, with locally frequent {\it Erica cinerea}. In addition, {\it Ulex minor} and {\it Gensista anglica} are locally important in the community, and lichens are prominent in parts. This heath extends across, and occupies a considerable proportion of the golf course area.

Plants of the dry heath occur locally in association with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} as a grass/heath mosaic. One such area within the golf course is recorded to also contain {\it Agrostis curtisii} with {\it Festuca} sp., {\it Hypericum perforatum, Achillea millefolium, Carex nigra, Plantago lanceolata, P. media, Trifolium pratense} and {\it Galium saxatile}.

Elsewhere there areas of pure {\it D. flexuosa} acidic grassland. In addition, bracken {\it Pteridium aauilinum} has colonised a few areas of former dry heath. 

Scattered sapling and more mature trees occur on parts of the heath ({\it Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}), although much of the heath is at present relatively free from tree encroachment. Localised scattered scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus}.

To the west and north-west of Yagden Hill are several poorly-drained areas which contain a complex pattern of wet heath and mire communities. The wet heath is characterised by {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Molinia caerulea} plus locally occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Elsewhere there are areas of pure {\it Molinia} marshy grassland, with localised signs of acidic flushing as suggested by the presence of {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. In addition, also noted was one stand of abundant {\it Carex rostrata} and locally occasional {\it C. curta}. A further and more continuous extent of wet heath occurs to the south-east of Yagden Hill. {\it Carex panicea} recorded from a small area of wet heath on the golf course.

Associated with the golf course and other parts of the site are several blocks of woodland. Areas of former {\it Pinus sylvestris} plantation adjoining the north-eastern edge of the golf course have recently been felled. Several other planted blocks remain elsewhere on the common.

Associated with former heath on the golf course are blocks of secondary mixed woodland dominated by {\it P. sylvestris, Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

Along the entire western boundary of the common is a more or less continuous band of more mature broadleaved woodland with {\it B. pendula} and occasional {\it Q. robur}. The shrub layer contains {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, whilst the field layer includes {\it Stellaria holostea, Pteridium aquilinum, M. caerulea, Corydalis claviculata, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Pleurozium schreberi}.

Wet woodland at Stock Bridge (GR SU 881 430) has a field layer which includes tussocks of {\it Carex paniculata} with {\it Athyrium filix-femina, Angelica sylvestris, Carex remota, C. pendula, Urtica dioica, Polytrichum} sp., {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Sphagnum palustre}.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common encompasses large areas of intact lowland heathland vegetation. This habitat formerly covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). In addition, it is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland. The causes of this decline include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Fen" (i.e. Phase 1 'E31' - valley mire) in addition to "Lowland heathland" have been highlighted among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The Hankley golf course is being managed specifically with the intention of maintaining the nature conservation value of the heathland habitats. To this end, advice on the subject has been taken from a variety of sources including the Surrey Heathland Project. Management activities adopted in pursuit of this aim include cutting (Feb./March), transplanting and seeding of heather plus control of birch and pine (removal and stump treatment) and some burning of gorse. One visually obvious recent management activity has involved the removal of several blocks of pine plantation along the north-eastern side of the golf course.

Elsewhere on the common, several burnt areas may be either due to deliberate management or accidental fires. There also apppears to have been some firebreaks mown into the heather. 

Note additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Wet woodland", "Lowland dry acidic grassland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: willow warbler, curlew, magpie, various dragonflies/damselflies (Odonata), coot, mallard/hybrid ducks.

The SSSI as a whole is of national importance for its bird, reptile and invertebrate populations. The commons are one of the few sites in Britain to carry all six of the native reptiles, including sizeable populations of sand lizard, a "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The community of breeding and wintering birds is exceptionally rich and includes species associated with heath, open water and woodland. In recognition of its ornithological importance, the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. In addition, Thursley and Ockley Bogs have been registered as a "wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention.

The invertebrate fauna is numerous and diverse and the "Thursley Common area" (including all of CLs 213, 32, 143, 224, and parts of CLs 144, 225 and 246) has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. Thursley Common itself is a top national site for Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies).

For a more extensive account of the fauna of Thursley Common in general, please refer to the site description for the contiguous CL 213 - Thursley Common itself.

VEG:
The common forms a minor element of the Thursley National Nature Reserve, itself a part of the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI (see maps).  The SSSI as a whole includes some of the finest remaining lowland heathland on the Lower Greensand in Southern England.

The common in fact occurs as two separate parcels of land, the larger of which lies on the eastern side of Thursley/Ockley commons, adjacent to Forked Pond, whilst the smaller lies to the western side of Thursley Common and incorporates the northern half of Moat Pond and some adjacent heathland habitat.

For a general account of the heathland habitats associated with the remainder of the registered common land at Thursley, please refer to the site report for CL 213 - Thursley Common itself.

The eastern portion of CL 32 comprises a range of secondary woodland habitats typical of some of those occurring within the SSSI as a whole (this part of the common was not visited during the course of the present survey).

Most of this woodland of recent origin, having colonised wet and dry heath and consists of {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Quercus robur} and {\it Pinus sylvestris} of varying ages. A significant part of this is dominated by {\it Pinus sylvestris} (i.e. coniferous). The general description of this habitat from the original Phase 1 survey states that these woods were originally planted for timber and are now regenerating naturally - so have had to be mapped as a mosaic of the two types.

Mature broadleaved woodland is best represented on the eastern side of Thursley Common where {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus exeslsior, Ilex aquifolium}, coppiced {\it Corylus avellana, Q. robur, B. pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} occur above a field layer which includes {\it Oxalis acetosella, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon}.

The portion associated with Moat Pond has a mosaic of habitats typical of other parts of the common, with both dry and wet heath plus {\it P. sylvestris} woodland. Set into the latter area is the main car park for the NNR.

Moat Pond has poorly-developed marginal vegetation restricted to adjacent  tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea} with locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus}. The only aquatic vegetation noted was a tiny patch of {\it Nymphaea} sp. (? introduced variety with pink-flushed petals).

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common forms a minor part of the Thursley National Nature Reserve, itself a part of a larger area of lowland heathland habitats comprising the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI. Recognition of the importance of lowland heathland in a Europaean context is reflected in Thursley's status as a candidate Special Area of Conservation (pSAC) under the EC Habitats Directive (as part of a suite of sites which incorporates Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham Commons). 

For an account of the management of this important site an a discussion of its ecology, please refer to the site description for CL 213.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, jackdaw, blue tit, robin.

The "Thursley Common area" (including all of CLs 213, 32, 143, 224, and parts of CLs 144, 225 and 246) has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register - see under CL 213 for an account of the invertebrate fauna of the SSSI.

Note that the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. In addition, Thursley and Ockley Bogs have been regisetered as a "wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention.

VEG:
The common comprises two separate parcels of land peripheral to CL 213, Thursley Common (Waverley district). One lies to the north-west and comprises the southern part of a pond known as the Moat and lies entirely within the Thursley NNR. The second portion lies to the south-west. This is dissected by a minor road, with the northern portion forming a "village green" and being excluded from the NNR, whilst the southern portion lies within the NNR boundary.

Moat Pond has poorly-developed marginal vegetation restricted to adjacent  tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea} with locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus}. The only aquatic vegetation noted was a tiny patch of {\it Nymphaea} sp. (? introduced variety with pink-flushed petals).

As outlined above, the southern portion is effectively separated into two portions by the road crossing the site.

To the north lies an area managed for amenity purposes, with around half of this area comprising a mown cricket pitch. Adjacent to this is a further area of mown amenity grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Lolium perenne}. Other associates include locally abundant {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Hypnum lacunosum}, locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Bellis perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Leontodon saxatilis} and {\it Hypochaeris radicata}. A prominent feature on this part of the common is a single specimen tree of {\it Quercus robur}, around the base of which a circular seat has been provided by the Parish Council. In the north-eastern corner of this area is a fenced childerns play area (see recreation section).

Alongside the road is a steep grassy bank which leads down onto the amenity area. This has a number of acidic/unimproved grassland/heathland indicator species which include locally occasional {\it Jasione montana, Aphanes} sp., {\it Polytrichum} sp. and one small patch of {\it Erica cinerea}.

Immediately to the south of the road is an area of rather open semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The canopy is dominated by mature, but smallish trees of {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}, plus rare {\it Quercus cerris}. The shrub layer includes {\it Ilex aquifolium, Ulex europaeus, Lonicera periclymenum} and rare {\it Corylus avellana} and small trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The field layer contains locally abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Dicranum majus, Hypnum jutlandicum} and {\it Hedera helix}, locally frequent {\it Stellaria holostea} and rare {\it Hieracium} sp. Localised more open areas with mosaic of dense {\it P. aquilinum} plus scattered broadleaved trees/scrub.

To the southern side is a slope which is more open and generally dominated by dense {\it P. aquilinum} with scattered mixed trees and scrub of {\it Betula} sp., {\it Pinus sylvestris, Ulex europaeus} and one individual of {\it Sorbus} sp. (? {\it S. aria}).

For a more detailed account of the vegetation, ecology and management of the contiguous CL 213, Thursley Common and the NNR, please refer to the relevent site description.

MANAGE:
The northern part of the common is mown and maintained as a formal amenity area. The grassland retains some interesting species on the bank down from the road. Land to the south of the road appears unmanaged.

Note that the SSSI (as an important area of lowland heathland) forms part of a suite of sites (i.e. Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham Commons) being considered for designation as a Special Area of Conservation (pSAC) under the provisions of the EC Habitats Directive.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blackbird, goldcrest, chaffinch, robin, chiff chaff, clouded yellow butterfly, rabbit.

VEG:
The common comprises two small parcels of land lying to the west of Thursley Common (Waverley district).

The northerly portion comprises an area of secondary mixed woodland with a fairly open canopy dominated by {\it Pinus sylvestris} with {\it Betula pendula} and locally occasional {\it Quercus robur}. The shrub layer is poorly-developed, although the eastern corner has frequent small trees of {\it Populus tremula} beneath the main canopy. Rare {\it Sorbus} sp. noted elsewhere. The field layer mainly comprises {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, with abundant leaf litter. Locally occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

To the south of this portion a swathe of trees has been cut across the site beneath the line of a power cable. This area now has a stand of {\it P. aquilinum}.

The southern portion of the common has an area of broadleaved woodland along a stream. The canopy here is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with locally occasional {\it P. sylvestris}. Also noted were locally occasional smaller trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus cerris, Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana}. At the edge of the track is an open clearing again dominated by {\it P. aquilinum}.

To the north is a mixed woodland canopy of {\it P. sylvestris} and {\it Q. robur} beneath which are immature trees of {\it B. pendula}. Sparse field layer of {\it P. aquilinum} with abundant leaf litter. Rare trees of {\it Ilex aquifolium} and sapling of {\it Castanea sativa}.

MANAGE:
Both parts of the common appear unmanaged at present. Note clearance of trees beneath a power line on the northern section.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: skylark, linnet and silver-studded blue butterfly (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus whitethroat, stonechat, wren, meadow pipit, tree pipit, curlew, redstart, cuckoo, grey heron, green woodpecker, dartford warbler, hobby, kestrel and common lizard, plus several species of Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) including four-spotted chaser {\it Libellula quadrimaculata}, emperor dragonfly, {\it Anax imperator} and keeled skimmer {\it Orthetrum coerluescens}.

The SSSI as a whole is of national importance for its bird, reptile and invertebrate populations. The commons are one of the few sites in Britain to carry all six of the native reptiles, including sizeable populations of sand lizard, a "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The community of breeding and wintering birds is exceptionally rich and includes species associated with heath, open water and woodland. In recognition of its ornithological importance, Note that the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. In addition, Thursley and Ockley Bogs have been regisetered as a "wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention.

The invertebrate fauna is numerous and diverse and the "Thursley Common area" (including all of CLs 213, 32, 143, 224, and parts of CLs 144, 225 and 246) has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. Thursley Common itself is a top national site for Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies), taking advantage of boggy pools and ditches. A total of 27 species have been recorded including brilliant emerald {\it Somatochlora metallica, Ceriagrion tenellum} and the nationally scarce white-faced dragonfly {\it Leucorrhinia dubia}, although this may now possibly be extinct at the site.  

Twelve species of grasshoppers and crickets (\it Orthoptera) have been recorded from the SSSI as a whole including the nationally rare large marsh grasshopper {\it Stetophyma grossum} - also a UK BAP "Priority Species". 

The fly (Diptera) fauna includes three nationally rare species: {\it Asilus crabroniformis} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), {\it Thyridanthrax fenestratus} and {\it Chrysogaster macquarti}. The nationally scarce beetle (Coleoptera) {\it Altica ericeti} and the nationally rare bug (Hemiptera) {\it Micrantha marginalis} have also been recorded. Records specific Thursley: wood tiger beetle {\it Cicindella sylvatica}, the "rare" bug {\it Globiceps woodruffii}.

The SSSI supports several nationally scarce butterflies (Lepidoptera) including silver-studded blue {\it Plebejus argus} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), white letter hairstreak {\it Strymonida w-album} and purple emperor {\it Apatura iris}. 

The commons also support important populations of spiders, bees and wasps. These include the raft spider {\it Dolomedes fimbriatus}, found in bog pools, whereas bees and wasps are generally associated with dry heath habitat.

The heathlands are of outstanding importance for reptiles, most notably the nationally rare sand lizard {\it Lacerta agillis} (UK BAP "Priority Species") and smooth snake {\it Coronella austriaca} (the latter being a reintroduction at Thursley). In addition, Thursley has also been a site for the reintroduction of natterjack toad {\it Bufo calamita} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), as part of English Nature's Species Recovery Programme (see management section).  

The SSSI as a whole is one of the richest for birds in Southern England. Breeding birds specifically associated with the heathland include woodlark and nightjar (both UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus Dartford warbler, stonechat, whinchat and curlew. Birds which breed in the areas of woodland include all three British woodpeckers, woodcock, redstart, tawny owl, nightingale and hawfinch. The open expanse of heath, scrub and unimproved grassland provide important wintering grounds for certain notable species including great grey shrike and raptors such as hen harrier, peregrine and merlin.

Additional species known from Thursley include reed bunting and crossbill (D. Boyd, pers. comm.).

VEG:
The common forms a significant element of the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Common SSSI complex (Waverley district) and also forms a major portion of the Thursley National Nature Reserve (see maps). The greater proportion of the common lies within the SSSI/NNR. The SSSI as a whole includes some of the finest remaining lowland heathland on the Lower Greensand in Southern England.

The SSSI as a whole lies mainly on the strongly acid, leached, podzolic soils of the Folkestone and Sandgate Beds of the Lower Greensand, which are highly infertile. Variations in drainage, topography and management account for the wide diversity of habitats present. Heathland resulted from the Neolithic clearance of woodland but the national extent of this habitat has declined in recent years due to agricultural change and afforestation. 

Heathland communities range from dry heath through "humid" and wet heath to mire. Scattered scrub and trees are present in most parts of the heath and broadleaved/coniferous woodland covers approximately half of the SSSI. Open water habitat adds further to the interest ranging from acid boggy pools and ditches to large ponds.

The diversity of habitat types is responsible for a remarkable flora and fauna. The heath and bog habitats are particularly valuable. As their national extent has declined, so too have the populations of plants and animals associated with them. The site supports several plants with a restricted distribution but is best known for its animal populations. 

As well as significant stands of dry heath, Thursley is especially important for a range of wet heath and mire habitats which occur in the northern part of the site. The wet heath represents a transitional zone between dry heath and mire. A wide range of plant communities are present reflecting stages along this ecological gradient. The dominant association of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Erica tetralix} (NVC type M16) is most extensively demonstrated in the northern parts of Thursley and Hankley Commons. A feature of the wet heath is an interesting microtopography of hummocks and peat-filled hollows. {\it Calluna} dominates the drier hummocks, with {\it Erica tetralix, Juncus} spp., {\it Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum} spp. mosses, {\it Drosera intermedia} and {\it D. rotundifolia} in the hollows.

Peatland habitats are typically found in waterlogged conditions where the wetland vegetation builds up organic deposits over the underlying mineral substrate. At this site, peatlands have developed in three ways: along river valleys, over expanses of shallow water or on relatively flat ground where drainage is very heavily impeded. The bog communities associated with these modes of development are diverse due to local variation in a number of factors which include: the range of nutrient status of soil and water, the varying degree of inundation of the peat, and the different speeds of water movement through the peat. 

The peatland complex on Thursley Common represents one of the finest valley mires in Britain and supports vegetation communities which are exclusively characteristic of nutrient-poor soils. Examples of all three modes of peatland development are present at Thursley. Carpets of {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses, chiefly {\it S. papillosum} and {\it S. magellanicum}, occupy an extensive area of Ockley bog. The associated higher plant community includes {\it E. tetralix, M. caerulea, N. ossifragum, Eriophorum vaginatum, Eleocharis multicaulis} and two plants which are described as "very rare" in Surrey: {\it Vaccinium ocycoccos} and {\it Rhynchospora fusca}. Includes NVC types M16 and M21. 

The presence of a river valley mire with a clear vegetation zonation and a relatively high nutrient status along the central water-course, adds to the interest of the Thursley peatland complex. In addition, several areas represent former open water which is being colonised by peatland. Other plants of note recorded from the Thursley valley mire complex include {\it Osmunda regalis, Anagallis tenella, Dactylorhiza incarnata} subsp. {\it ochroleuca} and the nationally scarce (NS) {\it Lycopodiella inundata}. This species depends on the creation of bare/disturbed areas for it to colonise and it was noted during the site visit on land immediately to the north-east of the Moat Pond (not actually on common land) along a track where the sufrace vegetation has been churned up by military vehicles. 

N.B. NS - plants occurring in 16 - 100 tem km squares of the Ordnance Survey Grid (JNCC, 1994). {\it L. inundata} also a "Middle List" species of the UK BAP.

The boggy pools and ditches of the open heath are highly acidic and support a flora of {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius, Menyanthes trifoliata, Utricularia} sp. and {\it Hypericum elodes}. A number of larger expanses of open water occur within the SSSI as a whole and these are generally less acidic. Note however, in the context of Thursley, that the Thursley Hammer Ponds have been excluded from registration as common land and that the Moat Pond (GR SU 900 416) straddles both CLs 32 and 246.   

Dry heath occupies much of the southern two thirds of Thursley Common and is dominated {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Erica cinerea} (NVC type H2). {\it Ulex minor} and {\it Genista anglica} are locally important in the community and lichens are prominent in parts. Plants of the dry heath occur in association with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} or in damp areas, with {\it Molinia caerulea}, in a heath/grassland mosaic. Bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} has colonised a few areas of former dry heath. 

Scrub is scattered throughout the open heath and forms dense belts in places, being almost exclusively dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus}. In addition, {\it Ulex gallii} has its only known Surrey locality on Thursley common. Scrub associated with some of the open grasslands is more diverse and consists of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix cinerea} and {\it U. europaeus}.

The woodland is variable in age and composition. Woodland of recent origin, representing the major part of the woodland at this site, has colonised wet and dry heath and consists of {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Quercus robur} and {\it Pinus sylvestris} of varying ages.

Mature broadlenved woodland is best represented on the eastern side of Thursley Common (i.e. CL 32) where {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus exeslsior, Ilex aquifolium}, coppiced {\it Corylus avellana, Q. robur, B. pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} occur above a field layer which includes {\it Oxalis acetosella, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon}. 

In several areas where drainage is very poor, swamps of {\it Alnus glutinosa} have developed above a field layer which includes {\it Carex pendula, C. paniculata, Scutellaria galericulata, Cardamine} spp. and {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium}. An example of this habitat type from Thursley Common occurs on the inflow delta to the Hammer ponds (GR SU 915 402). Note that the Hammer Ponds themselves do not occur on the resgistered common.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common forms a significant part of the Thursley National Nature Reserve, itself a part of a larger area of lowland heathland habitats comprising the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI. 

Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). 

More recently, "Fens" (i.e. Phase 1 'E31' - valley mire) in addition to "Lowland heathland" have been highlighted among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Also, recognition of the importance of these habitats in a Europaean context is reflected in Thursley's status as a candidate Special Area of Conservation (pSAC) under the EC Habitats Directive (as part of a suite of sites which incorporates Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham Commons). 

Without suitable management, the heaths would undergo a seral succession to scrub and woodland, which would result in the loss of open heath and drying of the wet heath and mire due to increased evapotranspiration. Ideal management would be the reintroduction of traditional grazing, which ceased from around 1922, and this is an eventual aim for the site (see below). At present the heather is maintained by mowing. 
 
Other threats to the nature conservation value of the site include loss of suitable habitat conditions for some of the fauna due to drying (and direct loss due to uncontrolled accidental fires), trampling damage and disturbance of nesting birds etc. by humans/ and dogs, plus gross habitat change due to aerial pollution and agricultural runoff.

Management for nature conservation at the site has been on-going since 1965, at which time the Surrey Naturalists Trust were able to commence managing the site as a reserve, with eventual purchase by NCC in 1978. Work undertaken has included control of invading scrub and trees, clearance of ditches and pools of encroaching aquatic/emergent vegetation, creation of new bog pools, provision of boardwalks, plus the repair of paths and erosion gullies. 

Management of the heath aims to achieve a wide structral and age-class  diversity of the {\it Calluna} plants with special emphasis on maintaining the specific requirements for the more notable species associated with the heath and mire habitats. For example, woodlark require short heather with bare patches and avoid mature/tall stands, whereas Dartford warbler prefer much taller heather with scattered bushes and trees to provide suitable perches. Nightjar prefer taller heather in association with open woodland clearings for nesting and thus it is important that elements of scrub and woodland are also retained. Dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata) require regular clearance of pools to maintain areas of open water. 

Thursley is one of several Surrey sites where there have been attempts to reintroduce the natterjack toad as part of English Nature's Species Recovery Programme (English Nature, 1995). As has already been outlined, a large population of natterjack toads were present at the site until around the time of WW2. Their disappearance coincided with the cessation of grazing and probably also groundwater acidification in parts of the site as a result of atmospheric pollution and changed drainage patterns.

The toads have a number of specific habitat requirements which include the need for seasonal, circumneutral ponds for successful breeding and adjacent terrestrial habitat in the form of open ground for hunting. 

Despite this, suitable habitat in the form of circumneutral pools remained in the "West Bog" part of the site. There were unsuccessful attempts to reintroduce natterjacks to artificial ponds created on the margins of this area in both 1975 and 1989. This was because the ponds became permanent features. This creates favourable conditions for more competitive species such as common frogs and toads in addition to major tadpole predators such as crested newts as well as being unfavourable to the hunting behaviour of natterjacks. 

Subsequently, an artificial concrete pond was created in the southern part of the NNR, over the winter of 1994-95, away from the influence of the West Bog. After rinsing, the pond was allowed to fill naturally with rainwater. Spawn was introduced from a donor site in April 1995 (the date of the report) and many tadpoles were raised. In the long term, the aim is to reintroduce grazing at Thursley and the new natterjack pond lies within the area where this will be done first. It is hoped that the new pond in conjunction with grazing will enable a viable colony to flourish. Ultimately it is hoped that the toads can also return to suitably managed ponds in their more natural habitat on West Bog, for example by the introduction of small coarse fish to control invertebrate predators.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: nuthatch, wren, robin, chaffinch, coal tits.

The common lies within a site which takes in the "Thursley Common area" (including all of CLs 213, 32, 143, 224, and parts of CLs 144, 225 and 246) which has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. For a more detailed discussion of the invertebrate interest of the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI, please see under other major commons within the SSSI.

VEG:
The common lies on the periphery of its larger contiguous neighbour, CL 225, Royal Common (Waverley district).

This particular common has largely been converted to conifer plantation, although the south-western portion is highlighted in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory (see map). For the most part the plantation comprises {\it Tsuga heterophylla}, with some areas of {\it Pinus sylvestris}. Within the canopy are very occasional mature standard trees of {\it Quercus robur} (plus pollards?). Generally the canopy is dense and lacking a field layer, although elsewhere there is growth of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

A narrow vegetated strip alongside the track which runs the entire length of the common includes {\it Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Heracleum sphondylium, P. aquilinum} and {\it Galium aparine}, plus seedling {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

Where the common narrows in its central portion, the boundaries have a continuous row of mature trees of {\it Ilex aquifolium}, plus occasional {\it Q. robur} and one of {\it Salix fragilis} also noted.

The common also has one small parcel of broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Q. robur} and occasional {\it Betula} sp., plus a shrub layer containing {\it Salix cinerea} (tall trees), {\it Corylus avellana} (some as old coppice stools) and a field layer with {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine} and {\it P. aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
Currently managed as a small conifer plantation. There appear to be some interesting boundary holly trees plus mature oaks hidden within the plantation itself.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chiff chaff, wren, blackcap, Canada geese, blackbird, robin, mistle thrush, chaffinch, pheasant, green woodpecker, yellowhammer, woodlark, tree pipit, jay, skylark, swallow, grey heron, woodcock, cuckoo, grey squirrel, large red damselfly {\it Pyrrhosoma nymphula}, beautiful demoiselle {\it Calopteryx virgo}. Nightjar - last recorded in 1994.

The SSSI as a whole is of importance for its bird, reptile and invertebrate populations. In recognition of its ornithological importance, the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

Note also that skylark, woodlark and nightjar are "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The invertebrate fauna is numerous and diverse and the "Thursley Common area" (including all of CLs 213, 32, 143, 224, and parts of CLs 144, 225 and 246) has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register.

VEG:
The common lies on the northern fringe of an important complex of lowland heathland sites which collectively form an SSSI with the title "Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons" (largely all registered common land - Waverley District). A significant proportion of CL 225 lies within the SSSI (i.e. most of the land to the south of the B3001). As a whole, the SSSI represents one of the finest remaining areas of heathland on the Lower Greensand in Southern England.

A small part of the common, to the north of the B3001, has been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project, although none of this land has subsequently been selected as SNCI. This includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey.

Heathland on the common has largely progressed to a secondary broadleaved woodland since the cessation of grazing (as shown on the 1982 Phase 1 habitat map). However, in recent years, most of the woodland on the site has been progressively thinned with the aim of restoring open heathland.

At present, the site now encompasses a fairly complex mosaic with areas of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, acidic and marshy grassland, small remnants of heathland vegetation and scattered broadleaved trees, with some tree and scrub regeneration. Much of the bracken has a dense layer of accumulated dead fronds, but elsewhere has an understorey of {\it Holcus mollis} with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Stellaria holostea, Galium saxatile, Juncus effusus} and {\it Luzula multiflora}.

Acidic grassland swards are dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with {\it Holcus lanatus, Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella, Luzula campestris, L. multiflora} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. 

Areas of marshy grassland are dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} which in addition to the above associates includes {\it Juncus squarrosus} and {\it J. effusus}.

The small patches of heathland vegetation are represented by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, reaching 75 per cent cover in some areas and locally reaching as much as 30-45 cm tall.

Scattered trees across the site include standards of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}, and occasionally, {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, which were left {\it in situ} during clearance operations, in addition to locally frequent saplings of {\it B. pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Populus tremula, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Salix cinerea}. In peripheral parts this grades into more continuous woodland cover.

Also noted: rare {\it Valeriana dioica}.

To the west of the common is an area of wet woodland dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} with {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Frangula alnus}. The field layer comprises {\it Carex pendula, C. paniculata, Scutellaria galericulata, Cardamine} spp. and {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium}.

The pond at GR SU 920 426 appears to have been recently cleared. There is a narrow fringe of marginal/emergent vegetation which includes {\it Iris pseudacorus, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Caltha palustris, Oenanthe crocata, Lycopus europaeus, Carex paniculata, C. acutiformis, Angelica sylvestris, J. effusus, Urtica dioica} and {\it Persicaria} sp., plus small trees of {\it A. glutinosa}. Single plant of {\it Scutellaria galericulata} noted within tussock of {\it C. paniculata}.

Adjacent area of very short acidic grassland much frequented by Canada geese, with growth of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. This grassland appears to be dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosella, Polytrichum} sp. (? {\it P. juniperinum}) and occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus}. 

There are two smaller ponds just to the south of the B3001, devoid of water at the time of the site visit. The larger one has vegetation dominated by {\it Glyceria fluitans} with abundant {\it Agrostis canina} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} plus much dead leaf litter, locally frequent {\it Ranunculus flammula} and rare {\it Ranunculus} sp. (a water crowfoot). An 'island' in the pond has a dead, mature tree of {\it Quercus robur}. The second pond also has locally abundant seedlings of {\it B. pubescens}, locally frequent {\it Carex nigra}, plus locally occasional {\it M. caerulea} and {\it J. effusus}.

Note the small field to the west of the main common outside the SSSI boundary. Shown as improved grassland on the aerial photograph survey, it was not possible to visit this part of the site.

Surrey Wildlife Trust hold a species list for a site known as "West Pond Cottage" (GR SU 918 425). This includes {\it Carex riparia, Eupatorium cannabinum, Lythrum salicaria, Sorbus aucuparia, Typha latifolia} and {\it Viburnum opulus}. A small portion of the common in this locality lies within a parcel of land which has has been highlighted in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory (see map and also CL 224).

Parts of the common to the north of the B3001 (i.e. non-SSSI, but partly covered by the SWT survey) largely comprise secondary broadleaved woodland. The canopy is dominated by standard trees of {\it Quercus robur}, accompanied locally by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} plus occasional {\it Betula} sp., {\it S. aucuparia} and {\it Prunus serotina}. There is also one small stand of high forest {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The shrub layer includes {\it Corylus avellana} (with some as overstood coppice stools), {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Tamus communis, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

The field layer includes {\it P. aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Urtica dioica, Hedera helix, Aegopodium podagraria, Heracleum sphondylium, Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Silene dioica, Lamium album, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Alliaria petiolata} with much leaf litter.

Adjacent to Blacklands Farm, the aerial photograph survey shows an area of grassland crossed by various tracks - again mapped as improved grassland and not visited.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common is situated largely upon former open heath and encompasses small remnants of this habitat, which formerly covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). In addition, it is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland. The causes of this decline include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Recent management work at Royal Common (MOD?) has included very extensive clearance of secondary woodland to encourage recovery of the heathland vegetation, although the extent of such at present appears rather restricted. Various standard trees have been left {\it in situ}.

The main pond appears to have been cleared of vegetation. The marginal vegetation and adjacent grassland is heavily-used by Canada geese and there is also some grazing by rabbits of grassland adjacent to the pond.

A small field on the western edge of the common appears contiguous with adjacent improved grassland, rather than part of the common itself. An area of land to the north of the B3001 is managed by the adjacent farm (arable). Pheasant rearing in Blacklands House Copse.

Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Wet woodland", "Lowland dry acidic grassland", plus various categories of standing water.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: skylark (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus wren, blue tit, jackdaw, robin, chiff chaff, grey squirrel, blackbird, blackcap, green woodpecker. 

Sandy/friable soil in the cleared area to the north of the common appears to have good potential for burrowing insects.

VEG:
The common lies a few km west of Godalming (Waverley district). Most of the site comprises what appears to be secondary woodland, with a canopy mainly comprising trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}. Other occasional trees of varying degrees of maturity include {\it Fagus sylvatica, Sorbus aucuparia, Acer pseudoplatanus, Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Castanea sativa}. Occasional well-grown specimens of {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. sylvatica} noted. The shrub layer is generally poorly-developed and includes occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium}, while the field layer is largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, with sparse {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Very locally the field layer is characterised by growth of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Brachythecium rutabulum} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}.

There also appear to be sections of the wood where alien species predominate, this is especially so adjacent to the western edge of the site, along Peper Harow Lane. Species prominent here include {\it Quercus cerris, Q. rubra, Castanea sativa, Acer platanoides, Acer} sp., {\it Ligustrum vulgare, Prunus} spp. (incl. {P. laurocerasus}), {\it Tilia} sp., {\it Robinia pseudacacia} and {\it Amelanchier lamarckii}.

Locally there are signs of considerable wind-throw, possibly originating as a result of the 1987 storms. One such example lies to the north-west of the car park. Here there are extensive canopy gaps with a dense growth of {\it P. aquilinum}. Occasional planted sapling trees of {\it Q. robur} noted here. 

A second, more extensive open area occurs further northwards. This appears to have been deliberately managed to inhibit encroachment by {\it P. aquilinum, A. lamarckii, Populus tremula} and {\it B. pendula}. Again, planted saplings of {\it Q. robur} are present. Much of this area is currently colonised by species such as {\it Rumex acetosella, Cladonia} spp., {\it Polytrichum juniperinum, Campylopus} sp. ? {\it C. introflexus} and {\it Galium saxatile}. This area may have originated from the spraying of bracken (notably absent from this part of the site), or possibly following a fire. Occasional standard trees of {\it Q. robur} remain.

There is a small area of mown grassland to the west of Peper Harow Lane, with several specimen trees of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. Field layer species noted along the roadside: {\it Glechoma hederacea, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Geum urbanum, Dactylis glomerata, Lamium album} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

MANAGE:
The common appears to have been affected, in part at least, by wind throw during the 1987 storm. Prior to this, the site probably developed as secondary woodland, possibly over grazing/heathland or wood pasture. A number of mature open-grown oaks may date from this time. A number of alien trees are present, these possibly being introduced through planting in the north-western edge of the site. 

Following the storm there has been some planting of oak saplings. There appears to be a problem of colonisation by {\it Betula pendula} and the introduced species {\it Amelancher lamarckii} plus, to a lesser extent, by other non-native species. Considerable thickets of this species have been cut back from some of the woodland clearings.  

Due to the past disturbance, the site appears to have a wide structural diversity of habitats present. Present management appears to be successful in maintaining this balance, with continued thinning probably being necessary. There is a small amount of old fallen and standing dead timber present, which should be left in-situ as deadwood habitat.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: tree pipit, magpie, green woodpecker, greater spotted woodpecker, blackbird, wren, blue tit, jay, greenfinch, robin, chiff chaff, nuthatch, willow warbler, silver studded blue butterfly, rabbit, grey squirrel. 

The SSSI as a whole is of national importance for its bird, reptile and invertebrate populations. The commons are one of the few sites in Britain to carry all six of the native reptiles, including sizeable populations of sand lizard, a "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The community of breeding and wintering birds is exceptionally rich and includes species associated with heath, open water and woodland. In recognition of its ornithological importance, the SSSI forms part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

The invertebrate fauna is numerous and diverse and the "Thursley Common area" (including all of CLs 213, 32, 143, 224, and parts of CLs 144, 225 and 246) has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register.

Twelve species of  grasshoppers and crickets (Orthoptera) occur, including the nationally rare large marsh grasshopper {\it Stetophyma grossum} - also a "Priority Species" of the UK BAP. The boggy pools and ditches and the lakes and their margins support dragonfly and damselfly (Odonata) populations which include the nationally scarce white-faced dragonfly {\it Leucorrhinia dubia}. 

The fly (Diptera) fauna includes three nationally rare species: {\it Asilus crabroniformis} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), {\it Thyridanthrax fenestratus} and {\it Chrysogaster macquarti}. The nationally scarce beetle (Coleoptera) {\it Altica ericeti} and the nationally rare bug (Hemiptera) {\it Micrantha marginalis} have also been recorded. The site supports several nationally scarce butterflies (Lepidoptera) including silver-studded blue {\it Plebejus argus} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), white letter hairstreak {\it Strymonida w-album} and purple emperor {\it Apatura iris}. The commons also support important populations of spiders, bees and wasps.
 
The heathlands are of outstanding importance for reptiles, most notably the nationally rare sand lizard {\it Lacerta agillis} (UK BAP "Priority Species") and smooth snake {\it Coronella austriaca}.

The site is one of the richest for birds in Southern England. Breeding birds specifically associated with the heathland include woodlark and nightjar (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus Dartford warbler, stonechat and whinchat. This is also one of the few inland breeding grounds for curlew. The areas of fen and open water also support rich communities of breeding birds including great crested grebe, mute swan, coot, water rail and little grebe. Birds which breed in the areas of woodland include all three British woodpeckers, woodcock, redstart, tawny owl, nightingale and hawfinch. The open expanse of heath, scrub and unimproved grassland provide important wintering grounds for certain notable species including great grey shrike and raptors.

VEG:
The common forms an eastern part of a swathe of heathland situated on the Lower Greensand in the western part of the county, which stretches from the border with Hampshire at Frensham, as far eastwards as Milford (Waverley district). 

The major part of the common lies along the northern side of the A3, with approxiamately the western half of this lying within the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Common SSSI complex. In addition, this part of the SSSI lies within an area which has also been designated as a National Nature Reserve (see maps). The SSSI as a whole includes some of the finest remaining lowland heathland on the Lower Greensand in Southern England. 

Land outside the SSSI/NNR, but still to the north of the A3 has been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project (and subsequently selected as SNCI) - "Mousehill Down and Rodborough Common". This includes a general description which has been consulted for the puropses of the common land survey. The following description has also been compiled with reference to the various quoted sources, in addition to target notes made during a brief visit to the site.

Finally, land forming part of the common, but lying to the south of the A3, for the most part lies within the SSSI, but does not form a part of the NNR. A small part of this area, immediately to the north of Thursley Lake (Map 1) lies entirely outside the SSSI.

The site lies mainly on the strongly acid, leached, podzolic soils of the Folkestone and Sandgate Beds of the Lower Greensand, which are highly infertile. Variations in drainage, topography and management account for the wide diversity of habitats present. Heathland resulted from the Neolithic clearance of woodland but the national extent of this habitat has declined in recent years due to agricultural change and afforestation.

Most of the SSSI/NNR portion (not visited) comprises woodland of some type, the majority of which has developed upon areas of former open heathland. The majority is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} spp., with mixed stands also having {\it Pinus sylvestris}. The field layer contains remnants of the former heathland flora with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} plus, in wet areas, {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Erica tetralix}.

More mature broadleaved woodland along the western edge of this part of the common (GR SU 921 408) is slightly more mature/species-rich. {\it Castanea sativa} is common in the canopy and additional tree/shrub species include {\it Fagus sylvatica, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Viburnum opulus, Populus tremula} and {\it Salix} spp. The ground flora is also more diverse with {\it Oxalis acetosella, Viola reichenbachiana, Alliaria petiolata, Lysimachia nemorum, Lonicera periclymenum, Lamiastrum galeobdolon} and {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi}. Damp areas have {\it Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}.

There is also a significant area of woodland dominated by {\it Pinus sylvestris}. Target notes indicate that woodlands of this type were originally extensively planted within the SSSI and there has since been development of self-sown stands. Such woodland has thus been mapped as a mosaic of plantation and semi-natural woodland, with woods of varying ages being described for this part of the common. The field layer of these woodlands tends to be dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. on this particular common.

This part of the common also includes an area of more open vegetation now occupied by a mosaic of acidic grassland, scrub and bracken. The scrub comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. This locality appears to have been the site for a former army camp, now demolished and the associated acidic grassland has been influenced by a resulting increased base status of the soil. Notable species include {\it Listera ovata, Epipactis helleborine, Trifolium medium, Erigeron acer} and {\it Conyza canadensis}. More common species include {\it Medicago lupulina, Trifolium dubium, T. micranthum, Geranium sanguineum, Pastinaca sativa, Veronica chamaedrys} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}.

SNCI portion.....

This part of the common comprises a mosaic of secondary woodland, acidic grassland, bracken-dominated grassland and heathland.

Woodland on the site is mainly dry acidic secondary broadleaved of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} over a field layer of {\it P. aquilinum} and {\it D. flexuosa} with some {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and heathland species. Around the margins of the site there are areas of more neutral woodland with field layer species such as {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is a small area of wet woodland in the north-west of the site, with {\it Betula pubescens} and {\it B. pendula} over a field layer of {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Sphagnum} spp.

Also noted from woodland on this part of the common: {\it Quercus cerris, Ulmus} sp., {\it Holcus mollis, Impatiens parviflora, Corylus avellana} (some as overstood coppice), {\it Stellaria holostea, Chelidonium majus} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Several large, mature specimens of {\it Q. robur}, some possibly pollarded and several with crown die-back and dead wood. These may remain as elements of a former wood pasture system.

Large areas of the site have been dominated by {\it P. aquilinum}, although in recent years there has been extensive management aimed at controlling this species with the aim of restoring acidic grassland and heath habitats. The present situation is one of a sparse acidic grassland sward dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with scattered fronds of {\it P. aquilinum}. In many places there is still much bare substrate in evidence from the bracken and tree removal operations. Other grassland associates include locally abundant {\it Polytrichum} sp. (? {\it P. juniperinum}), {\it Dicranum scoparium} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosella}, locally occasional {\it Galium saxatile, Carex} sp. (? {\it C. pilulifera}) and {\it Luzula campestris}. In addition, there are rare plants of {\it Calluna vulgaris}, which also occurs locally as discrete small patches of heathland vegetation where it is accompanied by rare {\it Erica cinerea} and a complement of common heathland bryophytes which include {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum, Dicranum scoparium} and {\it Pleurozium schreberi}. Locally the {\it Calluna} shows signs of selective grazing by rabbits. 
 
Scattered mature trees of {\it Q. robur} and {\it B. pendula} persist throughout parts of this open vegetation.  

The main area of heathland appears to occur in the south-western part of the common (Map 2), forming several distinct blocks (target notes from present survey):

GR 930 414. Here there is a stand of pioneer/early building phase {\it Calluna}, fairly even-aged plants around 10cm tall at almost 100 per cent ground cover. To the north of this area are small patches of acidic grassland and around these, some of the {\it Calluna} has been grazed by rabbits to produce a short carpet. Elsewhere there are few signs of grazing. Beneath the {\it Calluna} is a dense understorey of {\it Hypnum jutlandicum}. Other associates include locally occasional {\it Deschampsia flexuousa, Galium saxatile} and seedlings of {\it Betula pendula}, plus rare {\it Erica cinerea} and seedlings of {\it Ulex minor}. Small acidic grassland patches with {\it D. flexuosa} plus occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus}.

Immediately to the west of this area is a strip of ground which has been recently scraped/scarified, now dominated by a sward of {\it D. flexuosa}. Occasional scattered fronds of {\it P. aquilinum} still present, with isolated small patches of {\it Calluna/E. cinerea}.

To the east of here lies a swathe of recently burnt vegetation, apparently affecting an area of woodland/{\it P. aquilinum}, rather than heathland vegetation, and probably of accidental nature, rather than deliberate management.

GR SU 929 413. A further area of heath with {\it Calluna, D. flexuosa} and occasional {\it E. cinerea}. Some taller {\it Calluna} plants (to 30cm tall), but elswehere showing signs of grazing to a short carpet. Throughout this area are also areas of acidic grassland, dense and scattered bracken, plus scattered trees/saplings of {\it B. pendula}. 

Further points to note are:

GR 929 412: small woodland clearing, possibly cleared military installation supporting a closely rabbit-grazed neutral grassland sward (turf ht. 1.0cm max). Dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} with locally abundant {\it Hypnum lacunosum} and {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}, locally frequent {\it Prunella vulgaris} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, locally occasional {\it Centaurium erythraea, Urtica dioica, Bellis perennis, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Veronica officinalis} and {\it Luzula campestris}, plus rare {\it Veronica serpyllifolia}.

GR 935 415: Adjacent to the A3, an area now occupied by several bungalows with associated gardens and drives, amenity grassland lawns and planted trees and shrubs etc.    

The southern element of the common (Map 1) is shown to contain a central area of dry heath surrounded by a fringe of mixed woodland. The heath is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}, whilst {\it Genista anglica} has also been recorded from here. In recent years, there has been extensive clearance of both the surrounding woodland and also trees encroaching onto the open heath, as part of management aimed at increasing the area of heath on this part of the common (see under management).

MANAGE:
The various parts of the common come under different management. The SSSI/NNR portion falls under the management of English Nature, the SNCI portion is managed by Surrey County Council Coutryside Service, whilst the SSSI portion to the south of the A3 (Map 1), is managed by the Herpetological Conservation Trust under a long-term lease from the Witley Estate.
 
As already outlined, the common encompasses an area which was once lowland heathland and is integral with a larger area of remaining lowland heathland habitats comprising the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI. 

Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted as one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Without suitable management, this common illustates the resulting loss of open heath vegetation through a succession to scrub and woodland. 

Management for nature conservation at the site has concentrated within the SNCI portion, where there has been very extensive clearance of bracken, scrub and trees which have encroached onto remaining small areas of heathland vegetation. The aim has been to create conditions favourable to the recovery of a heathland flora. Ideal subsequent management would be the reintroduction of traditional grazing, although this is not often possible. 

Within the area managed by the Herpetological Conservation Trust there has also been clearance of trees and scraping of surface vegetation, although management for reptiles is not necessarily compatible with the aims of general heathland management. This work has been done with the assistance of the Surrey Heathland Project. 

UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Lowland heathland", "Lowland dry acidic grassland", "Wet woodland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: greenfinch, wren, willow warbler, green woodpecker, blue tit, great tit, blackbird, blackcap, jay, robin, chiff chaff, tree creeper, magpie, carrion crow, wood ant {\it Formica} sp., silver-studded blue butterfly, grey squirrel.

N.B. Silver studded blue butterfly is a "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The National Trust Biological Survey report contains a detailed account of what is known of the invertebrate fauna of the common (please consult their report for this information). The heathland provides good habitat for a specialist invertebrate fauna and includes the dry sandy heath bee {\it Andrena argentata} and wasp {\it Ammophila pubescens}, plus a strong population of silver-studded blue butterfly. There is an excellent structural diversity with tall, bushy heather, open sandy areas along paths etc. and shelter provided by the scattered trees. 

The more notable species recorded from the common are:

The money spider {\it Trematocephalus cristatus}: very local - Nb. Associated with various trees and bushes, especially {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Ulex} sp.

The dusky cockroach {\it Ectobius lapponicus}: local. Sheltered rough grasslands or heaths, usually with bushes and trees.

A plant bug {\it Globiceps woodroffei}: rare - RDB3. Among heather and birch - a boreal relict. Recorded from this site and Blade Down (West Sussex) in the SE and then Yorkshire and Scotland.

A weevil {\it Rhynchites longiceps}: very local - Nb. Associated with {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Betula} spp. in open woodland.

The common is also a possible release site for the field cricket {\it Gryllus campestris} under English Nature's Species Recovery Programme (UK BAP "Priority Species").

In total, 36 species of butterfly have been recorded from the common, of which 30 are considered to be resident breeding species. Notable species include dingy skipper {\it Erynnis tages}, grizzled skipper {\it Pyrgus malvae}, wood white {\it Leptidea sinapis} (also described as "very rare" in Surrey, but possibly an erroneous record), green hairstreak {\it Callophrys rubi}, purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}, silver studded blue {\it Plejebus argus} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), brown argus {\it Aricia agestis}, white admiral {\it Lagoda camilla}, purple emperor {\it Apatura iris}, pearl-bordered fritillary {\it Boloria euphrosyne} (UK BAP "Priority Species", also described as "rare" in Surrey), small pearl-bordered fritillary {\it B. selene}, silver-washed fritillary {\it Argynnis paphia} and grayling {\it Hipparchia semele} (possibly lost).

The ornithological interest of the common is well documented and has been summarised in the NT Biological Survey report. The more notable species include turtle dove, linnet and nightjar (all UK BAP "Priority Species"), in addition to tree pipit, redstart, lesser whitethroat, sparrowhawk, woodcock and redpoll.

Note that the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
The common lies within the eastern part of a swathe of heathland situated on the Lower Greensand in the western part of the county, which stretches from the border with Hampshire at Frensham, as far eastwards as Milford (Waverley district). The majority of the common lies within the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI (see map). 

The site lies mainly on the strongly acid, leached, podzolic soils of the Folkestone and Sandgate Beds of the Lower Greensand, which are highly infertile. Areas of clay occur in a small valley to the south of the common, which have given rise to poorly-drained, boggy areas. Further diversity of soil type has resulted from the introduction of chalk-rich topsoil following the removal of a wartime camp. These variations have influenced the vegatation types to be found on the common. 

Most of the following information has been obtained from the National Trust Biological Survey Report of 1986, with additional target notes made during a brief visit to the site. Whilst it is recognised that this source is now perhaps a little out of date, there was insufficient time to re-survey. In addition, in the context of it being a National Trust site, where each property is visted at approximately 10 yearly intervals by a team of biological surveyors, it was felt that it would not be a profitable use of extremely limited field time to take more than a very brief look at this particular common.

Following Neolithic clearance of woodland, the area saw the development of extensive tracts of lowland heathland, maintained through a combination of burning and grazing. However, in recent decades the national extent of this habitat has declined due to agricultural change, afforestation and housebuilding. Grazing of the common by horses and cattle ceased prior to WW1 and since this time the site has been invaded by trees and scrub and now shows all the signs of succession to broadleaved and coniferous woodland. This, coupled with the importation of base-rich soil following WW2 has produced a diverse pattern of vegetation at the site and in particular has introduced some calcicole species onto a site with otherwise markedly acidic, heathy soils. Areas of both wet and dry heath are maintained on the site through active management by the National Trust, although parts of the common, the margins in particular, are now extensively wooded.

Woodland habitats:

A variety of woodland communities occur on the common, all being of secondary origin, with the oldest trees dating to around the time that grazing ceased (i.e. 90 yrs).

Much of this woodland is dominated by {\it Pinus sylvestris}, especially in the north-eastern part of the site. Most of the trees appear to be self-sown, although there is a suggestion that some were introduced from Scotland. Other associates include {\it Betula} spp., {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Castanea sativa}. The field layer is poorly-developed and consists of scattered patches of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with extensive areas of bare ground, plus bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in areas with a more open canopy. Rare plants of {\it Erica cinerea}.

Other areas have a mixed canopy with a higher frequency of broadleaves, but still with quite a high proportion of {\it P. sylvestris}. In addition to {\it Q. robur}, some {\it Q. cerris} is also present. A scattered shrub layer includes {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} with less-frequent {\it Frangula alnus, Malus sylvestris} and {\it Salix capraea}. 

The field layer is dominated by either {\it P. aquilinum} or {\it R. fruticosus} agg. There are scattered individuals of {\it Epipactis helleborine}, described as the most common orchid on the common. Also recorded from this habitat are two localities for {\it Monotropa hypopitys}, described as "rare" in the county.

The southern and eastern parts of the common have a broadleaved woodland with a canopy comprising {\it Q. robur, Q. cerris, Betula} spp. and {\it Castanea sativa}, with only occasional {\it P. sylvestris}. A notable species recorded from this habitat is {\it Neottia nidus-avis}.

Stands of more recent woodland of {\it Betula} spp. tend to occur in the central part of the common, with only occasional {\it Q. robur, Q. cerris} and {\it P. sylvestris}. The field layer is dominated by {\it P. aquilinum} in dry areas and by {\it Molinia caerulea} in wet areas.

Heathland habitats:

Open heath occurs largely in the southern part of the common, but with small heathy clearings elsewhere. There is a mixture of both dry and wet types, all dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

Part of the dry heath was badly affected by an accidental fire during 1975. There has been good recovery of {\it Calluna} on much of this area, although invasion by {\it P. aquilinum} has been a problem. Areas which were not burnt have mature {\it Calluna} up to 30cm high or taller, with scattered {\it Erica cinerea}. Once again, there are invading {\it P. aquilinum} and tree saplings. Associated mosses include {\it Hypnum jutlandicum, Pseuoscleropodium purum} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}, along with the lichen {\it Hypogymnia physodes} on older {\it Calluna} stems.  

Wet heath is still dominated by {\it Calluna} in association with {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. This vegetation has an understorey comprising {\it Sphangnum} spp. mosses, in addition to {\it Aulacomnium palustre} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. The most species-rich parts of the wet heath occur around GR SU 931 402, where a number of 'bog' species are also present. These include {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Narthecium ossifragum, Eriophorum angustifolium, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it J. articulatus}. Also recorded is {\it Rhynchospora alba}, described as 'uncommon' in Surrey. Species of {\it Sphagnum} recorded from the site include {\it S. compactum, S. palustre, S. papillosum, S. recurvum, S. subsecundum} var. {\it auriculatum} and {\it S. tenellum}.

Grassland habitats:

The main area of grassland lies in the centre of the common, this being the area formerly used as a parade ground. Following removal of the tarmac, topsoil was imported from near the Hog's Back (i.e. chalky) to level the site. This area was then allowed to recolonise naturally. Initially, a range of calcicole species came in, although these have tended to die-out and have been gradually replaced with acidic species as the calcium and other nutrients have been leached from the soil. 

The vegetation of the parade ground and a further area of grassland to the north of here is species-rich, having a low cover of grasses. The sward has a varied structure, with areas closely-grazed by rabbits and stands of taller herbs. Shorter swards comprise carpets of {\it Lotus corniculatus} with the grasses {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, plus herbs such as {\it Prunella vulgaris, Veronica serpyllifolia, Euphrasia} sp. and {\it Centaurium erythraea}. The moss {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum} also occurs. The taller vegetation includes {\it Hypericum perforatum, Agrimonia eupatoria, Pastinaca sativa} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}. 

Grassland in other clearings tends to have a more acidic sward with species such as {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} and, locally, dwarf shrubs such as {\it Calluna} and {\it Erica cinerea}. Acidic species are also now beginning to colonise the parade ground as the calcium is leached-out.

A number of species indicative of calcicolous grasslands have been recorded from the parade ground and other grasslands, although most of these seem to have disappeared. These include {\it Anacamptis pyramidalis, Acinos arvensis, Daucus carota, Gymnadenia conopsea} and {\it Blackstonia perfoliata}. A number of calcicole species were still present in 1983, but in decline: {\it Origanum vulgare} and {\it Linum catharticum}.

Notable species associated with the grasslands include {\it Ophrys apifera, Gymnadenia conopsea, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. fuchsii, Botrychum lunaria, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Lathyrus nissola} and {\it Pyrola minor}. Several non-native species also occur in association with the grassland habitats. These include {\it Acaena novae} and {\it Verbascum blattaria}.

Additional higher plant species of interest recorded from the site include the nationally scarce (NS) {\it Lathyrus aphaca} plus {\it Spergularia arvensis, S. rubra, Aquilegia vulgaris, Berteroa incana, Lepidium heterophyllum, Rubus caesius, Sanguisorba minor, Potentilla argentea, P. erecta, P. norvegica, Genista anglica, Vicia hirsuta, V. tetrasperma, Lathyrus aphaca, Ornithopus perpusillus, Medicago arabica, Trifolium medium, T. striatum, Geranium pusillum, Euonymus europaeus, Sanicula europaea, Vinca minor, Centaurium pulchellum, Cuscuta epithymum, Cynoglossum officinale, Verbena officinalis} and {\it Ballota nigra}. 

N.B. NS = nationally scarce: recorded from between 16-100 ten km squares of the Ordnance Survey grid (JNCC, 1994).

The fungi of the site have been well-studied by S. Shepley and and B. Ing (see NT report). A wide variety of fungi have been recorded, including several rarities. These include {\it Incobye sub-tigrina}, which had not previously been known from the British Isles and {\it Cystoderma cinnabarina}, which was only known from Scotland. The best area for fungi appears to be an un-managed area of {\it Betula} sp. woodland to the east of the common.

Note adjacent to the road crossing the southern edge of the common: two small areas of mown amenity grassland adjacent to properties and a N.T. car park.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common forms part of a larger area of lowland heathland habitats comprising the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI. With its adjacent neighbour, CL 94, Milford Common, the two sites comprise an area managed as a National Trust Nature Reserve. 

Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, lowland heathland has been highlighted among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Without suitable management, the heaths would undergo a seral succession to scrub and woodland, which would result in the loss of open heath and drying of the wet heath and mire due to increased evapotranspiration. Indeed, this process has happened at Witley Common following the cessation of grazing prior to WW1. Thus the ideal management would be the reintroduction of traditional grazing (see below). 

Other threats to the nature conservation value of these heathlands include loss of suitable habitat conditions for some of the fauna due to drying (and direct loss due to uncontrolled accidental fires), trampling damage and disturbance of nesting birds etc. by humans and dogs, plus gross habitat change due to aerial pollution and agricultural runoff.

Active management at the site by the National Trust has involved extensive removal of trees and scrub that were encroaching onto the heathland habitats. A scattering of young birch and pine are to be left for the benefit of birds.
 
One part of the heath was badly affected by an accidental fire during 1975. There has been some concern expressed about the structural characteristics of the heather swards, which for the exception of the burnt area, are in a mature state. The aim shound be to have a more diverse age structure retaining stands of mature and senescent plants, but also encouraging new regeneration. Grazing of the site (in summer) by cattle was reintroduced in July of 1995. In addition, there is also rotational cutting of heather. 

Encroachment by bracken is also a significant problem and there has been a trial of various methods of bracken control over the years. Mechanical swiping of the bracken has met with some success and there has also been treatment with herbicide and removal of the deep bracken litter. In former times, the spread of bracken would have been controlled through trampling of the rhizomes by cattle hooves and through collection for bedding 

Much of the wooded areas are being selectively thinned to favour {\it Q. robur}. However one small area of broadleaved woodland, which is particularly interesting for its fungi, has been left unmanaged. "Master" trees of {\it Quercus} sp., whether {\it Q. robur} or {\it Q. cerris} with colonies of purple emperor, should be identified and conserved. 

Rides within the woodland are being widened and glades alongside them are being maintained by regular clearance. The aim is to create a well-developed woodland-edge habitat, with a gradual transition from open heathland into adjacent woodland, through a zone of scrub. 

Following topsoil application and levelling of the parade ground area, no management was undertaken until the area was cleared of scrub in 1963 and it has been regularly cleared since this time, mostly by hand. Chemical use has been avoided, although cut birch stumps were treated with herbicide in 1986. Grazing by rabbits has a significant impact on the structure of the grassland sward. During 1985, a 10m wide strip around the perimeter of the parade ground was cleared with the aim of enhancing the structural characteristics of the woodland edge.

There is a further, smaller area of grassland to the north of the parade ground, similarly treated with chalk topsoil. This and further small, deliberately created clearings are to be managed as open glades with a well-structred woodland edge habitat, with the retention also of areas of scrub within the open grassland. Quite heavy grazing by rabbits does not appear to exert any control over scrub development.

Other management activity has included the creation of two small ponds in 1986.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit (CLs 144, 94 and 95 in general) were: greenfinch, wren, willow warbler, green woodpecker, blue tit, great tit, blackbird, blackcap, jay, robin, chiff chaff, tree creeper, magpie, carrion crow, wood ant {\it Formica} sp., silver-studded blue butterfly, grey squirrel.

N.B. Silver studded blue butterfly is a "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (HMSO.

The National Trust Biological Survey report contains a detailed account of what is known of the invertebrate fauna of the common (please consult their report for this information). The only heathland area investigated for invertebrates was the old baseball pitch, which was found to have a good characteristic fauna including silver studded blue butterfly (with {\it Ulex minor} being a major foodplant of this species), plus the local robberfly {\it Neoitamus cyanurus} and the heathland ant, {\it Lasius argus}.

The grasslands also have a good range of invertebrates, but with heavy rabbit grazing, there is a general lack of structural diversity in the form of taller grass vegetation. On the other hand, disturbance by rabbits has maintained a good population of {\it Cynoglossum officinale}, an important nectar plant for the RDB3 blue carpenter bee {\it Ceratina cyanea}, which also nests and overwinters in hollow dead stems of {\it R. fruticosus} agg.

Tall growth of {\it Hypericum} sp. in the rabbit-grazed areas also supports the local leaf beetle {\it Chrysolina hyperici}, while taller swards support the local pea weevil {\it Bruchus loti} and grassland butterflies

In total, 36 species of butterfly have been recorded from the common (i.e. CLs 94 and 95), of which 30 are considered to be resident breeding species (please see under CL 95). 

The ornithological interest of the common is well documented and has been summarised in the NT Biological Survey report. The main interest is nightingale, this particular common being a major Surrey stronghold for this species, with an annual count of between 7-15 pairs. A good range of other species are also present, particularly warblers.

Note that the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
The common lies within the eastern part of a swathe of heathland situated on the Lower Greensand in the western part of the county, which stretches from the border with Hampshire at Frensham, as far eastwards as Milford (Waverley district). The majority of the common lies within the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI (see map).

The site lies mainly on the strongly acid, leached, podzolic soils of the Folkestone and Sandgate Beds of the Lower Greensand, which are highly infertile. The major portion of the common lies to the south of the A3(T), with a further area of land on the eastern side of Haslemere Road, known as Oxted Green. The site as a whole supports a complex mosaic of habitats largely comprising grassland, dense bracken, scrub and scrub-woodland, with smaller areas of dry heath. 

Most of the following information has been obtained from the National Trust Biological Survey Report of 1986, with additional target notes made during a brief visit to the site. Whilst it is recognised that this source is now perhaps a little out of date, there was insufficient time to re-survey. In addition, in the context of it being a National Trust site, where each property is visted at approximately 10 yearly intervals by a complete team of biological surveyors, it was felt that it would not be a profitable use of extremely limited field time to take more than a very brief look at this particular common.

The site was probably formerly mostly grassland, with some areas of lowland heathland, but there has been a gradual succession toward scrub/woodland since the cessation of grazing. The components of this habitat mosaic are outlined below, although in practice they occur in an intricate mosaic.

The main area of remaining grassland occurs in the southern part of Milford Common (i.e. N. of Haslemere Road), although even this has a complement of scrub and trees. Most compsises a closely rabbit-grazed sward, with quite a high species diversity, somewhat similar in character to that occurring on the adjacent CL 95, Witley Common. In Phase 1 terms this is neutral in character, with the sward dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, with carpets of {\it Lotus corniculatus} and a variety of other herbs such as {\it Centaurium erythraea, Prunella vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata} and, more locally, {\it Euphrasia} sp. and {\it Sedum acre}. Taller grassland swards include species such as {\it Hypericum perforatum} and {\it Pastinaca sativa}, as on Witley Common. There are several recordings of {\it Ophrys apifera}, plus a single sighting of {\it Orchis morio}, although this species may have been lost to scrub encroachment. The other "rarities" recorded from Witley Common do not appear to be present on Milford Common.

Species colonising the pipeline area include {\it Cynoglossum viride} and {\it Reseda luteola}. 

Toward the eastern side of the common the level of rabbit grazing is less intense and taller, less species-rich neutral grassland has developed dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, accompanied locally by {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. In addition, {\it Lathyrus nissola} also occurs here. Smaller areas of grassland on Oxted Green are of this latter type and are heavily trampled by public use. 

Bracken has colonised parts of the common, with dense stands occurring in places, especially toward the north of the site. Beneath the bracken canopy is a sparse field layer with grasses such as {\it A. capillaris, Holcus mollis} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, plus scattered acidic grassland herbs such as {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. Rare patches of {\it Erica cinerea}. Again, there are scattered trees of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Betula} sp. plus scrub throughout.

Elsewhere, scrub-woodland is developing, although there is a complete gradation in canopy cover from scattered bushes and trees within open grassland to closed canopy woodland. Shrub species include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus, Rosa} spp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix cinerea} and, at Oxted Green, {\it Frangula alnus} and {\it Cytisus scoparius}. Tree regeneration is mainly of {\it Quercus robur}, but also includes some {\it Q. cerris, Betula} spp., and {\it Pinus sylvestris}. A single tree of {\it Sorbus torminalis} (possibly planted) has been recorded at GR SU 932 411 - this being described as a "very local" native of the county, "generally restricted to woods and hedgerows on clay, particularly the Wealden Clay" (ref. Lousley, 1976 - referred to in NT Biological Survey report). 

The scrub field layer varies according to the density of the scrub. More open areas tend to have species typical of the grassland areas, whereas the dense scrub has a field layer comprising {\it Glechoma hederacea, Prunella vulgaris, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. 

More mature woodland occurs locally, especially on the SE side of Oxted Green. The canopy contains a mixture of {\it Q. robur, Betula} sp. and {\it Pinus sylvestris} in varying proportions. A sparse shrub layer mainly comprises {\it C. monogyna}. To the north of the common is an area of more mature {\it Q. robur} woodland where the shrub layer is better-developed and contains {\it C. monogyna, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Frangula alnus}. The field layer of these more mature woodlands is species poor and mainly comprises {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Holcus mollis}, with {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it P. aquilinum} in more open areas. Note also the small block of mature {\it P. sylvestris} woodland to the western side of the common - probably of self-seeded origin.

The main area of heathland on Milford Common occurs on sloping ground to the north, with smaller areas elsewhere. All is dry in character and comprises a mixture of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it Ulex minor}. Grassy areas dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} occur locally, with their distribution and the proportions of the three dwarf shrubs apparently being related to the length of time that an area was last burnt.

Mature {\it Calluna} has a well-developed understorey of mosses, mainly {\it Hypnum jutlandicum}, with {\it Polytrichum juniperinum} in younger stands, for example on a former baseball pitch to the SW of the common. Lichens, mainly {\it Cladonia} spp., are also found in this area. Paths and tracks through the heath have a number of associated acidic grassland species such as {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella, Jasione montana} and {\it Ornithopus perpusillus}.  Much of the heath has a scattering of trees of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Pinus sylvestris}, plus bushes of {\it Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common forms part of a larger area of lowland heathland habitats comprising the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI. With its adjacent neighbour, CL 95, Witley Common, the two sites comprise an area which is managed as a National Trust Nature Reserve.

The common at present comprises a diverse moasic of grassland, mixed scrub and scrub-woodland, together with smaller areas of lowland heathland vegetation. For an account of the importance of lowland heathland habitat, which has seen a serious decline in recent decades, and which is also one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, please refer to the neighbouring CL 95.

The site has been managed, mainly for its bird interest, through rotational clearance of scrub to maintain the structural diversity of habitats, especially for nightingale. Cutting of scrub in patches and allowing subsequent regrowth is seen as the ideal form of maintenance and prevents a succession to closed canopy woodland. Selective thinning of more mature woodland may also be beneficial, with removal of non-native species such as {\it Quercus cerris}. However, "master" trees of {\it Quercus} sp., whether {\it Q. robur} or {\it Q. cerris} with colonies of purple emperor (if there are any on this particular common), should be identified and conserved. 

Grassland has been heavily influenced by heavy rabbit grazing, which has reduced the structural diversity of the sward, although one benefit has been the creation of disturbed areas to maintain a good population of {\it Cynoglossum officinale}. Clearance of scrub to continue within grassland as necessary, especially along grassland/scrub/woodland margins, with scalloped edges to maximise habitat interfaces. Some rotational cutting of parts of the taller grassland may be required at enhance structural diversity and retain some of the more interesting species. Attempted control of rabbit population by shooting.

There has been some layering of hawthorn scrub on part of the site in an attempt to increase its value for breeding nightingale, by creating a more dense scrub. 

In contrast, Oxted Green has received little management, apart from clearance of scrub beneath an overhead power line, and in consequence has been gradually developing into secondary woodland. Rabbit numbers here appear fewer, which has also allowed the grassland to become colonised by scrub and bracken.

Heathland should generally be kept free of encroaching trees and scrub, although scattered trees and bushes at low frequency will provide perches for birds and shelter for invertebrates. Control of bracken may also be required. Some cutting of heather takes place to create a more diverse age-structure with a spectrum from mature/senescent plants to new seedlings. Locally the heather has been selectively grazed into a short carpet by the high numbers of rabbits. Ideal management would be the reintroduction of traditional grazing. Several small enclosed areas were noted within an area of heath.

Accidental fires are an ever-present threat to the site, with a severe fire affecting heath on the NE portion in the 1960s, and a fire to the south in 1976. 

During 1981, an oil pipeline was laid across the common, disturbing a strip about 10m wide. Since this time, the affected area has largely been allowed to re-vegetate naturally, although a variety of shrubs have been planted in a series of small fenced enclosures along the route.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: skylark and songthrush (UK BAP "Priority Species") chiff chaff, greenfinch, blue tit, wren, pheasant, blackcap, jay, green woodpecker, plus painted lady and meadow brown butterflies and also a damselfly, the banded agrion {\it Agrion splendens}.

the common lies within an area which has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register (i.e. Charterhouse Alderholt - Site no. 6). The main invertebrate interest is mainly Diptera, plus the large pond skater. Also three RDB species, which is considered a relatively high number for such a small site in comparison to others in the Register. Described as a top national site for Diptera, and in particular the Tipulidae.

VEG:
The common lies along the flood plain of the River Wey in Godalming (Waverley district).

The great majority of this common has been covered under a survey undertaken by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and subsequently selected as SNCI. This includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of this project. Additional notes were made during a visit to this site.

The southern boundary of the common follows the River Wey itself and the site therefore lies on the river alluvium. The drainage is believed to be seasonally poor, producing locally waterlogged/gleyed soils, while elsewhere there are better-drained sandy alluvial components. Note that the SNCI stretches northwards beyond that of the common, as far as the nearby houses and is therefore appreciably larger than the size of the common.

The greater part of the common comprises a complex habitat moasic which encompasses elements of scrub, broadleaved trees and tall herb/marshy grassland vegetation (progressing locally to a true woodland canopy). The main tree species are {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix} spp. (incl. {\it S. fragilis} and {\it S. cinerea}). The tall herb/marshy grassland includes frequent/abundant {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Filipendula ulmaria, Symphitum} sp., {\it Urtica dioica}, occasional/frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Arrhenatherum elatius, Stachys sylvatica, Artemisia vulgaris, Carex} spp., {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Galium aparine, Lysimachia vulgaris, Lythrum salicaria, Ranunculus repens, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica, Valeriana officinalis, Eupatorium cannabinum, Vicia cracca} and {\it Myosoton aquaticum}, plus locally occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus, Hesperis matronalis} and {\it Arctium minus}.

The south-western corner (1) has more fully-developed scrub/woodland, again with the dominant tree species of {\it A. glutinosa, Salix fragilis} and {\it S. cinerea}. The field layer tends to be dominated by species such as {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica, H. sphondylium, Galium aparine, Ranunculus repens, Holcus lanatus}, with locally frequent {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}, plus occasional {\it Silene dioica, Impatiens} sp., {\it Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Lapsana communis}. Other recorded associates of wooded portions of the site include {\it Mercurialis perennis, Carex pendula, C. remota, Athyrium filix-femina, Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium}.

The bank of the river also has mature trees of {\it A. glutinosa} and {\it S. fragilis}. Other species noted along here: {\it Impatiens glandulifera, Epilobium hirsutum, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides, P. arundinacea} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

Woodland at (2) again has a canopy dominated by {\it A. glutinosa}, tending to {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} on sloping land to the north. There is a sparse shrub layer of {\it Corylus avellana} and rare {\it Salix cinerea}. The field layer has abudnant {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Equisetum telemateia, Aegopodium podagraria, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Moheringia trinervia, Stachys sylvatica, Oenenthe crocata} (next to stream), {\it Galium aparine}, plus locally occasional {\it Lapsana communis, H. sphondylium, R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. Note a large tree of {\it Tilia} sp. near to the houses. This area is not part of the SNCI.

(3). Here there is an open area next to the river where there is an impressive stand of {\it Equisetum telemateia}, accompanied by locally frequent {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Artemisia vulgaris, H. sphondylium} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

(4). Note tall trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa} along the course of this ditch.

(5). A much more open area with only scattered trees of {\it A. glutinosa} and {\it S. cinarea}. The vegetation is mainly dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with a wide band of {\it U. dioica} adjacent to the ditch running along the southern side of this copmartment. Noted along this channel itself was {\it Sparganium erectum}.

(6). This is one of two small portions remote from the rest of the common. Comprises a coarse neutral grassland/tall ruderal sward with {\it Arrhenetherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Senecio jacobaea, Rumex obtusifolius, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. Not part of the SNCI.

(7). This area was in practice difficult to find, being inserted somewhere in a continuous row of houses. Again it is not part of the SNCI. The northern portion appears to be an allotment-style garden, while the lower portion is broadleaved woodland comprising {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it C. avellana}.

MANAGE:
The greater part of the common is unmanaged at present. Judging by the name, the site was probably formerly grazing land (compare with CL 153 lying immediately to the east). The development of scrub and woodland on CL 380 is held in check to some degree by clearance of trees beneath a power line which crosses the site. 

The tall herb/fen/marshy grassland communities on this common are of undoubted ecological interest. The well-developed structural elements created by the mosaic of habitats offers potential for a range of birds, small mammals and invertebrates, in addition to being visually attractive. Perhaps a more carefully controlled programme of scrub clearance would be an appropriate management objective. Continued monitoring of this site is recommended, together with surveys of selected fauna.


FAUNA:
Noted during the siet visit were: blue tit, blackcap, robin.

VEG:
This common lies to the south of Witley (Waverley district) and forms one of a number of blocks of woodland which were surveyed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project. This includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of this project. The measured area of the common is in fact below the threshold value of 1.0 ha. but it has been included by virtue of it lying within a candidate SNCI. The site was assessed from the adjacent road during the present survey. The greater part of the candidate SNCI has indeed been so designated, however, the common itself constitutes a small portion of the site that was not in fact included as part of the SNCI.

The common comprises a block of broadleaved semi-natural woodland. The canopy comprises mature trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Q. petraea}, with occasional individuals of {\it Castanea sativa, Fagus sylvatica} and very occasionally, small trees of {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The {\it C. sativa} trees appear to be in the process of seeding-in from mature trees along the edge of the woodland compartment lying immediately to the eastern edge of the common.

Much of the wood has a fairly well-developed shrub layer with {\it Ilex aquifolium} (some large trees in canopy gaps), plus occasional {\it Corylus avellana} (mostly coppiced in earlier times) together with sapling {\it C. sativa} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

The field layer is somewhat sparse, often only comprising a layer of leaf litter. Locally the field layer has {\it Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Adjacent to the road the field layer is better-developed, with locally abundant {\it Polytrichum} sp. (probably {\it P. formosum}) and locally frequent {\it Circaea lutetiana, Hedera helix, Viola} sp., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Stellaria holostea, Lonicera periclymenum, Teucrium scorodonia, Geranium robertianum, Lapsana communis} and {\it Tamus communis}.

Locally some of the {\it I. aquifolium} bushes have abundant climbing {\it L. periclymenum}. There are a number of dead standing stumps of {\it Betula pendula}, while some trees of {\it Q. robur} have well-developed dead branches.

MANAGE:
The site appears to be largely unmanaged at present. There is evidence of some past coppicing of hazels, with one or two quite sizable old coppice stools being noted near to the road.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chiff chaff, swallow, blackbird. The varied structural elements of the common appear to offer good potential for birds of scrub, woodland and woodland edge. A good variety of birds have been recorded: tits, finches and woodpeckers etc.

The report of the National Trust Biological Survey (1983) notes the presence of the wood ant {\it Formica rufa}, which occurs in abundance throughout much of the site. This is a "local" species in the UK and so sites with thriving colonies are particularly important.

Also recorded in 1983 was a local species of weevil, {\it Trachyphloeus alternans}, found in a small patch of grassland, together with a fairly good variety of commoner beetles. These included the weevil, {\it Sitona regensteijensis} on gorse; and on heather, the weevil {\it Strophosomus lateralis} and the heather beetle, {\it Lochmaea suturalis}.

Found on birch were a number of common weevils: {\it Rhynchaenus rusci, Ramphus pulicarius, Polydrusus tereticollis, Phyllobius argentatus, Strophosomus captiatus} and {\it S. melanogrammus}.

Other invertebrate groups such as spiders, bugs, flies and Hymenoptera were also represented but did not appear to be as rich as the beetles. Flies and Hymenoptera were noticeably poorer.

VEG:
The common lies near to the hamlet of Sandhills (Waverley district). The site was covered by a National Trust Biological Survey during 1983. It was re-assessed during the course of the present survey.

The common is effectively divided into two separate components by the road which crosses the site (i.e. Brook Road). To the north of the road lies a south-facing hillside, along the base of which are a series of long-disused sand pits. This hillside has a complex mosaic of habitats, largely dominated by dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus scattered scrub, broadleaved trees and, toward the north-east, small remnants of grass/heath vegetation. Trees and shrubs occurring include {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Quercus robur, Q. cerris} (sapling), {\it Ulex europaeus, Sorbus aucuparia, Sorbus aria, Frangula alnus, Castanea sativa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. (also recorded: {\it Malus sylvestris} and {\it Viburnum opulus}). 

The remnant grass/heath areas are now very shaded by the scrub, trees and bracken. They comprise {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella, Calluna vulgaris} (mature bushes 1-1.5m tall) and, less frequently, {\it Erica cinerea. Melampyrum pratense}, described as "locally common" in the National Trust report, was found now to occur only in grassy areas alongside paths. In only one restricted area could it be described as locally frequent. Also recorded: {\it Jasione montana, Aira praecox} and {\it Trifolium arvense}. Noted elsewhere alongside one of the paths was locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus {\it Hieracium} sp.

Further up the slope this vegetation merges into a mixed woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp./{\it Betula} sp. Occsaional bushes of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} were noted, with a field layer which includes frequent/abundant {\it P. aquilinum}, abundant leaf litter and locally frequent {\it Stellaria holostea}. Also recorded: {\it Melica uniflora, Lonicera periclymenum, Hedera helix} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. To the north of the road is a better-developed mature oakwood, locally with a shrub layer of {\it R. ponticum} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Mosses recorded: {\it Mnium hornum, Brachythecium rutabulum} and {\it Polytrichum formosum}.

At the western end of the common lies a narrow road verge which runs in front of several houses, and is crossed by two drives. This supports quite a diverse neutral grassland sward on what appears to be a very sandy substrate. This has dominant {\it Holcus lanatus}, occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata}, plus locally occasional {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Poa annua}. Associated forbs include frequent {\it Achillea millefolium}, occasional/frequent {\it Hypochaeris radicata} and occasional {\it Plantago lanceolata, Tragopogon pratensis, Vicia sativa, Veronica chamaedrys, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium pratense, Geranium pusillum, Crepis capillaris, Senecio jacobaea} and {\it Papaver rhoeas}. Locally elsewhere, the grassland appears to be less diverse with abundant {\it Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it A. odoratum} coming-in. The moss {\it Brachythecium rutabulum} is also locally abundant here.

At the top of the slope, adjacent to houses there is an area of mown amenity grassland, adjacent to a small bare ground car park. A small infestation of {\it Reynoutria japonica}, recorded in 1983, is still present and well-established.

The southern portion of the common occupies a relatively level area. This has a fringe of secondary broadleaved woodland with a canopy which includes {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Betula} sp., {\it C. sativa, Corylus avellana} and locally, suckers of {\it Ulmus procera}. The field layer includes {\it R. fruticosus} agg., {\it P. aquilinum, L. periclymenum} and {\it H. helix}.

Within the central portion is a clear area which has remnant dry heath vegetation in the form of {\it Calluna vulgaris}. This occurs at around 50 per cent cover, as fairly even-aged, young (pioneer) plants. The remaining cover comprises some scattered dense bracken, occasional patches of scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub, occasional scattered trees ({\it Quercus} sp., {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Castanea sativa}), plus around 10-15 per cent bare sandy substrate. The plants of {\it Calluna} probably originate from the clearance of encroaching bracken and trees from the site a few years ago. Indeed, along one side of this area there is a large linear mound of removed bracken litter present.

MANAGE:
The site is included within the Surrey Lowland Heathland Inventory. This quotes a site area of 3.7 ha, comprising 26.7 ha dry heath! and 1.2 ha wet heath. Lowland heathland is one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

As can be seen, the National Trust have been extremely active in trying to maintain and expand the extent of dwarf shrub vegetation at this site, through appropriate clearance of encroaching bracken, scrub and trees. The cleared area to the south of the common now has a developing sward of dry {\it Calluna} heath. It appears as though re-treatment of the bracken may be necessary, as this is now beginning to encroach once more.

The northern section of the common appears to have been left unmanaged, apart from the provision of footpath route markers. This seems to follow on from the suggestions made by the Biological Survey Team for this area. However, they also suggested: 

i). selective removal of the {\it Fallopia japonica} infestation (still surviving) and occasional alien trees such as {\it Quercus cerris, Prunus laurocerasus, R. ponticum} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}; 

ii). periodic thinning of native species to maintain clearings, views and the structural diversity of habitats, in particular the woodland margins and the acidic grassland swards. The frequency of {\it Melampyrum pratense} and the area of dwarf shrubs appears to have declined in this area since the 1983 survey.   

The small area of amenity grassland is mown, probably by the adjacent householders. In addition, the sandy road verge to the far west is probably also occasionally mown, either by adjacent residents or the local authority.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: songthrush and bullfinch (UK BAP "Priority Species") plus willow warbler, chiff chaff, blackbird, swallow, chaffinch, robin, grey heron, blackcap, cuckoo, blue tit, coal tit, jay, green woodpecker, nuthatch. Also seen: grey squirrel, speckled wood butterfly and rabbit burrows.

VEG:
This is a varied site comprising several distinct blocks of land lying approximately mid-way between Wormley and Chiddingfold (Waverley district). The common overlaps with a total of five sites which have been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project. These include a general description which have been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. Additional notes were made while walking round the site on various rights of way during the course of the present project. Subsequently, only two of the five pSNCI sites have been selected as SNCI. These account for the greater portion of the southern part of the common and none of the northern part of the common has been selected as SNCI (see below).

The common as a whole breaks down into a number of distinctive separate parts.......

A. Buss's Common (non-pSNCI). 

This is the most northerly part of the site. Most of this area comprises a rather open woodland canopy dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} (including some mature, open-grown trees, plus smaller individuals). Other locally occasional trees include {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Larix decidua} (self-seeded from adjacent plantation?), plus {\it Sorbus aucuparia} (approx. 10 per cent cover of conifers). A number of standing dead trees of {\it Q. robur} and {\it Betula} sp. noted, plus good quantities of fallen timber of varying size. The shrub layer is generally sparse with {\it Ilex aquifolium} with locally occasional {\it Amelanchier lamarckii, Frangula alnus} and {\it Castanea sativa} (sapling). The field layer is largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with locally occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Abundant {\it P. aquilinum} and other leaf litter. Canopy gaps are quite frequent with sapling {\it Betula} sp. and dense {\it P. aquilinum}.

To the north-east the woodland becomes somewhat damp in character with {\it Alnus glutinosa} in the canopy. In one area, the field layer has tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea} and locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus}.

Note the wide sandy track, used by horseriders, to the south of this compartment.

B. Hambledon Common (mostly pSNCI, but not selected). 

This part of the common forms a pronounced hill over the Hythe Beds of the Lower Greensand. As a consequence, the soils are sandy and drainage good - resulting in generally acidic conditions. There are localised areas with impeded drainage, with consequent development of gleyed soils. This area was formerly heathland, although has in recent years seen the development of a secondary broadleaved woodland. 

(1). Small remnants of heath vegetation remain in this area, but most now comprises a mixture of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} plus colonising broadleaved and coniferous trees (i.e. {\it Betula} sp., {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Quercus} spp.). The top of the hill has small remnants of dry heath and has been actively managed in recent years to encourage the restoration of this habitat, through the removal of encroaching bracken and trees. Here there are several stands of healthy {\it Calluna vulgaris}, as both seedling plants and also as more mature stands. Locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} also present. In between are areas of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} acidic grassland, whilst there are also scattered bushes of {\it Ulex europaeus} present.

N.B. This part of the common is highlighted in English Nature's Lowland Heathland Inventory.

(2). To the north lies an area which appears to be storm-damaged secondary woodland. Battered trees of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Betula} sp. and {\it P. sylvestris} are a prominent feature. In between is a sward of dense {\it P. aquilinum} with abundant sapling trees of {\it Betula} spp. and occasional/frequent {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Castanea sativa} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Bryophytes noted here during present survey: {\it Polytrichum formosum, Hypnum jutlandicum, Dicranum scoparium, Mnium hornum} and {\it Lepidozia reptans}.

(3). Damp woodland, again with {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Occasional {\it Rhododendron ponticum} as an undershrub.

(4). These slopes to the south of the hill have a much more established secondary broadleaved woodland. Again {\it Q. robur} and {\it Betula} spp. are locally prominent in the canopy. Elsewhere, especially towards the road, {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus cerris} are prominent. Large trees of {\it F. sylvatica} along the western boundary adjacent to "Hambledon Homes".

C. Land South of Millhouse Lane (part pSNCI, but not selected).

This comprises two parcels of land (5). Part of the most southerly of these is pSNCI. Most of this area is a fairly recent secondary broadleaved woodland with a canopy predominantly comprising a mixture of {\it Quercus robur, Q. cerris} and {\it Betula pendula}. A number of occasional associates recorded within the pSNCI area include some non-native species which are of either planted or self-seeded origin. These include {\it S. aucuparia, Castanea sativa, Fraxinus excelsior, Robinia pseudoacacia, Prunus} sp., {\it Malus sylvestris, Populus tremula} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The shrub layer includes locally frequent sapling {\it Q. cerris}, with occsional/frequent {\it Ilex aquifolium} and occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Once again, the field layer compsises {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Holcus lanatus, Urtica dioica} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

Occasional damp areas in the field layer with {\it Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}.

There are two small ponds to the north of Cricket Green Lane (6). That to the west is vegetated with a mat of {\it Glyceria fluitans} (no open water evident). Locally occasional clumps of {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The easternmost of the two ponds lies adjacent to an area of open mown grassland next to the village store/post office. Here there was little vegetation in the water itself - occasional plants of {\it Nymphaea alba} noted. Marginal vegetation includes {\it Iris pseudacorus, Carex acuta, Glyceria fluitans, Typha latifolia} and {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}.

D. Beech Hill (pSNCI, but not selected).

Block of broadleaved woodland to the south with a canopy comprising a mixture of {\it Quercus} spp. (mostly {\it Q. cerris}), {\it Betula} spp., {\it Castanea sativa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. There is a patchy understorey of old coppice {\it Corylus avellana, Ulmus procera, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Salix capraea, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The field layer is dominated by {\it Hedera helix} with patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and various grasses. 

Other associates include several species which suggest an ancient woodland character: {\it Melica uniflora, Elymus canina, Milium effusum, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium}. Other more common associates include {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Impatiens parviflora, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Circaea lutetiana, Urtica dioica, Geranium robertianum, Silene dioica, Lapsana communis} and {\it Geum urbanum}. There are old records for {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} from this part of the common. A number of introduced species associated with tipping of garden rubbish: {\it Buddleja} spp., {\it Crocosmia} sp., {\it Fallopia japonica} and {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon} (garden variety - subsp. {\it argentatum}).

The northern part of this area comprises an open sward of semi-improved neutral grassland with occasional scattered broadleaved trees. This grassland is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, with occasional/frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Poa trivialis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. Edges tend to have a coarser sward of {\it D. glomerata} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. A range of common neutral grassland forbs includes locally abundant {\it Lotus corniculatus}, occasional/frequent {\it Trifolium dubium, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex acetosa, Vicia sativa, Veronica chamaedrys, Hypochaeris radicata} and locally occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. 

Several large specimen trees of {\it Q. cerris}, one of {\it Q. robur} and one of {\it Eucalyptus} sp. on this area.

E. Hambledon Green Wood (selected as SNCI). 

This strip of land running in a north-south direction, effectively forms a link between the northern and southern elements of the common. This part of the site lies upon the Weald Clay. The canopy along this section has a quite varied species composition and includes {\it Quercus robur, Q. cerris, Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula} spp. and, occasionally, {\it Prunus avium. Q. cerris} appears especially well-represented to the north of this area, with clearly planted avenues of mature trees along tracks in the vicinity of the two ponds. Presumably these individuals have been the source of the spread of this non-native species into adjoining woodlands. Adjacent to the more northerly of the ponds is an area with abundant maturing {\it Populus x canescens}. 

The shrub layer is also quite variable and includes: {\it Corylus avellana} (some as old coppice stools), {\it Sambucus nigra, Sorbus aucuparia, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and rarely, {\it Viburnum opulus}. Wet areas of the wood have {\it Alnus glutinosa} forming the canopy with a shrub layer of {\it Salix} spp.

The field layer is generally dominated by any of {\it Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Poa trivialis, Dactylis glomerata, Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Other associates include: {\it Melica uniflora, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Viola} spp., {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Ranunculus repens, Prunella vulgaris, Alliaria petiolata, Scrophularia nodosa, Rumex sanguineus, Sanicula europaea, Silene dioica, Stellaria holostea, Stachys sylvatica, Teucrium scorodonia, Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Veronica montana}. Seasonally wet areas include {\it Lysimachia nummularia, Epilobium hirsutum, Juncus effusus} and {\it Carex remota}. Species of more localised occurrence include {\it Carex sylvatica, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Festuca gigantea, Galeopsis tetrahit, Ligustrum vulgare, Milium effusum, Solanum dulcamara, Solidago virgaurea} and {\it Vicia sepium}. Localised area with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (beneath {\it F. sylvatica}). Rare {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. 

Toward the north of this area are two heavily silted ponds. The northernmost  largely comprises a stagnated pit with no open water and a deep layer of leaf litter. Marginal vegetation is mainly stands of {\it Urtica dioica} with very occasional clumps of {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The larger, more southerly pond has also dried-up and is being colonised by tree seedlings plus {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Carex remota}.

F. Hambledon Hurst. 

This forms one element of a larger SNCI ancient woodland site. Most of this part of the common is highligthed in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory.

This entire area was formerly managed as coppice with standards. The coppice element is varied with a mosaic of {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior} and, to a lesser extent, {\it Carpinus betulus} and {\it Castanea sativa}, whilst the standard trees are mostly {\it Quercus robur}. However, during the latter part of the 19th century, much of the woodlands were modified through planting of either {\it Quercus cerris} or {\it Fagus sylvatica}. Indeed much of the common appears to have such a character, comprising a high forest of widely-spaced standard trees of either of these two species. Other locally occasional trees include {\it Castanea sativa, Taxus baccata, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}. 

The shrub layer is quite varied, in some places being very sparse. Elsewhere it is dense with old coppice stools of {\it Corylus avellana}. Other associates include {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Carpinus betulus}. Similarly, the field layer is also generally quite sparse, in the most part merely comprising a dense layer of leaf litter. Localised small stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Other features of note include several large fallen dead standard trees. Mosses noted (mainly on tree trunks/dead timber): {\it Mnium hornum, Atrichum undulatum, Eurynchium striatum, E. praelongum, Isothecium myosuroides, Hypnum mammilatum} and {\it Brachythecium rutabulum}.

Despite this widespread conversion to high forest, the pSNCI as a whole has a locally very rich field layer, with communities typical of both base-rich and base-poor soil types. Characteristic species include {\it Mercurialis perennis, Viola riviniana, Anemone nemorosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lamiastrum galeobdolon}, and {\it Veronica montana}. Other notable species include {\it Sorbus torminalis, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Epipactis helleborine} and {\it Listera ovata}. In all, at least 31 ancient woodland indicator species have been recorded for the area as a whole. A particularly species-rich feature appears to be the stream/ghyll which runs east-west along the northern boundary of this part of the common.

For the sake of clarity, the pSNCI/SNCI boundaries have not been outlined on the habitat map. The total area coincident with SNCI can be calculated from this report. For SNCI boundary information, the reader should consult Surrey Wildlife Trust.

MANAGE:
Across the common as a whole, there is a relatively low level of management at present, mainly concentrated on the northernmost parts.

As outlined, there has been work aimed at restoring the remnants of lowland heathland on hambledon Common - mainly through removal of encroaching trees, scraping of vegetation litter and spraying of bracken. Some of the seedling {\it Calluna} plants have been covered with chicken wire to try and protect them from rabbit-grazing. This work has been undertaken by the landowner with assistance from the Surrey Heathland Project.

Small areas of grassland adjacent to roads in the northern part of the common are periodically mown.

Over the site as a whole there is a wide variation in the nature of the habitats present. This ranges from the ancient woodland on Hambledon Hurst through to the open secondary woodland around Hambledon Common, with its associated remnants of lowland dry heath. "Lowland Heathland" is one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In addition, the wooded areas of the common contain some small wet areas with alder: "Wet Woodland" also being one of the UK BAP "Priority Habitats".

The ancient, largely replanted woodland of Hambledon Hurst is notable for its locally high species diversity. There are also a wide variety of deadwood habitats which suggest that this part of the common is of considerable nature conservation importance.

Future management on Hambledon Common might see consolidation of the lowland heath rehabilitation through clearance of encroaching trees and bracken. Further detailed survey is needed for Hambledon Hurst before a suitable management regime can be put forward. For example, survey of invertebrate populations is required, in particular to determine the importance of any dead wood habitat. One management option may be to reinstate a coppice rotation in selected areas. Other management here and in other woodlands of the common might aim to remove alien tree species. There has been some clearance of storm-damaged trees. Ideally this activity should be minimised, in order to encourage the accumulation of additional dead wood habitat.

Occasional nesting boxes were noted in some of the trees on the common.

Ancient Woodland: a total of 22.2ha of the A111 area of the common is recorded as Ancient Woodland. This represents 40 per cent of the area of A111 recorded or 35 per cent of the total area of the common.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: wren, chiff chaff, blue tit, nuthatch, blackbird, green woodpecker, yellowhammer, meadow brown butterfly.

VEG:
The common comprises several narrow stretches of roadside verge situated along the B2128 etc. approximately mid-way between Shamley Green and Cranleigh (Waverley district). The main habitat is semi-natural broadleaved woodland, apparently all of secondary origin.

(1) - Alongside Upper House Lane. Narrow strip of broadleaved woodland with canopy comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and less frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. One large planted tree of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} next to the road. Shrub and field layers are quite diverse. Shrub layer: {\it Ulmus} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Corylus avellana} (some as overstood coppice) and {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus saplings of {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. Field layer: locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Mercurialis perennis, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Glechoma hederacea, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Geranium robertianum}, plus locally occasional {\it Lapsana communis, Geum urbanum, Stachys sylvatica, Carex remota, Bromus ramosus} and {\it Alliaria petiolata}. 

(2). This section comprises a wooded green lane, with the tree canopy again comprising {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. excelsior}. Shrub layer includes locally occasional {\it F. excelsior} (saplings), {\it A. campestre, C. monoguna, Prunus spinosa, C. avellena} (again some have been coppiced in past), {\it Ilex aquifolium, Rosa} sp., {\it Ulmus} sp., {\it Cornus sanguinea} and, rarely, {\it Euonymus europaeus}. Field layer once again fairly diverse with {\it Hedera helix, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Galium aparine, Geum urbanum, Lapsana communis, Mercurialis perennis, Stachys sylvatica, Glechoma hederacea, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Melica nutans, Rumex sanguineus, Stellaria holostea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}.

There was one cleared area noted with vegetation dominated by {\it R. fruticosus} agg., plus various ruderal-type species: {\it Urtica dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Calystegia sepium}.

This strip swings round south-eastwards where the track meets the B2128. This verge comprises further sections of broadleaved woodland, interspersed with areas of mown amenity grassland in front of properties. 

(3). Continuing broadleaved woodland strip, again with canopy of {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. excelsior} plus occasional {\it A. campestre}. Field layer mostly {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with some {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged, apart from the mowing of several areas of the verges as amenity grassland. There is evidence of past small-scale hazel coppice. The green lane is used for driving cattle and also vehicular access to Bisney Cottage. Despite being narrow strips, the woodland of the common is of quite diverse species composition.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blue tit, wren, yellowhammer, blackbird, greenfinch, blackcap, robin, chiff chaff, green woopecker, rabbits.

VEG:
The common comprises a series of road verges adjacent to the A281 and various adjoining minor roads (Waverley district). The main habitats are secondary broadleaved woodland and areas of coarse neutral grassland/tall ruderal species.

The wooded areas mainly have a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The shrub layer includes occasional saplings of {\it F. excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium}, re-grown coppice stools of {\it Corylus avellana} and rarely, {\it Acer campestre}. The field layer is often dominated either by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. or continuous stands of {\it Urtica dioica}. More diverse areas have locally frequent {\it Stellaria holostea, Galium aparine, Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix, Glechoma hederacea, Moehringia trinervia, Silene dioica} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, plus locally occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Geum urbanum, Circaea lutetiana, Mercurialis perennis, Lysimachia nemorum, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it D. filix-mas}. 

(1). Area of woodland adjacent to a dried-up pond. Large old tree of {\it Salix} sp.

In addition to the wooded portions, there are also a number of areas of neutral grassland. 

(2) - Goose Green. This is the most interesting area of grassland, appearing fairly species-rich in character. This is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. Occasional/frequent forbs include {\it Stellaria graminea, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Veronica chamaedrys, Rumex acetosa, Achillea millefolium, Agrimonia eupatoria, Leucanthemum vulgare, Potentilla reptans, Lathyrus pratensis} and the moss {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}. A narrow roadside strip of grassland continuing eastwards from here is notable for possessing a large population of {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} - although this area had been very badly trampled by people coming to inspect them!

Grassland on the common elsewhere is still neutral in character, but is generally characterised by coarse grasses, often with ruderal-type species present, although in many cases still retaining a good proportion of neutral grassland forbs. The dominant grasses are {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, with {\it Lolium perenne} occurring locally. Other associates include {\it Ranunculus repens, Trifolium pratense, Leucanthemum vulgare, Centaurea nigra, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Pulicaria dysenterica, Epilobium hirsutum, Lathyrus pratensis, Stellaria graminea, Hypericum tetrapterum, H. perforatum} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}.

There has been some encroachment of scrub/trees onto these verges in places. 

(3). The centre of this verge has an area of closely rabbit-grazed grassland.

(4). This pleasant narrow country lane has hedges/trees either side with coarse grass/ruderal species at the base: {\it D. glomerata, A. elatius, H. sphondylium, Aegopodium podargaria, Poa trivialis, Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris, Urtica dioica} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. Hedge includes {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, plus mature trees of {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. excelsior}.  

Adjacent blocks of woodland have canopy of {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. excelsior}, with abundant {\it Mercurialis perennis} in field layer. Continues further south, bounded by defunct hedges/trees. 

The extreme southern part of the common was omitted from the surveyed area as it was not realised at the time that it was part of the common. It is likely to have a continuation of the adjacent habitats to the north. The main block west of the A281 appears to be wooded. There was insufficient time to subsequently re-visit the site and ideally this part of the common requires surveying.

MANAGE:
A significant part of the common appears unmanaged at present. Some evidence of haphazard coppicing of hazels in the wooded portions. The site was probably grazing verges in historic times. 

Today, some of the remaining grassland verges may be periodically mown. However, the ingress of ruderals, scrub and trees may suggest that other areas are mown infrequently, if at all. With several stands of quite diverse grassland habitat present on the common, it may be worth considering giving some attention to a suitable management regime. The greatest structural diversity of habitat would arise from a twice yearly cut in the shorter, more diverse swards, with less frequent mowing of the taller vegetation. Any mowing should not take place before mid-summer (to allow seed-setting), with removal of the cut material to prevent eutrophication. In addition, a rotational cut would preserve a continuity of habitat. Note that rabbit-grazing on one area is significant. It is unfortunate that the area with orchids has been trampled.

Taken as a whole, the common forms part of an extensive complex of road verges in this part of the county. The lanes to the south-east are particularly attractive.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: songthrush and skylark (both UK BAP "Priority Species") plus blue tit, nuthatch, yellowhammer, chiff chaff, meadow brown butterfly.

VEG:
The common lies just south of the Winterfold ridge, approximately 1.5 km north of Cranleigh (Waverley district). A small part of the common lies within an area surveyed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project, although none of this site has subsequently been selected as SNCI. This includes a general description, which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. The part of the common concerned incorporates the majority of the wooded area to the north-east of the site. Mapping of habitats was done with reference to the Surrey Phase 1 aerial photograph survey, with target notes being made during the course of the present survey.

The southern and western part of the common lies on fairly level ground at the base of the Winterfold ridge. However, to the north-east of the site, the land begins to rise onto the lower slopes of the ridge.

The common as a whole is mainly open grassland. This vegetation comprises a relatively species-poor sward typically dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}. Other associates include locally occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Phleum pratense} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. In places, particularly toward the margins and roadsides, {\it A. elatius} becomes abundant. Elsewhere there are shorter, rabbit-grazed swards, dominated mainly by {\it Agrostis capillaris, L. perenne} becoming abundant along paths. The range of forbs etc. associated with these grasslands is restricted and includes locally occasional {\it Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Cerastium fontanum, Hypochaeris radicata, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Crepis capillaris, Heracleum sphondylium, Trifolium dubium} and rarely, {\it Juncus effusus}.

There are a number of 'avenues' of broadleaved trees alonside roads and various drains crossing the common. These include trees of {\it Salix cinerea, Prunus} sp., plus a single individual of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} noted. These strips tend to have {\it A. elatius} grassland also sometimes with growth of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

The various parcels of land excluded from the registration contain houses/gardens and their boundaries tend to be bounded/screened by tall trees of {\it Quercus robur}. Extending westwards from one of these compartments is a small block of dense {\it Salix cinerea} scrub with some {\it Ulex europaeus, R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus areas of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The southern boundary of the common runs along a small stream. Fringing this  is a strip of scrub/trees and ruderal species: {\it Salix cinerea, S. fragilis, Alnus glutinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Urtica dioica} etc. Locally these develop into small blocks of broadleaved woodland of {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Quercus robur}.

There are further, more extensive areas of broadleaved woodland on the common: 

(1). This secondary woodland has a canopy mainly dominated by {\it Q. robur}, with occasional {\it F. excelsior}. The shrub layer has areas dominated by dense growth of {\it Salix cinerea} and elsewhere by {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Locally occasional associates include {\it Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There is a dense band of {\it P. spinosa} along the roadside (trimmed like a hedge). Noted elsewhere was a clearing dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus an area where the woodland gives way to an area of dense {\it S. cinerea} scrub. Field layer species include {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it P. aquilinum}, plus the mosses {\it Eurynchium praelongum} and {\it Atrichum undulatum}. Abundant leaf litter and fallen small twigs.

(2). These areas of woodland mainly fall within the surveyed pSNCI portion. This area was formerly managed as hazel {\it Corylus avellana} coppice with oak {\it Q. rubra} standards. Since this time, the wood has in places succeeded to high forest. Parts to the south may originate from former wood pasture. Other canopy trees include locally occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}, whilst there has been localised invasion by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, spreading-in from the south-west, and there has been extensive colonisation of the shrub layer by {\it Prunus laurocerasus} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

The field layer includes species typical of base-poor woodland soils: {\it P. aquilinum, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}, with occasional {\it Mercurialis perennis, Melica nutans, Primula vulgaris, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Glechoma hederacea, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Viola} sp.

A final target note relates to the lane running westwards linking the common to the B2128. At its far-western extremity the verges comprise narrow wooded strips of {\it Q. robur, F. excelsior} and {\it C. avellana} with locally occasional {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus} and {\it Acer campestre}. The field layer includes {\it A. elatius, Poa trivialis, Dactylis glomerata, Stellaria holostea, Alliaria petiolata, Rumex sanguineus, Ranunculus repens, Bromus ramosus, Geranium robertianum, Glechoma hederacea, Calystegia sepium} and {\it Aegopodium podagraria}.

MANAGE:
The grassland of the common does not appear to have any evidence of grazing, apart from by rabbits - siginficant in some areas. Therefore the grassland is more likely to be maintained by some form of cutting - possibly there is a silage/hay crop cut.

The wooded portions of the common are at present unmanaged. As discussed the pSNCI area was in part at least originally coppice-with standards, but all woodland stands appear to be of secondary origin (i.e. none plotted in the Ancient Woodland Inventory). Small areas of the woodland adjacent to the open grassland may have once been wood-pasture (note that "Lowland wood pasture and parkland" is one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The block at (1) is of much more recent origin and remains open and scrubby in places.

The common is of note in that it runs from the flanks of the Winterfold Ridge and out onto the Weald, thereby forming an interesting transect. 

Note small areas of mown amenity grassland along lane to west.

The open grassland of the common may be of importance for threatened ground-nesting birds such as the skylark (UK BAP "Priority Species"). The breeding success of such birds is totally dependent upon an appropriate grassland management regime and, on sites such as this, public use of the site may cause some disturbance.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: songthrush and skylark (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus blue tit, nuthatch, yellowhammer, chiff chaff, meadow brown butterfly.

VEG:
This irregular strip of common land stretches from the southern fringe of the Winterfold Ridge and out onto the edge of the Weald. It is situated approximately 1.5 km north of Cranleigh (Waverley district). Parts of the common lie within two separate sites surveyed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project. The survey reports include general descriptions, which have been consulted for the purposes of the Common Land Survey. Subsequently, only one of these areas has been selected as SNCI (see below). Mapping of habitats was done with reference to the Surrey Phase 1 aerial photograph survey, with target notes being made during the course of the present survey. 

The southern and western part of the common lies on fairly level ground at the base of the Winterfold ridge. However, to the north-east of the site, the land rises onto and includes a part of the ridge itself (Winterfold Heath), formed from the Lower Greensand.

The Weald section of the common is mainly open grassland. This vegetation comprises a relatively species-poor sward typically dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}. Other associates include locally occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Phleum pratense} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. In places, particularly toward the margins and roadsides, {\it A. elatius} becomes abundant. Elsewhere there are shorter, rabbit-grazed swards, dominated mainly by {\it Agrostis capillaris, L. perenne} becoming abundant along paths. The range of forbs etc. associated with these grasslands is restricted and includes locally occasional {\it Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Cerastium fontanum, Hypochaeris radicata, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Crepis capillaris, Heracleum sphondylium, Trifolium dubium} and rarely, {\it Juncus effusus}.

The southern portion of the common is fringed by two small streams/ditches. Alongside these are strips of scrub/trees and ruderal species: {\it Salix cinerea, S. fragilis, Alnus glutinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Urtica dioica} etc. Locally these develop into small blocks of broadleaved woodland of {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Quercus robur}. Dense thicket of {\it Prunus spinosa} adjacent to westernmost block. Small areas of mown amenity grassland plus a bare earth drive.

Moving further north is a wooded area which is coincident with one of the areas surveyed for the SNCI project "Smithwood Common Copse" (1), but not selected as SNCI. This area was formerly managed as hazel {\it Corylus avellana} coppice with oak {\it Q. rubra} standards. Since this time, the wood has in places succeeded to high forest. Parts to the south may originate from former wood pasture. Other canopy trees include locally occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}, whilst there has been localised invasion by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, spreading-in from the south-west, and there has been extensive colonisation of the shrub layer by {\it Prunus laurocerasus} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

The field layer includes species typical of base-poor woodland soils: {\it P. aquilinum, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}, with occasional {\it Mercurialis perennis, Melica nutans, Primula vulgaris, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Glechoma hederacea, Geranium robertainum} and {\it Viola} sp.

The southern block is rather damp in nature with {\it Salix} spp. prominent.

The common now follows a steep, narrow lane incised into the southern flank of Winterfold Heath. This area lies mainly within a second, much larger area surveyed, and subsequently almost all selected as SNCI ("The Hurtwood etc."). This area comprises dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} grading into secondary broadleaved and mixed woodlands. The bracken areas also include a mixture of broadleaved trees and scrub: {\it Q. robur, B. pendula, Ulex europaeus, Sorbus aucuparia} and rarely, {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Beneath the bracken are acidic grassland/woodland species such as {\it Galium saxatile, Deschampsia flexuosa, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.  

The broadleaved woodlands have a canopy of {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Q. robur} and {\it S. aucuparia}, whilst the mixed stands also include a varying frequency of {\it Pinus sylvestris}. The shrub and field layers are similar to the vegetation in the bracken-dominated areas.

MANAGE:
The grassland to the south of the common does not appear to have any evidence of grazing, apart from rabbits - siginficant in some areas. Therefore the grassland is more likely to be maintained by some form of cutting - possibly there is a silage/hay crop cut.

As discussed the pSNCI woodland area was, in part at least, originally coppice-with standards. Small areas of the woodland adjacent to the open grassland may have once been wood-pasture (see below). 

The section on Winterfold Heath appears to recieve little management, but there may be some sree/scrub clearance at times. For a more detailed account of the ecology of this area please see under the contiguous CL 216 and nearby CL 196.

The common as a whole mirrors its contiguous neighbour in that it runs from the flanks of the Winterfold Ridge and out onto the Weald, thereby forming an interesting transect. 

Note small areas of mown amenity grassland along southern edge.

The open grassland of the common may be of importance for threatened ground-nesting birds such as the skylark (UK BAP "Priority Species"). The breeding success of such birds is totally dependent upon an appropriate grassland management regime and, on sites such as this, public use of the may cause some disturbance. 

In addition, note that "Wet woodlands" together with "Lowland wood pasture and parkland" are both "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: songthrush, robin, chaffinch, carrion crow, wren, blue tit, blackbird, swallows, plus grey squirrel and speckled wood butterfly.

VEG:
The common lies close to the centre of Haslemere (Waverley district), forming three distinct portions, separated by various roads.

The larger, central portion lies on a north-facing slope and comprises a block of secondary broadleaved woodland. The canopy comprises trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with occasional individuals of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pendula, Larix decidua} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The shrub layer includes {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium}, plus occasional small trees of {\it Taxus baccata}, and sapling {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. The field layer includes {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Hedera helix, Anthriscus sylvestris, Eurynchium praelongum, Viola riviniana, Brachypodium sylvaticm, Dryopteris dilatata, Holcus mollis, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Vaccinium myrtillus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Poa nemoralis} and {\it Oxalis acetosella}.

To the south lies a smaller wooded compartment. This is somewhat similar, the canopy comprising {\it Q. robur, Fagus sylvatica, Betula pendula, A. pseudoplatanus, F. excelsior} and {\it C. monogyna}. The shrub layer includes large bushes of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, sapling {\it F. excelsior} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus}, plus occasional moderate-sized specimens of {\it Taxus baccata}. The field layer contains {\it R. fruticosus} agg., {\it P. aquilinum, Hedera helix, A. podagraria, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica}. At the eastern edge, the wood gives way to areas of mown amenity grassland adjacent to houses.

The small northern portion lies at the edge of a recreation ground, this area being planted with a variety of trees/shrubs, including ornamental species.

MANAGE:
The larger part of the common appears unmanaged. Some trees have been pruned alongside the roads. The southern portion has areas of grassland cut by adjacent householders, while the small northern portion is managed as part of a formal recreation ground.

The site appears to be of local nature conservation importance for a range of woodland birds etc.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chaffinch, house sparrow.

VEG:
The common lies in the western suburbs of Haslemere (Waverley district). The measured area of the site is actually below the adopted survey threshold value of 1.0ha. However, it was registered at 1.0ha and the discrepancy was not realised at the time of conducting fieldwork/writing-up. 

The southern portion of the common comprises a car park. This area is fringed with broadleaved trees: {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior}, plus occasional shrubs of {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

To the west of here is a small plot of mown grassland shaded by a large specimen tree of {\it Quercus robur} and several tallish trees of {\it Crataegus monogyna} (all possibly self-sown).

The northern portion has mown amenity grassland with a mixture of planted and self-sown broadleaved trees. These include a clump of three {\it Betula pendula} in one corner, one large tree of {\it Quercus robur} in the middle, several smaller planted trees of {\it Quercus} sp. (probably {\it Q. rubra}), a single large tree of {\it Crataegus monogyna} (plus occasional others, one with an individual of {\it Ilex aquifolium} growing against it) and around six planted trees of {\it Acer} sp. (probably {\it A. platanoides}).

MANAGE:
As outlined elsewhere, the common is partly managed as a formal park/garden, presumably by the local authority. The remainder is used as a large free public car park. The site is not of any nature conservation interest although some of the large specimen trees are attractive features.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chaffinch, wren, jay, blue tit, blackbird, nuthatch, greenfinch, magpie, chiff chaff, willow warbler, blackcap, robin, goldfinch and speckled wood butterfly.

VEG:
The common comprises several parcels of land lying for the most part alongside the A286 Grayswood Road, on the north-eastern edge of Haslemere (Waverley district). Most of the site comprises semi-natural broadleaved woodland. 

The larger portion of the common, known as "Parish Lands, Grayswood" (1), lies on a north-west facing slope and has been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and has subsequently been selected as SNCI. This includes a general description, which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey..... 

"Dominated by a canopy of mature beech with and understorey of holly. In places the beech shows evidence of a former pollard treatment. Parts of the site have been subject to severe storm damage. In addition to beech, stands of semi-mature silver birch are present. The woodland is continuous with ancient woodland to the north". 

During the present survey, this part of the common was viewed from the main road. In addition to the {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula pendula}, the canopy also includes some {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and an occasional individual of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, A. platanoides} and {\it Taxus baccata}. Shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium} with locally occasional {\it Corylus avellana} (overstood coppice). Field layer of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Abundant fallen timber of various sizes on woodland floor (including mature trees). Extensive windthrow evident in one area (now cleared), with a dense growth of {\it B. pendula} (saplings) plus {\it Ulex europaeus, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

(2). Further block of broadleaved woodland. Canopy mainly of mature {\it Q. robur} and {\it Betula pendula}. Shrub layer contains {\it A. pseudoplatanus, Salix capraea, Lonicera periclymenum, Salix cinerea} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.  Field layer: {\it P. aquilinum, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it L. periclymenum} and {\it Aegopodium podagraria}. Note small area of mown amenity grassland around war memorial, with some planted ornamental shrubs.

(3). Wooded lane next to houses - {\it A. pseudoplatanus, Taxus baccata, Q. robur} and {\it F. excelsior}. Some areas of mown amenity grassland, plus clumps of {\it Rhododendron} spp. Two concrete garages constructed on this area.

MANAGE:
As noted, there has been extensive windthrow within the larger wooded block of the common - this appears to have been followed by a clear-up operation. There is evidence of past hazel coppice. The smaller portions are locally managed as amenity grassland and there are some areas of planted? introduceed shrubs, mainly {\it Rhododendron} spp. Formal 'garden' in area around war memorial.

Note transformer station and dumping of grass clippings on one of the smaller portions.

"Lowland beech and yew woodlands" are one of the "Priority Habitats" of the  UK Biodiversity Action Plan.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blue tit, robin, chaffinch, jay, blackbird.

VEG:
The common lies on the northern edge of Haslemere (Waverley district).  A road bisects the site in a roughly north-south direction and the common as a whole lies along a fairly steep north-facing slope. The site comprises broadleaved woodland of various types:

(1). The southern, upper section of the slope has a very open canopy presumably as a result of the storms of 1987/1990. A number of standard trees of {\it Quercus robur} remain {\it in situ}, in addition to individuals of {\it Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica, Taxus baccata} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Single trees noted of {\it Larix decidua} and {\it Sorbus} sp. (? {\it S. intermedia}). The shrub layer is also well-developed with areas dominated by {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Other constituents include {\it Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Sorbus aucuparia, Castanea sativa} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. The field layer is generally dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Grassy area noted along footpath with {\it Holcus mollis, Stellaria holostea, Oxalis acetosella, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Conopodium majus}. Abundant fallen deadwood of varying sizes, with several fallen and standing dead trees noted. 

(2). The central-lower sections of the hillside show less evidence of storm damage. Again the canopy is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with locally occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Abundant {\it Ilex aquifolium} within shrub layer.

(3). The fringe along the northern edge has a field layer of {\it Galium aparine, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Geranium robertianum, Aegopodium podagraria, Stellaria holostea, Conopodium majus, Alliaria petiolata} and {\it Hedera helix}. Also noted: {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

(4). The portion to the east of the road crossing the site appears to comprise a mixture of {\it Q. robur, F. sylvatica, F. excelsior} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Occasional gaps from wind-thrown trees. Again abundant dead wood. {\it Ilex aquifolium} prominent in shrub layer.

(5). Alongside the road crossing the site is a well-developed "wood bank". {\it Sanicula europaea} noted in abundance along here.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged at present. There are clear signs of extensive storm damage. There has probably been some clearing-up, although a number of fallen dead trees etc. remain.

In total size, the area of woodland does not represent an area of major wildlife value. However, the site forms a tiny element in what is essentially a wooded and visually attractive part of the county and therefore represents a component of this resource. With the thinning brought about through storm damage, the best management option for the time being is probably one of non-intervention.

Note small transformer station present to extreme south.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blue tit, robin, jay, chaffinch, blackbird, green woodpecker, large white butterfly.

The following accound of the fauna in the main relates to the group of commons as a whole, although there is specific information for the Stoatley Green woodland (see below).

The areas of heathland, with some mature and degenerate heather, include a wide range of typical invertebrates, incuding some of more local occurrence in a national context. These include the beetles {\it Pterostichus lepidus, Apion scutellare} and {\it Geotrupes pyrenaeus}. Bare ground caused by burning, trampling and, more recently by clearance of scrub and trees provides habitat for species such as mining bees and wasps, certain ants, ground bugs and spiders.

Heathland birds include nightjar and occasionally (both UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus stonechat and Dartford warbler. Adder also occurs in the areas of heathland.

The woodlands as a whole support a number of species of invertebrate which are not particularly associated with either ancient or secondary woodlands. These include, in particular, a number of butterflies such as white admiral {\it Lagoda camilla}, silver-washed fritillary {\it Argynnis paphia} and purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}, all of which are associated with the Wealden woodlands. There are also old records for high brown fritillary {\it Argynnis addipe} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus purple emperor {\it Apatura iris} and wood white {\it Leptidea sinapis}. 

Woodland birds are also very varied, with great spotted and green woodpecker, jay, wren, woodpigeon, blackbird, blue tit, nuthatch and tree-creeper, plus wood warbler and redstart present locally. The avifauna of Weydown Common also possibly includes firecrest.

The wet woodland at Stoatley Green has a diverse invertebrate fauna, which includes the "rare" soldier beetle {\it Malthodes fuscus}, which is widespread on the property as a whole. Phytophagus beetles include the weevils {\it Miccotrogus picirostris, Apion assimile, Dorytomus taeniatus} and {\it Notaris acridulus} and the leaf beetles {\it Hydrothassa marginella} and {\it Chrysolina polita}. Other species include amber snail {\it Succinea putris}, the snipe fly {\it Chrysopilus cristatus} and various soldier beetles, sawfly larvae, mirid and psyllid bugs, leafhoppers, craneflies and caddis flies. Speckled wood butterfly.

Ground-dwelling invertebrates include the "local, south-eastern" woodlouse {\it Ligidium hypnorum} plus the common {\it Philoscia muscorum} and {\it Trichoniscus pusillus} and the ground beetle {\it Agonum assimile}. 

Alder foliage contains a typical fauna with psyllid and mirid bugs, barkflies, harvestmen, {\it Malthodes} sp. soldier beetles and eriophyid mite leaf galls. 

For a more detailed account of the fauna of this group of commons, please refer to the relevant site reports, the NT 1983 Biological Survey Report and the report from the 1997 survey (in prep.).

VEG:
The common comprises two separate parcels of land in the extreme south-western part of the county (Waverley district) on the Lower Greensand Hills. The major part lies within the Devil's Punch Bowl SSSI (see map). This, and several of the other adjoining commons in this locality, form a significant portion of the Hindhead property of the National Trust.

The following description has been based upon the quoted sources, in particular the report of the 1983 visit by the National Trust Biological Survey Team. Only a brief visit to the smaller portion of the common was possible during the sourse of the present work. The site was re-evaluated by the NT Biological Survey Team during the summer of 1997 and at the time of writing, this work was still being prepared.

The larger portion of the common sits upon the acidic Hythe Beds of the Lower Greensand. The smaller portion comprises verges along a lane at the foot of the hill, but also includes a small area of wet woodland known as Stoatley Green.

1. Main Common (not visited). 

This part of the site lies contiguous with the southern part of CL 255.

An area of open heathland habitat, which also overlaps onto CL 255, is surrounded by a variety of woodland communities. 

The heath is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with locally abundant {\it V. myrtillus} and frequent {\it Erica cinerea} plus occasional {\it Ulex minor}. At the time of the 1983 survey report, part of this area had been recently burnt and was locally dominated by grasses ({\it D. flexuosa} and {\it M. caerulea}) rather than dwarf shrubs. Locally, however, the heath has been taken over by {\it P. aquilinum}, scrub, scattered trees and scrub-woodland. {\it V. myrtillus} still often occurs as an understorey. 

The open heath grades into an adjacent band of secondary mixed woodland. The canopy comprises {\it Betula} spp., {\it Pinus sylvestris, Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} with frequent {\it Frangula alnus} and {\it Sorbus aria}. The field/shrub layer includes {\it P. aquilinum, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it V. myrtillus, Ulex minor, U. europaeus, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it Erica tetralix}.

In the south-eastern corner is an area of mainly broadleaved woodland which is thought to be of ancient origin (although it is not highlighted as such in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory). The canopy is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Betula} sp., plus occasional {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Castanea sativa}. A well-developed shrub layer comprises {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Sorbus aria, Frangula alnus, Prunus laurocerasus} and {\it Amelanchier lamarckii}, plus saplings of {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The field layer is dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, {\it Hedera helix, Calluna vulgaris, Oxalis acetosella, Sanicula europaea} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, with abundant deep leaf litter.

2. Stoatley Green. 

This portion comprises the verges along a lane, with a small pocket of wet woodland (alder carr).  

The canopy comprises coppiced trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa} with occasional {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Salix} sp. The field layer comprises {\it Holcus lanatus, Glyceria flutians, Milium effusum, Oenanthe crocata, Valeriana officinalis, V. dioica, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Caltha palustris, Carex remota} and {\it Mentha ? aquatica}. In the NW corner, the wood is drier and has mature standard {\it Quercus} sp., with {\it Ilex aquifolium} and a field layer of {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Holcus lanatus}. Noted along the stream were: {\it Veronica beccabunga, Oenenthe crocata} and {\it Carex remota}.

The lane itself was not covered by the NT Biological Survey. It has a series of generally very narrow road verges adjoined by hedges/trees which include {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica, Acer pseudoplatanus, A. platanoides, Rhododendron ponticum, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Species noted along the base of the hedge and the verge were: {\it Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Hieracium} sp., {\it Convallaria majalis} (garden escape), {\it Athyrium filix-femina, Hedera helix, Heracleum sphondylium, Scrophularia nodosa, Centaurea nigra, Geum urbanum, Geranium robertianum, Veronica chamaedrys, Valeriana officinalis, Stellaria holostea, Viola} sp., {\it Hypericum pulchrum, Teucrium scorodonia, Digitalis purpurea, Polypodium vulgare, Conopodium majus, Lonicera periclymenum, Galium aparine, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Carex sylvatica, Tamus communis, Fallopia japonica} and {\it Aegopodium podagraria}.

MANAGE:
The common is owned and managed by the National Trust as part of the Hindhead Property. 

The common supports an area of lowland heathland, this being one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This block of heathland has in the past benefitted from extensive clearance of scrub, trees and bracken. The area is currently being maintained through a combination of heather cutting with a forage harvester and bracken swiping. Part of this area was burnt (accidentally?) in the early 1980s. There appear to be no plans to reintroduce grazing onto this area, as has been achieved on CL 241. However, this would be the preferred long-term aim here also.

In addition, wet woodland is also one of the UK BAP "Priority Habitats". The best form of management for the alder carr would be one of non-intervention. Periodic re-coppicing of some of the alders has been recommended. 

For more details of management of the Hindhead Commons, please refer to the site reports for CLs 241 and 255, in addition to the relevant NT management plan.


FAUNA:
No fauna noted specifically on this common during the brief site visit.

The areas of heathland, with some mature and degenerate heather, include a wide range of typical invertebrates, incuding some of more local occurrence in a national context. These include the beetles {\it Pterostichus lepidus, Apion scutellare} and {\it Geotrupes pyrenaeus}. Bare ground caused by burning, trampling and, more recently by clearance of scrub and trees provides habitat for species such as mining bees and wasps, certain ants, ground bugs and spiders.

Heathland birds include nightjar and occasionally woodlark (both UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus stonechat and Dartford warbler. Adder also occurs in the areas of heathland.

The woodlands as a whole support a number of species of invertebrate which are not particularly associated with either ancient or secondary woodlands. These include, in particular, a number of butterflies such as white admiral {\it Lagoda camilla}, silver-washed fritillary {\it Argynnis paphia} and purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}, all of which are associated with the Wealden woodlands. There are also old records for high brown fritillary {\it Argynnis addipe} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus purple emperor {\it Apatura iris} and wood white {\it Leptidea sinapis}. 

The former wood pasture at Weydown Common is particularly notable for its dead wood invertebrates. Both fallen (in-situ) and standing dead wood is abundant. Common deadwood species were plentiful, including various woodlice, centipedes, millipedes and rove beetles. 

Woodland birds are also very varied, with great spotted and green woodpecker, jay, wren, woodpigeon, blackbird, blue tit, nuthatch and tree-creeper, plus wood warbler and redstart present locally. The avifauna of Weydown Common also possibly includes firecrest.

For a much more detailed account of the fauna recorded from the common, please refer to the NT 1983 Biological Survey Report and the report from the 1997 survey (in prep.).

In recognition of the ornithological importance of the Devil's Punchbowl SSSI, the site has been included within the "Wealden Heaths Phase 2", a suite of sites which have been designated as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
The common comprises three separate parcels of land in the extreme south-western part of the county (Waverley district) on the Lower Greensand Hills. A significant part of the common lies within the Devil's Punch Bowl SSSI. This, and several of the other adjoining commons in this locality, form a significant portion of the Hindhead property of the National Trust.

The following description has been based upon the quoted sources, in particular the report of the 1983 visit by the National Trust Biological Survey Team. Only a brief visit to the larger portion of the common was possible during the course of the present work. The site was re-evaluated by the NT Biological Survey Team during the summer of 1997 and at the time of writing, this work was still being prepared.

Most of the common sits upon the acidic Hythe Beds of the Lower Greensand. The larger portion lies on a gently-sloping hilltop of the Lower Greenasnd and is dissected by a number of shallow, dry valleys. The smaller portion at Inval lies on a steep scarp slope overlooking the clay vale to the east, whilst Weydown Common lies along the western side of one of the dry valleys.

The greater part of this particular common supports secondary woodland of some kind. Of particular importance on the larger section is the existence of an area of lowland dry heath vegetation. Weydown Common is an area of old wood pasture which is now completely wooded.

1. Hindhead Common portion.

Along the eastern edge of the main portion (GR SU 898 351) lies broadleaved woodland which is described as "ancient", although it is not highlighted as such in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory. A closed canopy is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with a dense shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Other trees and shrubs include {\it Betula} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia, S. aria, Frangula alnus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Castanea sativa}. The woodland floor has a deep layer of leaf litter with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Pteridium aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris, Lonicera periclymenum, Drypteris dilatata} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. This woodland has good dead wood habitat, with both large and small-sized timber being present.

Woodland on the remainder of this part of the common is a more recent mixed type and surrounds the central area of more open, heathy habitat. The canopy comprises {\it Betula} spp., {\it Pinus sylvestris, Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} with frequent {\it Frangula alnus} and {\it Sorbus aria}. The field/shrub layer includes {\it P. aquilinum, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it V. myrtillus, Ulex minor, U. europaeus, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it Erica tetralix}.

The central, hilltop part of this area possesses an area of open heathland which is in fact the largest existing stand of such vegetation occurring within the Hindhead Commons. This is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with locally abundant {\it V. myrtillus} and frequent {\it Erica cinerea} plus occasional {\it Ulex minor}. Other associates are {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Polygala vulgaris, Solidago virgaurea} and {\it Cuscuta epithymum}. In additition, local damp areas also have {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. This area appears to have been kept clear of encroaching scrub etc. by cutting of the heather, which has produced a sward of rather uniform height.

Locally, however, the heath has been taken over by {\it P. aquilinum}, scrub, scattered trees and scrub-woodland. {\it V. myrtillus} still often occurs as an understorey. This process appears to have occurred in particular along the eastern and southern flanks of this area of heathland and this vegetation in turn grades into the adjacent secondary mixed woodland.

There is a further, smaller area of heathland to the extreme southern tip of the common (overlapping similar habitat on the contiguous CL 257). At the time of the 1983 survey report, this area had been recently burnt and was locally dominated by grasses ({\it D. flexuosa} and {\it M. caerulea}) rather than dwarf shrubs. 

The old tramline at GR SU 896 352 has a mosaic of heath, scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus} with young trees of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it P. sylvestris}. The "local" rush {\it Juncus tenuis} grows along poorly-drained tracks, both here and elsewhere on the common.

Small areas of acidic grassland occur in various parts of the common, mainly alongside paths and other trampled areas. This is characterised by species such as {\it Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Polygala vulgaris} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}. There are also several small areas of {\it Molinia caerulea} marshy grassland, probably on peaty soils.

2. Inval (not visited).

The north-west facing slope to the western side of this portion has an area of "old oak coppice". Small trees of {\it Betula} sp. and {\it S. aucuparia} also present. Field layer dominated by {\it V. myrtillus. Epipactis helleborine} has been recorded here. This area not highlighted in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory, although contiguous block of woodland to the south is shown as ASNW. Note "holly thicket" at GR SU 900 350. There are mature trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica} along the boundary bank which runs along the western side of this area

The eastern side of this area has a mixed, secondary woodland typical of that generally to be found elsewhere on the common (see above). The other part of this area is shown as a conifer plantation and is described as being floristically poor.

3. Weydown Common (not visited).

This comprised secondary woodland which has developed on an area of former wood pasture. A population of mature, old trees of {\it Q. robur} remain, with spreading crowns, scattered across the common and are a feature of particular ecological interest. The intervening secondary woodland is dominated by {\it Betula} sp., with younger {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, plus frequent sapling {\it Betula} sp. in the shrub layer. The field layer is dominated by {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it P. aquilinum} with {\it V. myrtillus, D. flexuosa, M. caerulea} and a few woodland species such as {\it Oxalis acetosella, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}. Record for {\it Epipactis helleborine} from here.

MANAGE:
The common is owned and managed by the National Trust as part of the Hindhead Property (for details of the full scope of management and monitoring activity at this site, please refer to the relevant NT management plan).

The site as a whole is notable for its diverse and well-structured range of semi-natural habitats and, in particular, for the presence of several areas of lowland heathland.

Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted as one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Heathland on this part of the common has in the past benefitted from extensive clearance of scrub, trees and bracken. The area is currently being maintained through a combination of heather cutting with a forage harvester and bracken swiping. Part of this area was burnt (accidentally?) in the early 1980s. There appear to be no plans to reintroduce grazing onto this area, as has been achieved on CL 241. However, this would be the preferred long-term aim here also.

Weydown Common is noted as old wood pasture and its associated population of old, well-structured oak trees and the abundant dead wood habitat. This area is of high ecological value for a range dead wood invertebrates. In addition, the well-developed structure of the woodland makes it a valuable habitat for a range of woodland birds. This area should be managed to ensure that the maximum amount of dead wood (especially of oak) remains in situ. Some thinning of trees surrounding the old oaks may be necessary to conserve the structure of these features. Note that "Lowland wood pasture and parkland" is also a UK BAP "Priority Habitat". 

The more extensive secondary woods should be selectively thinned (but not clear-felled) to favour native trees and shrubs and in areas of former heath, tree and shrub cover should be reduced as much as possible to encourage the recovery of an open heathland flora. Varied woodland edges to be created adjacent to open areas.

Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitat": "Lowland dry acidic grassland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chaffinch, wren, jay, blue tit, blackbird, nuthatch, greenfinch, magpie, chiff chaff, willow warbler, blackcap, robin, goldfinch and speckled wood butterfly.

The National Trust Biological Survey noted in particular, the presence of the local ash black slug {\it Limax cinereoniger}, a species typically associated with ancient woodlands. Another mollusc, rounded snail {\it Discus rotundatus} was also recorded. Two dead wood beetles noted were {\it Pycnomerus fuliginosus} (an alien) and {\it Ptilinus pectinicornis} (local).

VEG:
The common lies in the hamlet of Grayswood on the north-eastern edge of Haslemere (Waverley district). The greater part of the site was surveyed by the National Trust biological survey team during 1983. Additional target notes have been made during a visit to the northern parts of the common.

The site comprises two parcels of land separated by a minor road. The larger, southern portion comprises a stand of broadleaved woodland, possibly of planted origin. The southern part of this occupies a well-drained north-west facing slope. Here the canopy is dominated by mature standard trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica} with occasional {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Betula pendula}. A sparse shrub layer includes {\it Ilex aquifolium} and occasional {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. The field layer is poorly-developed with bare sand, leaf litter and some bryophyte cushions. Sparse {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and tufts of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (description from NT Biological Survey Report - insufficient time to re-survey).

The northern portion of this block grades into level ground. The canopy here is formed from mature trees of {\it Q. robur} with {\it Fagus sylvatica} abundant, plus occasional, smaller individuals of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Taxus baccata} and {\it Betula pendula}. Occasional wind-thrown trees noted. The shrub layer is largely characterised by {\it Ilex aquifolium} with locally occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Viburnum opulus}. Field layer poorly-developed but includes scattered {\it R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium mytillus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus seedling {\it Fagus sylvatica}. Bryophytes noted: {\it Polytrichum} sp., {\it Mnium hornum, Hypnum cupressiforme, Plagiothecium undulatum, Eurynchium praelongum} and {\it Lophocolea bidentata}. Abundant leaf litter and fallen timber of various sizes.

The NT report mentions some "small wet flushes" on this part of the common. Noted from these were: {\it Carex pendula, C. remota, Juncus effusus, Agrostis stolonifera, Equisetum sylvaticum, Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Lysimachia nemorum}.

To the east of the road crossing this part of the site is an unmanaged area of more open ground comprising broadleaved woodland thinning into tall grassland/trees: {\it Poa trivialis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Ranunculus acris, Trifolium pratense, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Alopecurus pratensis}. Locally occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Stellaria holostea}. Large stand of {\it Urtica dioica} in centre. Rare individual of {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} noted. Trees/shrubs: {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Populus tremula}.

The northern portion of the common is largely mown amenity grassland with the appearance of a village green. Ornamental trees include {\it Salix} sp. ('weeping' variety), {\it Prunus} sp., {\it Sorbus} sp., {\it Populus} sp. and {\it Quercus robur}.

The small triangular block of broadleaved woodland to the north is probably of secondary origin and has a canopy copmrising {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with occasional sub-mature {\it Fagus sylvatica}. Abundant epiphytic {\it Hedera helix} on trees. Shrub layer includes {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa canina, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Prunus} sp. (planted), {\it Tamus communis, Acer campestre, Corylus avellana} and {\it Salix capraea}. Field layer includes {\it Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Geranium robertianum} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}.

MANAGE:
The wooded portions of the common appear largely unmanaged at present. The NT Biological Survey suggests that the site could be of ancient woodland origin, even though the present canopy appears to be planted. Although the common is not highligthed itself in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory, the block of woodland contiguous with the south-eastern edge of the southern portion does appear in the register.

As the site appears to be of some value to dead wood invertebrates, it is important that dead timber should be allowed to accumulate as it develops and should not be 'tidied' or removed. 

Note that "Lowland beech and yew woodlands" are one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (this can include planted stands of beech in some cases). 

The amenity grassland area is used as a football/cricket pitch. Seats, litter bins (and bus shelter). A new village hall has just been constructed on the common, with adjacent car parking area. To the south lies a small, fenced childerns play area, next to an adjoining school.


VEG:
The common lies along a north-west facing slope adjacent to the A286 on the north-eastern edge of Haslemere. A tiny part of the common lies within an adjacent block of the Grayswood Common complex belonging to the National Trust and covered by their biological survey of 1983. Brief target notes were made during a visit to the site. Most of the common appears to comprise a mature broadleaved woodland canopy of {\it Fagus sylvatica} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} plus some well-developed individuals of {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The shrub layer is generally characterised also by {\it Ilex aquifolium} with some {\it Ulex europaeus, Rhododendron ponticum, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Acer platanoides}.

At the top of the slope, the field layer appears somewhat heathy with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and some {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

MANAGE:
The site appears unmanaged at present. "Lowland beech and yew woodlands" are one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.


FAUNA:
No information relating specifically to the fauna of this common. For an account of the fauna associated with this section of the SSSI, please refer to the relevant sections of CLs 94, 95 and 144 etc.

Note that the SSSI forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Wealden Heaths", which have been classified as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
The common lies at the eastern extremity of a swathe of heathland situated on the Lower Greensand in the western part of the county, which stretches from the border with Hampshire at Frensham, as far eastwards as Milford (Waverley district). The majority of the common lies within the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI (land to the south of the minor road is excluded - see map). 

The site lies mainly on the strongly acid, leached, podzolic soils of the Folkestone and Sandgate Beds of the Lower Greensand, which are highly infertile. Most of the following description is based on an undated Phase 1 survey, with additional notes made during a very brief visit to the site.

Open heathland habitat remains in the central portion of the common, while there is a band of broadleaved woodland around the margins. To the west the heath is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with little scrub invasion. Other associates include {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Erica cinerea, Ulex minor, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. Localised stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered scrub includes {\it Ulex europaeus}.

To the north of this area lies a small stand of wet heath (and flush?) where {\it Erica tetralix} is co-dominant with {\it Calluna}, in addition to {\it M. caerulea, Sphagnum} spp., {\it Tricophorum cespitosum, Carex flacca} and {\it Carex panicea}.

To the east the heath is colonised to a greater extent by {\it P. aquilinum} and trees of {\it Betula} sp., but intact heath vegetation survives beneath.

The prediminant surrounding woodland type has a canopy comprising {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica}, often with a dense shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium}. To the east there is also an area of former {\it Corylus avellana} coppice. Other canopy/shrub layer trees include {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. To the east of the site, much of the field layer has been disturbed/eroded by high levels of public use and includes {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it V. myrtillus}, locally also with {\it Erica cinerea}. To the north of the site, the field layer becomes locally less acidic and contains {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus} sp. and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. There is some growth of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} in this area, having escaped from adjacent gardens.

Woodland to the south of the road is essentially similar, although locally dominated by {\it Betula} sp., and with locally occasional trees of {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Castanea sativa}.  

Note the occurrence also of several small blocks of conifer plantation. The ages of these are varied, and the dominant tree type is not described. Heathy understorey of {\it E. cinerea, V. myrtillus} and {\it Calluna}.

Note also to the extreme north, a small area of {\it Castanea sativa} plantation, this being contiguous with a larger area of this habitat type occurring on the adjacent CL 5.

MANAGE:
Unfortunately it has not been possible to identify who is the manager of this particular common, although the likely candidate is the County Council, as part of the site is covered under Section 9 of the Commons Registration Act.

As already outlined, the common encompasses an area lowland heathland and is integral with a larger area of remaining lowland heathland habitats comprising the Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Commons SSSI. 

Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted amongst the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Management work on this common has been aimed at maintaining the open heathland habitat through clearance of scrub and trees in order to prevent a succession to secondary woodland. The marginal parts of the common, where this has already occurred, appear to have little management input. Note the several small blocks of conifer plantation.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: skylark (UK BAP "Priority Species") plus blue tit, wren, yellowhammer, blackcap, greenfinch, blackbird, pheasant, robin, nuthatch, chiff chaff, green woodpecker and meadow brown butterfly.

VEG:
The common follows minor roads to the west of the hamlet of Palmer's Cross (Waverley district). Most of the site comprises secondary broadleaved woodland.

(1). Largest block has a canopy of mature {\it Q. robur} with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana}, re-sprouted from former coppice stools. Locally occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The field layer mainly dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Oxalis acetosella, Silene dioica} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}.

(2). Area opposite has dense bracken {\it P. aquilinum} with scattered mature trees of {\it Q. robur}, plus locally occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

(3). Area of diverse neutral grassland dominated by {\it Holcus mollis} beneath a partial woodland canopy of scattered {\it Q. robur} trees. This grassland contains a large population of {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}, plus a few individuals of {\it Listera ovata}. The grassland retains the flavour of a woodland field layer and includes locally frequent {\it Mercurialis perennis, Heracleum sphondylium, Veronica chamaedrys, Lysimachia nemorum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Viola} sp., {\it Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}. Also present on this area is a planted cultivated sapling of {\it Fagus sylvatica} (copper variety).

Grassland on the eastern side of the road from here is dominated by coarse species: {\it Arrhenetherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it H. sphondylium} etc.

(4). Further broadleaved woodland: {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. excelsior}, with some re-grown coppiced {\it C. avellana}. Field layer has abundant {\it Urtica dioica}. Large patch of {\it Prunus laurocerasus} next to house. Locally abundant {\it Sanicula europaea} on roadside bank.

(5). The common here comprises narrow roadside strips, tree-lined with occasional trees of {\it Castanea sativa} (planted?), plus {\it Q. robur, C. avellana} (old coppice) and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Understorey mainly {\it P. aquilinum} with field layer of locally abundant {\it Mercurialis perennis} and locally frequent {\it Sanicula europaea}. Boundary specimen trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica}. 

(6). Small pond fringed with mature trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Dense layer of partly-decomposed lead litter across base of pond. Occasional adjacent clumps of {\it Carex remota} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}. Grassland at roadside mown right to edge of pond. Occasional planted tree of {\it F. sylvatica} next to road. Large thicket of {\it Prunus laurocerasus} in this part.

(7). Grassland again under a partial tree canopy. Not as diverse as (3), with only rare individuals of {\it D. fuchsii} noted. Trees mainly of {\it Quercus cerris} and some {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Locally occasional planted smallish individuals of {\it F. sylvatica} and {\it Salix} sp. ('weeping' variety).

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged at present, although there is much evidence of coppicing of hazels in past times. The only form of current management is the mowing of certain grassland areas by adjacent property owners.

The main feature of nature conservation interest on the common is the 'grassland' at (3) with the impressive colony of {\it D. fuchsii}. The ideal form of management for this feature is not immediately obvious. The area is clearly a focal point for the site as a whole, having seats provided and a well-used path along the rear - sort of a tiny village green. As such the grass is probably mown from time to-time. Ideally the management regime should be aimed at maximising the conditions for the orchid populations. If cutting is performed, then cut material should be removed, to prevent eutrophication of the sward. However, as this vegetation has some characteristics of a woodland field layer, mowing of the whole area may not be necessary in ecological terms. Continued monitoring of this part of the site is recommended with a view to establishing the most appropriate management strategy. Removal of the sapling cultivated beech tree may be considered appropriate by some!


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: wren, chiff chaff, blue tit, pheasant, jay, blackbird, common crow, meadow brown butterfly and wood ants {\it Formica} sp.

VEG:
The common lies at the western end of the Winterfold Ridge, a line of hills fringing the northern edge of the Wealden Basin and encompassing the highest point in the county (Waverley district). The majority of the common lies within a larger site surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and almost all subsequently selected as SNCI. This includes a general description, which has been consulted for the purposes of the current project. Habitat mapping has been done with the aid of the Surrey Phase 1 aerial photograph survey, with target notes made during a visit to the site.

The common comprises a mosaic of secondary woodland stands (both broadleaved and mixed), which are mainly in the process of development through a natural succession over former heathland. Remaining open areas on the common are today almost exclusively dominated by stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, being colonised to varying extent by developing scrub and trees.

Broadleaved woodland types are represented by a canopy of {\it Betula pendula} with varying frequency of {\it Quercus} spp. Other associates include {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it S. aria} with, rarely, {\it Castanea sativa}. A few localities - mainly alongside tracks, roads or boundaries, have individuals of {\it Fagus sylvatica}, which appear to be of planted origin.

{\it P. aquilinum} tends to be the dominant field layer species over significant areas. Elsewhere the field layer includes species such as {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Teucrium scorodonia, Galium saxatile, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Other heath species, {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} appear rare. Bryophytes noted include {\it Hypnum jutlandicum, Eurynchium praelongum, Mnium hornum, Pseudoscleropodium purum} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}. In addition, the site also has a record for the liverwort {\it Riccia warnstorfii} (GR TQ 062 425).

Mixed woodland stands have a similar composition to the above, but also with a varying proportion of {\it Pinus sylvestris}. The frequency of {\it P. sylvestris} can range from as little as 10 per cent up to as much as 75 per cent. In addition several pure stands of {\it P. sylvestris} are present - presumably of planted origin.  

{\it P. aquilinum} also dominates open areas/woodland clearings and, as suggested, these represent intermediate stages of succession to a full woodland canopy. In fact, such areas tend to occur on the southern edge of the hill, resulting from the storms of 1987/90. At present this bracken has a mix of scrub, sapling and maturing trees which include {\it Betula pendula, Quercus} sp., {\it S. aucuparia, Salix cinerea, Corylus avellana} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

Note the presence of several bare ground car parking areas, in addition to several small roadside lay-bys also used for parking.

MANAGE:
The majority of the site appears to have a low level of management. It is clear that some planting of both coniferous and broadleaved species has taken place, but only on a limited scale on this particular common. There was some storm damage (1987/1990) on the southern edge of the hill - these are presently the more open parts of the site. 

Active clearance of encroaching scrub and trees appears to have been undertaken close to the westernmost car park to maintain views southwards across the Weald (GR TQ 059 426). Given the very limited extent of dwarf shrubs and the overwhelming dominance of bracken, there appears to be no scope for the restoration of heathland vegetation on this site.


FAUNA:
Noted during the brief site visit were: green woodpecker, meadow brown butterfly.

VEG:
The common lies at the very edge of the Weald, immediately to the south of Pitch Hill (Waverley dirtrict). The following target notes made whilst viewing the common from lane along eastern edge.

The greater part of this small common is improved grassland. Grazed by horses/donkeys, it looks more like a small private enclosed field than a common. 

The eastern boundary is marked by an established hedge with trees. This includes {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Rosa canina, Ulmus} sp., {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Acer campestre}. Species growing at the base include {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Centaurea nigra}.

The western edge is now only marked by four large trees of {\it Q. robur} along the former boundary, the common now being unfenced from, and forming part of a larger field with the land unit to the west. Occasional sapling broadleaved trees planted along eastern and southern edges of this area.

Land to the south of the road now forms part of the gardens to the adjoining farm.

MANAGE:
As already discussed, the common is grazed by horses/donkeys etc., possibly belonging to the owner of the adjacent property. The field is fenced from the road and the western boundary of the site has been grubbed-up, save for four mature oak trees. The original course of the road appears to have been re-aligned to follow closely along the southern and eastern boundaries of the site (public footpath follows the original route). Note recent marginal planting of broadleaved trees.

The grassland of the common appears to have no conservation interest. The large oak trees remain significant landscape features and act as reminders of the former boundary. These, together with the established hedge to the east are probably of importance to elements of the local fauna. The planted trees may in due course further improve the potential of the site.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blackcap, blackbird, wren, chiff chaff, nuthatch.

VEG:
The common common forms verges to a minor road at the southern tip of Pitch Hill (Waverley district).

Most of the verges of the common comprise stands of broadleaved woodland with a canopy predominantly of {\it Quercus} sp. Other locally occasional trees include {\it Fagus sylvatica, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The shrub layer is represented variously by {\it Corylus avellana} (some as old coppice), {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Rhododendron ponticum, Amelanchier lamarckii, Prunus laurocerasus} and, rarely, {\it Carpinus betulus}. The field layer is generally acidic in character and includes {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine} and {\it Hedera helix}. Abundant leaf litter. 

Woodland to the south of the common appears to have a field layer that is somewhat more diverse/base-rich in character and includes {\it Mercurialis perennis, Geranium robertianum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}.

Woodland to the extreme west of the site appears to have been thinned in recent years - possibly through storm damage. Adjacent to here is a section that has been "gardened" - with much of the area beneath the trees cut and converted to amenity grassland. Various clumps of ornamental shrubs - {\it R. ponticum} etc.

MANAGE:
The site is largely unmanaged at present. Some evidence of hazel coppicing in the past. A small area has been turned into private gardens.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visits were: songthrush (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus nuthatch, blue tit, chiff chaff, greenfinch, robin, willow warbler, wren, blackcap, treecreeper, great tit, chaffinch, tree pipit, meadow pipit, carrion crow, magpie, yellowhammer, blackbird, green woodpecker, pheasant, grey squirrel, fox, rabbit, roe deer.

The areas of heathland, with some mature and degenerate heather, include a wide range of typical invertebrates, incuding some of more local occurrence in a national context. These include the beetles {\it Pterostichus lepidus, Apion scutellare, Altica ericeti} and {\it Geotrupes pyrenaeus}. Bare ground caused by burning, trampling and more recently, by clearance of scrub and trees provides habitat for species such as mining bees and wasps, certain ants, ground bugs and spiders.

Dead wood habitat is particularly well-represented in Vanhurst Copse, where three characteristic old timber invertebrates have been recorded: the beetles {\it Xyloterus domesticus} and {\it Cerylon ferrugineum}, plus the fly {\it Xylophagus ater}. The last-named species is known from three Wealden localities only in the whole of SE England. Other invertebrates consistent with a long and continuous history of woodland cover include, in particular, ash-black slug, {\it Limax cinereoniger}.

In addition to these ancient woodland specialists, the woodlands as a whole support a number of species of invertebrate which are not particularly associated with either ancient or secondary woodlands. These include, in particular, a number of butterflies such as white admiral {\it Lagoda camilla}, silver-washed fritillary {\it Argynnis paphia} and purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}, all of which are associated with the Wealden woodlands. There are also old records of high brown fritillary {\it Argynnis addipe} (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus purple emperor {\it Apatura iris} and wood white {\it Leptidea sinapis}.

Wet woodlands support {\it Limonia distendus} a cranefly more commonly found in western Britain, in addition to several interesting beetles such as {\it Malthodes maurus}. 

Woodland birds are also very varied, with great spotted and green woodpecker, nuthatch and tree-creeper, plus wood warbler and redstart present locally. Heathland birds include nightjar and occasionally woodlark (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus stonechat and Dartford warbler.

Adder occurs in the areas of heathland.

For a much more detailed account of the fauna recorded from the common, please refer to the NT 1983 Biological Survey Report and the report from the 1997 survey (in prep.).

In recognition of the ornithological importance of the Devil's Punchbowl SSSI, the site has been included within the "Wealden Heaths Phase 2", a suite of sites which have been designated as a Special Protection Area under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
The common lies in the extreme south-western part of the county (Waverley district) on the Lower Greensand. The site includes the Highcomb Valley and the Devil's Punch Bowl and is one of the most scenically spectacular localities in the Western Weald. The Punch Bowl is unusual in the UK in that it has been formed by the action of a series of springs. A significant part of the common lies within the Devil's Punch Bowl SSSI. This, and several of the other adjoining commons in this locality, form a significant part of the Hindhead property of the National Trust.

The following description has been based upon the quoted sources, in particular the report of the 1983 visit by the National Trust Biological Survey Team. There has been extensive recent management work at this site and further target notes have been made during two separate site visits. The site was re-evaluated by the NT Biological Survey Team during the summer of 1997 and at the time of writing, this work was still being prepared.

Most of the common sits upon the acidic Hythe Beds of the Lower Greensand. However, there are exposures of Atherfield Clay along the bottom of Highcomb Valley and the lower slopes of the Devil's Punchbowl. Soils are generally well-drained and belong to the acidic Shirrel Heath Series. Gleyed types occur in the clay areas.

Up until recent management activity, much of the common was dominated by extensive areas of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, within which are several small areas of heathland vegetation. Recent clearance of bracken, scrub and trees has been aimed at restoring more of the common to heathland habitat (see management section). Elsewhere, much of the common is wooded, with a mixture of both broadleaved and mixed stands, most of which is of secondary origin. 

The most extensive woodland type on the common is a mixed secondary type with a canopy of {\it Betula} spp., {\it Pinus sylvestris, Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} with frequent {\it Frangula alnus} and {\it Sorbus aria}, plus locally occasional {\it Quercus cerris} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. The field layer is heathy with {\it P. aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it V. myrtillus, Ulex minor, U. europaeus, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and locally, {\it Erica tetralix, Oxalis acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Teucrium scorodonia, Solidago virgaurea} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}. This woodland occurs on the upper part of the slope leading down from the A3(T) into the Devil's Punch Bowl and also to the south and east of the A3(T).

In addition to mixed woodlands, there are also a variety of pure broadleaved stands. The most notable is a feature said to be "ancient woodland" known as Vanhurst Copse (GR SU 891 378), and is described as "the best of the Hindhead Woods". There is a gradation from stands of {\it Alnus glutinosa} along the valley bottom into a canopy of {\it Q. robur/Ilex aquifolium} along the slopes. Non-native species appear to be absent and the field layer appears to be the most diverse occurring in any area of woodland on the common, including the presence of some notable bryophytes. The field layer includes {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Lysimachia nemorum, Agrostis canina, Oxalis acetosella, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}.  More notable species include {\it Dryopteris carthusiana, Cardamine armara, Milium effusum, Melica uniflora} and {\it Luzula forsteri}.

Bryophtyes recorded include {\it Zygodon viridissimus, Metzgeria furcata, Lejeunea ulcinia, Lophocolea heterophylla, L. cuspidata} and the 'Atlantic' species {\it Nowellia curvifolia}. More common bryophytes noted from broadleaved woodland elsewhere on the common during the site visits were: {\it Hypnum jutlandicum, Mnium hornum, Diplophyllum albicans, Thuidium tamariscinum, Eurynchium praelongum, Plagiothecium undulatum, Dicranum scoparium, Lepidozia reptans} and {\it Polytrichum formosum}.

In addition to Vanhurst Copse, there are further areas of pure broadleaved woodland within the NT property (but not coincident with common land) which are also described as "ancient semi-natural woodland". However none of the common has any woodland highlighted in the Surrey Inventory of Ancient Woodland, although there are several such stands on land adjoining the boundaries of the common. 

Typically, the other broadleaved woodland has {\it Q. robur} or {\it Betula} spp. as the canopy dominants. Often there is a dense shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Other trees and shrubs include {\it Sorbus aucuparia, S. aria, F. alnus, Fagus sylvatica, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Castanea sativa}. The field layer variously contains {\it P. aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris, Lonicera periclymenum, Dryopteris dilatata, Deschampsia flexuosa, Impatiens parviflora, Oxalis acetosella, Lysimachia nemorum, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum} and {\it Veronica montana}. One plant noted of {\it Epipactis helleborine}. Sometimes with a deep layer of leaf litter and locally with abundant dead wood habitat.

A further distinctive area of woodland is that further south along the Highcomb valley GR SU 891 368. This is wet, former coppice wood and has a canopy dominated by {\it A. glutinosa}, in addition to {\it Corylus avellana, Salix cinerea, C. monogyna} and {\it Betula} spp. The field layer includes {\it Ajuga reptans, Scrophularia nodosa, Mentha aquatica, Caltha palustris, Ranunculus flammula, Melampyrum pratense, Cardamine amara, Stellaria alsine, Galium palustre, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Equisetum fluviatile, E. sylvaticum, Oreopteris limbosperma, Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Stachys officinalis}. Bryophytes listed are {\it Mnium hornum, Sphagnum palustre, Hypnum cupressiforme, Pellia epiphylla, Calypogeia muelleriana, Isothecium myosuroides} and the "local" {\it Tetraphis pellucida}.

More open areas of this secondary woodland tend to be dominated by dense bracken with scrub and trees. In addition, there are small areas of {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub recorded on the earlier vegetation survey, although it is not known what effect recent management has had on the existence of these.

The best areas of heathland occur in the northern part of the common. Most of this is dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Ulex minor. Vaccinium myrtillus} is also very abundant and this species often persists as a heathy understorey beneath encroaching trees and bracken. Other associates are {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Polygala vulgaris, Solidago virgaurea} and occasional {\it Cuscuta epithymum}.

Wet heath also occurs, but only in localised areas, mainly associated with the clay in the bottom of Highcomb Valley. This again tends to be dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with {\it Erica tetralix}. Other associates include {\it Sphagnum} spp., {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Juncus acutiflorus, Natrhecium ossifragum, Vaccinium myrtillus, Succisa pratensis, Ulex minor, Polytrichum commune, Aulacomnium palustre, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Carex nigra}. In addition, there is also a good colony of {\it Dactylorhiza maculata}, plus a record for {\it Drosera rotundifolia}. There is also an old record for {\it Rhynchospora alba}.

As has already been outlined, much of the hillside on the eastern side of the Highcomb Valley was formerly dominated by a mixture of dense bracken, scrub and trees. Following extensive clearance in recent years, the vegetation on this part of the common has changed significantly. On the most recently cleared sections, there is still much bare ground in evidence (around 50-75 per cent of the ground cover in places). Elsewhere the bare ground has been colonised by an acidic grassland largely dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and accompanied locally by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and, in the area around GR SU 895 365, {\it Molinia caerulea}. Other associates include {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile, Digitalis purpurea, Potentilla erecta, Prunella vulgaris, Polygala vulgaris, Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. Throughout much of the cleared area, scattered fronds of {\it P. aquilinum} are evident and in addition, scattered mature trees have been left in-situ. {\it Juncus tenuis} occurs in various localities where trampling maintains an open grassland on poorly-drained soils.

To the east of the cafe at the SW corner of the common, adjoining the A3(T), an area of very trampled acidic grassland, used as an amenity area, has been placed in the semi-improved category.

A number of other species are outlined in the NT report as having been recorded from the "Punch Bowl area". These include {\it Hypericum humifusum, Polystichum setiferum, Dryopteris borreri, Sagina subulata, Saxifraga granulata, Serratula tinctoria, Achillea ptarmica, Gnaphalium sylvaticum, Erodium circutaurium} and {\it Pyrola minor}.

A further area of heath occurs in the extreme southern part of the common (GR SU 894 357), mostly as a mosaic with acidic grassland vegetation - not evaluated during site visit.

Lichens referred to in the NT report for the Punch Bowl area: {\it Parmelia physodes, P. glabrutula, P. saxatilis, P. caperata, P. sulcata, Evernia prunastri, Lecanora conizaeoides} and {\it Pertusaria amara}.

In addition to the main common, there is an outlying section, situated to the south-east (see Map 1). The eastern side of this area has a mixed, secondary woodland typical of that generally to be found elsewhere on the common. The other part of this area is shown as a conifer plantation and is described as being floristically poor.

MANAGE:
The common is owned and managed by the National Trust. In a discussion of the biological interest of the common, the National Trust report outlines the extensive and variable mosaic of semi-natural habitat occurring on the common. The site was formerly grazed (and burnt?), which would have maintained it as open heathland. Photographs from the 1930s show the commons to be very much more open than they are today. 

At the time of the 1983 survey, much of the former heathland was being colonised by bracken, trees and scrub and gradually progressing to secondary woodland. Areas of {\it Calluna} heath were confined to a few isolated patches on the common. However, most of this had a good structure, ranging from burnt areas to senescent plants in a state of collapse - a valuable habitat in general for a heathland fauna and mature {\it Calluna} appears to still be present on the site at present in small areas.

Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

In recent years there has been a huge management input on this particular site aimed at restoring areas to lowland heathland. This has involved a very large-scale removal of bracken, scrub and woodland from the former heathlands within the Devil's Punch Bowl-Highcomb Valley area. Most of this has been done by mechanical means, including tree felling, swiping of bracken, rotovating and raking. Cut material has been cleared away to create suitable conditions for new heather plants to germinate. There has also possibly been some use of herbicide (e.g. to treat bracken)

Following this, the greater part of this area has been fenced and grazing by highland cattle and ponies has been reintroduced (mostly NT stock, but with some also on loan from the Surrey Heathland Project). Careful monitoring of the effects of grazing is being undertaken. Occasional mature trees have been left in-situ to provide songposts for birds such as nightjar and tree pipit, shelter for invertebrates and probably for landscape reasons. There has also been clearance of tree cover from specific vantage points from footapths along the top of the Devil's Punch Bowl to restore views northwards along the Highcomb Valley and beyond. 

In addition to heathland habitats, some areas of broadleaved woodland on the common may be considered to be of ancient origin (although have not been highlighted in the Ancient Woodland Inventory). However, they have been modified to some extent by management or invasion by other species. One such example is Vanhurst Copse, which retains some very fine old specimen trees and has the most diverse field layer of all the woods due to the presence of slightly more base-rich soils. 

Management recommended for these woods largely centres around a policy of non-intervention, this being consistent with the management needs of native woods with mature and ancient trees. It was suggested that there should be no clear-felling and that any re-planting should be of native species only. In addition, mature trees of native origin should be retained as long as possible and ideally be allowed to remain in-situ as standing dead wood, unless there are overriding needs of public safety. Some small-scale re-coppicing of hazel recommended, and {\it P. sylvestris} should be selectively removed from all stands considered to be of ancient origin.

Secondary woods should be selectively thinned to favour native trees and shrubs and in areas of former heath, tree and shrub cover should be reduced as much as possible to encourage the recovery of an open heathland flora.

For a more comprehensive account of the management of this particular common, please consult the appropriate National Trust management plan.

N.B. Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Wet woodland", "Lowland dry acidic grassland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: robin, blue tit, magpie, green woodpecker, jay, rabbit.

VEG:
The common lies in the northern part of the county, to the north of Woking (Surrey Heath district). The site was surveyed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and as subsequently selected as SNCI. The following decription has been based on the general description from the SNCI survey and target notes made during a visit to the site.

The common is situated on the Bagshot, Bracklesham and Barton Beds, with Stagnogley-podzol soils to the north of the site and typical Stagnogleys to the south. It was formerly open heathland.

The common supports a variety of woodland types. Much is largely a recent broadleaved type with a canopy dominated by {\it Betula} sp. with {\it Quercus robur} occasional, or more abundant in places. Rare trees of {\it Pinus sylvestris} (although locally more abundant) and occasional in-situ fallen trees of {\it Betula} sp. A sparse shrub layer includes locally occasional {\it Frangula alnus, Salix cinerea, S. capraea, Ilex aquifolium} and small trees of {\it Populus tremula}. The field layer comprises locally frequent/abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}. Abundant leaf litter. To the north-west, {\it Molinia caerulea} is also locally abundant. Areas with a more open canopy support extensive stands of {\it P. aquilinum}.

Several clumps of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} were noted in woodland to the SW of the common.

Note boundary trees of {\it Castanea sativa} to the SE of the common and of {\it Q. robur} to the NW.

Dominating the eastern part of the site is a mixed canopy woodland, essentially similar to that above, but with varying abundance of {\it P. sylvestris}. In places this species is only occasional, whereas in others it becomes the dominant canopy tree. At least one stand of pure {\it P. sylvestris} woodland was noted and there are other small pockets which were not possible to map. 

The central portion of the common is an open area dominated by dense {\it P. aquilinum}. Throughout are scattered trees, mainly of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens}, but with occasional {\it Q. robur} and {\it P. sylvestris}. Scattered amongst the bracken sward are localised remnants of a heathland/marshy grassland flora in the form of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Molinia caerulea, Ulex minor, Potentilla erecta} and less commonly, {\it Erica tetralix}. The most extensive such features noted lie to the eastern edge of the clearing (see habitat map). The heath has been mapped as a wet type, owing to the association with {\it E. tetralix} and {\it M. caerulea}. 

One of the areas of {\it P. sylvestris} woodland is recorded to have some {\it Sphagnum} present.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged at present. A conversation with an elderly local resident revealed that the site had been open heather moorland within living memory. In addition, a fire (presumably accidental) in 1987 is said to have affected three quarters of the area of the common. 

The main feature nature conservation interest of the common is the presence of remnants of lowland heathland vegetation, one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Interestingly, this site has not been highlighted in the Surrey Lowland Heathland Inventory. For a more detailed discussion of the ecology and conservation importance of Surrey's lowland heathlands, please refer to the main report.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, blue tit.

The SSSI forms one element of a proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA) known as the Thames Basin Heaths. These are areas designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (the "Birds Directive").

The SSSI is of documented ornithological significance, with recent records of breeding hobby and nightjar (1992). There are also records from the 1960s for redstart and woodlark. Note that woodlark and nightjar are both "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Animals found on the dry heath include such local insects as the silver studded blue butterfly {\it Plebejus argus} and the wood tiger beetle {\it Cicindela sylvatica}. The former is also a UK BAP "Priority Species", as is the sand lizard, a colony of which is present in an area of heath on the site.

The site also supports many other local and rare invertebrates. It is of national importance for true flies (Diptera); rare species include a bee fly {\it Thyridanthrax fenestratus} and a crane-fIy {\it Tipula livida}, while the crane-fly {\it Limonia inusta} is among the many local species. A large number of local beetles (Coleoptera) are also found, including the ground beetle {\it Amara infima} and the weevil {\it Byctiscus populi}.

Regarded as a top national site for Diptera (with 8 RDB species) and also for Odonata.

VEG:
The common forms a part of the Ockham and Wisley Common SSSI (see map - note that the M25, Pointers Road and the narrow strip of land to the south-east of Chartley Semaphore do not fall within the SSSI boundary). The site as a whole comprises a large tract of heathland lying between the Mole and Wey Rivers near Cobham (Guildford and Elmbridge districts). Principal habitats include wet and dry heath, bog, open water, secondary woodland and scrub. This variety of habitats supports a rich community of heathland plants and animals, including a large number of rare and local insects (see fauna section). 

N.B. The common itself is situated wholly within Elmbridge district.

The site lies on Bagshot beds, which have given rise to an acidic sandy soil supporting heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}, and in grassy areas by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. Amongst these grow {\it Ulex minor, Genista tinctoria} and {\it Teesdalia nudicaulis}. Good examples of this dry heath are to be found on the common. 

Over most of this particular common, much of the heathland is very overgrown with bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and invasive trees and shrubs: mainly {\it Betula pendula, Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Quercus robur}. 

However, the major blocks of heath within the site are now being actively managed to remove encroaching trees and bracken and restore the open character of the heath (see management section). This has given rise to a mosaic of different heathland swards, ranging from recently cleared areas where seedling plants of {\it Calluna} are developing, to more mature stands of dry heath with {\it Calluna} and {\it Erica cinerea}, with varying cover of {\it P. aquilinum} and trees etc.

Surrounding these more open areas, the rest of the heathland is wooded. This comprises a mixture of pure {\it Pinus sylvestris} (apparently a mixture of plantation and self-sown stands), plus mixed semi-natural woodland co-dominated by {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Betula} spp. Other associates include {\it Castanea sativa} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The field layer is largely dominated by {\it P. aquilinum}, with the mixed stands having a shrub layer which includes locally occasional (and elsewhere abundant - e.g. Telegraph Hill) {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. Rides/tracks and various clearings tend to contain remnants of heath vegetation, although elsewhere the woods have generally replaced the heath completely.

Wet heath has developed upon a layer of peat which overlies the sand occurs within the SSSI, but does not appear to be represented on this particular common.

To the east of Chartley Semaphore, a narrow lane runs down a steep hillside and eventually crosses the M25 via an overbridge. On the hillside (1) this forms a narrow strip of broadleaved woodland to either side of the lane, with trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Castanea sativa}, plus locally occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula} sp. The understorey includes {\it Sambucus nigra, Rhododendron ponticum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica, P. aquilinum} and {\it Impatiens glandulifera}. Some of the oak trees are well-developed with an open-grown character and one may be an old pollard.

Over the bridge (2) is an area of rabbit-grazed neutral grassland at either side of the road. This is mainly dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Festuca rubra}. Other associates include locally abundant {\it Brachythecium rutabulum}, locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, plus locally occasional {\it Centaurium erythraea, Anagallis arvensis, Cirsium vulgare} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. Also present here: locally occasional bushes of {\it R. ponticum, Crataegus monogyna} and sapling tree of {\it Betula} sp.

MANAGE:
The Wisley and Ockham Commons are of significant nature conservation importance, encompassing an area of lowland dry heath, a habitat which formerly covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's Heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). In addition, it is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland. The causes of this decline include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "lowland heathland" has been highlighted as one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The site as a whole is managed by Surrey County Council Countryside Service, who have a detailed management plan. The primary management objective is to "manage and restore the remaining areas of heathland and, where feasible, to recreate former heathland from woodland". The plan takes into account the needs of the various notable species associated with the heath, including the colony of sand lizard.

Ideal management of these heaths would be the reintroduction of traditional grazing. This has been possible (with cattle and sheep) on a section of the adjoining CL 350, by the use of temporary electric fencing. 

Elsewhere, including on parts of this particular common, the heath is maintained by a variety of management techniques which include scrub and tree thinning/clearance, turf stripping and use of herbicide to treat stumps and bracken. The overall philosophy is to undertake this type of management work in small-scale compartments to both maximise the structural diversity of habitat and minimise the visual impact. Often, specimen trees and small copses are retained to maintain the overall visual character of the site.

Restoration of former heath is being undertaken through clear felling of trees, followed by scaping to remove the humus layer and seed-spreading. Such activity is preceeded by clear forewarning to the public of the work and its intentions. 

There are detailed management prescriptions for the other major habitats. For a fuller account of the significance of lowland heath as a habitat, please refer to the relavant section of the main report and the various references highlighted on the front of this site report. More detailed information about the Ockham and Wisley Commons as a whole can be found within the site report for CL 350.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: wren, blue tit, nuthatch, swallows, blackbird, green woodpecker, gatekeeper butterfly.

VEG:
The common lies to the east of the Wisley/Ockham Commons complex (Elmbridge district) and is now bisected by the M25 motorway. A small part is coincident with a site known as Wren's Nest Cottage, covered under the Surrey Wildlife Trust SNCI project for the county (but not selected as SNCI). The following target notes were made during a visit to the site.

(1). Mown amenity grassland adjacent to Wren's Nest Cottage. Occasional ornamental broadleaved trees, including a large individual of {\it Salix} sp. ('weeping' variety). Small area of "garden".

(2). This area also gardened but with a canopy of mature trees of {\it Q. robur} and occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Understorey lacking due to regular maintenance. Alongside the road is a 2m wide strip of mown amenity grassland. 'Hedge' (partially planted) with {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium}, ? {\it Cupressocyparis leylandii} and {\it Acer campestre}.

(3). Small block of dense, scrubby broadleaved woodland with canopy of {\it Q. robur} (occasional tall, open-grown trees) plus occasional {\it F. excelsior} and locally occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Shrub layer with large individuals of {\it C. avellana} grown from coppice stools plus {\it Cornus sanguinea, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Field layer contains {\it Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Stachys sylvatica}. One large stand of {\it Fallopia japonica}.

Strip of tall ruderals etc. alongside the road with {\it Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Armoracia rusticana}. Mown grassland immediately next to road itself. 

(4). Further stand of broadleaved woodland with canopy of {\it F. excelsior} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus}, plus occasional {\it Q. robur} (large trees) and {\it Betula} sp. Shrub layer of {\it Sambucus nigra, C. avellana, Crateagus monogyna, Ulmus} sp., {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, plus field layer with {\it Glechoma hederacea, Alliaria petiolata, Urtica dioica} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}. Locally occasional dead trunks of {\it Betula} sp.

(5). Alongside the road is a more open area with a mosaic of coarse neutral grassland/tall ruderals, plus scattered scrub and broadleaved trees. This includes {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Pulicaria dysenterica, Mentha} sp., {\it Torilis japonica, Prunella vulgaris, Holcus lanatus, Senecio jacobaea} and {\it Hypericum perforatum}.

(6). Opposite side of road has an area of coarse neutral grassland. This is dominated again by {\it A. elatius} and {\it D. glomerata}, with frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Trifolium repens}, locally abundant {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., locally frequent {\it Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla reptans} and {\it Achillea millefolium}, plus locally occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Plantago major, Centaurea nigra, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. One tree of {\it F. excelsior}, plus several large/old multi-stemmed individuals of {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

(7). Planted broadleaved woodland associated with landscaping following construction of the M25 motorway. Trees now around 3.0m tall: {\it Prunus} sp., {\it Betula} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra, Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre} and {\it Salix} sp. ? {\it capraea}.

MANAGE:
The land opposite Wren's Nest Cottage is managed as part of the grounds of this property. Areas of grassland elsewhere on the common are occasionally mown. As already outlined, an area of broadleaved woodland has been planted following construction of the M25 motorway (which encroaches onto the common).

This small site forms a 'wildlife corridor' between two adjacent blocks of woodland. As such, it appears to be of value to wildlife in a local context.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were (i.e. CLs 96/259): roe deer, green woodpecker, blackbird, blue tit, wren, wood pigeon, jay, coot, plus meadow brown, white admiral, large white, comma, ringlet and green-veined white butterflies and a damselfly - banded agrion {\it Agrion splendens}.

The diversity of habitats promotes an extremely rich community of breeding birds and important invertebrate populations. 

Birds associated with woodland include songthrush and bullfinch (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus hawfinch, woodcock, treecreeper, the three British woodpeckers, carrion crow, magpie, blackbird, wood pigeon, great, blue, marsh, willow, long-tailed and coal tits, nuthatch, goldcrest, wren, tawny owl, mistle thrush, starling, robin, hedgesparrow, chiff chaff, cuckoo, willow and garden warbler and blackcap.

The grassland and scrub areas support breeding nightingale, lesser whitethroat, yellowhammer and grasshopper warbler. Kestrels can occasionally be seen hunting overhead. Occasional sighting of linnet (also a UK BAP "Priority Species"), with bullfinches numerous. In autumn and winter there are flocks of redwings and fieldfares.

Breeding birds associated with the areas of fen and open water include reed bunting (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus little grebe, mute swan, coot, mandarin duck, pied wagtail and moorhen. Occasional visits by feeding kingfisher and grey heron. Grey wagtails are winter visitors.

Grey squirrels are frequent in the woods and foxes, weasels and stoats are also present. There is a small population of roe deer. Water voles burrow in the banks of large ditches and ponds. Small mammals include long-tailed field mouse and bank voles in the woodland plus harvest mouse, field vole, common, pigmy and water shrew in the grassland. Hedgehogs, brown rats and moles are plentiful.

Grass snakes are common between March and October. All three species of newt - great crested (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus smooth and palmate, breed in various pools, whilst common frog and toads breed in the larger ponds.

Detailed invertebrate recording has taken place for over forty years by the London Natural History Society and this is regarded as one of the best recorded clay sites in Britain. The site has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. It is a top national site for: Cladocera (waterfleas), Hemiptera (bugs), Diptera (true flies) generally and for Syrphidae (hover-flies) specifically.

Since invertebrate recording began at this site many different species of insects have been recorded, including 611 species of beetles, 1140 species of flies, 146 bugs, 201 spiders, 17 dragonflies and over 300 species of butterflies and moths; for the groups cited these figures represent, on average, between one-third and one-quarter of the British species list. 

The diversity of habitats is responsible for this large number of species. Dead oak trees provide habitat for several beetles which are scarce in Surrey including {\it Nemadus colonoides} and {\it Aridius nodifer} whilst the fen and open water is important for dragonflies such as {\it Aeshna grandis}. 

The site is particulariy important for its Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) which frequent the wooded rides and the areas of grassland and scrub. Two moths which occur, the toadflax brocade {\it Calophasia lunula} and the broad-bordered bee hawk {\it Hemaris fuciformis}, are both nationally rare/UK BAP "Priority Species",  while this is the best known Surrey site for the purple emperor butterfly {\it Apatura iris}. Other butterflies which are present include white-letter hairstreak {\it Strymonidia w-album}, white admiral {\it Limenitis camilla} and purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}.

VEG:
The common lies on the variably drained and undulating terrain of the London Clay, to the west of Leatherhead (Mole Valley district).

This particular common, taken in conjunction with its contiguous neighbour, CL 96, incorporate the entire area of the Bookham Commons SSSI. The site is of major ecological importance and supports a range of habitat types including woodland, scrub, grassland and open water. The site has been the subject of intensive study by the London Natural History Society since 1941 - forming one of the most comprehensive amateur studies of any comparable area in Britain.

The complex as a whole encompasses an extensive area of ancient woodland occupying the north-eastern two thirds of the SSSI. To the south lies woodland of more recent origin, derived from former wood pasture, while the south-western portion encompasses an area of species-rich neutral grassland and scrub (grazed until about 70 years ago). 

Little Bookham Common encompasses a significant part of the latter habitat mosaic. Much of this area is poorly drained and there are several old gunpits and bomb craters dating from military use during WW2. The south-eastern part has, in the past few years, been cleared of some scrub. Grazing has been reintroduced on similar habitat on the contiguous CL 96 and was due to commence on this area of CL 259 in late 1997. 

Further north, the grassland is ungrazed and has a taller, coarser sward dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Juncus} spp. Herbs include {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Pastinaca sativa, Angelica sylvestris, Torilis japonica, Filipendula ulmaria, Achillea ptarmica, Bromus commutatus, Heracleum sphondylium, Potentilla anserina, Carex hirta, Cirsium arvense, Mentha} sp., {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Valeriana officinalis, Rumex acetosa, Odontites vernus, Vicia cracca, Centaurea nigra, Galium ? uliginosum,  Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Genista anglica}. Notable plants which occur include {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Silaum silaus, Carex spicata} and {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum}. Occasional ant hills, especially among scrubby areas.

In addition, there is also one small area of acidic grassland comprising {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca rubra} with occasional {\it Danthonia decumbens, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Poa pratensis}. Other associates include {\it Succisa pratensis, Carex nigra, Juncus conglomeratus, Viola riviniana} and occasional tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea}.

The scrub is scattered throughout the grassland but also forms dense stands to the north. {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominates much of this scrub but a diversity of other species occur including {\it Prunus spinosa, Salix cinerea, Betula} spp., {\it Populus tremula} and two species of rose which are "scarce" in Surrey, {\it Rosa micrantha} and {\it Rosa stylosa}. 

To the extreme north-east lies a section of broadleaved woodland indicated to be of ancient origin. The canopy is dominated by {\it Quercus robur}, with a sizeable population of large, mature trees being present. Other species occurring include {\it Quercus cerris, Betula pubescens, Acer campestre, Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} and rarely, {\it Ruscus aculeatus}. The field layer of these mature woods includes {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Oxalis acetosella, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Circaea lutetiana, Oxalis acetosella, Lonicera periclymenum, Stellaria holostea, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Carex strigosa} - described as a "scarce" plant in Surrey. 

The Bryophyte flora is rich, with over 100 taxa listed, including one of only two Surrey localities for the moss {\it Zygodon conoideus}. Other notable species (post 1950 records) include {\it Aulacomnium palustre, Dicranum bonjeanii, Pleuridium acuminatum, Sphagnum auriculatum, Bryum bornholmense, Ulota crispa} and {\it Fossobromia wondraczekii}.

Bookham Common was visited by the South-East Group of the British Bryological Society in October 1997. Despite dry conditions at the time, the group were successful in recording 57 species (49 mosses and 7 hepatics). A railway bridge revealed {\it Grimmia trichophylla}, a species new to the site. Several stands of {\it Sambucus nigra} supported growth of {\it Orthotrichum affine} and {\it O. diaphanum}. One of the larger ponds provided a record for {\it Riccia fluitans}. Other hepatics included {\it Metzgeria furcata, Frullania dilatata}, and from a clay ditch bank, {\it Fossobromia pusilla}, another new taxon. Moss records included {\it Dicranum tauricum, Hypnum jutlandicum} and {\it Ulota bruchii} ({\it U. crispa} var. {\it norvegica}) on {\it Salix capraea}, a third new record for the site. 

Broadleaved woodland elsewhere on the common is of secondary origin and may have originated, in part, from wood pasture.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by a local committee of the National Trust. Bookham Commons as a whole are of major ecological importance in the diversity of habitats present, ranging from ancient woodland, old wood pasture, species-rich grassland and dense scrub. The site has heavy recreational pressure and is popular, in particular, for dog-walking. This may be leading to some soil eutrophication.

The former wood pasture is of particular importance for the old, open-grown oak trees, with a number of senescent and dead trees also present. These have great potential for a range of invertebrates. Selective thinning may be required around certain maturing oaks to allow them to develop broad crowns in an open situation. Note that "Lowland wood pasture and parkland" is one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Prior to WW2 the south-western part of the common was grazed by local farmers. However, this area was taken over in 1941 for military exercises and the grazing did not re-start following the war. This, coupled with the effects of Myxomatosis in 1954, led to this area becoming dominated by coarse grasses and encroaching scrub/trees.

The National Trust were successful in fencing and reintroducing grazing on part of this area (on the contiguous CL 96) in 1989. Low levels of grazing here have created a diverse structure to the sward and have been succcessful in controlling {\it Deschampsia} and {\it Arrhenatherum}. 

On the remaining grassland, scrub has continued to increase in extent. However, during the summer of 1997, there has been extensive clearance of scrub here with a planned reintroduction of grazing onto this area in the autumn. 

For a more detailed discussion of the management of this common, please consult the National Trust. Note that the site was visited by the NT Biological Survey Team during the summer of 1997 and that a survey report should be available in the near future.

Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Lowland meadow" (which includes any unimproved lowland neutral grassland), plus "Lowland dry acidic grassland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were (i.e. CLs 96/259): roe deer, green woodpecker, blackbird, blue tit, wren, wood pigeon, jay, coot, plus meadow brown, white admiral, large white, comma, ringlet and green-veined white butterflies and a damselfly - banded agrion {\it Agrion splendens}.

The diversity of habitats promotes an extremely rich community of breeding birds and important invertebrate populations. 

Birds associated with woodland include hawfinch, woodcock, tree-creeper, all three British woodpeckers, carrion crow, magpie, blackbird, wood pigeon, great, blue, marsh, willow, long-tailed and coal tits, nuthatch, goldcrest, wren, bullfinch, tawny owl, mistle and song thrush, starling, robin, hedgesparrow, chiff chaff, cuckoo, willow and garden warbler and blackcap.

The grassland and scrub areas support breeding nightingale, lesser whitethroat, yellowhammer and grasshopper warbler. Kestrels can occasionally be seen hunting overhead. Occasional sighting of linnet, with bullfinches numerous. In autumn and winter there are flocks of redwings and fieldfares.

Breeding birds associated with the areas of fen and open water include little grebe, mute swan, coot, mandarin duck, reed bunting, pied wagtail and moorhen. Occasional visits by feeding kingfisher and grey heron. Grey wagtails are winter visitors.

N.B. Songthrush, linnet, bullfinch and reed bunting are all "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Grey squirrels are frequent in the woods and foxes, weasels and stoats are also present. There is a small population of roe deer. Water voles burrow in the banks of large ditches and ponds. Small mammals include long-tailed field mouse and bank voles in the woodland plus harvest mouse, field vole, common, pigmy and water shrew in the grassland. Hedgehogs, brown rats and moles are plentiful.

Grass snakes are common between March and October. All three species of newt - great crested (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus smooth and palmate, breed in various pools, whilst common frog and toads breed in the larger ponds.

Detailed invertebrate recording has taken place for over forty years by the London Natural History Society and this is regarded as one of the best recorded clay sites in Britain. The site has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. It is a top national site for: Cladocera (waterfleas), Hemiptera (bugs), Diptera (true flies) generally and for Syrphidae (hover-flies) specifically.

Since invertebrate recording began at this site many different species of insects have been recorded, including 611 species of beetles, 1140 species of flies, 146 bugs, 201 spiders, 17 dragonflies and over 300 species of butterfties and moths; for the groups cited these figures represent, on average, between one-third and one-quarter of the British species list. 

The site is particularly important for its Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) which frequent the wooded rides and the areas of grassland and scrub. Two moths which occur, the toadflax brocade {\it Calophasia lunula} and the broad-bordered bee hawk {\it Hemaris fuciformis}, are both nationally rare/UK BAP "Priority Species",  while this is the best known Surrey site for the purple emperor butterfly {\it Apatura iris}. Other butterflies which are present include white-letter hairstreak {\it Strymonidia w-album}, white admiral {\it Limenitis camilla} and purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}.

VEG:
The common lies on the variably drained and undulating terrain of the London Clay, to the west of Leatherhead (Mole Valley district).

This particular common, taken in conjunction with its contiguous neighbour, CL 259, incorporate the entire area of the Bookham Commons SSSI. The site is of major ecological importance and supports a range of habitat types including woodland, scrub, grassland and open water. The site has been the subject of intensive study by the London Natural History Society since 1941 - forming one of the most comprehensive amateur studies of any comparable area in Britain.

Woodland covers around two-thirds of the site. The majority of this, i.e. that accounting for approximately the northern two thirds, to the north of the Isle of Wight Ponds, is mature and highlighted as being of ancient origin in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory. The canopy is dominated by {\it Quercus robur}, with a sizeable population of large, mature trees being present. Other species occurring include {\it Quercus cerris, Betula pubescens, Acer campestre, Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} and rarely, {\it Ruscus aculeatus}. The field layer of these mature woods includes {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Oxalis acetosella, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Circaea lutetiana, Oxalis acetosella, Lonicera periclymenum, Stellaria holostea, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Carex strigosa} - described as a "scarce" plant in Surrey. 

These mature woodlands are dissected by a network of rides. In many instances, these are occupied by regenerating scrub/trees and bracken. However, areas of open neutral grassland also occur with species such as {\it Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Stellaria graminea, Cirsium vulgare, Geranium dissectum, Torilis japonica, Galeopsis tetrahit, Ajuga reptans, Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Mentha aquatica}. One area of relict grassland noted with locally frequent {\it Stachys officinalis} and occasional old ant hills.

Woodland south of the ponds on the main common appears to be of more recent origin, apparently developing on an area of former wood pasture. {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Q. robur} dominate this type but {\it Fraxinus excelsior} is present along the railway embankment (TQ 127556). 

Notable here are a number of large, open-grown oaks dating from the wood pasture, plus occasional dead trees. Note the remaining area of open grassland here (1). Small area of marshy grassland noted during site visit, dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} with occasional/frequent {\it Achillea ptarmica, Succisa pratensis, Potentilla erecta, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Holcus lanatus, Rumex acetosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus conglomeratus} and {\it Luzula multiflora}. Encroaching {\it P. aquilinum} at edges. 

In the south-western portion there is a more extensive area of coarse grassland and scrub (grazed until about 70 years ago, with grazing recently introduced to part of this area). Much of this part of the common is poorly drained and there are several old gunpits and bomb craters dating from military use during WW2. 

The areas of open grassland are dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}, with {\it Dactylis glomerata}, {\it Juncus} spp., {\it Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa pratensis}. Herbs include {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Pastinaca sativa, Angelica sylvestris, Potentilla anglica, Agrimonia procera, Stellaria graminea, Lotus corniculatus, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Achillea ptarmica, Centaurea nigra, Prunella vulgaris, Trifolium} spp., {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Genista anglica}. Notable plants recorded include {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Silaum silaus, Carex spicata} and {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum}. Occasional ant hills, especially among scrubby areas.

In addition, there is also one small area of acidic grassland comprising {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca rubra} with occasional {\it Danthonia decumbens, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Poa pratensis}. Other associates include {\it Succisa pratensis, Carex nigra, Juncus conglomeratus, Viola riviniana} and occasional tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea}.

Scrub is scattered throughout the grassland but also forms a dense belts along the edge of the adjoining woodland. {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominates much of this scrub but a diversity of other species occur including {\it Prunus spinosa, Salix cinerea, Populus tremula} and two species of rose which are "scarce" in Surrey, {\it Rosa micrantha} and {\it Rosa stylosa}. 

Open water habitats contribute significantly to the interest of the site and are represented by several woodland ponds and by a tributary stream of the River Mole. The open water flora of these areas includes three plants which are "scarce" in Surrey: {\it Lemna Polyrhiza, Lemna Gibba} and {\it Ranunculus trichophyllus}. Stands of tall fen vegetation are particularly well-established in a chain of ponds which run east from the 'Isle of Wight' (TQ 126562); {\it Typha latifolia} dominates much of this fen but also present are {\it Iris pseudacorus, Bidens tripartita, Juncus} spp., {\it Sparganium erectum, Scutellaria galericulata, Equisetum} spp., {\it Scrophularia aquatica, Lycopus europaeus, Conium maculatum, Filipendula ulmaria, Epilobium hirsutum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus flammula, Galium palustre, Angelica sylvestris, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Lotus pedunculatus, Myosotis} sp., {\it Carex otrubae, Dipsacus fullonum, Stachys palustris} and two Surrey "rarities" - {\it Alopecurus aequalis} and {\it Salix aurita}.

The Bryophyte flora of Bookham Common is rich, with 100 taxa listed, including one of only two Surrey localities for the moss {\it Zygodon conoideus}. Other notable species (post 1950 records) include {\it Aulacomnium palustre, Dicranum bonjeanii, Pleuridium acuminatum, Sphagnum auriculatum, Bryum bornholmense, Ulota crispa} and {\it Fossobromia wondraczekii}.

Bookham Common was visited by the South-East Group of the British Bryological Society in October 1997. Despite dry conditions at the time, the group were successful in recording 57 species (49 mosses and 7 hepatics). A railway bridge revealed {\it Grimmia trichophylla}, a species new to the site. Several stands of {\it Sambucus nigra} supported growth of {\it Orthotrichum affine} and {\it O. diaphanum}. One of the larger ponds provided a record for {\it Riccia fluitans}. Other hepatics included {\it Metzgeria furcata, Frullania dilatata}, and from a clay ditch bank, {\it Fossobromia pusilla}, another new taxon. Moss records included {\it Dicranum tauricum, Hypnum jutlandicum} and {\it Ulota bruchii} ({\it U. crispa} var. {\it norvegica}) on {\it Salix capraea}, a third new record for the site. 

Non-SSSI land to south of railway: notes from present survey:

Much of this area has a rather coarse neutral grassland sward dominated by {\it A. elatius} with locally abundant {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it D. cespitosa}. Other associates variously include {\it Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Phleum pratense, Senecio jacobaea, Pulicaria dysenterica, Calystegia sepium, Cerastium fontanum, Torilis japonica, Rumex acetosa, Potentilla reptans, Convololus arvensis, Ranunculus repens, Vicia sepium, Equisetum arvense, Lathyrus pratensis, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Odontites vernus, Heracleum sphondylium, Agrimonia eupatoria, Carex hirta, Galium verum, Ranunculus acris, Linaria vulgaris, Filipendula ulmaria, Geranium} sp. (garden escape), {\it Armoracia rusticana, Malva sylvestris} and {\it Stellaria graminea}. Locally abundant {\it Lolium perenne} along paths. Some areas species-poor and also areas of mown amenity grassland.

Small areas of dense scrub/trees and tall ruderals, mainly along margins: {\it Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina, Urtica dioica, Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Populus x canadensis}.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by a local committee of the National Trust. The Bookham Commons as a whole are of major ecological importance in the diversity of habitats present, ranging from ancient woodland, old wood pasture, species-rich grassland and dense scrub. Additional interest is provided by the various aquatic and swamp habitats. The site has heavy recreational pressure and is popular, in particular, for dog-walking. This may be leading to some soil eutrophication.

The former wood pasture is of particular importance for the old, open-grown oak trees, with a number of senescent and dead trees also present. These have great potential for a range of invertebrates. Selective thinning may be required around certain maturing oaks to allow them to develop broad crowns in an open situation. Note that "Lowland wood pasture and parkland" is one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Prior to WW2 the south-western part of the common was grazed by local farmers. However, this area was taken over in 1941 for military exercises and the grazing did not re-start following the war. This, coupled with the effects of Myxomatosis in 1954, led to this area becoming dominated by coarse grasses and encroaching scrub/trees.

The National Trust were successful in fencing and reintroducing grazing on part of this area in 1989. Low levels of grazing here have created a varied structure to the sward and have been succcessful in controlling {\it Deschampsia} and {\it Arrhenatherum}.

On the remaining grassland, scrub has continued to increase in extent. However, during the summer of 1997, there was extensive clearance of scrub here with a planned reintroduction of grazing in the autumn. 

One of the ponds was formerly stocked with carp by an angling club, although they have now been removed and angling discontinued.

For a more detailed discussion of the management of this common, please consult the National Trust. Note that the site was visited by the NT Biological Survey Team during the summer of 1997 and that a survey report should be available in the near future.

The southern, non-SSSI portions, lie adjacent to housing. The generally coarse grassland here may be cut infrequently. However, smaller areas are regularly mown for amenity purposes. Parts heavily used by playing children and dog-walkers. Note small fenced portion managed as a private garden.

Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Lowland meadow" (which includes any unimproved lowland neutral grassland), "Lowland dry acidic grassland", "Purple moor grass and rush pastures", plus Meso/eutrophic standing waters.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: semi-domesticated ducks and geese on one of the ponds. For a full account of the fauna of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to the site description for CL 280.

VEG:
The common forms several small parcels of land situated either contiguously or actually within the much larger unit of CL 359 (Epsom and Ewell district). Some of these lie within the Epsom and Ashtead Commons SSSI (see map under CL 359), whilst the three portions to the south of the railway line lie within a designated SNCI.

It was not possible to investigate every single part during the site visit - several appear to have beer registered specifically as ponds, although some of the smaller features may have since dried-up. Most of the following description has been based on target notes made during the course of the present survey.

(1). Stew Pond (not visited). One of two ponds highlighted in the SSSI citation (the other being "Great Pond" - not registered as common land). These two features are described as "the most valuable of the open water habitats". The open water supports {\it Lemna} spp., {\it Nymphaea alba} and {\it Potamogeton} spp., whilst the margins have {\it Typha latifolia, Menyanthes trifoliata, Bidens tripartita} and {\it Alisma lanceolatum}.

(2). Strip of marginal land crossed by the B280. Most is secondary broadleaved woodland with a canopy dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} spp. On the other side of the road is a small wooded triangle with a canopy comprising {\it Q. robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with sapling {\it Carpinus betulus, F. excelsior, A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The shrub layer has locally occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus} spp. and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Around the roadside edges is a mown strip of species-poor grassland/ruderals.

(3). This parcel comprises a small pond and also for some reason includes a narrow strip of adjacent amenity grassland on CL 359. Fringing the open water are {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Epilobium hirsutum, Salix cinerea, Iris pseudacorus, Carex pendula} and {\it Potentilla anserina}. Taller trees shading the pond are situated on the contiguous CL 359.

(4). This is apparently one of several ponds, partially dried-up. The others were not obviously noted during the site visit and may also have dried-up. Much of the pond area now has a grassland sward dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with {\it Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Remaining open water and its margins support locally abundant {\it Juncus articulatus, Glyceria} sp., {\it Agrostis stolonifera}, locally frequent {\it Ranunculus flammula}, locally occasional {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and rare {\it Carex viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa}.

(5). A long, narrow strip of the common comprising sections of Wells Road and Woodlands Road.

(6). Strip of woodland contiguous with similar habitat on the contiguous CLs 280 and 359. Canopy here dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Betula} spp. Shrub layer including {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, with a field layer characterised by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus locally frequent {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Circaea lutetiana, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Stachys sylvatica}.

(7). Presumably a small pond, but not visited.

(8). This portion appears to have originally entirely been a pond. However, the extent and magrins of the pond are now different from that of the registered boundary of the common, with the result that a part of this area is now broadleaved woodland and a part of the pond itself now lies on the contiguous CL 359. To one side of the pond is a dense carpet of the introduced alien, {\it Crassula helmsii}. Other species elsewhere include locally frequent {\it Lysimachia nummularia, Iris pseudacorus, Juncus inflexus, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Eleocharis palustris}, locally occasional {\it Equisetum fluviatile} plus rare {\it Carex pendula}. One stand of {\it Typha latifolia}. Locally abundant {\it Ceratophyllum} sp. in the open water. Trees fringing pond include {\it Salix} spp. ({\it S. fragilis} and {\it S. cinerea}).

MANAGE:
Some parts of the common are regularly mown as amenity grassland. A small area is used as the car park for a nursery and has recycling bins provided. There is probably periodic clearance of vegetation from the ponds, although no specific information has been located. The infestation of {\it Crassula helmsii} in the pond at (8) is an undesirable feature (this plant also being a problem on the excluded "Great Pond"). 

For a discussion of the management of the area as a whole, please refer to the management section of the contiguous CL 359.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blue tit, magpie, black-headed gull, chiff chaff, jay, wood pigeon, robin, rabbit, plus small copper and large white butterflies.

VEG:
The common lies alongside the River Mole at Leatherhead (Mole Valley district). With no other information sourced being located, the following target notes are from the present survey.

The common is a riverside "meadow" which now comprises a sward of neutral grassland, with relatively limited species diversity and the presence of a number of ruderal-type species. The dominant grass appears to be {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Phleum} sp., {\it Hordeum secalinum, Arrhenetherum elatius, Elytrigia repens} and {\it Festuca rubra}. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Senecio jacobaea, Leontodon autumnalis, Cirsium arvense, Stellaria graminea} and {\it Potentilla reptans} with locally occasional {\it Cirsium vulgare, Odontites vernus, Sisymbrium officinale, Centaurea nigra, Urtica dioica, Tanacetum vulgare, Carex hirta, Rumex obtusifolius}, plus locally rare {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}.

At the eastern end of the site is the base of a long-abandoned tennis court. The grassland adjacent to this includes additional species such as {\it Hordeum murinum, Chenopodium} sp., {\it Polygonum aviculare} and {\it Matricaria} sp. The area of the tennis court is now largely colonised by a species of {\it Chenopodium}. Some bare ground evident and the surface of the former court itself.

Just to the south of the tennis court, a small triangular piece of land at the edge of the common has been fenced and planted with trees which include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre, Prunus} sp. and {\it Salix} spp. This done to screen the adjacent business park from the site.

Note alongside the river itself, occasional mature trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa} plus bushes of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}.

MANAGE:
The grassland of the common is grazed by horses, although no stock were present at the time of the survey. Between the 1950s and the 1970s, the common was used as playing fields for Ronsons, the cigarette lighter manufacturers, whose factory stood where the adjacent Mole Valley Buisness Park is now situated. Under the Lower Mole Countryside Management Project, access to the common has been improved through signposts and stiles etc. and native trees and shrubs have been planted to screen the Buisness Park from the common (this part of the site being fenced).


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: jay, robin, grey squirrel, {\it Sympetrum} sp. dragonfly.

VEG:
The common lies in the southern part of Epsom (i.e. Epsom and Ewell district). The following target notes are from the present survey (no other information sources located).

Most of the site comprises a fairly scrubby secondary broadleaved woodland with a canopy dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with locally frequent {\it Ulmus} sp. (incl. some dead trees) and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, locally occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} plus rare {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Taxus baccata}. In addition, a single mature specimen of {\it Pinus sylvestris} was also noted to the north. The shrub layer includes {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium, Quercus robur} (saplings/small trees), {\it Prunus spinosa, Acer campestre} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Rare sapling of {\it Quercus cerris} also noted. The field layer comprises {\it Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Glechoma hederacea, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Geum urbanum} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

(1). Area of open, coarse grassland/tall ruderals adjacent to Woodcote Green Road: {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Artemisia vulgaris, Achillea millefolium, Urtica dioica, Rumex obtusifolius, Senecio jacobaea, Centaurea nigra, Convolvolus arvensis, Lamium album} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Scrubby margin to adjacent woodland. Locally occasional planted tree of {\it A. hippocastanum} next to the road.

(2). Scrub/trees/tall ruderals. Broadleaved trees include {\it Tilia} sp. and {\it A. hippocastanum}, plus several dead specimens of {\it Ulmus} sp. - suckering from base. {\it Pentaglottis sempervirens} noted here. Dumped grass cuttings and other garden refuse.

(3). Pond with large marginal stands of {\it Cyperus longus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Juncus inflexus, J. articulatus, Lycopus europaeus, Eleocharis palustris, Galium palustre, Carex hirta} and {\it Potentilla anserina} plus locally occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. Plants noted in the open water were: locally abundant {\it Elodea} sp., Locally frequent {\it Myriophyllum} sp., locally occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} and {\it Nymphaea alba}, plus rare {\it Hydrocharis morsus-ranae}.

(4). Land to west of Woodcote Hurst. This small triangular piece of land has a central area of mown grassland which is overshadowed by a single large tree of {\it Quercus robur}. Remainder comprises coarse grassland/tall ruderals with scattered broadleaved trees and, to the south, grading into scrub. Additional species recorded here: {\it Acer platanoides, Castanea sativa, Galium aparine} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}.

MANAGE:
The greater part of the common appears unmanaged. Note the population of dead elm trees, suckering from the base. The pond has a significant area of open water and appears to be managed to maintain it in this state. The adjacent area of grassland may be maintained through periodic scrub clearance. To the south, a small area of amenity grassland surrounding a large oak tree is regularly mown. Ornamental planting of horse chestnut trees alongside road.

The common is likely to be a refuge for local wildlife, being situated in an otherwise built-up area. There are quite a diverse range of habitats and habitat structure in a small area. The site has obvious amenity value.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit: semi-domesticated ducks on pond. Dragonfly ? {\it Aeshna cyanea}.

VEG:
The common comprises three roadside strips of land on the southern periphery of Ashtead Common (Mole Valley district). Most of the verges comprise mown amenity grassland with a variety of ornamental trees including {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Quercus rubra, Prunus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}.

The larger portion also includes a small pond fringed with several multi-stemmed trees of {\it Salix fragilis}, plus an occasional bush of {\it Salix cinerea, Ulmus} sp. and a tree of {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Marginal vegetation of the pond includes several clumps of {\it Acorus calamus} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}, locally frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha aquatica, Menyanthes trifoliata, Juncus inflexus}, locally occasional {\it Carex pendula, Pulicaria dysenterica, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}.

MANAGE:
The common is managed primarily as an amenity area, with mown grassland and planted ornamental trees. The smaller portion is used as part of the forecourt to a car showroom. A sign next to the pond prohibits fishing. Trampling of pond margins  and apparent enrichment of water by ducks.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, chiff chaff, nuthatch, jay, magpie, robin, carrion crow, blue tit, mallard, moorhen, grey squirrel, roe deer, plus large white and speckled wood butterflies.

The common is renowned for its rich assemblage of invertebrates; being one of the most important in the county in this respect, and the SSSI has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. The main interest in this respect are: Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) associated with the broadleaved woodland; Coleoptera (beetles) - with over 1,000 species having been recorded, especially those of dead wood habitat, plus a diverse range of Diptera (true flies).

Particularly notable species include the beetles {\it Rhizophagus oblongicollis} (RDB 1) and {\it Biploporus minutus} (Nb), and the flies {\it Ctenophora bimaculata} (N) and {\it Oedalea apicalis} (Nb). The fly fauna is further enriched by the occurrence of two species which have their only Surrey locality here: {\it Trixia coerulescens} and {\it Servillia lurida}. 

The list of Lepidoptera is equally impressive, with over 270 species recorded (excluding micromoths) since 1970. There are 16 nationally notable grade A or B, or locally rare species. Of particular note are old records for heart moth {\it Dicycla oo} (UK BAP "Priority Species") and sallow clearwing {\it Synanthedon flaviventris} and, more recently, white admiral {\it Lagoda camilla}, purple emperor {\it Apatura iris} and purple hairstreak {\it Quercusia quercus}.

Among the amphibians, great crested newt (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus smooth newt, palmate newt, common frog and common toad are all present. Reptiles include grass snake, adder, slow worm and common lizard. 

The variety of habitats present has encouraged a diverse avifauna, with over 90 species recorded, of which over 40 breed on site. An area of scrub-grassland on the common has been a BTO census site since 1968. Breeding birds of scrub-grassland include linnet and reed bunting (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus willow warbler, whitethroat, lesser whitethroat, garden warbler, chiff chaff, blackcap, redpoll and yellowhammer. Birds associated with the wooded areas include turtle dove and spotted flycatcher (UK BAP "Priority Species"), plus woodcock, all three native British woodpeckers, nuthatch, tawny owl, little owl, treecreeper, cuckoo and snipe. Noted occasionally along the Rye are kingfisher, heron and snipe. 

Formerly, nightingale and grasshopper warbler were also present but have not been recorded since the mid 1980s. There have also been recorded declines in the breeding population of linnet, reed bunting and whitethroat. Coversley, sparrowhawk have returned and there have been small but sustained increases in blackap, garden warbler and lesser whitethroat, plus large increases in blue tit, blackbird, robin and wren (possibly due to mild winters or feeding of resident birds in winter).

The common is also frequented by roe deer. A survey undertaken during 1992 found localised evidence of browsing by deer, mainly of newly-coppiced hazel stools. However, the present density of the deer population is not felt to be having a significant impact on the vegetation. 

Other large mammals include fox and grey squirrel. Abundant small mammals include weasel, short-tailed vole and common and pygmy shrews. In addition the common is also considered as a potentially important site for dormice (UK BAP "Priority Species") (but no records to date). There are also a number of potential bat roosts, in particular those favouring old trees, such as noctule.

VEG:
The common lies in the north of the county on a low ridge running south-westwards from the outskirts of Epsom (Mole Valley district). The southern fringe of the common is crossed by a stream known as the Rye. Most of the common lies within an SSSI (Epsom and Ashtead Commons) which also incorporates much of the contiguous CL 359 (Epsom and Ewell district) - see map. All of the SSSI that is coincident with this particular common has also been declared a National Nature Reserve (see map) - primarily due to the presence of an important population of veteran oak pollards. 

Two separate parcels of land outside the SSSI boundary, comprising an area known as "Wood Field", lying on both the northern and southern side of the railway line adjacent to Asthead Railway Station, have been surveyed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and have subsequently been selected as SNCI. (i.e. "Wood Field north" and "Wood Field south). The SWT surveys include a general description which have been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. The portion lying north of the railway has also now been placed on the Nature Conservation Register (NCR) so that it could be later included within the SSSI or NNR should circumstances warrant it.

Land to the south-east of the common lying between the railway line and Dorking Road lies outside the SSSI/NNR boundary. This area has not been surveyed by SWT, but it has now also been listed in the NCR. 

The underlying geology is of the London Clay, this being largely covered by sandy drifts, giving rise to soils that are generally acidic in character. A diverse assemblage of habitats on the common are closely related to variations in drainage and the management history of the site. Up until the early 1900s the common was grazed as a wood pasture system. Dating from this use, a population of some 2400 ancient pollarded oaks {\it Quercus robur} still exist on the common, believed to be between 300 and 400 years old. The practice of pollarding is thought to have ceased around 100-150 years ago with the arrival of the railway and cheap supplies of coal and imported tanning bark. 

With the cessation of grazing, much of the former grassland areas have now been colonised by bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and secondary scrub-woodland. In the past, {\it P. aquilinum} would have been suppressed by trampling of the rhizomes by cattle and through uses for the plant such as fuel, human and animal bedding etc.  

Beneath the bracken there is often a dense litter layer of dead fronds. Elsewhere the bracken is accompanied by {\it Holcus mollis}. In addition, remnants of a woodland field layer occur in the form of {\it Cardamine flexuosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Anemone nemorosa} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. 

Natural regeneration of scrub-woodland in these bracken-dominated areas tends to be slow, in part impeded by fire. This takes the form of {\it Betula pendula, Salix cinerea} and {\it S. capraea} with some {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Populus tremula, Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Oak pollards are scattered throughout, although many are dead or are dying, also due to fire damage. 

The northern and western margins of the main common also have areas of more mature broadleaved woodland, containing large maiden trees of {\it Q. robur}, plus a scattering of old pollards. A diverse shrub layer includes {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} (some of which is old coppice), {\it Acer campestre, Prunus avium, P. spinosa, Malus sylvestris, Sambucus nigra, Salix cinerea, Crataegus laevigata, C. monogyna} and {\it Populus tremula}. Some areas also have trees of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Carpinus betulus, Ulmus procera, Quercus cerris, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer platanoides}.

The field layer depends on the nature and age of the canopy, soil type, moisture levels and previous management. Much is dominated by {\it R. fruticosus} agg. or {\it P. aquilinum}. Other associates include {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Anemone nemorosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Viola} spp., {\it Oxalis acetosella, Festuca gigantea, Deschampsia cespitosa, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it D. dilatata}. In addition, {\it Ruscus aculeatus} is widespread and indicative of ancient woodland in the south-east of England and along with {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides} highly indcative of wood pasture as they would not have been browsed by cattle.

Fungi records for the site number almost 200; {\it Daedaliopsis confragosa, Laetiporeus sulphureus} and {\it Fistulina hepatica} are abundant, especially on the old pollards. Other species include {\it Grifolia frondosa, Inonotus dryadeus} and {\it Mutinus caninus}.

There are around 50 species of lichens recorded for the site, including well-developed specimens of {\it Parmelia perlata, Usnea subfloridana, Physcia aipolia} (described as a "rare" species in this part of Surrey) and {\it Parmelia acetabulum}. On the old pollards, {\it Lecanora conizaeoides} is common, together with {\it Chaenotheca ferruginea} and {\it Hypocenomyce scalaris}.

Bryophytes include species of the mosses {\it Fissidens, Hypnum, Polytrichum, Brachythecium} and {\it Campylopus}, plus eight species of liverworts, including the aquatic species {\it Riccia fluitans}.
  
During WW2, several areas to the south of the common were ploughed as part of the war effort. At the same time, many oaks were taken from the wooded areas to help maintain the timber supply. One formerly ploughed area, known as Wood Field, on level ground to the south of the Rye, now supports a semi-improved neutral grassland sward. This equates to the land north of the railway line surveyed by SWT (Recorder no. 3061). 

Up until 1991 this was regularly mown without removal of the cuttings. Since this time, there has been an annual late summer hay cut, with the cuttings removed. The sward is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis canina} with lesser amounts of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Poa trivialis} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Associated forbs include {\it Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus repens, Achillea millefolium, Juncus conglomeratus, Carex ovalis, Lotus pedunculatus, Trifolium repens} and {\it Potentilla erecta}, plus occasional {\it Carex hirta, Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Danthonia decumbens}. There is also a patch of {\it Rhinanthus angustifolius} (NR), thought to be accidentally introduced from another nearby Corporation of London site, Kenley Common. 

N.B. NR = Nationally Rare, recorded from 15 or fewer ten km squares of the Ordnance Survey Grid (Perring and Farrell, 1983).

Some patches of {\it Salix cinerea} are controlled by the mowing. This area had just been cut prior to the site visit. At the edge of the field, coarser grass species such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Lolium perenne} are more prominent. Additional species noted here during present survey were - {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Centaurea nigra, Heracleum sphondylium, Potentilla anserina, Artemisia vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratense, Odontites vernus} and {\it Picris echioides}.

Adjoining The Rye along the northern edge of this area is a band of scrub/tall ruderals etc. including {\it Salix fragilis, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Urtica dioica, Iris pseudacorus, Lamium album, Epilobium hirsutum, Aster} sp., {\it Armoracia rusticana, Calystegia sepium, Sonchus arvensis} and {\it Cirsium arvense}.

Further areas ploughed for food production during WW2 (and up until 1956) are two sections of the lower slopes of the common, which now comprise a mosaic of scrub and semi-improved neutral grassland. One area lies on the other side of the Rye from Wood Field (Map 1), while the other lies to the south-west of the housing estate known as the Wells (Map 2). 

The former portion received water from the ridge and is consequently slightly base-enriched. This area is separated from the main common by an old road with a ditch on either side. This isolates the area hydrologically and has developed a dense cover of {\it Salix} spp. scrub. The grassland sward becomes progressively wetter further down-slope and since abandonment, this area has been subject to scrub invasion from the north.

The eastern block lies on almost level ground and has poorly-draining soil, too wet for bracken growth and is effectively cut-off hydrologically from the rest of the common by the Rye, which marks the northern boundary of this portion.

This grassland is dominated by tussocky growth of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. Several species are present which are indicative of a lack of agricultural improvement include {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. fuchsii, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Lathyrus nissola, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Senecio erucifolius, Carex otrubae} and {\it Cardamine pratensis}. Areas of scrub contain {\it Salix cinerea, S. capraea, Prunus spinosa, Frangula alnus, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Acer campestris, Rosa canina, Quercus robur, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

In addition, in the western block there is a well-established infestation of {\it Aster} sp. (Michaelmas daisy), having originated largely as a result of tipping garden refuse, disturbance and lack of past management. Other introduced species include {\it Solidago gigantea, Impatiens glandulifera} and {\it Galega officinalis}. Additional species noted from the western section of this habitat during the site visit are: {\it Odontites vernus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Silaum silaus, Dipsacus fullonum, Lathyrus pratensis, Stellaria graminea, Agrimonia eupatoria} and {\it Pastinaca sativa}.

A further semi-improved neutral grassland area forms the southern part of Wood Field (i.e. south of the railway line) - this area falling outside that managed by the Corporation of London (i.e. in this case managed by Mole Valley District Council). This site was surveyed by SWT (Recorder no. 100) and was found to have a less acidic influence than the northern field. The most prominent species in roughly descending order of abundance are: {\it Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Poa trivialis, Poa pratensis, Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, grading into {\it A. elatius} and {\it L. perenne} at the edges. Herbs present include {\it Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Lathyrus pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Potentilla anserina, P. reptans, Vicia cracca, Rumex acetosa, Carex hirta} and {\it C. ovalis}.

There are individual trees of {\it Q. robur} across this area mainly in the eastern portion with a cluster in the centre including {\it Q. robur, Salix cinerea} and {\it C. monogyna}. Damp areas of vegetation include {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, D. fuchsii, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus}. Present alongside paths are {\it Hordeum murinum, Bromus hordaceus} subsp. {\it hordaceus} and {\it Elytrigia repens}.

Roads adjoining the eastern and southern sides of this area have avenues of mature broadleaved trees: mainly {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Platanus x hispanica}.  

Aquatic habitats present on the common include several ponds plus The Rye, seasonal streams and drainage ditches. Flag Pond is very cloudy and acidic. Plants recorded include {\it Juncus effusus, J. bufonius, Lemna minuta, Potamogeton polygonifolius} and {\it Lythrum portula}.

Ashtead Common Pond has abundant growth of {\it Lemna minuta} amongst which also grows {\it Riccia fluitans}. Other species include {\it Typha latifolia, Glyceria fluitans, Sparganium erectum} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

New Pond was excavated in 1994 and at present has clear water. Species present include {\it Callitriche} sp., {\it Glyceria fluitans, Juncus effusus, Typha latifolia} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}.

The Rye is the only permanent watercourse and provides records for {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Potamogeton crispus}.

Other "notable" plants associated with the site in general include {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. fuchsii, Epipactis purpurata, E. helleborine, Barbarea intermedia, Salix purpurea}, and {\it Listera ovata}.

MANAGE:
Asthead Common is largely owned and managed by the Corporation of London, who have a remit to both maintain the area as public open space and also for nature conservation. 

The area is being managed as a Community Woodland Project, based on the Woodland Trust experience. This involves encouraging local people to take an active role in helping to protect and conserve this ecologically important site and to stimulate renewed interest in traditional methods of woodland management.

There is a small team co-ordinating the management of the common at a local level which involves planning, organising and supervising the work of volunteers and contractors. Local people are encouraged to participate by carrying out practical conservation work, patrolling as voluntary wardens and undertaking natural history monitoring and recording projects.

As such, there is a formal volunteer group, known as the Ashtead Common Volunteers, who meet on a regular basis and are occasionally joined by other conservation groups. 

The voluntary wardens regularly patrol the common to be on the look out for potentially harmful activities such as fires, unlawful camping, dumping of garden rubbish, motor cycles and cars driving on the common.

The major feature of ecological interest on the site is the existence of relict wood pasture with a large number (2,400) ancient oak pollards - one of the most extensive such areas in Britain. Thus the conservation of these trees is one of the major management objectives for the site. "Lowland wood pasture and parkland" is one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

As already outlined, the trees are of particular importance for their assocciated population of dead wood invertebrates, in addition to a number of uncommon species of fungi. Many of these are particularly susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity and thus are vulnerable to events such as fires and changes to the canopy structure, for example, through the removal of adjacent maiden trees. A major management objective in this respect is to ensure a continuity of dead wood habitat in all stages of decay, to meet the habitat requirements of the various fungi and also beacuse many of the associated invertebrates have limited mobility.

There are many different issues to be considered in the management of old pollards which have been out of a regular pollarding cycle for a long time. Such trees become top heavy and vulnerable to splitting or collapse. They may suffer from competition from surrounding maturing woodland which has developed since the cessation of grazing. In addition there is a lack of young pollards developing to replace old ones when they die. Without suitable management this will result in a discontinuity in the supply of dead wood. In addition, there is also the issue of public safety to consider.

Re-pollarding can be attempted, but has to be done with restraint as it may kill the tree. It may be desirable to gradually thin the adjacent woodland canopy to prevent shading-out of the pollards. At present, many of the older trees dying-out naturally and need to be renewed. There are sufficient young maiden oaks in the more densely wooded parts of the site to enable this to be done. However, in areas dominated by bracken, there is at present little or no regeneration of oak or other trees and shrubs, especially in areas which have been burnt. In other areas it has been necessary to plant trees grown from local acorns specifically for this purpose. 

Present understanding of the precise management requirements of these ancient pollards is incomplete. The Corporation of London have been consulting widely to refine management techniques, have instigated a programme of monitoring and are trying to develop suitable research techniques. One element of this has been the tagging, and a detailed survey of the condition of the population of pollards. It is hoped that the outcome of this active management and ongoing research will ensure a continuing supply of dead wood for the specialised fungi and invertebrates associated with the old trees.

A further priority is to control bracken. Areas dominated by bracken have been the site of the major fires, this representing the main immediate threat to the oak pollards across the common as a whole. The build-up of a thick layer of bracken litter represents a considerable fire hazard, especially in dry spring weather. In the short term, there could be some protection from fire by cutting and regularly maintaining firebreaks. In the longer tern, bracken needs to be greatly reduced in extent, especially in the areas adjacent to the pollards. Chemical treatment is the preferred method, as mechanical control would remove/disturb fallen dead wood. In the long term, reintroduction of grazing may be the optimal form of bracken control. Subsequent development of scrub and secondary woodland on areas cleared of bracken would then provide young oaks which could be selectively managed as young pollards.

Other woodland management activities include routine maintenance of paths, rides and glades plus the reintroduction of hazel coppice in some areas.

Other management considerations include the need to control alien/invasive species such as sycamore. Whilst there is much disagreement over the ecological acceptability of sycamore, it is clear that should the species replace oak as the main canopy dominant, this would have implications for the status of the old pollards. Michaelmas daisy (Aster spp.) occurs in a huge clump in one area to the south of the common and has largely resulted from garden dumping. Current management is being aimed at controlling this species. In addition, there is monitoring of other invasive or alien species such as {\it Solidago gigantea, Rhododendron} spp., {\it Quercus cerris, Prunus laurocerasus, Impatiens glandulifera, Galega officinalis, Salix x rubens, Senecio jacobaea, Symphoricarpos albus} and {\it Lemna minuta}. 

One aspect of the site's management objectives is to seek ways of making use of by-products resulting from management. For example, 'cordwood' generated through scrub clearance can be sold for pulpwood or converted into charcoal. However, dead wood associated with the oak pollards is left in-situ to maintain the abundance of dead wood habitat to be found on the site.

As already outlined, the northern part of Wood Field is subject to a late summer hay-cut by the Corporation of London, whilst the southern part is managed by Mole Valley District Council and appears to be mown more frequently, with the cuttings at present left in-situ. Management of the southern portion in the same manner as the northern portion would be the ideal form of management, However, this area, being immediately adjacent to houseing, is used extensively by dog-walkers and this may be causing nutrient enrichment of the sward. 

The common includes a number of archaeological features including two scheduled ancient monuments, a Roman Villa complex and an earthwork enclosure of uncertain origin.

N.B. The Epsom and Ashtead Commons SSSI also appears in the Surrey Lowland Heathland Inventory.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, chiff chaff, nuthatch, jay, magpie, robin, carrion crow, blue tit, mallard, moorhen, grey squirrel, roe deer, plus large white and speckled wood butterflies. Purple hairstreak recorded by Claire Burwood on 12.07.95.

The SSSI as a whole is renowned for its rich assemblage of invertebrates; being one of the most important in the county in this respect, and has a Grade A entry in the Invertebrate Site Register (Site no. 4). The main interest in this respect are: Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) associated with the broadleaved woodland; Coleoptera (beetles), especially those of dead wood habitat, plus a diverse range of Diptera (true flies). However, the greater part of the entomological interest appears to be associated with a large population of ancient oak pollards occurring on the contiguous CL 280. 

Please refer to the site description for CL 280 for a fuller account of the fauna.

VEG:
The common lies in the north of the county on a low ridge running south-westwards from the outskirts of Epsom (Mole Valley district). Most of the common lying to the north of the railway line lies within the Epsom and Ashtead Commons SSSI (Epsom and Ewell district) - see map and site description for the contiguous Ashtead Common, CL 280. In addition, most of the land to the south of the railway line has been designated as SNCI. A small area of land immediately to the north of the railway (GR TQ 196 600 - target note 3.), lying outside the SSSI, is however, also included within the boundary of the SNCI.

N.B. CL 453: Various small parcels within the boundaries of CL 359, mainly ponds, were registered separately as CL 453. In addition, the feature known as "Great Pond" has been excluded from registration as common land.

The underlying geology is of the London Clay, this being largely covered by sandy drifts, giving rise to soils that are generally acidic in character. A diverse assemblage of habitats on the common are closely related to variations in drainage and the management history of the site. Up until the early 1900s the common was grazed as a wood pasture system. Since this time there has been a gradual succession from open grassland, to scrub and eventually secondary broadleaved woodland. 

During the course of the present survey, there was only sufficient time to examine the southern section and eastern fringes of the common. The habitat map for the remainder of the site has been prepared using a combination of the 1983 Phase 1 survey of the SSSI and the subsequent aerial photograph survey.

At present, most of the common now supports rather scrubby broadleaved woodland over the former grassland grading locally into a mosaic of remnant grassland with scrub and trees. 

The most recent secondary woodlands are mainly dominated by {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur}. The shrub layer includes {\it Salix cinerea, S. capraea, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus} spp., {\it Populus tremula, Ilex aquifolium, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Frangula alnus}.

More mature woodlands tend to occur in the northern and southern parts of the common and are dominated by {\it Q. robur} with locally abundant {\it Betula} spp., locally frequent {\it Ilex aquifolium} and occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The shrub layer includes some old {\it Corylus avellana} coppice but is otherwise poorly-developed with {\it C. monogyna} and occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}. The field layer tends to be dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Hedera helix}. More base-rich areas are characterised by {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Arum maculatum} and {\it Anemone nemorosa}. 

Remnants of former grassland tend to occur in a more open part of the site to the north of The Wells. Some of this is damp and dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with {\it Juncus} spp. Elsewhere there are drier swards dominated by species such as {\it Dactylis glomerata, Phleum pratense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Very locally there are small heathy areas with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix} and {\it Salix repens}. These areas have been highlighted on the habitat map by the dominant species code for {\it Calluna} (i.e. Cv). Throughout these grasslands there are varying amounts of scrub development including {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus} and trees of {\it Betula} spp.

In one area of grassland which was damaged by fire around 1990 there is now a good population of {\it Oenenthe pimpinelloides} (indicated on the habitat map by the dominant species code :- Op - approx. grid ref. TQ 189 604). 

Various peripheral areas of grassland on the common adjacent to Stamford Green, in the north-west are mown for amenity purposes. Ornamental trees associated with these areas include {\it Betula pendula, Salix} sp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Populus} spp. {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Quercus robur, Sorbus} sp. (? {\it S. aria}) and {\it Tilia} sp.

SPECIFIC TARGET NOTES FROM PRESENT SURVEY......

(1). Fringe of trees behind pond (CL 453). This comprises {\it Salix} sp. ("weeping" variety), {\it S. fragilis}, (incl. some multi-stemmed/pollarded), {\it Prunus} sp., {\it Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Salix capraea, Ulmus} sp. Beneath these are tall herbs/ruderal species etc. - {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus {\it Calystegia sepium, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Persicaria maculosa}. Some dumping of garden refuse here, plus several cut-up felled trunks of {\it Salix} sp. trees.

(2). Pond associated with CL 453. Most now dried-up and having a grassland sward dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with {\it Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}.

(3). Coarse neutral grassland adjacent to Wells Road, some recently cut (clippings remaining in-situ). Various ornamental trees here including {\it Populus x canescens, Q. robur, Q. cerris, Carpinus betulus, Alnus glutinosa, Betula} sp. and {\it F. excelsior}.

(4). Coarse un-cut grassland adjacent to Dorking Road and Wells Road. This includes locally abundant {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca rubra}, locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Carex hirta, Potentilla erecta, Centaurea nigra, Phleum pratense, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cirsium arvense, Trifolium pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Stellaria graminea} and {\it Lotus corniculatus} plus locally occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus conglomeratus, Hypericum pulchrum, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Succisa pratensis}.   

(5). Mosaic of scrub/trees with {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Prunus} sp., {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Populus tremula} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

(6). More mature broadleaved woodland to the south of the common with canopy dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and occasional {\it Betula} spp. plus rare {\it Fagus sylvatica}. Shrub layer with {\it C. monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Acer campestre, Ilex aquifolium, Carpinus betulus} and saplings of {\it F. excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Field layer includes locally frequent {\it Circaea lutetiana, Pteridium aquilinum, Mercurialis perennis, Stachys sylvatica, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

(7). This pond appears to have been originally registered wholly as CL 453. However, the extent of the pond seems to have been subsequently altered/enlarged so that it now also partially occurs on CL 359. To one side of the pond is a dense carpet of the introduced alien, {\it Crassula helmsii}. Other species elsewhere include locally frequent {\it Lysimachia nummularia, Iris pseudacorus, Juncus inflexus, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Eleocharis palustris}, locally occasional {\it Equisetum fluviatile} plus rare {\it Carex pendula}. One stand of {\it Typha latifolia}. Locally abundant {\it Ceratophyllum} sp. in the open water. Trees fringing pond include {\it Salix} spp. ({\it S. fragilis} and {\it S. cinerea}).

(8). Mostly cut grassland, but un-cut margin next to adjacent woodland has {\it Succisa pratensis, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by the Epsom and Ewell District Council through the Lower Mole Countryside Management Project. Management of the site involves a programme of woodland and scrub thinning (e.g. {\it Betula} spp.) and ride maintenance plus mowing of the grasslands, with the objective of creating a more diverse mosaic of the different habitats. Particular attention is being given to the encouragement of several small remnants of heathland vegetation. Some consideration is being given to the eventual reintroduction of grazing.

The common does not appear to have any ancient oak pollards similar to those occurring on the contiguous CL 280, Ashtead Common (UK BAP "Priority Habitat": "Lowland wood pasture and parkland").

Areas of grassland in the north-east, adjacent to housing on the outskirts of Epsom are maintained for amenity purposes, with a variety of ornamental trees.

Land within the SSSI appears in the Surrey Lowland Heathland Inventory and contains isolated fragments of a heatland flora.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, jay, wood pigeon, long-tailed tit, blue tit, great tit, grey squirrel.

The variety of habitats at Banstead Downs provide feeding and breeding grounds for a range of different invertebrates and birds, and eleven species of invertebrate described as "rare or local" in Surrey have been recorded at the site. 

The scrub and open grassland habitats support good populations of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) and bugs (Hemiptera). These include the folowing butterflies: small blue {\it Cupido minimus}, adonis blue {\it Lysandra bellargus}, chalkhill blue {\it Lysandra coridon}, the moth {\it Conopia anthraciniformis} and the bugs {\it Miris striatus, Phytocoris longipennis} and {\it Dichrooscytus valesianus}, the latter a Mediterranean species which is very rare in Britain, where it is at its most northerly limit. 

Also of note is the fauna associated with scrub and dead wood, particularly the beetles (Coleoptera), which includes {\it Bitoma crenata}, a localised species.

N.B. Invertebrate Site Register: Grade C site ("sites of potential importance on habitat or structural grounds where information on the site's invertebrate quality is on preliminary investigation of interest").

Extensive scrub and woodland at Banstead Downs makes this a valuable site for birds, and 57 species have been recorded, 44 of which are reported to breed here. The most intsresting species of breeding bird include stonechat, grasshopper warbler, lesser whitethroat, great and lesser spotted woodpecker and tawny owl.

VEG:
The common lies on the North Downs at Banstead, adjoining the northern boundary of the county (Reigate and Banstead district). A significant part of the site lies within the SSSI of the same name (see map). 

Non-SSSI portions to the south have been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project. This includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. Subsequently, one block of the surveyed area has been selected as SNCI (see map).

Habitat mapping has been done with reference to the quoted sources. A brief visit was made to the site, primarily to investigate the non-SSSI portions.

This site consists of undulating terrain on the dip slope of the escarpment. It comprises extensive areas of dense and scattered scrub, woodland and areas of open chalk grassland, most of which are golf course and public open space. The site supports a rich chalk flora, including a number of notable plant species.

Open grassland to the west of the railway is used as a golf course, resulting in a great deal of variation in the sward, ranging from improved greens and tees, to sheep grazed and mown fairways and rough. In general the fairways are rich in species and a number of notable plants (largely restricted to chalk) are recorded. These include {\it Gentianella anglica} (NS/BAP "Priority Species"), {\it Cerastium pumilum} (NS - but probably now extinct at the site), {\it Minuartia hybrida} (NS), Euphrasia pseudokerneri (NS), {\it Thesium humifusum} (NS), {\it Medicago sativa} subsp. {\it falcata} (NS), Phyteuma obiculare (NS) and {\it Filago pyramidata} (NR/UK BAP "Priority Species"). Other notable species in a county context include {\it Coeloglossum viride, Nepeta cataria, Serratula tinctoria}, and {\it Filipendula vulgaris}. 

N.B. NS = Nationally scarce plants, recorded from between 16 - 100 ten km squares of the Ordnance Survey Grid (JNCC, 1994). NR = Nationally rare plants, recorded from 15 or fewer ten km squares (Perring and Farrell, 1983).  

The grassland turf of the fairways is dommated by {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Bromopsis erecta, Koeleria macrantha} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, with commoner chalk plants such as {\it Blackstonia perfoliata, Linum catharticum, Poterium sanguisorba, Carex flacca, Inula conyzae} and {\it Origanum vulgare}.

Rough chalk grassland east of the railway line is not grazed or managed. This accounts for the poor diversity of the sward which typically consists of tall grasses, including {\it B. sylvaticum}, with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, and for the invasion by shrub species such as {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Viburnum lantana}.

Large areas of the site are dominated by mature {\it C. monogyna}, growing in association with {\it Quercus} spp., and climbers such as {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Clematis vitalba. Ulex europaeus} is dominant in a few areas, mainly to the east of the railway line where there are dense belts of gorse scrub. In the west of the site however, there is a large belt of mixed scrub which is dominated by {\it C. monogyna} but also includes a number of species characteristic of chalk sites such as {\it Cornus sanguinea, Prunus spinosa, Viburnum lantana} and the "local rarity", {\it Juniperus communis}. 

Scrub also occurs in association with the pioneer {\it Betula pendula/Quercus} sp. woods which have developed over part of the site in the absence of grazing or golf course management. More mature woodland dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with {\it C. monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it B. pendula}, line the western edge of the site.

NON SSSI PORTION: pSNCI General Description......

"Most of the site is semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a mixture of species including common oak, sycamore, ash and hawthorn. Ground flora includes abundant ivy and bramble. There are some areas of dense scrub with fewer canopy trees and also more open patches of grassland with scattered hawthorn and gorse. Chalk grassland species include greater knapweed, wild parsnip, cowslip and dropwort".

TARGET NOTES FROM SITE VISIT.........

(1). Small clearing with coarse, semi-improved chalk grassland dominated by {\it Bromopsis erecta}. Locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Phleum} sp., {\it Pastinaca sativa, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Trifolium pratense}, locally occasional {\it Centaurea nigra, Agrimonia eupatoria, Poterium sanguisorba} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis}, plus rare {\it Linaria vulgaris} and {\it Torilis japonica}. Also present are a clump of {\it Aster} sp. and {\it Solidago canadensis} (garden escapes). Scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with locally occasional {\it Rhamnus catharticus}.

(2). - SNCI portion. Mosaic of dense scrub and trees. Additional grassland species noted from here: {\it Odontites vernus, Euphrasia} sp., {\it Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus, Briza media, Ononis repens} and {\it Scabiosa columbaria}.

(3). This southernmost portion has a mosaic of open coarse neutral grassland interspersed with dense clumps of tall ruderal species. {\it Fallopia japonica} is locally dominant (despite apparently having been treated this summer with herbicide), as are {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Elytrigia repens}. Other species present include locally abundant {\it Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Urtica dioica}, locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Achillea millefolium, Glechoma hederacea, Galium aparine} and {\it Calystegia sepium}, locally occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana, Symphytum} sp., {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Lamium album, Odontites vernus} and {\it Centaurea nigra}. Rare clumps of {\it Aster} sp. and {\it S. canadensis}. Also present are scattered bushes of {\it C. monogyna} and smallish trees of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

(4). Secondary broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} plus occasional {\it A. pseudoplatanus, Betula} sp. and {\it Tilia} sp. Shrub layer includes {\it C. monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Rhamnus catharticus} and {\it Cornus sanguinea}, while the field layer contains {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Geum urbanum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Hedera helix, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Geranium robertianum}.

(5). This area has been recently cleared of encroaching vegetation to reveal an area restorable to downland turf.

MANAGE:
Part of the common is managed as a golf course. Remaining areas are managed (largely concentrating on land within the SSSI) by the Banstead Commons Conservators. There is a reference to occasional grazing, but no more information is available from the quoted sources.

The site is of major botanical significance for the number of rare and scarce species occurring here. The conservation of two of these in particular is being addressed by Plantlife as part of the "Back from the brink" project - i.e. {\it Filago pyramidata} and {\it Gentianella anglica} (the two UK Biodiversity Action Plan "Priority Species"). 

This has involved extensive monitoring of both species in recent years. In addition there has been active management aimed at clearing coarse grassland/scrub and creating areas of bare ground for the establishment of both species and, in particular for {\it F. pyramidata}, an annual which is dependent upon open ground and disturbance and cannot tolerate shade or closed vegetation.  Tree stumps treated with herbicide.

Work has also been undertaken to relocate and stimulate a recovery of {\it Cerastium pumilum}, although this species may now be extinct at the site. Areas of bare ground created in 1993 have failed to show any germination of buried seed.

Outside the SSSI, an area of rather overgrown downland turf at (5) has been recently cut and the litter raked-off. The area at (3) is infested by tall ruderals, in particular {\it Fallopia japonica}. Despite cutting back and/or treatment with herbicide, extensive stands of this species are recovering here.


FAUNA:
The avifauna of Chipstead Downs is diverse with woodland breeding species being well-represented. These include sparrowhawk, lesser-spotted woodpecker, woodcock and wood warbler.

The Chipstead Downs as a whole have a Grade C entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. The butterfly fauna of the grassland is very rich; species include brown argus, chalk hill blue, grizzled skipper and holly blue. There are eleven local species of fly (Diptera) recorded from the site.

VEG:
The common lies on the dip slope of the North Downs, near to Chipstead (Reigate and Banstead district). The site forms one element in the Chipstead Downs SSSI. There is a lot of existing scientific information available relating to the site (see references). The site was therefore not visited, the following description being derived from the quoted sources.

The common lies on chalk, supporting a mosaic of broadleaved woodland, chalk grassland and scrub habitats.

The main block of woodland lies at the eastern side of the common. For the most part this is rather open in character with a canopy dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Other associates include occasional standards of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur, Q. petraea, Acer campestre} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The shrub layer is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Cornus sanguinea} with {\it Euonymus europaeus} scattered throughout. The field layer is generally dominated by {\it Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}. Notable associates include {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Ranunculus auricomus} and {\it Melica uniflora}. Towards the north of this area, {\it Q. petraea, C. avellana, Rubus fruticosus} agg., and {\it Hyacinthiodes non-scripta} become more frequent. {\it Clematis vitalba} is common.

Toward the extreme east is a more closed canopy dominated by {\it Fagus sylvatica}, with {\it Ilex aquifolium, F. excelsior} and {\it Taxus baccata} locally abundant. There is a shrub layer with {\it Sambucus nigra, Acer campestre, F. excelsior} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus} over a field layer of {\it Hedera helix, R. fruticosus} agg., and {\it Mercurialis perennis}.

The western part of the common has an open area of chalk grassland. Ungrazed areas are dominated by coarse grasses, such as {\it Brachypodium pinnatum} and {\it B. sylvaticum}. Shorter, grazed swards are dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Carex flacca}. A diverse range of typical chalk grassland species occur within these grasslands. Several notable plants have also been found, including the nationally rare (NR) {\it Rhinanthus angustifolius}, the nationally scarce (NS) {\it Verbascum lychnitis, Euphrasia pseudokerneri} and {\it Phyteuma obiculare}, in addition to {\it Helianthemum nummularium, Cuscuta epithymum, Spiranthes spiralis} and {\it Ophrys insectifera}. 

N.B. NS - nationally scarce, recorded in 15 or fewer ten km squares of the Ordnance Survey grid (Perring and Farrell, 1983); NR - nationally rare, recorded in between 16-100 ten km squares (JNCC, 1994).

Fringes of dense scrub are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Other associates include {\it Cornus sanguinea, Clematis vitalba, Prunus spinosa, Euonymus europaeus} and {\it Viburnum lantana}. The understorey comprises {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum} with some {\it Urtica dioica, R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Galium aparine}. Scattered scrub is present across the open grassland, although this has been considerably thinned in the last few years, and part of this area is now also grazed.

MANAGE:
Sections of the common have been cleared of scrub/trees and part is being grazed on rotation to maintain the botanical diversity of the chalk grassland habitat (fenced). Banstead Commons Conservators/Reigate and Banstead Borough Council/Surrey Wildlife Trust volunteers.

The common includes areas of two habitats which have been recognised among the "Priority Habitat" categories of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, namely  "Lowland beech and yew woodlands" and "Lowland calcareous grassland".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, carrion crow, jay, chiff chaff, housemartin, magpie, grey squirrel, rabbit, roe deer.

VEG:
This large common lies on the dip slope of the North Downs in the area between Reigate and Banstead (i.e. Reigate and Banstead district).

The greater part of the site has been covered by surveys undertaken by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project, the main exclusion being that of the M25 corridor. A major part of the common lies within an area subsequently designated as SNCI. The principal surveyed, but unselected area is most of the land to the south of the M25 

The SNCI surveys include general descriptions which provide an overall picture of the habitats occurring at the site. Additional target notes were made during a brief visit to parts of the common and the habitat map has been based largely upon that from the Surrey Phase 1 (aerial photograph) survey. There was insufficient time during the present survey to completely ground-truth the whole site or to visit any land south of the M25 Motorway. 

The greater part of this particular common is managed as a golf course, with the fairways and roughs etc. being set into a variety of semi-natural habitats which include broadleaved woodland, lowland heathland, bracken, scrub and trees etc. A swathe of the common along its southern fringe is now occupied by the M25 corridor.

The broadleaved woodland is all of recent origin, probably on former open heath, with a canopy dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pubescens} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The shrub layer includes {\it Crataegus monogyna, Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, whilst the field layer includes {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. More locally are found {\it Stachys sylvatica, Mercurialis perennis, Geum urbanum, Urtica dioica, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Lysimachia nemorum, Oxalis acetosella, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Ranunculus repens}.

Locally the tree cover is less complete, giving way to areas of dense {\it P. aquilinum}, plus scrub and trees comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Cytisus scoparius}.

Much of the main golf course area comprises closely mown fairways and greens. However, the roughs support areas of both dry heath and acidic grassland habitat. For the sake of clarity, and as this area was not investigated in any great detail, these have been mapped largely as a mosaic of the two habitats. However, discrete blocks of more continuous heath also occur. Species typical of these habitats are {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella}.

To the south of the golf course, a mosaic of tall coarse grassland, scrub and trees runs along the edge of the M25 corridor. There is also a "field" of tall, unmanaged grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatheum elatius} at GR TQ 225 538 (Map 2).

Species recorded from ponds (which could either be on this common or the contiguous CL 109) include {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Typha latifolia, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

Note the area to the NW occupied by buildings/gardens belonging to the golf club.

Note areas to the south of the M25 shown as grassland on aerial photograph survey - possibly Phase 1 'B4' improved grassland. These should ideally be surveyed. The lack of suitable information was not noted at the time of the site visit. Subsequently, at the time of writing this report several months later, it was not feasible to re-visit the site to check-out these areas, although this ideally should be done.

MANAGE:
A major part of the common is managed as a golf course. The common as a whole represents a valuable area of semi-natural habitat, with its structurally diverse mosaic of secondary woodland, scrub, bracken, heath and grassland. The site as a whole has potential for a range of birds of woodland/scrub. In addition, taller grassland provides habitat for small mammals and a range of invertebrates. 

The roughs of the golf course appear to be managed with nature conservation in mind, with advice on the management of these habitats provided by the Surrey Heathland Project.

The presence of heathland vegetation is a significant feature of nature conservation interest. Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted amongst the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Woodland on the fringes of the site and the strip of rough grassland and scrub alongside the M25 Motorway appear to be largely unmanaged.

Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Lowland dry acidic grassland", plus certain types of standing water.


VEG:
This large common lies on the dip slope of the North Downs in the area between Reigate and Banstead (i.e. Reigate and Banstead district).

The greater part of the common has been covered by surveys undertaken by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and the greater part of this lies within an area subsequently designated as SNCI. The principal surveyed, but unselected areas are the small block of woodland to the south of the M25 (Map 2) and the narrow strip of woodland east of the A217 and north of the railway line (Map 1). 

The SNCI survey reports include a general description which have been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. Additional target notes were made during a visit to the common and habitat mapping has been done with the aid of the Surrey Phase 1 (aerial photograph) survey.

The common has a variety of habitats present which include discrete areas of secondary broadleaved woodland, scrub, and open grassland. In addition, there are areas with a complex mosaic of scrub, scattered trees and bracken, often transitional with a closed woodland canopy. There are also small areas of lowland heathland, much of this site being open heath in former times. Finally, there are also a number of small ponds on the site.

The broadleaved woodland covers extensive areas in the northern part of the common, with a further area to the south. Locally this grades into an open mosaic with scrub, scattered broadleaved trees and dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and locally, open grassland. Across the central portion of the common there is a more extensive band of dense scrub. 

The closed canopy is dominated largely by {\it Betula pendula}, but locally by {\it Quercus robur}. Other trees/shrubs include {\it Betula pubescens, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Rosa canina, Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra, Populus tremula, Ilex aquifolium, Ulex europaeus, Corylus avellana} and {it Sorbus aucuparia}. Rare trees of {\it Pinus sylvestris}. In open areas, {\it P. aquilinum} tends to dominate the field layer, but where the canopy is more closed, {\it Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} occur. Present more locally area {\it Teucrium scorodonia, Circaea lutetiana, Potentilla reptans, Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Viola riviniana}.

The dense scrub appears typically to be dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with many of the above associates also present in addition to {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Cytisus scoparius}. In the area around GR TQ 240 550 (Map 1) the scrub appears to be on a slightly base-rich soil as suggested by the presence of species such as {\it Sorbus aria, Cornus sanguinea, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Fragaria vesca} and {\it Rhamnus catharticus}. 

Stands of continuous {\it P aquilinum} have little in the way of any dead fronds present, suggesting some form of clearance work. A field layer beneath includes {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Pilosella officinarum}, with rare {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. 

Locally within the scrub/woodland there are small areas of open grassland, for example adjacent to paths and rides. These include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris, Trifolium pratense, Centaurea nigra, Odontites vernus, Stellaria graminea, Achillea millefolium, Hypochaeris radicata, Heracleum sphondylium, Plantago major, P. lanceolata, Vicia sepium, Clematis vitalba, Agrimonia eupatoria, Solidago virgaruea, Hypericum perforatum} and {\it Torilis japonica}.

The central part of the common also supports extensive areas of open neutral grassland habitat, much of which appears quite significantly grazed by rabbits. This is largely dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Other associates include {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Festuca ovina, Leontodon autumnalis, Stellaria graminea, Euphrasia officinalis} agg., {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Rumex acetosa, R. acetosella, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Odontites vernus, Ranunculus repens, Cerastium fontanum, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Leontodon saxatilis, Galium verum, Ranunculus acris, Lotus corniculatus} plus, rare suppressed seedlings of {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

Locally there are taller swards, not affected by rabbit grazing, characterised by {\it A. elatius} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum} with taller herbs such as {\it Agrimonia eupatoria} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

To the south of the common there are transitional neutral/acidic semi-improved grassland swards. One such example is at GR TQ 238 543 (Map 2). Again dominated by {\it A. capillaris} with {\it R. acetosella, R. acetosa, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus repens, Cerastium fontanum, Plantago lanceolata, Leontodon autumnalis, Lotus corniculatus, Stellaria graminea, Euphrasia officinalis} agg., {\it Galium saxatile, Achillea millefolium, Calluna vulgaris, Odontites vernus, Hieracium} sp. and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

Further south from here lies yet another area of open grassland habitat, a part of which lies at the fringe of the Banstead Golf Course and is periodically mown. (The greater part of the golf course is situated on the contiguous CL 355). Once again this is largely neutral in character, although locally there are also elements of an acidic grassland and heathland flora (as above). Within this area are are several "islands" which have a mosaic of tall {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath and patches of dense scrub/trees with {\it Betula} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Cytisus scoparius}.

Two more areas of heathland habitat occur further north on the common, this time within small woodland clearings. These are situated on Map 1 at TQ 240 554 and TQ 241 554 (approximate location only). One of these appears to be a "schooling ring" with a mosaic of acidic grassland and heathland vegetation. Includes {\it Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Ulex minor, U. europaeus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Hypochaeris radicata, Potentilla erecta, Erica cinerea, E. tetralix, P. aquilinum, Agrostis capillaris, R. acetosella, Lotus corniculatus, Potentilla anserina, Prunella vulgaris, Pilosella officinarum, Centaurium erythraea, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millefolium, Senecio jacobaea, Euphrasia officinalis} agg. and seedling {\it Betula pubescens}.

Adjacent to the eastern boundary of the common (GR TQ 240 540 - Map 2) are three distinct fields, one of which forms a part of CL 110. These are delineated by a series of defunct hedge-lines, represented by individual bushes/trees of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix capraea}. The grassland of the field is dominated mainly by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} accompanied by species such as {\it Holcus mollis, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. These appear to be a series of old hay fields, possibly not cut for several years, and with no obvious signs of any grazing. 

GR TQ 237 557 (Map 1): Occasionally mown grassland verge. Locally frequent {\it Campanula rotundifolia} and {\it Achillea millefolium} noted here.

Of the two areas not selected as SNCI, the more northerly part comprises the strip of woodland running along the eastern edge of the A217 (GR TQ 240 565 - Map 1). This area comprises a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} on clay-with-flints. The shrub layer consists of {\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Canopy gaps contain stands of young trees of {\it Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Ulmus procera}. The field layer is largely dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. However there are also a total of 10 ancient woodland "indicator species" noted from here, although the stand is not considered to be of ancient origin. These include {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Ilex aquifolium, Festuca gigantea} and {\it Carex pendula}.

To the south of this area lies a small pond with a surrounding well-vegetated marsh area.

The second area not selected as SNCI consists of the block of woodland to the south of the M25 (GR TQ 239 524 - Map 2). The canopy comprises {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The field layer includes abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it R. fruticosus} agg. with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and local {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Lysimachia nemorum}.

Species recorded from ponds (which could either be on this common or the contiguous CL 355) include {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Typha latifolia, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by the Banstead Commons Conservators. It represents a valuable area of semi-natural habitat, with the structurally diverse mosaic of secondary woodland, scrub, bracken, heath and grassland. The site as a whole has potential for a range of birds of woodland/scrub. In addition, taller grassland provides habitat for small mammals and a range of invertebrates. 

The common would benefit from a programme of selective scrub and bracken clearance to maintain the structural diversity of habitats. Ideally there should be a gradual transition from open grassland, through a band of scrub into the adjacent woodland.

Much of the grassland appears to be significantly grazed by rabbits (and may be occasionally mown). This vegetation was considered to be semi-improved in character, exhibiting a fairly modest range of neutral (and acidic) grassland species. The strip of grassland in the south, adjacent to the golf course, appears more regularly mown. It would be beneficial to increase the extent of taller grass vegetation on the common to enhance the structural diversity of the sward. Where mowing is considered necessary, in order to maintain/enhance the species composition, grassland areas sould be cut once or twice a year, with the first cut in late summer to allow plants to set seed. Cut material should be raked off to prevent eutrophicaltion of the sward and the cutting should be done on a rotational basis to maintain a continuity of taller grassland which is important for small mammal and invertebrates populations. 

The presence of heathland vegetation is also a significant feature of nature conservation interest. Lowland heathland once covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). 

It is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland and that Surrey contains around 13 per cent of the UK total. The causes of the decline in the habitat include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat in a UK context has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" has been highlighted amongst the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Additional UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Lowland dry acidic grassland", plus certain types of standing water.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: magpie, robin, blue tit, woodpigeon.

VEG:
The common comprises two small plots of land at the eastern edge of Warlingham, essentially comprising roadside verges. Most of the common has been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project, although none of this area has subsequently been selected as SNCI. This includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. The following account is based on fieldwork undertaken during the course of the present survey:

Most of the common comprises a sward of somewhat semi-improved neutral grassland. This is generally dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent/abundant {\it Festuca rubra} or locally by {\it Holcus lanatus}. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Hypochaeris radicata, Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, Plantago lanceolata, Agrostis stolonifera, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Rumex acetosa, Potentilla erecta, Stellaria graminea} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}, plus locally occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Trifolium pratense}. One planted non-native conifer tree noted within this part of the common.

To the south-west is a small area of dense scrub with broadleaved trees. This includes {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Malus} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra, Salix} sp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Populus nigra} var. {\it italica}. 

In the south-eastern corner is a small block of broadleaved woodland. This has a canopy which comprises trees of: {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, plus occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with, along the southern boundary, trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica} (plus one of {\it Carpinus betulus}). The undershrub layer includes occasional saplings of {\it C. betulus} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, while the field layer is mainly dominated by {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally occasional {\it Festuca gigantea, Brachypodium sylvaticum} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}. There is an abundant leaf litter layer and some smaller branches etc.

The smaller section of the common, to the north of the B269 was not surveyed in detail, and appears to comprise a mix of coarse neutral grassland with tall ruderals, plus some scrub.

MANAGE:
The grassland parts of the common may be periodically mown, presumably by the local authority. The site is not of any major nature conservation value, although the wooded area may provide cover for birds/foxes and the grassland, a limited habitat area for small mammals and various invertebrates.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: woodpigeon, nuthatch, blue tit, robin.

VEG:
The common occupies a gently eastward-facing hillside strip at the edge of the village of Tatsfield, in the extreme north-eastern portion of the county (Tandridge district). 

All of the common comprises a rather scrubby semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy co-dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, plus occasional individuals of {\it Quercus robur} and large trees of {\it Acer campestre}. The shrub layer includes {\it Acer campestre, Corylus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus} (saplings), {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Prunus spinosa}. Noted from the field layer were: {\it Glechoma hederacea, Mercurialis perennis, Urtica dioica, Silene dioica, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix, Geum urbanum, Ranunculus repens, Stachys sylvatica, Circaea lutetiana, Festuca gigantea, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Arum maculatum}. The scrubby and open nature of the wood appears to be due the presence of quite a few fallen dead {\it F. excelsior} trees. This woodland appears to belong to the base-rich NVC type W8.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged at present. A quite diverse small block of rather open secondary broadleaved woodland, with a number of wind-thrown ash trees providing a source of dead wood. The site forms one of several elements in a number of secondary woodland blocks in the locality and is of probable ecological importance in this context. 

There has been extensive tipping of soiled wood chippings from stables along paths crossing the common.


VEG:
The common lies alongside the A25 to the east of Limpsfield (Tandridge district).

Most of the common comprises part of several large private gardens, being mainly wooded in character. Several large mature trees of {\it Quercus robur} alongside the main road. Other species noted include {\it Fagus sylvatica, Castanea sativa, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula} sp. and a general abundance of {\it Prunus laurocerasus}.

A lane crossing the site has bare strips from use by farm vehicles. The remainder comprises semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. Other associates include locally abundant {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, locally frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Silene dioica, Aegopodium podagraria, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Convolvolus arvensis}, plus locally occasional {\it Silene alba, Mentha} sp. and {\it Senecio jacobaea}.

To the extreme east there is a narrow wooded strip alongside the road. This has a secondary canopy of {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Castanea sativa}. Undershrubs include {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Cytisus scoparius} and {\it Corylus avellana}, whilst the field layer contains locally abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus locally frequent {\it Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}. A bank adjoining the road has locally abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}. 

The westernmost tip of the common is contiguous with, and unfenced from the much larger adjacent area of arable land.

MANAGE:
As already mentioned, most of the common forms part of several large private gardens. A small area to the west lies withn a large arable field. Woodland to the east may be thinned periodically.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, nuthatch, blackbird. 

The National Trust Biological Survey of 1983 records a local barkbug {\it Aneurus laevis} under oak bark, plus the common tenebrionid {\it Cylindronotus laevioctostriatus}. Other common invertebrates recorded here were the millipedes {\it Proteroiulus fuscus} and {\it Cylindroiulus punctatus}, the centipede {\it Lithobius variegatus}, the oak gall wasp {\it Andricus quercuscalicis} and a number of common beetles: 7-spot ladybird {\it Coccinella 7-punctata}, a soldier beetle {\it Rhagonycha fulva} (on {\it Heracleum sphondylium}) and a weevil {\it Curculio pyrrhoceras}, from oak.

VEG:
The common lies to the eastern side of Limpsfield, almost on the eastern boundary of the county (Tandridge district). The site has been covered by an earlier survey by the National Trust Biological Survey Team. However, most of the following description is based on a visit to the site during the course of the present survey.

The southern part of the common lies on the edge of the area known as the High Chart, while the northern part lies on the northern slope. The site is largely wooded, although the southern portion has remnants of a lowland heathland flora surrounding a football/cricket pitch. This part of the site falls within an area covered by the Surrey SNCI project and subsequently selected as SNCI (land to west of the road only).

(1). Playing field - amenity sward, probably derived from acidic grassland. Short turf comprising {\it Agrostis capillaris, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

Remnants of acidic grassland and heath bordering this contain locally abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Pseudoscleropodium purum, R. squarrosus} and {\it Luzula campestris}, locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosa}, locally occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Danthonia decumbens}, plus rare {\it Campanula rotundifolia}. The National Trust report (1983) also notes {\it Melampyrum pratense} marginal to the adjacent woodland and also mentions NCC records (1968) for {\it Spergularia rubra} and {\it Ornithopus perpusillus}. Occasional stands of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

(2). Large, multi-stemmed trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica} along southern boundary.

(3). Main block of secondary broadleaved woodland, sloping to west. Canopy co-dominated by {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus robur} with locally occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia, S. aria, Castanea sativa} plus {\it F. sylvatica} (small trees). Sparse shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Field layer includes abundant {\it P. aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., locally frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus leaf litter.

(4). Mixed woodland canopy comprising a population of ?planted {\it Pinus sylvestris} with self-seeded younger broadleaves: {\it Q. robur, Betula} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

(5). Remnant of acidic grassland with scattered mixed trees: {\it Q. robur} and {\it P. sylvestris}. Grassland sward with {\it Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, R. acetosella, Galium saxatile} and {\it Hypochaeris radicata}. Also one tree of {\it Tilia} sp., one of {\it Larix decidua}, plus several planted non-native conifers.

Asdjacent patch of mown amenity grassland - noted one small patch of {\it Calluna vulgaris} grazed into a short carpet by rabbits.

(6). Hillside with semi-natural broadleaved woodland. Canopy comprising {\it Q. robur} (occasional large trees) with locally occasional {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Shrub layer includes {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} plus sapling {\it F. sylvatica}. Field layer dominated by {\it R. fruticosus} agg., {\it P. aquilinum} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Locally occasional {\it Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}.

MANAGE:
The common forms a small element in the National Trust "Limpsfield Common" complex. The importance of remnants of lowland heath vegetation have been recognised, in addition to the need for appropriate management to conserve what remains and, if possible, to increase the extent of this habitat. This would include clearance of encroaching scrub, trees and bracken. 

Note that the site is included in the Surrey Lowland Heathland Inventory and that "Lowland heathland" and "Lowland acidic grassland" feature among the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. For a more detailed discussion of the significance of these habitats, please refer to the site description for the nearby CL 417.

The playing field and other areas of amenity grassland on the common are maintained by regular mowing. Grazing by rabbits may be significant.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: blue tit, wren, wood pigeon. 

The site as a whole is of potential interest for birds. Notable breeding  species recorded from the High Chart in general include woodcock, lesser-spotted woodpecker, woodlark, nightingale, redstart, lesser whitethroat, tree pipit, hawfinch, wood warbler and nightjar. Note that woodlark and nightjar are "Priority Species" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

In addition, the High Chart is of importance for large numbers of visiting and wintering birds, especially finches and thrushes, in particular, siskin and brambling.

Limpsfield Chart has a Grade C entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. The main interest is recorded in the moths (Lepidoptera), with several "very local" species being found in quantity. It is perhaps the best site for {\it Harpyia bicuspis} in Surrey and also an important site for {\it H. furcula}. Also recorded are {\it Hypena crassalis} and {\it Parascotia fuliginaria}.

The inverebrate fauna of the wooded areas generally was found by the National Trust Survey to comprise common and widely distributed species. The most interesting find was one individual of the very local dead wood click beetle {\it Ampedus balteatus}. 

The Chart is also a site for the wood ant {\it Formica rufa} and white admiral butterfly {\it Ladoga comilla} has also been recorded.

See National Trust report for full information of invertebrate fauna, including the moths.

The site requires further entomological study.

Adder, common lizard and slow worm are described as 'relatively common' with grass snake more occasional.

VEG:
The common lies to the east of Limpsfield (Tandridge district) and forms part of a larger continuous area of semi-natural woodland, scrub, grassland and heath. The site is owned and managed by the National Trust, being last visited by the Biological Survey Team during 1983. Much of the common has more recently been covered under separate surveys done by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project. These include a general description which have been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. Subsequently most, but not all of these areas have been designated as SNCI. A brief visit was made to the common, primarily to fill any gaps in the available survey information (i.e. Watts Hill, to the north).

The Chart lies on an undulating plateau which gradually falls away to the north and west. Scearn Bank lies on the steep south-facing slope of the plateau. The area is underlain by Hythe Beds and more recent Head deposits which have given rise to a mosaic of acidic and base-poor paleo-argillic brown earth soils.

Most of the site supports what is described as secondary broadleaved woodland, although most is highlighted in the Surrey Ancient Woodland Inventory. The canopy dominants include {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with a shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The field layer is largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix} or {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Other local associates include {\it Arum maculatum, Festuca gigantea, Sanicula europaea, Geum urbanum} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}.  Areas indicative of woodland of more ancient origin comprise standard or coppice {\it Q. robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

The Chart: in the north-western portion, the woodland has scattered standard mature {\it Q. robur} trees. The canopy comprises mixed coppice and medium age standard trees of {\it Q. robur, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula} sp., with occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it S. aria}. In addition, {\it Pinus sylvestris} is also common and locally dominant. The shrub layer is characterised by {\it Ilex aquifolium} with locally frequent {\it Frangula alnus} (for example at Yalden Spring in the extreme north-east, where this is accompanied by {\it Salix} spp. - {\it S. cinerea} and the hybrid with {\it S. aurita - S.} x {\it multinervis}).  

N.B. {\it S. aurita} itself thought to be now extinct on the NT land itself although may still be present on adjacent land. 

At the time of the present survey, extensive portions to the western side of The Chart appeared to have suffered severe damage following the 1987 storm. A few scattered standing dead hulks of {\it P. sylvestris} trees remain. The most open area, to the east of St. Andrew's Church, has a mixed stand of sapling {\it Betula} spp. and {\it Pinus sylvestris} (some of the latter being planted). Locally occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Q. robur}, plus {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it V. myrtillus} noted along ride-side.

The field layer of the Chart comprises acidic grasses plus {\it P. aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} with occasional remnants of grass-heath which comprise {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Melampyrum pratense} and {\it Solidago virgaurea}, plus rarely, {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} along rides. Small remnant patches of {\it Sphagnum} sp. and {\it Scutellaria galericulata} at Yalden Spring (heavily trampled by horses as at 1983).

In addition, the Chart was a former recorded locality for {\it Lycopodium clavatum}, the last record dating from 1973 and now thought to be extinct at the site.

Scearn Bank: This area includes a stand of mature standard {\it Q. robur} with a shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium} and a dense field layer of {\it R. fruticosus} agg. In addition, the eastern portion has a canopy of mature standard {\it F. sylvatica} with a sparse shrub layer and a field layer largely comprising beech leaf litter. At the upper edge lies a small sandstone scarp face which supports a more mixed canopy with coppice {\it Q. robur, Betula} sp. and {\it A. pseudoplatanus} (secondary origin?, although field layer includes some "ancient woodland" indicators - {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Carex sylvatica, Melica uniflora} and {\it Luzula} ? {\it pilosa}).

Locally abundant {\it Rhododendron ponticum} noted at foot of scarp face during present survey.

Another area of apparently ancient woodland origin is that at Cronklands, to the north. This has old coppice-form {\it F. sylvatica} with occasional large old {\it F. sylvatica} standards.

Small areas of acidic grassland and some remnant heath occur on the Chart "village green" and at Little Heath, at the western edge of the common. The former area was investigated during the present survey. The central portion has a mosaic of acidic grassland and heath comprising {\it Calluna vulgaris} at 50 per cent cover, to 30cm tall. Acidic grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally abundant {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. 

Marginal strips have a coarser, more neutral grassland sward with {\it A. capillaris}, locally occasional/abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, locally frequent {\it H. lanatus} and {\it Phleum bertolonii}, plus locally occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata}. Herbs include locally frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Rumex acetosa, Stellaria graminea, G. saxatile} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia} plus locally occasional {\it Centaurea nigra, Hypochaeris radicata} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis}. Rare individuals of {\it Solidago virgaurea}. Also recorded from this part of the common are {\it Conopodium majus} and {\it Ranunculus bulbosus}. 

Note here the central strip of dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub. Burnt area adjacent, with developing {\it U. europaeus} bushes plus {\it R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Chamerion angustifolium, G. saxatile, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. 

The Little Heath area has some moribund heather present (as at 1983) which has in recent years been the attention of heathland restoration activity. This area now has an open mosaic of young {\it Calluna vulgaris} with some {\it Erica cinerea}, acidic grassland and {\it P. aquilinum-R. fruticosus} agg. underscrub. Other plants recorded here include {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

WATTS HILL: This is the most northerly part of the common, not being covered by any of the earlier surveys. All shown as ASNW.

(1). Mature woodland canopy of {\it Fagus sylvatica} (some as multi-stemmed individuals). Locally occasional mature {\it Q. robur} (mostly as standing dead trees, plus some stumps). Canopy gaps here have abundant {\it Betula} sp. saplings plus {\it P. aquilinum} and {\it R. fruticosus} agg. The closed canopy has a shrub layer of {\it Ilex aquifolium} plus a fairly sparse field layer under {\it F. sylvatica} of {\it R. fruticosus} agg. plus abundant leaf litter. Other associates include {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Stellaria holostea, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Stachys sylvatica, Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

(2). This section of the woodland has been subject to extensive wind-throw and now comprises a mosaic of dense bracken, scrub and sapling trees, plus occasional remaining mature standards of {\it Q. robur} and {\it F. sylvatica}. Other associates include {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Ilex aquifolium, Ulex europaeus, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Digitalis purpurea, Sorbus aucuparia, Sorbus} ? {\it aria, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Quercus cerris}. Abundant fallen dead timber present.

(3). Sparse regenerating canopy of {\it Betula} sp. over {\it P. aquilinum}.

(4). Intact woodland canopy along base of slope. Canopy of {\it Q. robur} with occasional {\it F. sylvatica, Betula} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Shrub layer of {\it I. aquifolium, S. aucuparia, Corylus avellana, B. pubescens} and {\it Sorbus} ? {\it aria}. Field layer again sparse with abundant leaf litter, locally abundant {\it R. fruticosus} agg., {\it P. aquilinum} and locally occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Locally occasional fallen mature tree of {\it Betula} sp.

MANAGE:
The common is owned and managed by the National Trust. Much of the effort in managing the site is directed to maintaining the woodland habitats.

Woodlands:

A major feature of these woodlands are the extensive areas affected by the 1987 storm, most notably on Scearn Bank and also parts of The Chart. Very few ancient trees appear to have been unaffected, with the major loss being of mature oak and beech on Scearn Bank. However, in nature conservation terms, this is not seen as detrimental to the value of the woods. A large proportion of the affected areas has been left uncleared to regenerate naturally and a policy of no planting has been recommended by the National Trust Ecologist (following an initial re-planting of beech and pine on part of the Chart). On parts of Scearn Bank that were cleared, it is recommended that steps are taken to retain grassy, heathy and scrubby open glades by clearing invading trees as regeneration develops further.

On The Chart it is recommended that future management be aimed at maintaining the structural diversity within the canopy created by the 1987 storm. Mature and over-mature trees to be retained indefinitely to ensure a continued supply of standing and fallen dead wood of varying states of decay. Again, some glade clearance to encourage heather and gorse. 

Additional work is required to:

1. Discover whether {\it Lycopodium clavatum} is still present and review management needs if necessary.

2. Map wood ant nests to target appropriate management: i.e. ensure open canopy with mature trees as a component.

3. Manage new beech/Scots pine plantation to encourage any developing areas of heather, prevent development of a uniform structure and encourage some open-grown pines similar to mature individuals in adjacent woodland.

Lowland heathland:

As already outlined, the common also includes some small remnants of lowland heathland habitat, this being one of the "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Most of the common, with the exception of Watts Hill, appears in the Surrey Lowland Heathland Inventory (English Nature, 1993). Therefore a major conservation priority of the National Trust is to maintain, and wherever possible, extend these remnants of lowland heathland.

At Little Heath there has been clearance of scrub and bracken. There will be continued maintenance of this area with cutting of bracken as necessary, probably every two years, together with cutting of birch regeneration and spraying regrowth. It may also be possible to further extend the cleared area to encourage more {\it Calluna}, for example by rotovating areas of acidic grassland. 

The small area of heath vegetation at Chart Green is to be maintained by topping of the heather every other year and cutting of encroaching gorse scrub every 6-7 years.  

The site is significant in the county context for its relatively large size, the mosaic of vegetation types, the presence of relict lowland acidic grassland and heath and the reasonably old-growth {\it F. sylvatica} and {\it Q. robur/F. sylvatica} woodlands. 

Small area of mown amenity grassland (playing field).

N.B. "Lowland beech and yew woodlands" and "Lowland acidic grassland" are also BAP "Priority Habitats".


FAUNA:
The main faunal interest on the site appears to be its avifauna. Important recorded breeding species include woodcock, lesser spotted woodpecker, willow tit, redstart, nightingale, wood warbler, lesser whitethroat, tree pipit and hawfinch. More recent information is required. 

The site has an entry in the Invertebrate Site register. There are records for two Macrolepidoptera indicative of high quality heathland: {\it Bomolocha crassilis} and {\it Anarta myrtilli}, in addition to {\it Parascotia fulignaria}. The site was graded C provisionally, but is underworked. Butteflies recorded from grassland areas: gatekeeper, common blue, meadow brown, in addition to common field grasshopper {\it Chorthippus brunneus}.

Additional records are outlined in some detail in the 1983 National Trust Biological Survey report. These are for common species and have not been reproduced here.

Adder, common lizard and slow worm are described as 'relatively common' with grass snake more occasional.

VEG:
The common lies at the eastern edge of Limpsfield (Tandridge district) and forms a large expanse of semi-natural woodland, scrub, grassland and heath. The site is owned and managed by the National Trust, being last visited by the Biological Survey Team during 1983. The area has more recently been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project and most of this has subsequently been selected as SNCI. This includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. There was insufficient time to visit this common.

The site lies over Folkstone, Sandgate and Hythe Beds of the Lower Greensand as well as more recent Head deposits. Soils range from clay-enriched brown earths to more acidic podzols.

Most of the site supports rather species-poor secondary broadleaved woodland dominated {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with a shrub layer which includes {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The field layer is largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix} or {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Other local associates include {\it Arum maculatum, Festuca gigantea, Sanicula europaea, Geum urbanum} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}.

More notable, better, established stands of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Q. robur/F. sylvatica} "ancient woodland" occur in the far north and the south-east of the common. The latter area has mature standard {\it Q. robur} with a shrub layer if {\it I. aquifolium} and field layer of {\it R. fruticosus} agg., grading into standard mature {\it F. sylvatica} in the eastern part. {\it Impatiens parviflora} is locally frequent along rides, with occasional {\it Oxalis acetosella, Geum urbanum} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. Smaller, northern area with a canopy of {\it Ulmus procera}.

The largest expanse of grassland, much of which is acidic in character, is associated with the Limpsfield Common Golf Course. However, this vegetation is described as species-poor and dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and has therefore been placed in the semi-improved Phase 1 category. Less-frequently-mown areas have a coarser sward dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} (semi-improved neutral grassland?). Additional areas of acidic grassland are scattered about the rest of the site in small clearings and alongside roads. 

Associated with these grasslands are isolated patches of lowland heathland vegetation in the form of {\it Calluna vulgaris}. This may benefit from occasional cutting in association with management of the golf course. 

Historical evidence in the form of extensive surveys by the London Natural History Society between 1936 and 1944 and, more recently, by Lousley in 1965, have shown considerable changes to the vegetation of the common. In particular, woodland cover has increased and distribution of heather has declined dramatically (although it never covered extensive areas). Grazing of the site is thought to have ceased following the rise in motor traffic. The golf course already existed in 1936, although there were extensive areas of bracken in unmown areas. 

A further associated habitat area is a disused sand pit at GR 412 523 with structurally diverse scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Calluna} heath.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, the common is situated largely opon former open heath and encompasses small remnants of this habitat, which formerly covered extensive parts of southern England, including Surrey. There have been many accounts of the decline of the habitat, with the suggestion that some 85 per cent of Surrey's heathlands have disappeared over the last two hundred years. In addition, a further 16 per cent decline has taken place between 1975 and 1985 (NCC/Surrey County Council, 1988). In addition, it is estimated that the UK contains around one fifth of Europe's remaining lowland heathland. The causes of this decline include a cessation of traditional grazing (leading to scrub, bracken and ultimately, succession to woodland), plus intensification of agriculture, forestry, afforestation, land enclosures and, more recently, building, especially of housing.

These heaths support a distinctive assemblage of flora and fauna which is severely at risk due to the decline in the extent of the habitat. The importance of the habitat has been widely recognised, with the preparation of an inventory of remaining heathland sites in the county and the preparation by English Nature of a strategy for the conservation of the habitat in the county (English Nature/SCC, 1988). More recently, "Lowland heathland" (and "Lowland acidic grassland") have been highlighted as "Priority Habitats" of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Therefore, a major conservation priority of the National Trust is to maintain, and wherever possible, extend these remnants of lowland heathland through clearance of encroaching trees and bracken. An example of this activity can be seen at "West Heath", the south-western portion of the common where, over the last few years there has been clearance of scrub/trees and bracken from an area of heath/acidic grassland. Continued swiping of bracken and treatment of regenerating trees with herbicide is planned.

Occasional mowing of heather adjacent to the golf course (annual 'high cut') may be maintaining some of the heath. Detalied mapping of heather on the golf course is required. It is important that no herbicides or artificial fertiliser are used on this part of the site. In addition, some areas of 'rough' would benefit from less frequent cutting to encourage a greater structural diversity of grassland habitat. It would also be beneficial to encourage a more general transition from open grassland to woodland by incorporating a band of scrub, gorse and bracken.

As the secondary woodland matures across the common, active management may be required to maintain a more open, scrubby canopy on these areas - the 1987 storm was seen as beneficial in this context, but more tree clearance is planned. The optimum is seen as a diverse mosaic with a wide range in tree ages, well-developed shrub layer and grassy clearings. Old trees and dead wood (both standing and fallen) should be retained (except where public safety is an issue). Planting of trees for any purpose (even small memorial plantings) is seen as detrimental to the nature conservation potential of the site. Any regeneration of the woodland should be allowed to take place through a natural succession.

The site is significant in the county context for its relatively large size, the mosaic of vegetation types, the presence of relict lowland acidic grassland and heath and the reasonably old-growth {\it F. sylvatica} and {\it Q. robur/F. sylvatica} woodlands. 

N.B. "Lowland beech and yew woodlands" are also a UK BAP "Priority Habitat".


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: magpie, wood pigeon, robin.

VEG:
The common lies in the easternmost extremity of the county to the south-east of Limpsfield (Tandridge district). As can be seen from the habitat map, a significant proportion of this common has now been converted to arable land, with a maize crop being present at the time of the site visit. In addition, a block of woodland and scrub to the south of Itchingwood Common Road has been surveyed by Surrey Wildlife Trust as part of the SNCI project, although this area was not subsequently selected as SNCI. This source includes a general description which has been consulted for the purposes of the common land survey. Other target notes relate to the site visit.

(1). In the north-east, adjacent to Trenchley's Lane, appears to be a rather species-poor grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent/abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Phleum pratense} and {\it Holcus lanatus} plus locally occasional {\it Festuca arundinacea} and {\it Elytrigia repens}. Associated herbs include {\it Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg.

Overgrown hedge/trees to the NE with {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus exelsior, Salix fragilis} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Mature trees here along northern edge of Itchingwood Common Road: {\it Quercus robur} and {\it F. excelsior}.

Ditch/coarse grassland along roadside with abundant {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Calystegia sepium, Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Mentha} sp., {\it Typha latifolia, A. elatius, Urtica dioica, Centaurea nigra, D. cespitosa, Achillea millefolium, Pimpinella saxifraga, Lotus pedunculatus, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Glyceria} sp.

(2). Overgrown corner: {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium} spp., {\it F. arundinacea, Deschampsia cespitosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, H. lanatus, A. elatius} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}.

(3). Secondary broadleaved woodland surveyed by SWT. This comprises base-poor and base-rich stands of {\it Q. robur} with some {\it F. excelsior}. Well-developed shrub layer with {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} plus occasional {\it Carpinus betulus, Sorbus aucuparia, Acer campestre, Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Field layer with abundant {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and the moss {\it Atrichum undulatum}. Locally frequent {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Geum urbanum} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}, plus locally occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Carex remota} and {\it Hedera helix}. Alongisde road, trees of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} colonising locally. Field layer noted here with locally abundant {\it Mercurialis perennis, Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana} and locally frequent {\it Impatiens parviflora}. This community appears typical of the more base-rich parts of the wood.

A small pond within this area is subject to wide fluctuations in water level. Recorded here are {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Nymphoides peltata}.

(4). Alongside Grants Lane: narrow scrubby verges with ditch. {\it Salix cinerea, Quercus} sp., {\it Alnus glutinosa, Angelica sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Mentha} sp., {\it E. hirsutum, Calystegia sepium, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, A. elatius, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}.

(5). This grassland also appears species-poor (brief inspection). Dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with occasional/frequent {\it H. lanatus} and {\it Phleum pratense} and locally occasional {\it Rumex obtusifolius}.

(6). Small block of broadleaved woodland. This appears (from the road) to include {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Betula} sp., and {\it F. excelsior}.

MANAGE:
As already outlined, a considerable proportion of the common is managed as arable land - such use of registered common land being incompatible with the 1965 Commons Registration Act.

The management of grassland areas of the common is not entirely clear. That to the east appears to have been cut earlier in the year. Discussion with a local resident suggested that the grassland to the west is periodically cattle-grazed, although no stock were present at the time of the site visit. Wooded areas appear unmanaged. Probably periodic ditch maintenance and trimming of roadside vegetation.

Small area of mown amenity grassland fronting entrance to a property to the NW of the common.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: carrion crow, wood pigeon, robin, blue tit, rabbit.

Staffhurst Wood supports an outstanding moth fauna (Lepidoptera) including six uncommon species. One of these {\it Orthosia populeti} has its best known English location at this site (Invertebrate Site Register: Grade A). Others include {\it Tetheela fluctuosa, Odontosia carmelita} and {\it Quercusia quercus}.

VEG:
The common lies in the eastern part of the county, situated on the Weald Clay to the south of Limpsfield (Tandridge district). Most of the site comprises "ancient woodland", with historical information indicating that the site has been continuously wooded since Saxon times. 

The greater part of the common also coincides with an SSSI of the same name, the site also being listed in 'A Nature Conservation Review' (ed. D. A. Ratcliffe, 1977).  A significant portion is also a Local Nature Reserve (see map for boundaries). 

Past woodland management has resulted in a structurally diverse site with a few old trees remaining. The majority of the present woodland is derived from natural regeneration following two felling operations earlier this century. Little or no replanting has occurred in recent times and thus a complex mosaic of semi-natural stand types has been maintained.

The canopy is composed largely of {\it Quercus robur} which occurs in pure stands or in association with {\it Betula} spp., {\it Fagus sylvatica}, {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Sorbus torminalis. Taxus baccata} occurs locally, whilst there are rare individuals of {\it Tilia cordata} within the canopy. {\it Corylus avellana} coppice occurs throughout, except in areas dominated by {\it F. sylvatica}. In addition, {\it Carpinus betulus} coppice is frequent, especially in the western part of the wood. The shrub layer includes {\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Taxus baccata, Cornus sangiunea, Acer campestre} and rarely, {\it Ulmus glabra, Frangula alnus} and {\it Salix aurita}. Scrubby woodland margins include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Salix cinerea}.

Some parts of the site support a sparse ground flora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, other areas are carpeted with {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Dryopteris} spp. Other associates include {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Stellaria holostea}.

In damper hollows the ground flora is rich and includes {\it Primula vulgaris, Lysimachia nemorum, Ajuga reptans, Glechoma hederacea} and  {\it Carex sylvatica}, plus {\it Carex strigosa} which is described as "rare" in Surrey. Other uncommon associates of the field layer include {\it Epipactis helleborine, Vinca minor, Milium effusum} and {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}.

More base-rich areas in the south-eastern part of the wood are characterised by {\it Mercurialis perennis, Brachypodium sylvaticum} and {\it Sanicula europaea}.

A strip of wet woodland occurs along a stream bank and has some very large trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa}.

The old oak trees support a rich lichen flora including {\it Pertusaria coccodes, P. hemisphaerica} and {\it Cetraria glauca} which is usually found in western Britain.

TARGET NOTES FROM PRESENT SURVEY......

The site was visited primarliy to cover those limited areas outside the SSSI boundary.

(1). Clearing of fairly rank neutral grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally abundant {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}, locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Ranunculus repens}, locally occasional {\it Carex hirta} and {\it Cerastium fontanum}. Fairly large, open-grown specimen tree of {\it Q. robur} in the centre of this area. Margin of dense {\it P. aquilinum} bordering adjacent woodland.

Adjacent pond appears recently cleared. Open water with abundant {\it Lemna minor}. Scattered marginal plants include {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Mentha} sp., {\it Ranunculus flammula, Glyceria} sp., {\it Sparganium erectum} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. Three fairly sizeable trees of {\it Taxus baccata} noted in adjacent woodland.

(2). This area is outside the SSSI boundary and comprises private farmland - viewed from road. Heavily utilised by browsing pigs, with much churned-up bare ground. Scattered trees throughout: {\it Q. robur, F. excelsior, C. monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Betula} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it C. avellana}. The grassland/bare ground includes: {\it Agrostis} spp., {\it Polygonum aviculare, Persicaria maculosa, Solanum dulcamara, Gnaphalium uliginosum}, ? {\it Chenopodium} sp., {\it Mentha} sp., {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} and ? {\it Tripleurospermum maritimum}.

MANAGE:
There is a detailed management plan for the LNR, drawn-up in 1992 by Surrey County Council. The site is now owned by the Woodland Trust (including the area outside the LNR), although SCC still have a warden for the site. 

Under the SCC management plan, an area to the north was highlighted for a return to a traditional system of oak standards with hazel and hornbeam coppice. This involved clearance of encroaching elder and birch, together with coppicing of the hazel and hornbeam. Some replanting as appropriate. Such areas to be managed with a view to encouraging nightingales and other warblers and possible eventual introduction of dormouse. Provision of nesting and bat boxes in the absence of old, decayed trees.

In sections to the south of the LNR the aim has been to control invasive sycamore and birch, re-plant hazel coppice and in one area also wild service tree (with seed from existing trees).

Control of grey squirrels in addition to predators such as crows, magpies and the occasional mink considered essential.

Since transfer to the Woodland Trust, the long-term intention is to manage the site as "a mixed broadleaved high forest with minimal intervention to allow natural development of oak/beeck woodland". Some selective thinning of the canopy to be undertaken if necessary to allow certain trees to grow to maturity and encourage a more diverse structure. Glades of hazel coppice to be maintained.

In addition to being ecologically important, the site is also of significant historic and landscape interest. English Nature have expressed some concern about a recent increase in the number of visitors to the site.

UK BAP "Priority Habitats": "Wet woodland", "Lowland beech and yew woodlands", meso/eutrophic standing waters.


FAUNA:
For a discussion of the fauna of the Staffhurst Wood SSSI, please refer to CL 420.

VEG:
The common comprises two peripheral strips of CL 420, Staffhurst Wood (please refer to report for CL 420). Most of CL 375 lies within the boundary of the Staffhurst Wood SSSI (see map). 

(1). Scrubby secondary (i.e. non-ancient) broadleaved woodland. This contrasts with the majority of the woodland at Staffhurst Wood as a whole, which is considered to be of ancient origin. Canopy of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with rare {\it Carpinus betulus}. Scrub/shrub layer includes: {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix cinerea, Corylus avellana, Ulmus} sp., {\it Malus} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Cornus sanguinea}. Field layer with locally abundant {\it Stellaria holostea, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Urtica dioica}, locally frequent {\it Circaea lutetiana, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Mercurialis perennis}, plus locally occasional {\it Geranium robertianum, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}.

Small area of mown grassland in front of houses. Trees include tall non-native conifers, one tree of {Salix} sp. ('weeping' variety), a large open-grown individual of {\it Q. robur}, plus locally occasional plantings of {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

(2). Area of open damp neutral grassland, mostly tall, but quite species-rich. Dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Succisa pratensis, Angelica sylvestris, Pimpinella saxifraga, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla erptans, Achillea millefolium, Rumex acetosa, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Viola} sp., {\it Carex hirta, Cirsium palustre, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

Adjacent area has a mosaic of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, scrub, trees and ruderal species: {\it Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Ulmus} sp., {\it Salix cinerea, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
Neutral grassland area probably thinned of trees and may be occasionally mown. Woodland strip appears largely unmanaged. Small area of mown amenity grassland with planted {\it Rhododendron}. For a more detailed discussion of Staffhurst Wood as a whole, please refer to CL 420.


FAUNA:
A preliminary entomological survey of the SSSI by John Dobson in 1991 found the following uncommon and rare Diptera:

1. Red Data Book Diptera: RDB 2 (i.e. "vulnerable"): {\it Paraclusia tigrina}; RDB 3 (i.e. "rare"): {\it Platypalpus subtilis}; RDB N (i.e. "notable"): {\it Empis volucris, Raphium fascipes} and {\it Dioxna bidentis}.

2. Local and Uncommon Diptera: {\it Chrysotoxum verralli, Epistrophe grossulariae, Melanygna umbellatarum, Sphaerophoria taeniata, Chrysogaster chalybeata, Neoascia tenur, Orthonerva nobilis, O. splendens, Helophilus trivittatus, Sicus ferruguineus, Anomoia purmundus, Rivellia syngenesiae, Minettia inusta} and {\it Calliopum elisae}.

The open grassland of the common supports one of the best colonies in Surrey of the lesser marsh grasshopper {\it Chorthippus albomarginatus}, a typical coastal and fenland species which occurs infrequently inland, plus Roesel's bush cricket {\it Metrioptera roeselii} (RDB N).

Also noted was the "local" water ladybird {\it Anisostica novendecim punctata}.
 
Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies): {\it Aeshna grandis} - brown hawker and {\it Anax imperator} emperor dragonfly. 

Ant hills recorded as scattered throughout the {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} swards, which are often very large but few, if any, appear to be 'active'.

For the full species list, please consult John Dobson's report.

VEG:
This common lies in the south-eastern portion of the county (i.e. Tandridge district), at the intersection of the B2029 with the A22. Most of the site is SSSI and is also a proposed Local Nature Reserve. With the availability of good existing sources of information, and due to pressure of time, the decision was made not to visit this particular common.

The SSSI is described as the best known example of a relict damp grassland on Weald Clay in Surrey. The grassland supports a rich flora of typical "Wealden" plants, some of which now have a restricted distribution in the county. Several ponds and a stretch of the Ray Brook contribute additional biological interest.

In recent years the site has been unmanaged and the poorly-drained Weald clays now support a coarse damp neutral grassland flora dominated mostly by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} (NVC type MG9). Smaller areas are dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} (NVC type MG1), especially around the margins. There are also remnants of acidic grassland typified by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} (NVC type U4) in the centre of the site. There has been considerable colonisation of these grasslands by a mixture of scrub and broadleaved trees, progressing locally to secondary broadleaved woodland.

The {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} swards tend to be fairly uniform and very tussocky. Associated species are few, apart from occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Angelica sylvestris, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Juncus effusus}. Occasional peaty hollows occur with abundant {\it Carex nigra}. There are scattered plants of {\it Dryopteris carthusiana} amongst the tussocks. Localised areas are rather marshy in character, with species such as {\it Lycopus europaeus, Galeopsis tetrahit, Calystegia sepium, Potentilla anserina, Veronica scutellata, Carex ovalis, Achillea ptarmica} and {\it Epilobium palustre}.

The acidic grassland is rather patchy and {\it D. cespitosa} appears to be colonising most of the remaining fragments. There are occasional {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated patches with {\it Potentilla erecta, Carex nigra} and small amounts of {\it C. pilulifera}. More frequent are patches with {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. There is also locally some {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Nardus stricta} and {\it Danthonia decumbens}, while one area has {\it Genista anglica}. The moss {\it Aulacomnium palustre} is often abundant in these areas. While generally shorter than the {\it D. cespitosa} sward, these areas are still quite tussocky, with much of the area becoming shaded by trees. 

The {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} swards are generally very species-poor. Other grasses are infrequent, with {\it Holcus lanatus} probably the most frequent with smaller amounts of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra} and {\it Poa trivialis}. Associated species include {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., often forming dense patches, plus {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense, Galium aparine, Angelica sylvestris, Juncus effusus} and {\it Achillea millefolium}. Damper areas have a greater prominence of {\it Holcus lanatus} and species such as {\it Senecio aquaticus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Trifolium repens} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus}.

Areas with poor drainage elswehere on the site tend to be dominated by {\it Glyceria} spp., {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Juncus} spp. 

The grasslands of the common are particularly notable for the rarity of the communities present, rather then their overall botanical diversity. However, a number of plants which are considered to be uncommon in Surrey, do occur. These include {\it Anagallis minima, Carex viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. panicea} and {\it Lathyrus nissolia}. 

The scrub/trees which have spread across the site include {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Salix cinerea} and {\it Prunus spinosa}.   

The site includes several ponds, the two largest of which lie to the north-east of the common. The submerged aquatic flora includes {\it Callitriche} spp. and {\it Potamogeton} spp. The water surface supports {\it Spirodela polyrhiza}, an uncommon plant in Surrey. Marginal vegetation includes {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, A. lanceolatum, Carex pseudocyperus, Typha latifolia} and {\it Lythrum portula}. There are also well-developed colonies of {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}, a plant which is now described as scarce in Surrey. At the time of a Phase 1 survey done by NCC in 1985, one of these ponds was partially colonised by a swamp of {\it Typha latifolia}. Additional species recorded from these features at this time were: {\it Sparganium erectum, Ranunculus lingua, Lycopus europaeus, Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus effusus, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Azolla filiculoides}.

The Ray Brook is lined with mature trees of {\it Salix fragilis} and has bankside communities of {\it Sparganium erectum} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}.

MANAGE:
The SSSI was notified on account of the relict grassland communities. Traditionally these would have been managed by grazing, which would have maintained an open and species-rich grassland sward and prevent the dominance of coarse species such as {\it A. elatius} and {\it D. cespitosa}. The site did not have any grazing rights registered in 1965 and it is therefore clear that there has been no grazing for a number of decades, thereby allowing the coarse grasses, plus trees and scrub to invade.

Establishing an appropriate management rationale needs to address the balance between the relative merits of the two ends of a spectrum between, on the one hand, open grassland with no scrub and, on the other, continuous secondary woodland.

The lowland unimproved grassland communities are considered to be particularly threatened in the county (indeed, in lowland Britain as a whole) and the balance would therefore appear to come out in favour of this habitat. In addition, the grassland may also fall within either of two "Priority Habitat" categories of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. These are  "Lowland meadows" a definition which can also include non-agricultural grasslands, but which appears to include only "unimproved" swards, with further limited areas possibly belonging to "Purple moor grass and rush pastures".

However, there is also something to be gained by maintaining elements of scrub and woodland habitat in order to maximise the structural diversity of habitats on the common. Indeed, scrub habitats are recognised as having their own unique potential for nature conservation. For example, the scrub may provide habitat for the grasshopper warbler and may also be important for a number of the more interesting invertebrates, as may the coarse grassland which, although of low botanical diversity, has a diverse structure that provides a number of different micro-habitats.

Thus the proposed management plan states the need to reintroduce grazing to slow down or halt the invsaion of coarse grass species and scrub and hopefully allow the overall species diversity of the grassland to increase. This will require the construction of a perimeter fence to the area to be grazed, plus the provision of suitably placed stiles/gates etc.

It is proposed that areas of scrub which have now progressed to a closed secondary woodland canopy should be allowed to mature, whereupon their value to wildlife should increase. There is very little grassland remaining in these areas and, in addition, changes in the soil beneath the tree canopy would hinder the re-establishment of grassland, not to mention the cost of tree-felling and removal. As these wooded areas lie in peripheral parts of the site, mainly to the north of the B2029 and also to the south of the road to the White House Hotel, a more feasible option would be to exclude these areas from the proposed grazing enclosures. However, the overall area of woodland cover should not be allowed to increase.

A further management issue is that of the ponds. The main interest of these features lies in the marginal vegetation (in particular, {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}) and the open water (i.e. {\it Spirodela polyrhiza}). The ponds will need periodic clearance to prevent these species being out-competed by {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Spagranium erectum}. It is proposed that the whole area of the ponds is cleared down to the clay, except where there is most {\it Menyanthes}. In addition, parts of the pond edge are also important for the dipteran flies {\it Neoascia geniculata} and {\it Stratiomys potamida}. Rates of clearance should be timed to keep the spread of {\it Typha} and {\it Sparganium} in check, while allowing the {\it Menyanthes} to maintain and hopefully increase its population. i.e. continued monitoring will be required.

The site has been identified as a potential Local Nature Reserve. This will require the construction of gates/stiles etc. to cross stock fencing, plus the clearance of public footpaths and bridleways where obstructed by scrub. Suitable information boards need to be provided to facilitate interpretation of the site to the public and also state any relevant bye-laws.

For a fuller account of the ecology/proposed management of this site, please consult the quoted references.

The north-western corner lies outside the boundary of the SSSI and the proposed LNR and is managed in part as a cricket pitch. Taller grassland surrounding the pitch is managed by less-frequent mowing. Appears to be of some botanical interest: {\it Conopodium majus} recorded in NCC Phase 1 survey (1985).

The fields to the north of the SSSI boundary were not included within any of the available survey sources, and are likely to be improved/semi-improved grassland of some type. It was not realised until the time of writing this report, some 6 months after the completion of the fieldwork, that these areas did not have any habitat information, at which time it was not feasible to visit the site to remedy this omission. Ideally this portion of the site should be surveyed.


