# file3

FAUNA:
No records of fauna relating specifically to this common. For a general account of the fauna of the Dark Peak SSSI/pSPA, please refer to CLs 37 and 39.

VEG:
This common lies at the edge of the plateau of Deer Hill Moss, overlooking the Wessenden Valley. It lies within the boundary of the Peak District National Park and the recently notified Dark Peak SSSI. 

There is a variety of survey information available for the common. These are the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (1988/89 and 1990) and a Phase 2 survey conducted by English Nature during 1991-92 (M. Smedley, based in part on an earlier survey conducted by ADAS). The SSSI citation provides a general description. For maps of the position of the adjacent block of common land and the boundary of the SSSI in this locality, please refer to CL 37. A brief visit was made to the western edge of the common.

Most of the common lies at the edge of the plateau and has blanket peat. This is vegetated with tussocky growth of {\it Molinia caerulea} and in Phase 1 terms belongs to the category of wet modified bog. In the SE corner this gives way to vegetation dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, this being dry modified bog in Phase 1 terms. Within this part of the common lies an area of outcropping gritstone boulders vegetated with a mixture of acidic grassland and dry heath of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {Empetrum nigrum}.

At the edge of the common, south of Great Clough, the blanket mire runs out into a band of shallow peat (ie. less than 0.5m deep). This is mainly again dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}, but in this case lies within the Phase 1 category of marshy grassland. In addition, a number of fields enclosed by dry stone walls also lie at the edge of the common here. These appear to have a mix of {\it Molinia} marshy grassland and {\it Nardus stricta} acidic grassland.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. There is no detailed information on grazing levels. However, the common appears to offer only limited palatable grazing in the spring, when the new shoots of the deciduous {\it M. caerulea} are developing. 

There appear to be no physical boundaries separating this common and the contiguous CLs 41 and 37, nor any boundary with the rest of Deer Hill Moss. The western edge of the common is fenced from the adjacent in-bye land. Curiously there are a number of enclosure fields within the boundary of the common in this area, with dry stone walls pre-dating registration. These may have been registered in error.

For a more detailed discussion of the management issues relevant to this area, please refer to CLs 37 and 41.

Lies within the North Peak ESA.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chiffchaff, blue tit, wren, willow warbler and red admiral butterfly. Please refer to the contiguous CL 207 for a full account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA.

VEG:
This common comprises three individual small portions, all lying contiguous with the northern edge of CL 207, Ilkley Moor. The westernmost portion lies within the South Pennine Moors SSSI. There was only very scanty information available from previous surveys, and most of the following description is based upon the present survey.

(1): Easternmost Section (Map 1). This part of the common lies in a narrow strip running from the fringe of Ilkley Moor into the Ben Rhydding area of Ilkley. The main feature of interest here is an area of semi-natural woodland occupying the sloping southern section. This is of quite varied composition. For example, to the far south is a rather open canopy of {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Occasional undershrubs are {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rhododendron ponticum} and {\it Ulex europaeus}, plus seedling {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Open areas tend to have stands of bracken {\it (Pteridium aquilinum)}, while under the canopy there is a fairly sparse field layer which includes {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Urtica dioica} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}.  

Further to the north the canopy is almost exclusively dominated by {\it A. pseudoplatanus}, with frequent seedling {\it S. aucuparia} present. The most prominent undershrub species here is {\it R. fruticosus}, with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra} and {\it R. ponticum}. In areas without {\it R. fruticosus} there is a field layer dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Other associates noted were {\it Montia sibirica, Deschampsia cespitosa, Anthriscus sylvestris, Meconopsis cambrica, Allium ursinum, Mnium hornum, Isopterygium elegans} and {\it Polytrichum formosum}. The northernmost section of the wood actually has large open areas dominated by bracken, with occasional trees of {\it Betula pendula}. Other canopy trees include {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Ulmus} sp. Other species noted in this area within the field layer include {\it Luzula pilosa, Aegopodium podagraria, Rumex ? sanguineus, Epilobium montanum, Stachys sylvatica, Geum urbanum} and {\it Plagiomnium undulatum}. 

The northernmost part of this section of the common comprises narrow roadside strips of neutral grassland, locally with an element of tall ruderal species. This includes {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenetherum elatius, Poa trivialis, Taraxacum officinale, Rumex obtusifolius, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. Occasional, probably planted ornamental trees noted on these verges include {\it F. excelsior, A. pseudoplatanus, Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}.                

(2): Central Section (Map 1). This portion runs from the fringe of Ilkley Moor, in a narrow srtip to the west of Ilkley College and reaches northwards into the centre of the town. The southern part is mainly occupied by a planted mixed woodland. This includes {\it Larix decidua, Pinus} spp., {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Betula} sp. Parts appear to have a self-seeded shrub understorey, most obvious at the edges, which includes {\it Ulmus} sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica, Rhododendron ponticum, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Acer pseudoplatanus, Salix capraea} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The field layer is rather bare, but with locally abundant {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Circaea lutetiana}. Towards the north, this woodland block becomes purely deciduous in character, with {\it F. excelsior, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it A. hippocastanum}. To the extreme SW of this section is a small triangular plot of overgrown neutral grassland open to the common. This has {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrostis capillaris, Poa trivialis, Dactylis glomerata, Urtica dioica} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. This area is also shaded by several mature planted trees of {\it A. hippocastanum} and {\it Tilia} sp.

To the north of the junction of Queens Road and Princess Road is a further block of mixed woodland, probably originating as an overgrown ornamemtal garden. In the centre is a small rectangular area enclosed by metal railings, within which are sited several decorated bronze-age boulders. Much of this area is now overgrown with {\it R. fruticosus}. The surrounding woodland has trees/shrubs of {\it Pinus} sp., {\it Ulmus} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna, Taxus baccata, Ilex aquifolium, Betula pendula, R. ponticum, Salix capraea, Acer pseudoplatanus}, plus a number of introduced shrub species (incl. {\it Ligustrum ovalifolium}). There are also numerous seedlings of {\it F. excelsior} and carpets of {\it Aegopodium podagraria}.

(3): Westernmost Section (Map 2). This portion, lying at the extreme northern boundary of the SSSI, shown by the Phase 1 survey to have an acidic grassland sward. No other information available, insufficient time to visit this area.

MANAGE:
Relatively low management input on this common. Most obvious is the occasional mowing of grass verges in a few localities. Cut material has been left in-situ, which may lead to eutrophication (this probably accelerated by dogs). The "garden" section of the central portion appears to have been abandoned. Note the bronze-age inscribed boulders here. The western section probably sheep-grazed, but no information.


VEG:
This small common is contiguous with the larger CL 8, both of which lie within the boundary of a site originally considered for inclusion on the West Yorkshire of Sites of Scientific Importance. These are, in effect, second tier nature conservation sites, scheduled by the Ecological Advisory Service. The area was surveyed by the (then) WYEAIS in 1988. Further information was also gathered during the field visit.

The common comprises a small block of semi-natural broadleaved woodland, known as Dam Head Wood, immediately below the dam of Sharlston Common Pond. The canopy has a mixture of trees and undershrubs which include {\it Quercus petraea, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus, Salix cinerea, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulmus procera}. There are also areas of carr with {\it Salix fragilis}. Numerous multi-stemmed trees suggest a past history of coppicing. The woodland has a field layer which includes bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}), plus areas of grasses: {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus} and {\it H. mollis}, and also areas of {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Occasional plants of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} were also noted. In the wet areas, the woodland floor is vegetated with {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus} and occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara}.

MANAGE:
This area of woodland is unmanaged at present. It is not practicable to make management recommendations on the limited amount of biological information currently available, although it should clearly be maintained as a woodland. It is not necessarily desirable or necessary to remove sycamores, as suggested by WYEAIS. It appears to have had some past coppicing. Numerous paths are present around the floor of this woodland and their continued use and development may be diminishing/eroding the ground flora. There may be benefit in taking measures to restrict public access from this area. 

At review in 1991, the Sharlston Common and Pond pSSI was removed from the schedule of sites in West Yorkshire - see full discussion under the contiguous CL 8.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: willow warbler, meadow pipit, curlew, house martin, swallow, carrion crow, blackbird, wren.

VEG:
This common lies at the eastern edge of Rishworth Moor. The major portion lies on a broad ridge adjoining a north-facing hillside. The eastern tip lies on steep slopes at the end of the ridge and is bisected by the valley of Pike Clough.                               

The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (?1991). This provides a basic habitat map, but no target noted information. The following description is therefore the result of the present survey.

The major portion of the common has a similar character to the fringes of the open fell. The major part of the northern slope (Green Heugh) comprises an acidic grassland sward. This is mainly dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type U5). Localised areas have a heathy element to the vegetation. These areas have abundant {\it D. flexuosa} and frequent short {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus locally occasional {\it N. stricta, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. The {\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus} are both very suppressed as a short carpet (2.0cm). There are also areas of a wetter acidic grassland with abundant {\it N. stricta, D. flexuosa, M. caerulea} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}, plus locally rare {\it V. myrtillus. Juncus squarrosus} is locally frequent throughout. This mosaic of habitats may involve any of NVC types U2, U5, U6 and M25!

Pike End is more of a rounded plateau area. Here {\it M. caerulea} becomes dominant over parts, with {\it N. stricta} elsewhere. Other associates are frequent/occasional {\it Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa}, plus locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. squarrosus}. This appears to be a transitional marshy/acidic grassland type probably involving NVC types U5 and M25. A further feature is very small amounts of extremely suppressed {\it V. myrtillus}.

The disused quarry at Pike End Delph has an area of recently worked/deposited sandstone rubble. Other spoil mounds have a thin grassland sward with abundant {\it F. ovina, D. flexuosa} and {\it V. myrtillus}, plus locally occasional {\it N. stricta} and {\it Calluna}. The heath species are somewhat more extensive than the adjacent grassland, but still are present only as a short, suppressed carpet.

To the east of the common lies the small section of Pike End Hollows, which is separated from the remainder by a field boundary. The terrain is steep here, the vegetation by contrast, ungrazed. A fairly complex mixture of habitats occurs on this section. To the south there is much marshy grassland with tall, tussocky {\it M. caerulea}. Other local associates here include {\it Juncus effusus, Angelica sylvestris, Potentilla erecta, Athyrium filix-femina, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC type M25). Locally there is an element of wet heath in the form of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and occasionally, {\it Calluna}. Some of these heathy areas see {\it D. flexuosa} becoming co-dominant with {\it M. caerulea}. To the west of the flush which crossed this area, the wet heath is more pronounced, and {\it T. cespitosum} also occurs here. A further feature of this area as a whole are several small stands of tall ruderal species - {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Angelica sylvestris, Cirsium arvense} and {\it C. palustre}. On the slope above the road there is a small area of pure dry {\it Calluna} heath, mostly mature, but part burnt. Occasional {\it Blechnum spicant} present here. 

The small flush crossing this area is quite diverse with abundant {\it Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}!, frequent {\it Equisetum sylvaticum} and {\it Holcus mollis}, locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosa} and locally occasional {\it Galium palustre, G. uliginosum, Cirsium palustre, Dyropteris dilatata} and {\it Viola palustris}.

Along the sides of Pike Clough, to the north of the road there is a mosaic of neutral grassland, tall ruderals, acidic grassland/dry heath, dense bracken, plus scattered scrub and trees. Species making up these habitats include {\it Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Angelica sylvestris, Equisetum arvense, Chamerion angustifolium, Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Festuca rubra, D. flexuosa, N. stricta, M. caerulea, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, V. myrtillus, Rumex acetosa, Betula} sp., {\it Salix} spp., {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Quercus} sp.

The remainder of this part of the common forms the steep slopes around a disused quarry. Most has a mosaic of acidic grassland and dry heath ({\it M. caerulea, D. flexuosa} and {\it V. myrtillus}, plus occasional {\it Calluna}, with small amounts of {\it Erica cinerea} noted). To the south are further small flushed areas. Opposite the farm is a small enclosed area with neutral grassland/tall ruderals.

MANAGE:
The larger, western portion of the common is grazed by sheep. Grazing levels appear high, with the scattered patches of heath vegetation being in a very suppressed state. Note the re-working of sandstone waste in the quarry and also dumped rubbish here which includes fridges, freezers, washing machines etc.

The eastern part of the common is ungrazed. This has allowed a diverse mosaic of habitats to develop, and also any heath species to grow to maturity. Small areas of this heath have been burnt, probably accidentally. The flush and the marshy grassland also appear to have benefited from the lack of grazing and have a relatively good species diversity. 

Note encroachments on this section: fenced area in front of farm. Container sited in old quarry. Dumping of rubble/tarmac along the track to the north.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: robin, blue tit, great tit, wren, chiffchaff, grey squirrel and rabbit.

VEG:
The common lies along the edge of Pool Bank and appears to comprise part of a larger block of semi-natural broadleaved woodland along the slope. With no previous survey information available, the following description is based on notes made during the present survey. 

All of the common is wooded, with a canopy comprising mainly {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, accompanied by an occasional tree of {\it Fagus sylvatica}. There is also a sizeable population of mature, multi-stemmed specimens of {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The undershrub layer is quite well-developed and includes {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus seedlings of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, F. sylvatica, Aesculus hippocastanum, Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pendula} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. In addition, a few planted seedling trees were noted, protected by plastic tree guards, which appeared to include {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Acer campestre}. The field layer is mainly dominated by {\it Holcus mollis} with locally occasional/frequent {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Oxalis acetosella, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Digitalis purpurea, Geum urbanum} and {\it Stellaria holostea}. The moss {\it Mnium hornum} also appeared to be abundant on the woodland floor. Occasional small "clearings" in the wood tend to be dominated by growth of bracken and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

To the NE of the common, the path ascends the steep slope of the bank and is somewhat sunken below the ground surface. The sides of these banks are again dominated by {\it Holcus mollis}, but also have locally abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with occasional {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Oxalis acetosella, Hedera helix, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. In addition there are several dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica}, and a few individuals of {\it Meconopsis cambrica} were also noted along here. Bryophytes present in local abundance include {\it Mnium hornum, Isopterygium elegans, Brachythecium rutabulum} and {\it Pellia epiphylla}.

MANAGE:
The common appears generally unmanaged at present, save for the planting of a small number of deciduous trees. This is an attractive and relatively little-disturbed woodland and is probably of importance to a range of local wildlife. There are a number of large mature and multi-stemmed trees of {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, several of which have dead sections and there is also one fallen dead tree. In fact the site appears to have a significant quantity of standing and fallen dead timber, suggesting that it may be potentially good for a variety of dead wood invertebrates. There is also a build-up of leaf litter over the woodland floor. Several of the {\it A. pseudoplatanus} trees are also multi-stemmed, suggesting past coppicing, but there is no evidence of any recent tree thinning/felling.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna available specifically for this common. Please refer to the contiguous CL 207 for a full account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA.

VEG:
This complex common is intimately associated with the much larger CL 207, Ilkley Moor. It occupies several parcels of land, gropued in three clusters, lying to the eastern end of CL 207 (see map). All of the common lies within the boundary of the South pennines SSSI and the Ecological Advisory Servise SSI of Ilkley Moor. One cluster is associated with High Lanshaw Dam, while a second is associated with Lower Lanshaw Dam, both of these lie within CL 207 itself. The compartment boundaries appear to exist only on the registration map and do not follow any physical features. The easternmost portion lies adjacent to the edge of CL 207. 

The habitats of this part of the South Pennine Moors have been discussed in some detail under CL 207. Please refer to this source. The common was not visited. The sections associated with the two dams appear to have dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, plus occasional areas of acidic flush vegetation. The easternmost portion is shown on the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey to comprise mainly dense bracken, with smaller areas which have a mosaic of acidic grassland and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} heath. The eastern tip also is shown to have scattered scrub of {\it Ulex europeaus}.

MANAGE:
All parts of the common are probably open to grazing by sheep. Once again, for further detail, please see under the contiguous CL 207.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: curlew, meadow pipit, skylark, golden plover, swift, kestrel.

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

VEG:
The common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor. In addition to this particular common, a considerable portion of the SSSI as a whole is also common land. For a map showing the boundary of this section of the SSSI, together with the location of the other commons in this area, see under the contiguous CL 498. 

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops to the west of this common, at Deer Stones Edge, where there are also abandoned quarries along this edge of the moor. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common is covered by the Phase 1 survey conducted by WYEAIS in 1991. Additional information about the common was also gathered during the present survey (northern portion only). This common and its contiguous partner, CL 498, lie on a "finger" of moorland stretching southwards from the edge of Oxhenhope Moor towards the Calder Valley, bounded to the west by Crimsworth Dean and to the east by Luddenden Dean. There is a central plateau area running approximately north-south, with the land falling away gently into the valleys along the eastern and western edges. This particular common also has a shallow valley, known as Low Brown Knoll Hollow, draining eastwards across the centre of the plateau. The gentle slope to the south of this valley (1) has dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. This area has no detailed information, but appears to be typical of much of the {\it Calluna}-dominated and burnt heather moorland within the SSSI as a whole (generally NVC type H9a). On the western slopes this gives way to a mosaic of heath and acidic grassland, where {\it Calluna} is joined by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. 

At the eastern end of the shallow valley lies an area of deep peat (2) vegetated with tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} (ie. wet modified bog). This has frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, occasional {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and locally occasional {\it Erica tetralix} (NVC type M25a). On the gentle slope to the north of here (3) the peat thins to less than 0.5m, marking a transition to marshy grassland, again dominated by tussocky {\it M. caerulea}. There are also occasional areas of wet heath within this, dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with occasional {\it V. myrtillus} and {\it Erica tetralix}, plus occasional small acidic flush features dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}. Further westwards on this side of Low Brown Knoll Hollow (4) is a fairly complex area of {\it Calluna} dry heath, with scattered wet heath, marshy grassland, acidic grassland and dry modified bog.

The northern part of the plateau, along High Brown Knoll - Shore End Top (5) there is vegetation which appears to be derived from eroded vestiges of blanket mire and is rather problematical to assign to a Phase 1 category. The remnant mire is represented by patches of tussocky {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with frequent/abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, plus locally frequent/abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. As the peat depth is generally much less than 0.5m deep, it cannot strictly be described as blanket mire, although it has the vegetation of such. In NVC terms this belongs to NVC type M20. Locally there are small patches of bare peat and elsewhere, bare substrate. Other parts of this area have very little peat present. These areas tend to have an acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, plus locally occasional {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC U5). Locally there are isolated tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum} still present, and occasional heathy areas with {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it V. myrtillus}. Elsewhere there are areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it D. flexuosa}, again locally with remnants of {\it E. vaginatum} and occasional scattered {\it E. angustifolium}. Reference to the habitat map will therefore show this area to have been translated as a mosaic of dry modified bog, acidic grassland, dry heath, with smaller amounts of bare peat and bare substrate!  

The western fringe of the common at this point has more {\it M. caerulea} marshy grassland, and within the disused quarries below Deer Stones Edge, dry heath/acidic grassland, mainly dominated by {\it V. myrtillus}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. There is no fence separating this common from its contiguous neighbour, CL 498. Grazing levels over the northern portion of the common appear fairly high. A history of sustained high grazing could be a factor associated with the degradation of blanket mire. The area of {\it Calluna} heath to the south lies at the edge of a larger block extending southwards across CL 498, which is burnt as part of grouse moor management. In addition to the disused quarry at Deer Stones Edge, there is a disused shaft within the upper reaches of Low Brown Knoll Hollow.


FAUNA:
For a general account of the fauna of the surrounding moorlands, see under the contiguous CL 37.

VEG:
The common forms a minor part of the National Trust Marsden Moor Estate and lies within the Dark Peak SSSI. Habitat information has been taken from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey and the English Nature Phase 2 survey. The site was not visited during the present survey, forming only a very minor part of Wessenden Moor. For a more detailed account of the vegetation of the surrounding area, see under the much larger contiguous CL 37.

The common lies at the head of Butterly Clough, at the margin of an expanse of blanket mire. This belongs to the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog and is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. It appears typical of that occurring within this general area. At the edge of the clough this gives way to unimproved acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}. A small stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} appears also to overlap the boundary of the common.

MANAGE:
The common is probably unfenced from the surrounding land. The whole area is grazed by sheep. Please refer to CL 37 for an account of the management of this section of the Marsden Moor Estate.


FAUNA:
No fauna noted specifically on this common. For an account of the ornithological importance of the Dark Peak SSSI as a whole, please see under CL 37.

VEG:
This common lies on the plateau of Wessenden Head, within the Dark Peak SSSI and the Peak District National Park. It is one of several commons in this area which have been registered with turbary rights for the "Graveship of Holme". These also include CLs 320, 321 and 322 in West Yorkshire and CL 306 in South Yorkshire.

There is basic habitat information from the West Yorkshire Phase 1 survey. The area was also included within a Phase 2 survey of the Dark Peak by English Nature in 1992. The common could not be visited as such during the present survey, but it was inspected through binoculars from the A635.

The habitats on the common are contiguous with a larger block of heather-dominated vegetation, and the site appears to lack any physical boundaries. The common lies at the edge of an expanse of blanket mire dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with abundant {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (NVC type M20b). The southern edge appears to lie within a gully which has cut into the mire surface. Additional habitats here include dry {\it Calluna} heath (NVC H9), plus wet bog (?marshy grassland) of {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC M25).

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced from the block of moorland within which it is situated. The whole area is grazed by sheep at a low intensity and is also managed as grouse moor (ie. burning). As mentioned earlier, this is one of a number of small commons with turbary rights. Some of these were noted to still have small-scale peat cutting occurring (ie. CLs 322 in West Yorkshire and 306 in South Yorkshire). These lie easily accessible to roads. This common, however, is remote from any access and there is probably not cut for peat any longer. 

NB. Lies within the Dark Peak ESA (but no agreement under the scheme as far as we are aware, at date of survey).


VEG:
This common lies on the plateau of Wessenden Head, adjacent to the A635, within the Dark Peak SSSI and the Peak District National Park. It is one of several commons in this area which have been registered with turbary rights for the "Graveship of Holme". These also include CLs 319, 321 and 322 in West Yorkshire and CL 306 in South Yorkshire.

There is basic habitat information from the West Yorkshire Phase 1 survey. The area was also included within a Phase 2 survey of the Dark Peak by English Nature in 1992. Brief notes were also made during the present survey.

At the edge of the A635 is a strip of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). Within this are frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, plus locally abundant clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}. Beyond this is the margin of the blanket mire, which is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with locally frequent {\it E. angustifolium} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type M20).

MANAGE:
The common is neither fenced from the A635 or the adjoining moorland. The whole area is grazed by sheep at a low intensity. Although registered by virtue of peat cutting rights on this small plot, there appears to be no recent sign of any peat cutting taking place.

NB. Lies within the Dark Peak ESA (but no agreement under the scheme as far as we are aware, at date of survey).


VEG:
This common lies on the plateau of Wessenden Head, within the Peak District National Park, just outside the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). It is one of several commons in this area which have been registered with turbary rights for the "Graveship of Holme". These also include CLs 319, 320 and 322 in West Yorkshire and CL 306 in South Yorkshire.

There is basic habitat information from the West Yorkshire Phase 1 survey. The area was also included within a Phase 2 survey of the Dark Peak by English Nature in 1992. The common could not be visited as such during the present survey, but it was inspected through binoculars from adjacent footpath.

The common lies on a gentle slope between the A635 and Reap Hill Clough. It forms a part of the adjoining moorland, with no physical boundaries present. Most of the area comprises dry modified bog dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, plus locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type M20). Across the centre of the site runs what appears to be a species-poor acidic flush dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} (NVC type M6c).

MANAGE:
The whole area, of which the common forms a part, is open to grazing by sheep at a low intensity. The adjacent moorland is managed for grouse. The common, however, lying close to the A635, does not appear significant in this respect. Although registered by virtue of peat cutting rights on this small plot, there appears to be no recent sign of any peat cutting taking place.

NB. Lies within the Dark Peak ESA (but no agreement under the scheme as far as we are aware, at date of survey).


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit: several curlew calling in the general vicinity. For an account of the ornithological importance of the Dark Peak SSSI as a whole, please see under CL 37.

VEG:
This is the most southerly common in West Yorkshire and lies at the edge of the Dark Peak SSSI and the Peak District National Park. It is one of several commons in this area which have been registered with turbary rights for the "Graveship of Holme". These also include CLs 319, 320 and 321 in West Yorkshire and CL 306 in South Yorkshire.

There is basic habitat information from the West Yorkshire Phase 1 survey, with one relevant target note. The area was also included within a Phase 2 survey of the Dark Peak by English Nature in 1992. A brief visit was also made to the site, viewing it from the road to the east (this being both the SSSI and the National Park boundary).

The habitats on the common are contiguous with a larger block of heather-dominated vegetation. To the south this takes the from of blanket mire. This has a dominant cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with frequent {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. This belongs to NVC type M20b. Peat depth estimated at 2.0m.

To the north lies dry heath, again dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC H9). Other associates are frequent/occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and occasional {\it Nardus stricta}. Across the centre of the common is a strip at the edge of the blanket mire where there is a mosaic of both habitats. This is associated with an area of small-scale peat cuttings.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be unfenced from the adjacent moorland. The whole area appears to be grazed by sheep at a low intensity.

The {\it Calluna} across the common and the surrounding moorland appears to be subject to a programme of rotational burning, as part of magagement as grouse moor. As a consequence the {\it Calluna} takes the form of even-aged blocks, with the most mature swards reaching around 0.5m tall. Recently burnt areas seem to have good regeneration of seedling plants. Grazing impact on the condition of the heather appears minimal.

There appears to be active, small-scale peat cutting occurring on this common, in accordance with the registered rights.   

NB. Lies within the Dark Peak ESA (but no agreement under the scheme as far as we are aware, at date of survey).


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipit, yellowhammer, carrion crow, swift, skylark, flock of starlings, house martin, robin, plus distant curlew.  

Shipley Glen has a Grade C entry in the Invertebrate Site Register. These are sites of potential importance where habitat structure or a small number of records of notable species indicate that the site is likely to be of importance. All sites graded C are recommended for further survey. Shipley Glen was much visited by entomologists in the early twentieth century, but there are few recent records. The site was particularly noted for its aculeate fauna and recent visits by Dr. M. Archer of York indicate that this interest is still maintained. There is one recent record for a nationally notable member of the order Hymenoptera: {\it Crossocerus walkeri} (1985).

VEG:
This block of open moorland lies to the north of Baildon, a suburb lying to the north of Bradford and the Aire Valley. The habitat map has been based on that of the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (1989). The common overlaps with two scheduled "Sites of Scientific Interest in West Yorkshire". These are all of Site No. 15, a section of Baildon Moor, plus part Site No. 88, namely Shipley Glen (see site maps 1 and 2 for details). The Shipley Glen woodlands were also covered by a Phase 2 survey done by English Nature in 1993. A brief visit was made to the site mainly to investigate its recreational use. Most of the following description is based on the above sources.

The predominant vegetation type present on the common appears to be an acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). Typically this has frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Galium saxatile}, with other local associates such as {\it Festuca ovina, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. There are smaller areas dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6). Present in some areas at very low frequently are small suppressed plants of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Parts of the grassland are managed as greens for the golf course and have been classified therefore as amenity grassland. 

The area of Baildon Moor designated as SSI is shown on Map 1. The site occupies a gentle north-facing slope in the vicinity of Sconce Crag. There are shallow peat deposits, but the underlying acidic mineral soil outcrops in some parts. The main feature of this area are a series of acidic flushes fed by water issuing from springs within the site. In the wettest areas there are carpets of {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses which include {\it S. capillifolium, S. cuspidatum, S. fimbriatum, S. palustre, S. papillosum} and {\it S. recurvum}. Growing across this and into the marginal areas is a well-developed vascular plant community which has abundant {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata} (the latter species at its only known West Yorkshire station). Other associated species include {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, Carex nigra, C. echinata, C. curta} and {\it C. binervis}. The mire grades out into a drier acid grassland/heath zone with frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum, Potentilla erecta} and {\it N. stricta}, with locally frequent {\it Juncus effusus, J. conglomeratus} and {\it J. articulatus}. The Phase 1 survey, however, shows a significant part of this area to be covered by dense bracken!

The Phase 1 survey shows a further area of wet vegetation to the SW of the moor (area (1), on map 2), which was investigated during the present survey. To the north of the road this tends to be dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} with occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica tetralix} (5% cover each), plus locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type M25). The areas in between the tussocks tend to support frequent {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. To the south of the road, {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} becomes the dominant species, with only locally abundant {\it Molinia caerulea}. Other associates are frequent/abundant {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it D. flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Poa trivialis, Holcus lanatus, Equisetum fluviatile} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}, plus locally occasional {\it Cirsium palustre, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, Cardamine pratensis, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Luzula multiflora}. This vegetation appears to represent a transition towards either NVC types M23 or MG9. Wetter areas are probably flushed and have locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex nigra} and {\it C. panicea}, plus the moss {\it Calliergon cuspidatum}.

Remnants of wet heath/marshy grassland were noted during the present survey  adjacent to Bingley Road (area (2) on Map 1). To the north of the road the substrate appears quite peaty, with the wet heath/marshy grassland indicated by the presence of {\it M. caerulea} and {\it Juncus effusus} with locally occasional {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. To the south is a 5cm carpet of suppressed {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent {\it M. caerulea} and locally occasional {\it V. myrtillus, E. tetralix, E. nigrum} and {\it Luzula multiflora}.

Around the margins of the open fell are significant areas of dense bracken (NVC type U20), with scattered fronds invading the adjacent habitats in some areas. To the south of the car park at Low Eaves, an area of dry heath/acidic grassland has bushes of {\it Ulex gallii} (Map 1).

The section of the common running along the edge of Shipley Glen is somewhat separate from the rest of the site. Along the eastern edge of the common here runs a level area above the Bracken Hall Crags. This is open to the adjacent Glen Road and is extensively influenced by the parking of cars on the common by visitors to Shipley Glen. This area has a mosaic of acidic grassland and much trampled dry heath ({\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus}), tending to a semi-improved acidic grassland and also eroded bare ground in places. There are also a number of large flat Gritstone boulders exposed at the ground surface.                                

The adjoining woods in Shipley Glen form part of the Trench and Broadstone Woods, as covered by the English Nature Phase 2 survey. The woodlands as a whole are ancient semi-natural in origin (and are shown in the West Yorkshire Inventory of Ancient Woodland). The section which lies on the common have a fairly complex structure. This is partly due to the greater physical diversity, with the presence of rock, scree, boulder field and spring lines, and also possibly due to lower levels of historical disturbance than other sectons of the woods. 

The lower end of the wood is mature {\it Quercus} sp. - {\it Betula} sp., with a sparse understorey of {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The field layer includes {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Dryopteris dilatata, Blechnum spicant, Leucobryum glaucum} and {\it Plagiothecium undulatum} (NVC type W16b). The middle section is a complex of springs and flushes with {\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Corylus avellana}, between knolls of W16b. The field layers of the flushed areas correspond to W7b alderwood or W9b northern ashwood. The former have frequent or abundant {\it D. cespitosa, Filipendula ulmaria, Dryopteris dilatata, Lysimachia nemorum, Cirsium palustre, Crepis paludosa, Athyrium filix-femina, Juncus effusus, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Carex laevigata}, plus abundant regenerating {\it F. excelsior} saplings. The boundaries between this and the W9b type are indeterminate but the following are frequent or abundant in the latter: {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Viola riviniana, Geranium robertianum, F. ulmaria, Holcus mollis, Circaea lutetiana, Stachys sylvatica, R. repens, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Sanicula europaea} is locally frequent and {\it Prunella vulgaris} occasional. {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} occurs along Loadpit Beck, marking the western boundary of the common at this point. In addition, there are very small stands of W7a on waterlogged terraces. These areas have abundant {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it F. ulmaria} with frequent {\it A. filix-femina, Geranium robertianum, L. nemorum, S. sylvatica, H. mollis} and occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris}. Further interest in this area is provided by {\it Sphagnum} spp. mounds. 

At the head of the glen on the west-facing side the canopy is again {\it Quercus} sp. - {\it Betula} sp., but over massive block scree of sandstone. Field layers are patchy between rock outcrops, on ledges and the damp ground alongside the beck. Locally frequent are {\it V. myrtillus, D. dilatata} and {\it D. flexuosa} (NVC type W16b). Where there is some soil cover, {\it Agrostis capillaris, Dactylis glomerata, Oreopteris limbosperma, B. spicant, D. dilatata} and {\it Oxalis acetosella} are present (NVC types W10e/W11). {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is abundant throughout. Finally, there are bryophyte-rich habitats adjacent to Loadpit Beck and also some bryophyte interest in the W16 and W7/W9 habitats.

MANAGE:
The open area of Baildon Moor is grazed by sheep. Roads across the common are unfenced and protected by cattle grids. Grazing levels are high, with much of the grassland dominated by impalatable species such as {\it Nardus stricta}. There is evidence that the moor once supported more extensive areas of dry (and wet) heath, but this vegetation has now been reduced to isolated suppressed remnants. It is probably too late to suggest reducing grazing levels to attempt to promote recovery of heath species on the common. 

Parts of the grassland on the moor are also managed as greens for Baildon golf course. Two car parking areas have been provided for visitors to the common. The moor may be important for ground nesting birds such as meadow pipit and skylark, but there is probably considerable local disturbance during the nesting period from the various recreational acitvities.

The SSI site at Sconce Crag appears to have a relatively slight recreational pressure due to the impeded nature of the terrain here.

The woodlands along Shipley Glen are an excellent example of a Pennine Clough Woodland. The portion on the common is open to the moor, but grazing does not appear to be significant. However, there is localised recreational pressure, with some erosion along tracks and paths. Field layer exotics, such as {\it Impatiens glandulifera} not recorded at present - these sholud be controlled if they colonise the wood. All age classes of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Betula} sp. are well-represented and there is good regeneration. There is also abundant regeneration of {\it F. excelsior}, but {\it A. pseudoplatanus} may be gaining an advantage in some areas. The land adjoining Glen Road is locally severely compacted by cars/visitors.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: jackdaw, treecreeper, blackcap, songthrush, blackbird, carrion crow, magpie, wren, house sparrow, willow warbler, green woodpecker, blue tit, grey squirrel.

VEG:
This common lies along Baildon Bank, at the edge of the town, itself a northern suburb of Bradford. There is very little information available from the existing Phase 1 survey, and all of the following description is the result of the present survey. The site comprises several units, separated from each other by roads which cross the site. There is one major portion which runs along the bank itself. All remaining smaller parcels of the common constitute Baildon Green. Most of these lie on ground at the foot of the bank.

Baildon Bank comprises a steep slope above which is a series of gritstone outcrops and old quarries. Below some of these quarries are spoil mounds. This part of the common has a complex mosaic of different habitats. The spoil mounds tend to have a sparse sward of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosella, Hypochoeris radicata, Nardus stricta, Campylopus introflexus} and locally occasional {\it Hieracium} sp. and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Locally this is replaced by a sparse sward of {\it Aira praecox}. Other habitats developing locally include stands of dense and scattered bracken, scattered trees {\it (Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus} sp., {\it Betula pendula)} and small areas of heath vegetation {\it (Calluna vulgaris)}, best developed at (1). At one point the trees are present as a small block of true deciduous woodland, lying within the bounds of one of the disused quarries (2). This area has a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}. It is quite open in places with a sparse shrub layer which includes {\it Ilex aquifolium, Salix capraea} and {\it S. cinerea}. The field layer contains {\it D. flexuosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Calluna vulgaris, Holcus lanatus and Pteridium aquilinum}. To the extreme north at Lane End (3), the quarried area on the sky-line has scattered bushes of {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. 

At the southern edge of Baildon Bank is a further section of hillside (4). Along the upper section with somewhat similar acidic grassland to the rest of the bank, dominated by {\it D. flexuosa}, locally replaced by {\it Nardus stricta} and with frequent {\it Galium saxatile} throughout. The lower section has an area of rather coarse semi-improved neutral grassland, with an element of tall ruderal species. This is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. There are several clumps of species such as {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Chenopodium bonus-henricus} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. Other grassland forbs include {\it Senecio jacobaea, Taraxacum officinale, Equisetum arvense, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, T. dubium, H. radicata, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Potentilla erecta, Plantago lanceolata, Carex hirta, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Cerastium fontanum}. There are also occasional bushes of {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Cytisus scoparius} in this area. Also one clump of an escaped garden variety of {\it Geranium} sp. 

Along the western edge of this section of the common is a narrow strip of deciduous woodland. Further down slope this is little more than a thin strip of trees/shrubs which include {\it Crataegus monogyna, A. pseudoplatanus, Salix fragilis, S. capraea, Rosa canina, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ligustrum ? ovalifolium}. Here this has an understorey of taller, coarser neutral grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} plus {\it Cirsium arvense, H. sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Calystegia sepium, Agropyron repens, Galium aparine, Stellaria graminea} and occasional {\it Impatiens glandulifera}. Higher up the slope the wooded area expands to have a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}, with a field layer here of {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, R. fruticsous} agg., {\it Silene dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Geum urbanum, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it P. aquilinum}.

At the other side of Green Road are several portions of the common which now lie on level ground at the foot of the bank. This part of the common has a variety of semi-improved grassland swards. The most varied area appears to be at (5), which was being grazed by 4 tethered horses at the time of the site visit. The grazed portion lies in the central area. The grassland here has abundant {\it Festuca ovina, Poa pratensis, Holcus lanatus, Luzula campestris, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. Locally occasional are {\it Nardus stricta, Centaurea nigra, Galium saxatile, Senecio jacobaea, Vicia sepium, Rumex acetosa, Trisetum flavescens} and {\it Carex ovalis}. This grassland, although clearly semi-improved in character, also has strong indicators of both a neutral and an acidic sward type. Locally this grades into an even more strongly acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} with frequent {\it H. lanatus}, occasional/frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and locally occasional {\it Nardus stricta}. There are also localised areas with co-dominant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it N. stricta}, with frequent {\it Galium saxatile}. Around the margins (ungrazed) there is a sward of taller coarse neutral grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Alopecurus geniculatus, Poa pratensis, Senecio jacobaea, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. Along the edges of the roads are occasional planted trees which include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus sucuparia, Sorbus} sp., {\it Betula pendula, Ulmus} sp., {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it C. monogyna}. A narrow stream runs along the western part of this area. Along this and in adjacent wet grassland are species such as {\it Veronica beccabunga, Stellaria alsine, Glyceria fluitans, Juncus inflexus, Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Carex nigra}. To the east the stream peters out, but there are occasional wet depressions, one of which has {\it Juncus inflexus}, while the other has {\it Iris pseudacorus, Ranunculus acris} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

The adjoining grassland at (6) is probably not quite as varied as that above, with no horses present at the time. This is mainly dominated by {\it F. rubra, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, again grading to taller {\it A. elatius} etc. grassland at the margins. Localised areas of grassland of acidic character are still present, indicated by the presence of species such as {\it N. stricta, D. flexuosa, F. ovina, Potentilla erecta, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Carex nigra}. The stream continues along part of this area and in one locality is associated with a clump of trees - {\it C. monogyna, A. pseudoplatanus, F. excelsior, Prunus} sp. Additional forbs noted from the grassland in this area include {\it Tussilago farfara, Hieracium aurantiacum, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium dubium, Bellis perennis} and {\it Rhinanthus minor}. Some of the above-mentioned associates of the wet habitats occur again along the stream. Also noted in this area is a bonfire site with a mix of tall ruderal ephemeral species: {\it Capsella bursa-pastoris, Chamerion angustifolium, Artemisia vulgaris} and {\it Sisymbrium officinale}.

Finally there are several minor fragments of the common, either neutral or amenity grassland.

MANAGE:
The common is subject to a fairly low intensity of management. A portion is grazed by tethered horses. It can be seen that there are quite a diverse range of grassland communities present, and continued periodic grazing will probably play an important role in maintaining the diversity of these swards. Although these swards are semi-improved to varying degrees, it is perhaps surprising to find them occurring adjacent to a residential area. A number of trees have been planted along the edges of the roads, while small areas of grassland have been cut for amenity purposes. There is some localised disturbance to the site in the form of bonfires and tipping of garden refuse (this latter activity having introduced some garden species onto the common). The old quarries are an unmanaged area, with some pioneer grassland communities on the spoil heaps. The common appears to be of local ornithological importance, although some of the bird interest probably is here by virtue of an adjoining block of woodland. Nevertheless, the common probably provides an important wildlife refuge at the edge of a built-up area. A surprisingly diverse site for its location. Continued grazing seen as important in maintaining the botanical diversity of the grassland. However, eutrophication by dogs will probably cause a long-term decline.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: skylark, meadow pipit, golden plover, kestrel, curlew, swift.

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires.  Blanket mire on this common around White Holme Reservoir thought to be the best area in Greater Manchester for dunlin. Several pairs of redshank also noted here (GMCU - SBI report). 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. The disused Derby Delph quarry adjacent to the A672 has been used by a pair of peregrine in recent years. This has had a 24 hour guard by RSPB staff, with a visitor hide provided and has been widely publicised locally. However, the nest has been unoccupie for the last couple of seasons.

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting habitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The reservoirs also attract waders on passage (eg. knot). The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

The survey by Brown and Shepherd (1991) shows high numbers of breeding twite, curlew, golden plover, common sandpiper and dunlin. Other site specific records include lapwing, ring ousel and merlin.

VEG:
The major part of this common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor, within which this common lies, plus Ilkley Moor and the Howarth Moors, a considerable portion of which are also common land.

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops throughout the SSSI. On this particular common these are mainly associated with several abandoned quarries at the eastern edge of the moor. One such, Derby Delph Quarry (GR 018 160), was originally sheduled separately as SSSI (geological), but has now been incorporated as part of the South Pennine Moors site. 

The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common straddles an extensive plateau which forms the backbone of the South Pennine Moors to the east of Blackstone Edge. It forms part of a continuous block of common land which runs from Todmorden as far south as Wessenden Head, within the Peak District National Park. The A672 follows the narrow steep-sided valley of Spa Clough, which cuts into the plateau from the east. The southern edge of the common is marked the steep slope of Moss Moor, marking the northern edge of the higher plateau of Buckstones Moss (CL 39). Lying within the common are a number of excluded portions, one of which includes the Green Withens Reservoir. There are also a series of catchwater drains, similarly excluded. The M62 motorway, however, as not beed excluded from the registration and forms a major landscape feature crossing the plateau.

The common has been covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (1991). This provides a habitat map and good coverage of target notes. Additional information was gathered during visits to parts of the site on a number of separate occasions during July 1996. General information on habitats has also been drawn from the SSSI citation. The common also includes part of a Site of Scientific Interest (SSI) in West Yorkshire (ie. 9.6 ha. coincident - 0.6 per cent of the area of the common).

The plateaux of the common have extensive areas of blanket mire. This is mainly in the form of dry modified bog dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (NVC type M20). Within this are frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, plus locally frequent/abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum}. There are small amounts of bare peat present, but erosion does not appear to be as extensive as on other adjacent plateaux. There is a small amount of bare peat present above Green Withens, with further areas evident in the Dry Clough - Wicken Clough area, on the slopes below White Hill. In addition there is badly eroded peat on the eastern side of Blackstone Edge (GR 974 164). This may have resulted from the Pennine Way crossing this area and its general popularity as a landmark/vantage point. Locally the peat is very thin, as on Dog Hill (GR 004 170). Here the dry bog is reduced to tussocky patches of {\it E. vaginatum} surrounded by acidic grassland dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. In addition, {\it Empetrum nigrum} is locally occasional/frequent throughout. 

Moss Moor, to the south of the common, has extensive areas of vegetation dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}. From a distance, this appears to be growing on deep peat and has therefore been placed in the Phase 1 category of wet modified bog. Further survey of this area would be needed to confirm whether this was the case. 

The margins of the blanket mire in general have a broad band of {\it M. caerulea} on thin peat. This equates to marshy grassland in Phase 1 terms. This is generally very species-poor often with the tussocks of {\it M. caerulea} being the only element of the vegetation (NVC type M25). The only other associates are locally frequent {\it D. flexuosa} plus occasional {\it E. angustifolum} and {\it E. nigrum}. There are extensive areas of this vegetation on the slopes to the north of Spa Clough. On steeper and better-drained slopes this gives way to acidic grassland. This is generally dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, with frequent {\it D. flexuosa} and occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC type U5). Elsewhere {\it D. flexuosa} is dominant, which may represent a transition to NVC U2. Some swards appear intermediate acidic/marshy, with co-dominant {\it M. caerulea} and {\it D. flexuosa}. A section of the steep slope of Moss Moor Edge has a heathy element to the sward, in the form of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus some {\it Calluna vulgaris} (WYEAIS survey).

Throughout the site are a number of small acidic flush features. These are generally species-poor and dominated by {\it Juncus effusus/Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c). Other species recorded in Phase 1 target notes include {\it Ranunculus omiophyllus, Stellaria alsine, Cardamine} sp., {\it Cirsium palustre, Galium palustre, Myosotis secunda, Montia fontana} and {\it Carex} spp.
                              
However, adjacent to Green Withens Reservoir lies an extensive and diverse complex of upland flush habitats. While a proportion lies on land excluded from registration, there is still a significant part of this SSI occurring on the common. 

Open water channels within the complex contain {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius} (the largest recorded colony of this species in the county). Adjacent mire zones have extensive mats of {\it Sphagnum} spp. and {\it Polytrichum} sp. These grade into acidic flushes which are particularly rich in {\it Carex} spp., including {\it C. echinata, C. viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. curta, C. panicea C. binervis} and {\it C. nigra}. Other abundant associates include {\it Viola palustris, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Lotus uliginosus, Montia fontana, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Juncus} spp. There are also areas of taller flush vegetation dominated by {\it Carex rostrata}, plus marginal areas grading into the surrounding {\it Molinia} marshy grassland.

Clough sides and other steeper slopes tend to have areas of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The verges of the M62 motorway cut a swathe across the surrounding moorland. To the west is the top of the cutting which the M62 follows up Blackstone Edge. This tends to have a mosaic of heath and acidic grassland which appears to be of {\it D. flexuosa} and {\it E. nigrum}. To the east the motorway crosses the plateau and appears to have {\it Molinia} grassland typical of that adjacent. Immediately adjacent to the carriageways there is a strip of coarse neutral grassland.

MANAGE:
The common forms part of a major water catchment area. The plateau itself appears to lack any form of internal boundaries, apart from those along the M62. The whole area is grazed by sheep. 

The site appears to have had a sustained high grazing pressure for a considerable time. For example, there is a general lack of heath species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris} within the vegetation communities present. Although not high in the list of palatability to sheep, {\it Calluna} is particularly suscepitble to winter grazing, when there is little other suitable herbage available. Much of the acidic grassland is dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, also unpalatable to sheep, and generally regarded as an indicator of heavy grazing, as is {\it Juncus squarrosus}. A history of sustained grazing is also thought to be one of a number of factors which have produced the degraded/drying blanket mires typical of these South Pennine Moorlands. This is reflected in the active erosion of peat, lack of {\it Sphagnum} mosses and the dominance of unpalatable and tussock-forming species such as {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. {\it Empetrum nigrum} is also avoided by sheep. A number of other processes are involved, such as burning and atmospheric pollution. It is not possible to go into this subject in detail here, but English Nature have produced a comprehensive review of the relevant literature (see references).

The current extent of peat erosion on the common is much lower than other adjacent areas of moorland. It is important that eroded areas are managed sensitively to avoid further damage. This would include careful management of grazing, burning or recreational use in these areas. There has been extensive experimental work undertaken looking at management methods suitable for thr restoration of eroded blanket mires. This issue can be reviewed by reading the site description for CL 39, Marsden Moor. This common, which is owned by the National Trust, has suffered particularly severe peat erosion and measures to try and restore vegetation to the bare peat are currently being undertaken.

Large sections of the {\it Molinia} grassland on the common are burnt in the spring (personal observation). This is to promote new and more nutritious growth of this species.

The main ecological importance of the common is the habitat it provides for ground nesting birds. Visitor numbers are relatively low, with a consequent lack of disturbance in this respect. Continued monitoring of key bird populations is seen as important, coupled with the need to maintain recreational use at the current low level. The fact that the whole area has a legal right of public access apppears to be a little-known fact, and could have adverse consequences it this became more widely publicised.

The common also includes Derby Delph Quarry, a feature of geological interest. This was originally scheduled separately as SSSI, but now is a part of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. For full details please see appropriate citation.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: green woodpecker, curlew, meadow pipit, small heath butterfly. For a full account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI, please see under CL 39.
Drop Clough has copmrehenisve data relating to invertebrates, notably beetles {\it (Coleoptera)} and bugs {\it (Hemiptera)}. There is also much information available on plant galls.

VEG:
This common lies at the eastern fringe of the South Pennine Moors, to the north of Marsden. Most lies within the SSSI. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. Along the northern edge of the common lies Drop Clough, which is a scheduled second tier site in West Yorkshire (ie. SSI). Additional information was gathered about the common, during the present survey, viewing it from the public footpath which crosses the eastern edge. In addition, Drop Clough was also viewed from a path lying just beyond the NE edge of the common.                              

Most of the common comprises a small plateau area which appears to support a mosaic of marshy grassland and wet heath. The peat here appears generally less than 0.5m deep. The dominant species across this area is {\it Molinia caerulea}, present as a tussocky sward. Heathy elements have abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris} at around 50 per cent cover. Other associates include occasional/frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. The total cover of {\it Calluna} over the whole site appears to be in the order of 30 per cent. The plants are generally around 10-20cm tall and a high proportion show evidence of suppression by grazing (ie. "topiary" growth patterns). This vegetation appears to all belong to NVC type M25. Locally the heath appears to be of a dry type, where {\it Molinia} is only occasional. Here {\it Calluna} is dominant, again with occasional/frequent {\it E. nigrum, V. myrtillus} and {\it D. flexuosa}, plus occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Cover rates of {\it Calluna} in these areas are in the order of 60 per cent, generally as quite a closely-grazed carpet.

To the NW of the common is a strip of {\it Molinia} on deeper peat. This falls into the Phase 1 category of wet modified bog, but is still of NVC type M25. Other associates here are occasional/frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, locally occasional {\it V. myrtillus} and {\it Erica tetralix, J. squarrosus} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}.

Drop Clough: This common overlaps with the upper section of the clough. Here it appears to grade into the vegetation found on the adjacent plateau. In these upper reaches, the stream course has associated extensive flushes and seepage channels running downslope off the adjacent rough pasture. These features are diverse and good populations of {\it Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Montia fontana, Carex laevigata, C. viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. echinata, C. panicea, Glyceria fluitans, Callitriche} spp., {\it Valeriana officinalis, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, J. articulatus, J. bulbosus} and {\it J. bufonius}. There are also abundant carpets of {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses. At the highest altitudes there are also flush communities which contain {\it Narthecium ossifragum, Vaccinium oxycoccos} and {\it Erica tetralix}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by both sheep and cattle. The site has stock-proof boundaries and is also separated by a wall from the contiguous CL 39. However, no stock were present at the time of the site visit. Grazing levels are probably relatively high, judging from the rather suppressed condition of the ericoid species. The {\it Molinia} may be burnt to provide more palatable grazing in the spring.

There is a recoginsed need to restore upland heath vegetation, a habitat of importance for a range of ground-nesting bird species. This habitat has seen a national decline over recent decades due to inappropriate management. The current cover of ericoid species on the common is certainly at a level where good recovery would be possible, given a reduction in grazing levels. One possible way of achieving this could be through payments made through the ESA scheme. Although the common now lies within the North Peak ESA, it is extremely difficult to negotiate agreements on common land, due to the need to get all of the graziers to join the scheme. 

It is not possible to go into all of the relevant factors associated with the management of these habitats here. For a more detailed discussion of this issue and for further references, please refer to CL 39.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna relating specifically to this common. Please see under CL 39 for an account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors as whole.

VEG:
This common lies on the plateau of the South Pennine Moors, close to the point where the A640 Huddersfield Road completes its ascent from the west. This is one of three rather puzzling small commons which lie in Greater Manchester within a small rectangular block which they cut into West Yorkshire (ie. this common plus CLs 486 and 533 - see map). However, they are all on the W. Yorks register. General information about the South Pennine Moors, within which they all lie, can be obtained by referring to the much larger, and contiguous CL 39. Most of the following description is the result of the present survey.

The common lies at the edge of an extensive block of blanket mire which covers the plateau here. This is typical of much of that on the South Pennine Moors, is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and falls within the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog. Other associates are abundant/frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum} and lovally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In NVC terms this belongs to M20. A small amount of bare peat is present within the blanket mire here, but is not extensive as it is on parts of the adjoining CL 39.

In between the blanket mire margin and the road is a fairly extensive area of acidic/neutral flushing, fed by water draining from the peat. This is dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with abundant {\it E. angustifolium} and locally abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. Other locally occasional associates include {\it Equisetum fluviatile, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Carex curta}. This vegetation is of NVC type M6.

At the interface of this flush with the blanket mire are localised areas of {\it Molinia caerulea} on thin peat - marshy grassland in Phase 1 terms. This equates to NVC type M25. {\it Erica tetralix} is also present locally at the edges of the flushed areas.

MANAGE:
The common is open to grazing by sheep. There are no physical boundaries between any of the commons in this area. Please refer to CL 39 for a detailed discussion of the management of this block of moorland.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna available specifically for this common. For an account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA, please see under CL 39.

VEG:
This common lies on the northern section of Pule Hill. To the south it includes a part of the hilltop plateau, while to the north, the common lies on a steep hillside. The whole common lies within the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA; in fact the boundary of this site follows the northern and eastern edges of the common (see map under CL 39).                              

The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. Unfortunately there was insufficient time to visit this common individually during the present survey. However, it was viewed through binoculars from the road to the north. 

The plateau has marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} at more than 90 per cent cover. This will belong to NVC type M25. The slopes to the north are shown to have an acidic grassland sward. This is probably dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, with associates such as {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Festuca ovina}.

A number of disused quarries are shown along the northern edge of the common, at the bottom of the hillside.

MANAGE:
It is not clear whether this common is fenced from the contiguous CL 39. However, the contiguous CL 535 is fenced, as this lies outside the SSSI boundary. The common is grazed by sheep and also possibly cattle. For a fuller account of the management of this area, see under CL 39.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: Meadow pipit carrion crow, small heath butterfly. For a more detalied account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA, please see under CL 39.

VEG:
This common lies on the western slope of Pule Holl, adjacent to th A62. It lies within the South Pennine Moors SSSI and was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. This provides basic habitat information. Most of the following information was derived during the present survey.

Lying below the disused Pule Edge Quarry, this common is notable for the heaps of shale waste which the quarry has produced. Large areas of bare shale still remain, often also punctuated by gritstone boulders. However, elsewhere the spoil has a thin acidic grassland sward of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally abundant {\it Polytrichum piliferum} and {\it Campylopus paradoxus} (probably NVC type U2). Around the edges of the spoil itself are localised swards of {\it F. ovina} with {\it Agrostis capillaris}, plus occasional {\it Galium saxatile} (NVC U4). In between the spoil heaps are more extensive areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, with frequent {\it D. flexuosa} and locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Galium saxatile} (NVC type U5).                               

At the edge of the lay-by, on the eastern side of the wall is an area of grassland which appears to be favoured by sheep and as a consequence is somewhat eutrophicated. This has a very short turf with species such as {\it A. capillaris, F. ovina, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens, Cirsium arvense} and {\it C. vulgare}.

NB. See under CL 39 for more general information about Pule Hill, plus maps of the SSSI boundary and a map showing the juxtaposition of the numerous commons in this area.

MANAGE:
The common, although fenced from the A62 at this point, is not fenced from the contiguous CL 39. Thus it is grazed by sheep ranging across this much larger site. There has been localised eutrophication of the grassland caused by sheep congregating in a sheltered area next to the wall. For a fuller account of the management of this area, see under CL 39.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna relating specifically to this common. For an account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors, see under CL 39.

VEG:
This common surrounds March Haigh Reservoir, lying in a valley to the north-west of Marsden. It lies entirely within the larger CL 39 (see map), which is in turn lies for the most part within the South Pennine Moors SSSI. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991 and the National Trust biological survey of CL 39 stops at the boundary of this common.

There was insufficient time to visit this common individually during the present survey. However, a good view of the general area was obtained from Buckstones Edge, using binoculars.

Most of the common comprises a sward of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} at more than 90 per cent cover (probably NVC type M25). Locally there are some stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, especially on land to the west. The open water of March Haigh Reservoir is excluded from the registration, but the dam wall itself is a part of the common and appears to be cut, improved grassland of some type.

Habitats on the common are generally integral with those on the surrounding CL 39. To the south there is no boundary evident between the two commons, while to the north, the boundary follows the course of a drain. Please refer to CL 39 for more detail.

MANAGE:
The common forms part of a larger grazing unit which comprises the surrounding CL 39. The whole area is grazed by sheep. Please refer to CL 39 for more detail.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna relating specifically to this common. For a full account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI, please refer to the contiguous CL 39.

VEG:
This common lies on the northern slope of Cupwith Hill and is contiguous with the edge of its larger neighbour, CL 39. Lying within the South Pennine Moors SSSI, there are a variety of information sources available (see under CL 39). As this was such a small and accessible site, the following description is, however, based on the results of the present survey.

The common lies at the edge of a large expanse of blanket mire. This is typical of that occurring throughout the plateaux of the South Pennine Moors and belongs to the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog. The dominant species is {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with abundant {\it E. angustifolium}, frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum} and locally occasional {\it Erica tetralix} (NVC type M20).

The central area has vegetation transitional between dry and wet modified bog types. The latter is marked by the presence of areas dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC M25). Also noted here were locally occasional {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} plus locally rare {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

To the east is an area of {\it Molinia} on thin peat - this is marshy grassland in Phase 1 terms. Within this are small areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}.

Along the edge of New Hey Road runs a narrow acidic flush feature. This is dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} (?NVC M6). Other associates are frequent {\it E. angustifolium}, locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis} and locally occasional {\it Epilobium palustre, Carex curta} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. Along the edge of the road is a narrow strip of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}.

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced from its larger contiguous neighbour, CL 39. The whole area is grazed by sheep. For a more detailed account of the management of this area please see under CL 39.


VEG:
This common lies on the plateau of the South Pennine Moors, close to the point where the A640 Huddersfield Road completes its ascent from the west. This is one of three rather puzzling small commons, which lie in Greater Manchester within a small rectangular block which they cut into West Yorkshire (ie. this common plus CLs 455 and 533 - see map). However, they are all on the W. Yorks register. General information about the South Pennine Moors, within which they all lie, can be obtained by referring to the much larger, and contiguous CL 39. Most of the following description is the result of the present survey.

The common lies at the edge of an extensive block of blanket mire which covers the plateau here. This is typical of much of that on the South Pennine Moors, is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and falls within the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog. Other associates are abundant/frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum} and locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In NVC terms this belongs to M20. A small amount of bare peat is present within the blanket mire here, but is not extensive as it is on parts of the adjoining CL 39.

In between the blanket mire margin and the road is a fairly extensive area of acidic/neutral flushing, fed by water draining from the peat. This is dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with abundant {\it E. angustifolium} and locally abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. Other locally occasional associates include {\it Equisetum fluviatile, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Carex curta}. This vegetation is of NVC type M6.

At the interface of this flush with the blanket mire are localised areas of {\it Molinia caerulea} on thin peat - marshy grassland in Phase 1 terms. This equates to NVC type M25. {\it Erica tetralix} is also present locally at the edges of the flushed areas.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: curlew, meadow pipit, skylark, golden plover, swift, kestrel, red grouse, hare.

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires.  Extensive areas of this habitat present on this common. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

VEG:
The common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor. In addition to this particular common, a considerable portion of the SSSI as a whole is also common land. 

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops in a number of abandoned quarries along the southern fringe of the common. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common is covered by the Phase 1 survey conducted by WYEAIS in 1991, which has a good coverage of relevant target notes. Additional information about the common was also gathered during the present survey, although the most northerly part was not visited. 

The common is in fact bisected by CL 297, which separates a larger northern part from a smaller southern section. There is also a much smaller piece of this common contiguous with the western edge of CL 297 (see map). The two commons lie on a "finger" of moorland stretching southwards from the edge of Oxhenhope Moor. The larger northern part of CL 498 lies at the edge of the moorland plateau. The southern portion stretches southwards to the Calder Valley, bounded to the west by Crimsworth Dean and to the east by Luddenden Dean. 

1. NORTHERN PORTION (Map 1): There are extensive areas of blanket mire, typical of that occurring throughout the Plateaux of the South Pennine Moors. This is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type M20). Other associates include locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. The latter is particularly associated with the eroding margins of the blanket mire, where it can become locally abundant. Some small areas of eroding peat were noted while viewing this area from a distance. The Phase 1 target notes refer to a number of flushed areas at the margins of the blanket mire which include species such as {\it Narthecium ossifragum, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Sphagnum} spp., {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} and {\it Carex nigra}. 

On land further south between White Hill and High Brown Knoll Flat, the blanket mire is drying out and shows significant signs of peat erosion, which is down to the underlying substrate in places. This vegetation is rather problematical to assign to a Phase 1 category. The remnant mire is represented by patches of M20 vegetation as above, although the peat depth may locally be less than 0.5m deep. On some areas where the peat has disappeared, there is now an acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, plus locally occasional {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC U5). Locally there are isolated tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum} still present within this grassland, and occasional heathy areas with {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it V. myrtillus}. Elsewhere there are areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it D. flexuosa}, again locally with remnants of {\it E. vaginatum} and occasional scattered {\it E. angustifolium}. Reference to the habitat map will show this area to have been translated as a mosaic of dry modified bog, acidic grassland and dry heath, with smaller amounts of bare peat and bare substrate. 

The Phase 1 survey shows a large acidic flush feature on High Brown Knoll Flat, with a smaller such feature to the north at the head of Bare Clough. This Flush contains {\it Carex rostrata, C. curta, Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Viola palustris} (GR 019 318).

Along the western fringe of the plateau the land slopes into the valley of Crimsworth Dean. This has large areas of marshy grassland dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC type M25). Within the sward are frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it E. vaginatum}, plus very small amounts of {\it V. myrtillus}. On the steeper slopes this tends to grade into acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC U5), with frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, plus locally occasional {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it M. caerulea}. There are also scattered acidic flushes within this area, dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} (NVC type M6). The Phase 1 survey notes {\it Galium uliginosum} at GR 003 326 (requiring confirmation). Further south there is a kind of shelf between Higer Green Hill and Lower Green Hill, where there appear to be localised pockets of deeper peat. This is once again mainly dominated by tussocky {\it M. caerulea} (ie. wet modified bog), but also with some remnants of {\it E. vaginatum} dry modified bog. 

2. SOUTHERN PORTION (Map 2): This part of the common comprises a small plateau area, with the land sloping away along the western edge into Crimsworth Dean. The plateau carries dry dwarf shrub heath dominated overwhelmingly by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC H9). Much of this is burnt in patches as part of grouse moor management and appears typical of the large areas of this type of vegetation found throughout the South Pennine Moors. As a consequence there are blocks of even-aged {\it Calluna}, with the tallest plants being around 0.5m. Generally there is excellent regeneration on the recently burnt portions, with relatively little sign of grazing by sheep. However, localised areas appear to have a higher selective grazing pressure. Along Sheep Stones Edge for example, the {\it Calluna} plants tend to have a closely-nibbled "topiary" appearance. Grasses are frequent among the heath here - {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea}, and there is also locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In addition, there are also discrete patches of pure acidic grassland developing within the heath, dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC U5) with frequent {\it M. caerulea, D. flexuosa} and {\it Festuca ovina}. Elsewhere there is a short sward of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} (NVC U4). On the hillside along Keelham Edge, there is a true mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland (ie. ericoid species at less than 30 per cent cover). The {\it Calluna} plants here are all very suppressed by grazing, mainly as a short compacted carpet, but some taller stems having a "drumstick" appearance.

3. WESTERN PORTION (Map 2): There is a further small segment of the common which lies at the western edge of CL 297 (Bog Eggs Edge). This area was not visited, but appears to include a small cluster of enclosed fields of semi-improved acidic grassland. These have either been registered in error, or they are indeed excluded from the common, but we overlooked this fact when checking the registration map. This is surrounded by a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland, similar to that on the adjacent hillside.

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced from the contiguous CL 297. From memory, the A6033, which crosses the northern portion, is fenced. The whole area is grazed by sheep. Grazing levels appear somewhat variable across those parts of the site which were walked. To the south for example, the stand of {\it Calluna} heath appears to be moderately grazed across much of the plateau, but with a high selective grazing pressure on the slopes to the west. This part of the common appears also to be managed for grouse by rotational burning of the heather. This habitat is declining nationally, mainly due to a lack of appropriate management. These birds require a mosaic of {\it Calluna} plants with a diverse age structure. For breeding success they require young plants to provide food and also taller plants to give shelter from predators and the weather. This structurally diverse habitat is usually maintained through a programme of closely controlled rotational burning of small patches of the heather. In addition, grazing by sheep at low levels is also thought to be useful in maintaining the conservation value of heather (Bardgett and Marsden, 1991). There are also signs that the SW corner of the common has been grazed by cattle in the area adjacent to the contiguous CL 531.

To the north, there seems to be selective grazing of the small amounts of ericoid species present on the eroded blanket mire of Flaight Hill - High Brown Knoll Top. A history of sustained high grazing could be one factor associated with the degradation of blanket mire. Recent proposals to site a wind farm on this part of the common were withdrawn by National Wind Power in January 1996. The proposed scheme, for 44 turbines, was met with strong local opposition.

There appears to be a need for a comprehensive heather condition survey across this block of common land.

NB. The catchwater drain along the edge of Midgley Moor is excluded from the registration.


REFERENCE: Heather Condition and Management in England and Wales. Bardgett, R.D. and Marsden, J.H. English Nature, 1991.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: swallows, meadow pipit, starlings, robin, carrion crow, magpie, skylark, feral pigeon, small heath butterfly. On the ponds, a family of Canada geese, plus mallard and moorhen. In addition, a species of blue-coloured damselfly was also noted.

The site includes the "Rawdon Ponds". This and the surrouding terrestrial habitat are considered to be the second most important amphibian site in West Yorkshire. Five British species are present: common frog, common toad, great crested newt, smooth newt and palmate newt. There are proven breeding records of great crested newt, the rarest species, going back almost 40 years. Counts during a single visit in 1990 recorded a maximum of 50 females laying eggs, with smaller numbers of males in attendance.

Smooth and palmate newts occur regularly in smaller numbers, while toads are rather infrequent in occurrence. Common frog populations are exceptional.

VEG:
This small common straddles the boundary of Yeadon Airport, to the north of Leeds. The main focus of the site is an area known as the "Rawdon Ponds", which is included on the Schedule of Sites of Scientific Interest in West Yorkshire (Ecological Advisory Service). The citation provides a detailed account of the vegetation of this part of the common. A site visit was also made to map the remainder of the common.

The Rawdon Ponds comprise "three areas of open water with fringing emergent/marshland vegetation and an adjoining zone of semi-acidic mixed grassland heath communities". The ponds (1) appear to have been created around 1890 through gravel extraction. Open water areas contain abundant {\it Potamogeton natans, Lemna minor} and {\it L. triscula}, plus scattered {\it Elodea canadensis} and {\it Sparganium emersum}.

The pond margins have emergent vegetation dominated by {\it Sparganium erectum} and {\it Eleocharis palustris}. Areas of wet mud support what is probably the largest single West Yorkshire population of the "regionally scarce" {\it Oenanthe fistulosa}. Other marginal species include {\it Glyceria fluitans, Galium palustre, Ranunculus flammula, Myosotis scorpioides, M. laxa, Lycopus europaeus} and occasional {\it Hippuris vulgaris} (another plant of restricted occurrence in the county). The marginal vegetation grades into a band of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus, J. conglomeratus, J. acutiflorus, J. articulatus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. Also noted during the present survey were {\it Mentha} sp., {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Cardamine pratensis, Achillea ptarmica} and a small patch of {\it Sphagnum auriculatum}. At the time of the site visit, the marginal areas of the ponds were significantly puddled/poached by cattle hooves.

To the NE and SW of the ponds, the adjacent pasture comprises a semi-improved grassland sward. Locally, especially to the NE side (2), which still lies within the scheduled area, this is acidic and mainly rather damp in character. At the time of the present survey this was noted to have abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris}, frequent {\it Molinia caerulea}, locally frequent {\it Carex panicea, Nardus stricta, D. cespitosa} and locally occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus, Carex nigra, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. Also noted were very scattered, rather small and suppressed plants of {\it Calluna vulgaris}. The SSI citation refers to this part of the site as having scattered {\it Calluna} and describes the habitat as a grass-heath mosiac. A subjective impression gained at the present time is that the cover of {\it Calluna} may have declined significantly.

To the SW of the ponds (3) the grassland is generally more neutral in character, but still with localised elements of an acidic flora. Noted during the present survey were abundant {\it Holcus lanatus}, frequent {\it Poa pratensis, Agrostis capillaris, Alopecurus pratensis}, locally frequent {\it D. cespitosa, Rumex acetosa, Trifolium repens}, plus locally occasional {\it Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina, Ranunculus acris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Lolium perenne, Arrhenatherum elatius, Trifolium pratense, Lathyrus pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus}. In addition there are slightly more acidic areas where {\it N. stricta} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} become frequent, plus very localised mesotrophic areas with {\it Trisetum flavescens, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}.

To the SE of the above area the land rises into two fields of permanent, largely improved pasture. The larger, westerly field (4) is fenced with barbed wire. This appears to have been a former hedgerow, marked by a line of bushes of {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The smaller, improved field (5) is not fenced from "the ponds", but still has a defunct hedge, here comprising isolated trees of {\it C. monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Several of the latter have been rather aggressively trimmed by the farmer with a flail, for no apparent reason as they no longer form any part of a field boundary. 

The eastern portion of the common (6) is fenced from the remainder of the site by the airport perimeter fence. This area could not be surveyed, but appeared to comprise a mixture of tall {\it A. elatius} grassland plus tall ruderal species. Beyond the perimeter road (7) is mown grassland.

MANAGE:
The portion of the common to the west of the airport perimeter fence, which includes the newt ponds and their terrestrial habitat, is grazed by cattle. There are indications that the grassland surrounding the pond (ie. the terrestrial habitat of the newts) is becoming more semi-improved in character. In particular, the {\it Calluna vulgaris} present in this area appears to be in a vestigial and very suppressed condition, compared with the comments of the previous survey, suggesting a fairly high level of grazing. In addition, the mud around the margins of the pond is significantly poached by the hooves of cattle and it was suggested by the EAS that the extent of this should be monitored as a potential source of change in the water regime. It is essential to secure the viability of the terrestrial habitat of the newts and not just their breeding pond, if the value of the site is to be maintained. Thus the level of stocking on the area needs to be closely monitored if this is to be achieved. 

An additional factor which may be having a marked effect on the ponds and their environs is the family of Canada Geese noted during the present survey (total 8 individuals). These have extensively soiled the margins of the ponds and this may lead to eutrophication and a consequent deterioration in the water quality. This site appears to be of such regional importance that close monitoring of this situation should be continued, possibly with a view to translocating these geese to another site.

The eastern part of the common lies within the airport and does not appear to form any part of the amphibian habitat. Part of this area lies outside the perimeter road and is unmanaged coarse grassland with tall ruderals Inside the perimeter road is shorter neutral grassland, which appears to be regularly mown.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: willow warbler, blackbird, blue tit, jackdaw, chaffinch, cuckoo, wren, carrion crow, grey wagtail.

VEG:
This common lies within the valley of Harden Beck, to the east of Cullingworth. It represents a typical Pennine Clough Woodland, in fact being regarded as a particularly fine example of this woodland type. It is included within the West Yorkshire Inventory on Ancient Woodland, where it is listed as ancient woodland - ie. those which have had continuous woodland cover since 1600 AD and have only been cleared for underwood or timber production. The site has been the subject of a recent and detailed Phase 2 survey by English Nature. Most of the following description is therefore based on these exisitng sources, with only a brief visit being made to the site (walking between the caravan park and the main waterfall). 

Most of the common is occupied by the woodland, which lies on the steep sides of the narrow valley. The underlying geology is of the Millstone Grit series, close to the boundary with the Carboniferous Coal Measures to the east. There is one major waterfall where the beck cuts through shales. The northern portion of the wood comprises {\it Betula pendula, Quercus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. {\it A. pseudoplatanus} appears to have been planted in the past, at the expense of {\it F. excelsior}, but now takes the form of coppice regrowth. Rare individual trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica} are present. Undershrub species include {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Corylus avellana}. The field layer is characterised by species such as {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Oxalis acetosella, Mnium hornum} and {\it Eurynchium praelongum} (NVC type W10e). Numerous base-rich patches have {\it Mercurialis perennis} and other calcicolous herbs (NVC W9a). 

Adjacent to Harden Beck are areas of wet ground which have a complex of {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland (NVC W7a), plus {\it Betula} sp. woodland rich in {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses (NVC W4a/b). Ground flora species of the latter type include {\it Angelica sylvestris, Carex laevigata, Juncus effusus, Holcus mollis, Dryopteris dilatata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Sphagnum} spp. 

To the south of the common, much of the wood lies over boulder scree formed from sandstone blocks. The canopy here is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Quercus} sp. Undershrubs include {\it Sorbus aucuparia} (including saplings) and some {\it Ilex aquifolium}. There is a tall field layer dominated by any of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Other locally abundant associates include {\it Oxalis acetosella, Holcus mollis} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus occasional {\it Corydalis claviculata} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. In sheltered areas on the steep banks above Harden Beck, {\it Plagiothecium undulatum} is abundant along with {\it Diplophyllum albicans, Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Lepidozia reptans} (NVC W17b). 

Locally there are small pockets where {\it Corylus avellana} becomes frequent and {\it A. pseudoplatanus} occasional. Field layer associates in these areas (which include {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}) place this woodland into the NVC type W11a. 

Towards the north of this section, the woodland becomes increasingly complex, with stands of {\it A. glutinosa} (NVC W7a) and also of {\it F. excelsior} (NVC types W8e/W9a) associated with springs and base-rich pockets. Again these are marked by {\it A. pseudoplatanus, F. excelsior} and {\it C. avellana}. Saplings and young trees are frequent, especially {\it S. aucuparis, A. pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus} sp. 

The site as a whole is of particular bryophyte interest, especially along Harden Beck. Additional bryophytes recorded from the site include {\it Atrichum undulatum, Hypnum cupressiforme, Polytrichum formosum, P. commune, Dicranella heteromalla} and {\it Lophocolea bidentata}. The wood has good quantities of fallen branches and logs in all stages of decay, plus some standing dead timber, especially in the form of {\it B. pendula} trees. There is abundant leaf litter present on the woodland floor. 

During the present survey, a number of plants were noted along the course of Harden Beck (all previously recorded). These include locally abundant {\it Luzula sylvatica} and {\it Myrrhis odorata}, occasional large infestations of {\it Reynoutria japonica} and small clumps of {\it Rhododendron ponticum}. Conspicuous at this time among the woodland ground flora were colonies of flowering {\it Montia sibirica}, while other species noted include {\it Lysimachia nemorum, Chelidonium majus} and {\it Corydalis claviculata}. 

A small part of the common has been developed as a caravan park, while a further small area appears to lie beyond the woodland boundary and has a sward of semi-improved neutral grassland.

MANAGE:
The woodland is unmanaged at present. There are signs of some previously coppiced trees and Acer pseudoplatanus, some of these trees possibly originally planted. A number of field and shrub layer exotics (eg. {\it Reynoutria japonica} and {\it Rododendron ponticum}) are present and it has been suggested that this is one of few woods looked at during this series of Phase 2 surveys, where it would be practicable to eliminate these. A small portion of the wood is managed as a private caravan park. Just to the south of here there is a small house and private gardens, with a metalled area in front, which does not appear to have been excluded from the registration. A short distance further south from here, just into the wood at the edge of the main path, there are a number of piles of dumped garden rubbish and rubble. One was constituted entirely of grass clippings. There is also a bonfire site in this vicinity. 

The site is believed to be one of the finest examples of a Pennine clough woodland examined during the Phase 2 survey. It has a number of features of nature conservation interest. These include: 
-Rich bryophyte flora (most nearby woods are impoverished in this respect. 

-Good regeneration present, plus well-developed shrub layer. 

-NVC type W4 is rare in West Yorkshire. 

-Species rich (87 woodland vascular plants) and community-rich (7 NVC types, plus transitions). 

-Ungrazed or lightly grazed field layers. 

-Representative example of clough wood, with the natural variations expected, such as slope, drainage and soil types. 

-{\it Fagus sylvatica} is rare. The exotics, {\it R. ponticum} and {\it R. japonica}, are at present localised and controllable.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: lapwing and meadow pipit. (The weather was inclement at the time, with low cloud, drizzle and poor visibility).

VEG:
This small common lies on the western fringe of Wadsworth Moor, overlooking the Calder Valley. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991, which supplies a basic habitat map. The following description is based on a survey of the site (although the weather was extremely unfavourable at the time). 

The greater part of the common comprises dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, much of this occupying an area of shallow disused quarries. Other associates of this heath are locally frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and rare {\it Erica cinerea}. Cover rates seem to be {\it Calluna} at 40 per cent, plus {\it V. myrtillus} at 10 per cent. Much of this vegetation across the site appears to have been burnt several years in the past, with the {\it Calluna} plants being quite short and even-aged. However, on the quarry sides, the {\it Calluna} tends to be more mature and taller. There are no signs of grazing. Locally this heath gives way to small patches of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally frequent {\it Molinia caerulea, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. In the depressions at the bases of the old workings are damp areas with {\it Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, plus occasional stands of tall ruderal species - {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. One small clump of {\it Athyrium filix-femina} was noted on the edge of a quarry. To the east of the track which runs along the northern edge of the common, a few plants of {\it Erica tetralix} were noted (GR 008 276).

Along the edges of the road the heath occurs as a mosaic with acidic grassland. The heath component here is co-dominated by {\it Calluna} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. The acidic grassland is mainly dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}. Other locally frequent/occasional associates include {\it Nardus stricta, D. flexuosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Molinia caerulea, Galium saxatile, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Rumex acetosella, Jucnus squarrosus, Luzula campestris} and {\it Cirsium arvense}.

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced from the road and appears unmanaged. Also unfenced from the contiguous CL 18, but the track leading to CL 498 is gated. There were localised signs of cattle being present along the edges of the road and the path which leads onto CL 498. These appear to be cattle in transit across the common. Extensive evidence of motorcycling within the old quarries (rutted tracks 1.0-2.5m wide). Much of the heathland on the common appears to have been burnt some years ago, probably accidentally. Piles of dumped brick rubble noted in old quarry bases, with associated growth of {\it Urtica dioica} etc.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna relating specifically to this small common - please consult the contiguous CLs 40 and 41.

VEG:
The common comprises 4 small parcels of land on the western fringe of Holme Moor/Binn Moor. The southerly portions are contiguous with CL 41 and lie within the SSSI, while the larger, northerly portions are contiguous with CL 40 and lie outside the SSSI. Habitat information has come from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey and a brief visit during the present survey. 

All parts of the common appear to be unfenced from their contiguous neighbours and, as a consequence, have generally similar habitats to the adjacent commons. For the most part this comprises marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}, which grades locally into a semi-improved acidic grassland sward with species such as {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. 

The portion adjacent to Scout Farm lies on a steep slope below an old quarry and mainly has a mosiac of dry heath of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus acidic grassland. Locally in this area the cover of {\it Calluna} reaches 90 per cent. Local dominance of {\it M. caerulea} hereabouts gives rise to smaller areas of marshy grassland and wet heath. For a more detailed account of the habitats of this area please consult the contiguous CLs 40 and 41.

MANAGE:
All parts of the common are grazed by sheep. Stocking densities will reflect those on the adjacent commons, which are under National Trust ownership. However, lying at the more sheltered fell edge, grazing levels are likely to he higher here than on the open fell. For a more detailed account of the management of this area, please refer to the relevant sections of the adjacent CLs 40 and 41. 

NB. Only two of the parcels equal the survey threshold of 1.0 ha. (and then only just!).


VEG:
This common lies on the plateau of the South Pennine Moors, close to the point where the A640 Huddersfield Road completes its ascent from the west. This is one of three rather puzzling small commons which lie in Greater Manchester within a small rectangular block which they cut into West Yorkshire (ie. this common plus CLs 455 and 486 - see map). However, they are all on the W. Yorks register. General information about the South Pennine Moors, within which they all lie, can be obtained by referring to the much larger, and contiguous CL 39. Most of the following description is the result of the present survey.

The common lies mainly within an extensive block of blanket mire which covers the plateau here. This is typical of much of that on the South Pennine Moors, is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and falls within the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog. Other associates are abundant/frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum} and locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In NVC terms this belongs to M20. A small amount of bare peat is present within the blanket mire here, but is not extensive as it is on parts of the adjoining CL 39.

In between the blanket mire margin and the road is a zone with a mosaic of marshy grassland with acidic/neutral flushing, fed by water draining from the peat. The flushed areas are dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with abundant {\it E. angustifolium} and locally abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. Other locally occasional associates include {\it Equisetum fluviatile, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Carex curta}. This vegetation is of NVC type M6. The marshy grassland (ie. on peat which appears to be less than 0.5m deep) is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}. This equates to NVC type M25. 

At the point where the A640 crosses the common, there are narrow verges of acidic grassland at either side.


VEG:
This common lies in an area of marginal enclosed land on the hillside above Hey Green, to the west of Marsden. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991. The habitats present appear to be relatively low in diversity and, due to constraints of time, it was not possible to visit the common during the present survey. It was, however, viewed from a point to the south on the A62, through binoculars.

The major part of the common is shown to comprise an acidic grassland sward. Occasional clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} could be seen across this area. There also appeared to be an acidic flush feature present along Park Clough, which runs along the eastern edge of the common. This again is dominated by {\it J. effusus}. The in-bye land surrounding Lower Green Owlers is shown to have a mixture of either semi-improved acidic or neutral grassland.

MANAGE:
The northern part of the common, although fenced to the west and north, is open to the surrounding land on the eastern side. This area appears to be grazed by sheep. To the south lie a number of individual fields surrounded by dry stone walls. These are probably grazed by sheep and cattle, but there was insufficient time to investigate their management in detail.


VEG:
This common lies on a steep slope on the northern flank of Pule Hill. There is basic habitat information available from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey. There was insufficient time to visit this common individually during the present survey. However, it was viewed from the road to the north through binoculars.

The commmon is shown to have an acidic grassland sward. From a distance this appears to be semi-improved in character with frequent scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} present. There may also be areas of flushing, but these are not shown by the Phase 1 survey and would need confirmation. Numerous small exposed gritstone boulders present.

MANAGE:
This common is fenced from both the contiguous CL 39 and CL 456. This fence marks the boundary of the SSSI - ie. this common lies outside the SSSI. The common is grazed by cattle. No conservation interest.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit in general vicinity were: meadow pipit, curlew, skylark.

VEG:
This common lies to the west of Keighley, close to the county's border with North Yorkshire. It lies within an area intensively patterned with small enclosure fields, all bounded by drystone walls. The common probably originated as a "community" quarry at the time of the enclosure of the surrounding land. The WYEAIS Phase 1 survey provides only very basic habitat information. The following is therefore based on the present survey.

The common appears to be a rather overgrown area of land. The greater part is vegetated with a mixture of tall neutral grassland and tall ruderals. Species present include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Poa pratensis, Agropyron repens, Alopecurus pratensis, Stachys sylvatica, Cirsium arvense, Tussilago farfara, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Equisetum arvense}. Also noted were several large stands of {\it Reynoutria japonica}, plus one large clump of {\it Petasites hybridus}. The site slopes downhill from the road to the north. Toward the top of the slope the vegetation gives way to a shorter neutral grassland with {\it D. glomerata, Phleum pratense, Agrostis capillaris, Lolium perenne, Alopecurus pratensis, Poa pratensis, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}.  To the NW corner is even more overgrown vegetation, where the tall ruderal species are especially prominent and which also here include {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Artemisia vulgaris} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}. Also present on this part of the common are scattered scrub and trees which include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} sp., plus a single small tree of both {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Also noted within this area were {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Vicia sepium, Trifolium pratense, Leucanthemum vulgare, Myosotis} sp. and {\it Centaurea montana}.

The south-western corner of the common has a small patch of dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Part of this is a fairly short sward with some bare patches, possibly burnt in the past. Elsewhere thare is a taller sward with occasional-to-frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, frequent-to-abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally occasional {\it Erica cinerea}. Toward the lower portion of the slope there is also a region which has bushes of {\it Ulex gallii}. Along both edges of the road at this point, the vegetation gives way once again to a narrow verge of tall grassland/ruderals.

MANAGE:
The common is not managed at present. The flatter  area toward the top of the slope appears as though it may have been used for tipping in the past, with {\it Tussilago farfara} fairly frequent throughout. There is some tipping of rubbish by passing motorists along the edge of the wall which borders the road along the northern edge of the common. There is also much rubbish deposited in the lay-by in the eastern corner.


VEG:
This common lies to the west of Keighley, fairly close to the North Yorkshire border. It lies in an area which has been enclosed into fields by dry stone walls. The common appears to be one such unit. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991. This shows that the common is improved grassland. 

During the present survey, the grassland of the common was viewed from the road at the edge through binoculars. Flowering grasses noted were {\it Lolium perenne, Poa} sp. and {\it Alopecurus pratensis}. Other species noted were {\it Ranunculus} ?{\it repens/acris, Bellis perennis, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Trifolium repens}.

MANAGE:
The common is managed as permanent pasture, presumably by the same tenant as the similar surrounding enclosed fields. No grazing stock present at time of visit, but evidence of a closely sheep-grazed sward. The common is indistinguishable from the surrounding enclosure fields and is of little, in any, nature conservation interest.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: distant curlew calling, meadow pipit, skylark, rabbits.

VEG:
This common lies to the west of Keighley, close to the North Yorkshire border. It appears to lie at the edge of an area of walled enclosure allotments. This particular common appears to have escaped enslosure, through designation as a "community quarry". The WYEAIS Phase 1 survey provides basic habitat information, but most of the following description is based on the present survey.

The common lies to the southern edge of Grey Stones Hill. To the north of the site lies a small but distinctive group of outcropping rocks known as the "Grey Stones". There may have been some past quarrying here. To the north of the "stones" is a fairly level area supporting dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. This has around 90 per cent cover as mature plants in the range of 30-75 cm tall. Within the sward are locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and, less commonly, {\it Empetrum nigrum}, plus locally frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. This belongs to NVC type H12a. Locally there are occasional fronds of invading bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}). Below and among the boulders is a similar community, but with {\it V. myrtillus} at a somewhat higher ground cover and invading {\it P. aquilinum} fronds present over many areas. There are localised areas where the heath has been burnt. In places these burnt areas have a grassland sward dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, while elswehere there is good regeneration of {\it Calluna} seedlings. The burning events may be encouraging the spread of {\it P. aquilinum}. Along the cliff face itself there are also small patches of {\it Nardus stricta} grassland and {\it Erica cinerea} is a locally occasional component of the heath vegetation. 

The southern edge of the common is crossed by the road. Here there are narrow verges where the heath vegetation gives way to a mixture of tall netural grassland/tall ruderals. This includes species such as {\it Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. Once again there is a certain amount of {\it P. aquilinum} present as well.

MANAGE:
The common is unmanaged at present. However there appears to be occasional slight grazing by straying sheep. At the time of the site visit, the {\it Calluna} heath appears to have suffered a number of recent fires. This may be encouraging the spread of bracken onto the common. This common forms just one of a number of similar small sites in this part of the county, which appear to have originated as small quarries, but which now support areas of dry heath vegetation.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: carrion crow, meadow pipit, rabbit, distant curlew.

VEG:
The common lies at the edge of Rivock Moor, overlooking the Aire Valley to the north of Keighley. It is situated at the edge of a section of the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA. The common is not fenced from the adjoining moorland along its NW and NE edges and is here contiguous with the rest of the open fell. There are signs of two small, shallow abandoned quarries at the foot of the slope. The basic habitat information has been taken from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey. The site was viewed during the present survey through binoculars, from the minor road which runs approx. 200m. from the southern boundary of the common.

The common lies on sloping ground at the edge of the plateau. The Phase 1 survey shows this area to support dry dwarf shrub heath with the following dominant species: {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. This heath extends onto the marginal slope, which includes the common. However, most of the fringe is being colonised by bracken. This is mainly scattered, where the heath species are still well-represented, predominantly {\it Calluna vulgaris}, locally with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There are also smaller areas where the bracken forms dense stands and the heath species have almost disappeared. There are a number of small gritstone boulders outcropping along the hillside edge.

MANAGE:
The plateau area, of which the common forms a small part, appears ungrazed. The {\it Calluna} plants were seen to be in a mature condition. No grazing domestic livestock were noted. However, a number of rabbit burrows (plus a single rabbit) were noted on the hillslope, and these appear to be having a localised grazing effect on the vegetation. What appear to be two small disused quarries could be seen at the base of the slope.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipits, distant curlew, skylark, pheasant.

VEG:
This common lies to the west of Keighley, close to the North Yorkshire border, at the edge of the Worth Valley. It lies within an area of walled enclosure allotments. This particular common appears to have escaped enslosure, through designation as a "community quarry". The WYEAIS Phase 1 survey provides basic habitat information, but most of the following description is based on the present survey.

The site is sloping and faces southwards across the valley. Past quarrying activity has produced a series of narrow workings which run parellel with the contours of the land, to give a very distinctive local topography. Most of the site is occupied by a mature dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. A typical quadrat has dominant {\it Calluna} at 80 per cent cover, with occasional-to-frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} at 20 per cent cover and {\it Empetrum nigrum} at 5 per cent cover. Locally {\it V. myrtillus} becomes the dominant species. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} is frequent throughout, especially beneath {\it V myrtillus}. Locally occasional associates include {\it Nardus stricta, Erica tetralix} and {\it Erica cinerea}. Bryophytes do not appear abundant, but there are occasional {\it Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans, Eurynchium praelongum} and {\it Hypnum jutlandicum}. The {\it Calluna} is all mature, between 30-50cm tall, not grazed or burnt, and possibly becoming over-mature in places. There is a small proportion (ie. 1 per cent) of dead plants. This heath appears to be of NVC type H12a.

Along the edge of the road at the base of the slope this vegetation gives way to patches of coarse neutral grassland plus tall ruderals. This vegetation is characterised by species such as {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Alopecurus pratensis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Rumex obtusifolius, Cynosurus cristatus, Poa trivialis, Rumex acetosella, Plantago lanceolata, Holcus lanatus, Ranunculus acris, Cirsium arvense, Agrostis capillaris, Lathyrus pratensis, Taraxacum officinale, Trifolium repens, T. pratense} and {\it Lolium perenne}. In addition, there are also localised patches of acidic grassland with {\it D. flexuosa, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

MANAGE:
The common is not managed. It forms just one of a number of similar small sites in this part of the county, which appear to have originated as small quarries, but which now support areas of dry heath vegetation.


VEG:
This common lies to the SE side of Penistone Hill, and is contiguous with and unfenced from the much larger CL 2, Haworth Moor. Basic habitat information is available from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey. Most of the following description is the result of the present survey.

The greater part of the common comprises a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland characterised by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. To the north is a small area of bare ground used for car parking and turning. There is a level area of bare ground immediately to the south of this, which is fringed with some large gritstone boulders. Adjacent to this area is a sward of semi-improved acidic grassland with {\it D. flexuosa, Holcus lanatus, Festuca ovina, Trifolium repens, Cerastium fontanum, Senecio jacobaea, Ranunculus repens, Lolium perenne} and {\it Bellis perennis}. Scattered plants of {\it Calluna} are also present locally. Along the southern edge is a triangular plot of coarse neutral grassland and tall ruderal species, plus further areas of semi-improved acidic grassland. A dominant feature of this area are several large stands of {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
This common is unfenced from its contiguous neighbour, CL 2. The larger common is ungrazed, but there was evidence of part of the vegetation on CL 579 being grazed by horses (? tethered). The southern strip is very much influenced by a large number of encroaching items which include a pigeon loft, shed, touring caravan, truck cab, container, pile of silage, dumped rubble, plus several bonfire sites.


FAUNA:
Drop Clough has copmrehensive data relating to invertebrates, notably beetles {\it (Copeoptera)} and bugs {\it (Hemiptera)}. There is also much information available on plant galls and there may be some ornithological records available from the Ecological Advisory Service (eg. looks like a likely site for dipper and possibly heron).

VEG:
This common comprises two small pieces of land on the very eastern fringe of the South Pennine Moors, just north of Marsden. The larger portion lies along Drop Clough, a "Site of Scientific Interest in West Yorkshire" (SSI), as scheduled by the Ecological Advisory Service. For a map showing the boundary of this site, please see under the contiguous CL 454. The area as a whole was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. This provides only very basic habitat details. The common was assessed only briefly during the present survey. Drop Clough was viewed from the hillside to the north, while the smaller section was viewed from the footpath which crosses its southern edge.

Most of the larger portion of the common lies within the Drop Clough SSI. The site as a whole is a narrow, steep-sided wooded clough. The common includes a part of the clough woodland itself. Here the wood is well-developed and has a canopy of {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Quercus petraea, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Undershrubs include {\it Salix capraea} and {\it S. cinerea} and sporadically, {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Most of the wood has good regeneration of {\it Betula} and {\it Quercus}.

On the slopes above the woodland, in the upper reaches of the valley, the trees give way to vegetation similar to that present on the adjoining rough pasture. This has abundant {\it Molinia caerulea} present and, as these steep-slopes are seldom, if ever grazed, there is a development of heath vegetation in the form of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Other associates include {\it Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Cytisus scoparius}. This vegetation has therefore been shown as wet heath, due to the apparent abundance of {\it Molinia}. At the edge of the wood, this vegetation also has scattered colonising trees of {\it Betula} sp., scattered scrub of {\it C. monogyna} and scattered fronds of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The edges of the clough itself are rocky and are rich in ferns, such as {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Athyrium filix-femina, Blechnum spicant, Oreopteris limbosperma} and {\it P. aquilinum}. Other species found in wet areas at the edges of the clough include {\it Cirsium palustre, Equisetum sylvaticum} and {\it Montia sibirica}. For a description of the other habitats found along the clough as a whole, please refer to CL 454. 

The smaller section of the common appears to be a fenced plot adjoining the open fell. This has a well-developed dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus}. Adjacent to the footpath is a strip of scattered {\it P. aquilinum}. Beneath this are frequent {\it D. flexuosa} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, plus one small area where {\it Melampyrum pratense} is frequent.

MANAGE:
Both parts of the common appear unmanaged.


FAUNA:
No information relating specifically to the fauna of this common. For a discussion of this subject for the SSSI as a whole, see under the contiguous CL 2 and CL 498.

VEG:
This common forms a narrow strip of land within the South Pennine Moors SSSI, linking CL 2 with CL 498. It is fairly remote and was not visited during the present survey. The habitat information has been taken from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey of the area. For a more detailed account of the vegetation communities of this part of the SSSI, see under the contiguous CL 2 and CL 498.

The habitat map shows that the NW section of the common has dry {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath grading to dry modified bog of {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} to the SE. This vegetation is probably consistent with communities occurring on the contiguous commons.

MANAGE:
It is not clear whether this area of moorland is fenced or whether it is open to the surrounding moorland. It appears however, as though the land may be fenced along the NE side, but open to moorland on the SW side. The land is probably lightly grazed by sheep straying from the adjacent moorland (there being no grazing rights on this common). The site also appears to lie within a managed area of grouse moor.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: swallow, skylark, meadow pipit, 7-spot ladybird ({\it Cocinella 7-punctata}).

VEG:
This small common appears to be one of a number of similar local sites which have escaped enclosure by use as a "community" quarry. It lies  on the edge of a valley which overlooks Oxenhope. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991. This provides basic habitat details. Most of the following description is based on a field survey. 

The old quarry face lies to the north of the common. This has quite a tall cliff face, plus one area which takes the form of a small pit, about 20m deep. This area is fenced-off and is surrounded by dwarf shrub heath dominated by mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Prominent on the cliff faces are {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The base of this pit has been used for tipping.

The remainder of the site has a complex mosaic of dry heath with acidic grassland, plus neutral grassland with tall ruderals. The heath element is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent {\it V. myrtillus}. The acidic grassland among this is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Festuca ovina}. The neutral grassland/ruderal vegetation are characterised by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. Other associates here include {\it Festuca rubra, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Plantago lanceolata, P. major, Achillea millefolium, Heracleum sphondylium, Cerastium fontanum} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Locally there are an occasional seedling of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, plus a small clump of {\it Cytisus scoparius}.

MANAGE:
The common is unmanaged. Note the presence of the old deep quarry working which has been fenced-off for safety reasons. There has been tipping into this - incl. asbestos sheet, old tyres and timber. Forms one of a number of small commons associated with old quarries in this part of the county. These are in the main now vegetated with dry heath. This particular example is not one of the better examples, with much of the heath apparently progressing to grassland/tall ruderals. This may be due to some disturbance to the site, possibly tipping.


VEG:
This common lies to the south of its contiguous neighbour, CL 1. There is no boundary between the two sites. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1989. This provides basic habitat information, but most of the following has been based on information collected during the present survey, when the common was examined from the road which crosses it.

Most of the area to the west of the road comprises dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with locally abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Beneath the {\it Calluna} bushes is a sparse understorey of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. To the south of this area a bare earth track crosses the common. A number of bushes of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} and {\it Cytisus scoparius} were noted here from the road. To the extreme south is a clump of {\it Salix viminalis} bushes, possibly not actually on the common itself.  

At the opposite side of the road there are additional habitats present. To the north is a further small area of {\it Calluna/V. myrtillus} heath, which also has locally abundant bushes of {\it Ulex gallii} present. Other habitats are invading this vegetation and include tall neutral grassland with tall ruderal species, plus scattered small trees of {\it Betula pendula}. Further to the south the heath occurs in a mosaic with acidic grassland which is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent {\it Galium saxatile}. Opposite the entrance to Upper Naylor Hill Farm is a very disturbed area of ground used to store/dump unwanted farm items. Part of this area is bare and part has improved grassland.

MANAGE:
The common is unmanaged, save for the encroachments onto it from Upper Naylor Hill Farm. Items noted "stored" on the common include a caravan, trailer, fertiliser hopper plus other farm implements, old railway sleepers, silage bails, old oil storage tank etc.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna available for this common. For an account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI, please see under CL 498.

VEG:
This common lies on the northern edge of Oxhenhope Moor - Thornton Moor. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991 and the site also lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. Due to the small size of the site, and constraints upon time, there was insufficient time to visit this common. The site lies at the fringe of the moorland and occupies a small disused quarry. It is shown by the Phase 1 survey to have an acidic grassland sward. For a fuller account of the vegetation of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to CL 498.

MANAGE:
The common is probably unfenced and grazed by sheep from the adjacent moorland.


VEG:
This common lies on the northern edge of Oxhenhope Moor - Thornton Moor. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991 and the site also lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. Due to the small size of the site, and constraints upon time, there was insufficient time to visit this common. The site lies at the fringe of the moorland and is shown by the Phase 1 survey lie within an area of dry modified bog. This is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and is probably typical of that on the surrounding moors (NVC type M20). For a fuller account of the vegetation of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to CL 498.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: wren, swift.

VEG:
The common is an area of open space on the outskirts of Addingham. The site has been designated for recreation and has a regularly-mown amenity grassland sward. The uncut margins have taller grassland with species such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Urtica dioica, Cirsium vulgare} and {\it Galium aparine} etc. The two longer edges of the common are bounded mostly by hedges with trees, some of which are planted. These include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Populus nigra} var. {\it italica, Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium, Malus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. In the NW corner the boundary is adjoined by private housing and has a clipped hedge of {\it C. monogyna}, plus a number of garden shrubs.  Along the two shorter sides, which are the ones adjoined by roads, planted trees here include, to the south, {\it Tilia} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, while to the north are {\it Prunus} sp., {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus}.

MANAGE:
The common is regularly mown, presumably by the local authority.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blackbird, blue tit, starling, house sparrow.

VEG:
The common lies within the suburbs to the SE of Bradford. There was very little information available from the Phase 1 survey and the following description is based on information gathered during the present survey.

Most of the common comprises a coarse semi-improved neutral grassland sward. There appear to be a range of different communities present. Locally this is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} with frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus}, plus occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Poa trivialis}. Frequent/occasional associates include {\it Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Cirsium arvense, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus repens, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis}. Elsewhere the grassland is much taller and is characterised by {\it P. trivialis, Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Agropyron repens}. In the extreme NE corner there is tall grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, with a variety of tall ruderal and other species which include {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Epilobium hirsutum}, ? {\it Solidago} sp., {\it Iris} sp. (? cultivated variety), plus one small clump of {\it Polygonatum} (? cultivated variety - {\it P. x hybridum}?). This clump of vegetation appears to have been influenced by the tipping of garden waste. There is also a well-developed bush of {\it Salix cinerea} in this locality.

A further type of neutral grassland occurs in isolated wet depressions and is dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus, J. conglomeratus, Poa trivialis, Ranunculus acris, Achillea ptarmica, Carex nigra, C. ovalis} and {\it Centaurea nigra}.

In addition to these neutral grasslands, there are also localised areas with a semi-improved acidic sward. This is dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and occasional/frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Festuca ovina}. Finally, there are much smaller areas of grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Festuca ovina} plus locally occasional {\it Carex nigra}. These areas appear to represent transitions to a true marshy grassland sward.                

Thinly scattered across the common are very occasional small trees/shrubs which include {\it Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. A further feature of the vegetation of the common are several further stands of tall grassland/ruderals associated with the tipping of garden rubbish, this time along the edge of the track which runs along the southern edge of the common. These include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Symphytum ?x uplandicum, Reynoutria japonica, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Rubus idaeus, Chamerion angustifolium, Symphoricarpos albus, Geranium} sp., and ?{\it Solidago} sp.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged at present. The local authority have erected a sign on the common (see under Access/recreation). There appears to be a problem of tipping of garden waste on the site, which has resulted in the introduction in a number of alien species. Although not of any particular botanical merit, the grassland of the site is fairly diverse in its structure and composition. The combined effects of tipping, bonfires and eutrophication by dogs may lead to further degradation of this site.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipit, skylark, pied wagtail, mistle thrush, painted lady.

VEG:
This common lies at the extreme SE tip of Heptonstall Moor. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991, but there are no specific target notes. The following description is based on information gathered during the course of the present survey.

Running along the NW section of the common is a hillside strip with a mosaic of grassland and heath communities. The grassland is mainly acidic in character and dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with frequent {\it Molinia caerulea}. Locally however, the {\it Molinia} becomes co-dominant, marking what appear to be transitions to a marshy grassland sward. Other grassland associates include {\it Festuca ovina, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. The heathy element is reprsented by stands either of {\it Calluna vulgaris} or {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, the latter also locally having frequent {\it V. vitis-idaea}. The heath species are well-developed through an absence of grazing. The best-developed sward of {\it Calluna} occurs around a small disused quarry, where there is 90 per cent cover. These stands are mainly dry heath, with local transitions to wet heath in areas where {\it M. caerulea} is abundant. This mosaic of grass and heath habitats extends onto Knoll Top. Here, however, it is just dry heath and acidic grassland, with {\it M. caerulea} not occurring here.

Knoll Delph, a small disused quarry, appears to have been filled-in in recent years and now has a level area of poor semi-improved grassland. This appears to have species such as (vegetative) {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Agropyron repens}. Adjoining the eastern edge are stands of tall ruderal species such as {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. There are also occasional trees of {\it Salix ? cinerea} in this area.

Along the eastern edge of Knoll Top is a hillside which leads down onto the eastern portion of the common, which is fairly level ground. This has a fairly complex mixture of grassland types. Acidic swards are represented by {\it Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Neutral grasslands tend to be coarse in character and admixed with a range of ruderal species. Noted from this vegetation were {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, Agropyron repens, Holcus lanatus, Chamerion angustifolium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. The cricket ground is not formally managed, but is played upon by children and has therefore still been mapped as amenity grassland. Just to the west of here is a small wet hollow containing marshy grassland with {\it M. caerulea} and {\it Juncus effusus}. There are further small areas of {\it M. caerulea} grassland on the section to the north of the road. Adjacent to the northern edge of this road is a small area of concrete hard standing. Additional species noted from the edge of the concrete include {\it Equisetum arvense, Senecio jacobaea, Taraxacum officinale, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex obtusifolius, Ranunculus acris, Trifolium repens} and {\it Cirsium arvense}.  

Finally, there is a row of apparently planted mature trees of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} running along the edge of the road to the north of this part of the common.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged. There is a boundary wall between this and the contiguous CL 139. Ungrazed heath vegetation contrasts with grazed heath on CL 139. Note bonfire site in SE corner. Old quarry of Knoll Delph appears to have been in-filled.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: carrion crow, kestrel, flock of starlings, skylark, meadow pipit, wheatear, distant curlew. Butterflies: small white, painted lady.

VEG:
This common lies on hills west of Todmorden, adjacent to the West Yorkshire border with Lancashire. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (1991). This provides a habitat map, plus some dominant species and target noted information. Additional information was gathered during the present survey.

Much of the common is vegetated with a species-poor acidic grassland sward, dominated generally by either {\it Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Nardus stricta}. A fairly typical grassland community occurs to the NE on Lower Moor. This has abundant or dominant {\it Nardus stricta}, frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Festuca ovina}, occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus}. This vegetation is predominantly of NVC type U5. Very occasionally, there are small quantities of {\it Molinia caerulea, Trichophorum cespitosum} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. Smaller areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus} belong to NVC type U6. In addition there are also localised areas of species-poor flush vegetation dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}, with locally frequent {\it Polytrichum commune} and occasional {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium} and {\it M. caerulea} (NVC type M6c).

The plateau areas of Todmorden Moor (2 - and locally elsewhere) have remnants of blanket mire. This is dominated by {\it E. vaginatum} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally frequent {\it E. angustifolium} and locally occasional {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type M20, dry modified bog in Phase 1 terms). There tends to be a small amount of bare peat showing within the mire surface. In some areas this occurs as discrete blocks, sometimes with just visible hagged margins, as at Slate Pit Hill (3). Here there is a 0.5m wide bare peat track recently cut across the peat surface by some vehicle which runs on a caterpillar track. Elsewhere there is a more complex mosaic with transitions to the surrounding acidic grassland, while in more marginal areas the mire is reduced to just isolated tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum} within acidic grassland.

Exposures of peat alongside the edge of the track across the common provided the opportunity to examine some of the bryophytes present here. Species noted were: {\it Campylopus introflexus, Polytrichum piliferum, Ceratodon purpureus} and {\it Calypogeia ? fissa}.                                

The slope at (4) has a rather different mosaic of habitats. A proportion of the slope has {\it N. stricta} grassland as above, but also with 25 per cent cover of {\it V. myrtillus}. Amongst this is tussocky {\it E. vaginatum} with frequent {\it V. myrtillus} throughout. This does not fit well into either Phase 1 or NVC categories, but has been interpreted as a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland (with elements of NVC types U5 and M20). 

Dotted about the hillside are a number of old spoil heaps, apparently associated with old mines. These now appear to have been infilled with some form of slag or shale spoil. There has been further tipping of spoil around the more extensive disused quarry to the SW of the common. There is still an active works on this site (? making ceramic pipes).

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by both sheep and cattle. The grazing levels appear relatively high, with much of the grassland being dominated by unpalatable species such as {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Despite the relatively poor botanical diversity, the site appears to support a large number of breeding syklark and meadow pipit. 

The minor road across Lower Moor (1) is cattle-gridded. The common is unfenced from the A681. There are several areas of past mining activity on the common, many of which have now been infilled. There is also a large abandoned quarry and spoil heaps, part of this site being occupied by a works. The newly created bare peat track across the blanket mire at Slate Pit Hill (3), appears to link with a newly-worked area of bare ground just to the south of here, possibly a recently in-filled quarry. 

Along the track leading from the A681 there is extensive tipping of rubbish at the edges, and also at the side of the lay-by adjacent to the A681 (there is a sign here prohibiting tipping). Materials noted include old tyres, garden rubbish, timber and builders rubble. There has also been extensive "storage" of farm equipment etc. on the common in the area adjoining Height Top Farm (GR 908 257). Finally, the target notes from the Phase 1 survey (GR 898 245) refer to proposals for open cast mining on part of this site (under dsicussion in 1988). There is no sign at present of this taking place.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: wood pigeon, skylark, meadow pipit, carrion crow, magpie, lapwing, wheatear, golden plover, painted lady butterfly. 

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the SSSI (but largely excluded from registration as common land) provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting habitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The pair of shelduck nesting at Blackstone Edge Reservoir are believed to be the highest altitude nesting birds of this species in Britain. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

However, this common includes a portion of the White Holme Reservoir. This is said to be an important staging post for spring and autumn migrants. The surrounding area has recorded breeding dunlin, snipe, golden plover and merlin.

VEG:
The common lies almost entirely within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (99.7 per cent). This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Rishworth Moor, within which this common lies, plus Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land (see attached maps).

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops throughout the SSSI. On this particular common there are outcrops to the north along the upper edge of the north-facing slope which overlooks the valley at Todmorden. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common lies to the north of an extensive plateau which runs between the edge of the valley at Todmorden across to Rishworth Moor. It is the most northerly common of a continuous block which runs as far south as Wessenden Head, within the Peak District National Park. The southern section of the common lies on the plateau, within which are sited a number of reservoirs (these being mainly excluded from registration as common). To the north lies a steep slope at the edge of the valley. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. This incorporated an earlier survey of 1983. There are some target notes from both sources. A habitat map was drafted from the 1991 survey. General information on habitats has been drawn from the SSSI citation. The habitat map was refined during the present survey, with most of the following description being based on notes made at this time. Finally, a part of the southern section of the common lies within an area listed by the Greater Manchester Countryside Unit as a "Site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester". Note however that the section on this common lies entirely within West Yorkshire! (see appropriate map). 

The southern section of the common lies within an extensive area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. This has frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum}. In Phase 1 terms this is equates to dry modified bog and in NVC terms it belongs to M20. It is typical of much of the South Pennine blanket mires. There appears to have been significant erosion of the mire surface, with obvious areas of bare peat in places. Locally there are exposed gritstone boulders protruding through the peat. In places, especially small knolls evelated above the plateau surface, the blanket mire gives way to dry heath and acidic grassland vegetation (at Little Holder Stones, for example). To the extreme south of the common, erosion of the peat surface appears to be particularly severe. {\it Calluna vulgaris} appears to be absent across most of this blanket mire, but there are are some stands on this remote southern section (this area only being viewed through binoculars), and it also appears to be abundant in the area around Stony Edge (GR 957 216).

To the south of the common also lies blanket bog which is within the above area listed as a "Site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester". This appears typical of the above, but does not appear to be suffering from peat erosion. It is described as "Best example of blanket bog in area and amongst the best in Greater Manchester". 
   
                              
Along the northern edge of the plateau the margin of the blanket peat has been significantly eroded where is meets the upper edge of the valley. This marginal region generally has a peat depth of less than 0.5m. However, the vegetation here has a similar species complement to the intact blanket mire, with an abundance of both {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it E. vaginatum}. Other locally frequent/abundant associates include {\it Empetrum nigrum, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Molinia caerulea}, plus occasionally, {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and rarely, {\it Erica tetralix}. This mosaic of habitats is problematical to translate into Phase 1 because of the influence of peat depth on the classification. As the peat appears to be mainly less than 0.5m, a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland would appear to be the most appropriate interpretation, with localised remants of dry bog on deeper peat. Hagged bare peat margins were noted along Langfield Edge.  

On the steep northern slope itself there is an acidic grassland sward generally dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with locally frequent/abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Galium saxatile} (NVC type U5). Gritstone outcrops and boulders are a distinctive feature on the skyline and elsewhere. To the NW are scattered fronds of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} invading areas of acidic grassland. Heeley Hill is a small area of level ground within the hillside upon which is a patch of marshy grassland dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC type M25), plus occasional flushed areas of {\it Juncus effusus} (NVC M6). There is a small col at Withens Gate (GR 968 230) within which is a further area of deep peat. This is also dominated by tussocky {\it M. caerulea} with locally frequent {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, plus {\it E. angustifolium} in wet areas. This equates with the Phase 1 category of wet modified bog and is of NVC type M25. A narrow flush along the southern edge of this area contains {\it J. effusus, Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} (NVC M6c).

There are two water bodies included within the boundary of the common, both reservoirs. To the north is Gaddings Dam, while to the south is a section of the White Holme Reservoir. A second reservoir adjacent to Gaddings Dam appears to have been drained for some consiberable time and now has an acidic grassland sward.

MANAGE:
The common forms part of a major water catchment area. The plateau itself appears to lack any form of internal boundaries and the whole area is grazed by sheep. 

The site appears to have had a sustained high grazing pressure for a considerable time. For example, there is a general lack of heath species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris} within the vegetation communities on the common. The northern slope is dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, a species which sheep find unpalatable and generally regarded as an indicator of heavy grazing. A history of sustained grazing is also thought to be one of a number of factors which have produced the degraded/drying blanket mires typical of these South Pennine Moorlands. This is reflected in the active erosion of peat, lack of {\it Sphagnum} mosses and the dominance of unpalatable and tussock-forming species such as {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. A number of other processes are involved, such as burning and atmospheric pollution. It is not possible to go into this subject in detail here, but English Nature have produced a comprehensive review of the relevant literature (see references).

Parts of the hillside to the north are also grazed by cattle. There was no evidence noted of any recent burning of vegetation on the common. Management associated with footpath repair has been undertaken at several points along the Pennine Way, where there has been erosion of the blanket mire. Recreational use of the moors may result in some disturbance to the ground nesting birds. This may occur to some degree on the northern section, but the blanket mire to the south appears undisturbed.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: curlew, cuckoo, skylark, meadow pipit, carrion crow, swallow, lapwing, golden plover, greenfinch, wood pigeon, redshank, red grouse, wren, small white butterfly, painted lady.

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {/it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting abitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

The large expanse of blanket mire stretching across this common and the contiguous CL 397 is reported to have quite high concentrations of curlew and golden plover (Brown and Shepherd, 1991). There are also several recorded breeding pairs each of dunlin, redshank, snipe, lapwing and common sandpiper. That this site appears to be of high ornithological importance is reflected in the list of species noted during the single site visit made during the present survey. The greatest concentration of birds appears to be on the more remote western section which is not crossed by any footpaths. There may be some disturbance of ground nesting birds from walkers on the eastern portion of the common. However, they can probably tolerate to a degree, people walking along fixed routes, such as the Pennine Way footpath, and it is when people wander about off the paths that the greatest risk of disturbance occurs.

VEG:
The common lies almost entirely within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land. 

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops at several points throughout the SSSI and along numerous abandoned quarries at the moorland margins. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This particular common, along with its contiguous neighbour, CL 397, lie at the SE edge of the largest single block of moorland within the SSSI, stretching from Stansfield Moor in the south, to Ickornshaw Moor in the north. A significant portion of the block lies within Lancashire. These two commons in particular form part of the Yorkshire Water Authority Gorple - Widdop catchment area. They lie at the Lancashire border along their western edge. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991, which provides a basic habitat map, dominant species codes and some target noted information. Further notes were made about the site during the present survey, while walking the common along public footpaths and bridleways.

To the west of the common lies a fairly remote plateau area. This has blanket peat with vegetation which falls into the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog. This is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and appears typical of the blanket mire which occurs extensively throughout the SSSI. The edge of this habitat block was examined further south, on the contiguous CL 397. Here the dominant {\it E. vaginatum} is joined by frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, occasional/frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Locally there are small bare peat patches within the mire surface and in these areas, there tends also to be frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Erica tetralix}. This vegetation belongs to NVC type M20. To the east of the blanket mire, the peat appears to have been badly degraded in the past, with tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} being co-dominant with {\it E. vaginatum}. This vegetation in Phase 1 terms appears to have features of both wet and dry modified bog and in NVC terms appears transitional with types M20 and M25. Localised stands of {\it Juncus effusus} appear to suggest the presence of occasional flush features. To the north of this plateau the land falls away into the wide shallow valley now occupied by the Gorple Reservoirs. On the slopes there is a large stand of dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, which appears from a distance, to be burnt as part of grouse moor management.

The eastern portion of the common has a lower plateau area which slopes gently away from Standing Stone Hill. Across most of this area the peat is generally thin, although at Ling Hollow there appears to be a small remnant of {\it E. vaginatum} dry modified bog with abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris}, frequent {\it V. myrtillus} and locally occasional {\it Empetrum nigrum}. The surrounding area of thin peat appears to have a complex mosaic of wet heath and marshy grassland vegetation. Typically this has dominant/abundant {\it Molinia caerulea}, locally frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum} and  {\it V. myrtillus}, locally occasional {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta, E. vaginatum} and {\it Carex nigra}. The {\it Calluna} is fairly thinly distributed, reaching a maximum of around 30 per cent ground cover. The plants are generally 10-20cm tall and in a fairly suppressed condition, showing signs of selective grazing by sheep. To the SE of the common the cover of {\it Calluna} generally increases, until at Stony Turgate Hill, in the extreme SE corner, there is a more discrete sward of pure wet heath. Here there is 70 per cent overall cover of {\it Calluna}, within which are locally frequent {\it E. vaginatum} and locally occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus, M. caerulea, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}. The {\it Calluna} here is mainly 30cm tall, with some areas which appear to be strips burnt at some time in the past. There appears again to be moderate signs of selective grazing, with about 10 per cent of dead plants also present. In NVC terms this vegetation also appears to belong mainly to NVC type M25.

Where this heathy element is absent, there are swards of either acidic or marshy grassland. The latter type is once again dominated by {\it M. caerulea} (NVC M25), with locally frequent {\it D. flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Carex nigra, Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Transitions to acidic grassland are marked by the dominance of some of the above associates, such as {\it D. flexuosa} (NVC type U2), {\it N. stricta} (U5) or {\it Juncus squarrosus}(U6). The largest expanse of pure acidic grassland appears to occur on the hilltop summit of Coppy (to the NE), and is dominated by {\it N. stricta}. 

The final habitat type noted on the common are acidic flush features. One of these crosses the Pennine Way footpath at GR 955 306, with a second, larger feature noted at Reaps Bottom (GR 945 306). Both have frequent/abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum, Polytrichum commune, Juncus effusus, E. vaginatum, E. angustifolium} and {\it M. caerulea}, plus occasional {\it Erica tetralix} in the former locality. These belong to NVC type M6.

MANAGE:
The common forms part of the Yorkshire Water Authority Gorple-Widdop catchment area. There is no boundary fence between this common and the contiguous CL 397. There is grazing by sheep at what appears currently to be a fairly low intensity. Grazing levels appear to be highest on the plateau around Standing Stone Hill and in the area SE of here, with some suppression of {\it Calluna} here. However, a long history of management through grazing is thought to be one of a number of factors involved in the degradation/modification of the South Pennine Blanket mires, which show a poor overall botanical diversity. A number of cattle (about 25) were also noted grazing the SE portion of the common. The area of {\it Calluna} dry heath at Whinberry Flat is managed for grouse by rotational burning of the heather, by the landowner. Small patches of burnt wet heath to the SE may be managed by the graziers.

The common is considered to have habitats and an assemblage of breeding birds which are typical of the South Pennine Moors as a whole. The grazing and heather burning regime are likely to be of great importance in influencing the suitability of this habitat for the birds. It has been mentioned elsewhere that public pressure can have an impact on the breeding success of ground nesting birds. It is important therefore that public access is confined to existing rights of way, especially during the period of 1st March - 31st July, when the birds are establishing territories and rearing young. Continued monitoring of the various management practices and recreational uses of the common is recommended, to make sure that none of these has any adverse effect on the suitability of the habitat for the breeding bird population.


VEG:
The common lies close to the junction of two roads on the Pennine Fringe at the head of Cragg Vale. It has the appearance of an enclosed field, similar to those which surround it. There was no detailed information available from the county Phase 1 survey, as this is such a small site. The following description was made while viewing the common through binoculars from the road at the edge.

The major part of the site supports a marshy grassland sward dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}. This has frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} (NVC type M25). Locally at the edges this gives way to a semi-improved grassland sward comprising a short turf of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus ? mollis}.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be grazed by both sheep and cattle, although no stock were present at the time of the site visit. Appears to be of limited botanical diversity, but may provide cover for ground-nesting birds, although it is a rather small plot of land.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: curlew, skylark, meadow pipit, golden plover.

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {/it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting abitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

The large expanse of blanket mire stretching across this common and the contiguous CL 139 is reported to have quite high concentrations of curlew and golden plover (Brown and Shepherd, 1991). There are also several recorded breeding pairs each of dunlin, redshank, snipe, lapwing and common sandpiper. That this site appears to be of high ornithological importance is reflected in the list of species noted during the single site visit made during the present survey. The greatest concentration of birds appears to be on the more remote western section which is not crossed by any footpaths. There may be some disturbance of ground nesting birds from walkers on the eastern portion of the common. However, they can probably tolerate to a degree, people walking along fixed routes, such as the Pennine Way footpath, and it is when people wander about off the paths that the greatest risk of disturbance occurs.

VEG:
The common lies almost entirely within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map under CL 139). This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land. 

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops at Boulsworth Hill on the northern Boundary of Ilkley Moor, and also at several localities on the southern section. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This particular common, along with its contiguous neighbour, CL 139, lie at the SE edge of the largest single block of moorland within the SSSI, stretching from Stansfield Moor in the south, to Ickornshaw Moor in the north. A significant portion of the block lies within Lancashire. These two commons in particular form part of the Yorkshire Water Authority Gorple - Widdop catchment area. They lie at the Lancashire border along their western edge. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991, which provides a basic habitat map and dominant species codes. Further notes were made about the site during the present survey, while walking the common along public footpaths to the eastern side.

The major part of the common comprises a fairly remote plateau area. This has blanket peat with vegetation which falls into the Phase 1 category of dry modified bog. This is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and appears typical of the blanket mire which occurs extensively throughout the SSSI. The dominant {\it E. vaginatum} is joined by frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, occasional/frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Locally there are small bare peat patches within the mire surface (1.0 sq. m) and in these areas, there tends also to be frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Erica tetralix}. This vegetation belongs to NVC type M20. Locally as along the eastern edge, there appear to be transitions to either wet modified bog or marshy grassland, marked by the presence in these areas also of frequent {\it Molinia caerulea} (representing a move towards NVC M25). Also along the fringes of the mire and at the summit area of Black Hameldon, the peat thins and there is a transition to acidic grassland and dry heath habitats.

MANAGE:
The common forms part of the Yorkshire Water Authority Gorple-Widdop catchment area. There is no boundary fence between this common and the contiguous CL 139. There is grazing by sheep at what appears currently to be a fairly low intensity. However, a long history of management through grazing is thought to be one of a number of factors involved in the degradation/ modification of the South Pennine Blanket mires, which show a poor overall botanical diversity. 

The common is considered to have habitats and an assemblage of breeding birds which are typical of the South Pennine Moors as a whole. Continued monitoring of the various management practices and recreational uses of the common is recommended, to make sure that none of these has any adverse effect on the suitability of the habitat for the breeding bird population.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipit, common frog. 

The SSSI as a whole has a Grade C entry in the Invertebrate Site Register (ISR). These are sites of potential importance, where habitat structure or a small number of records of notable species indicate that the site is likely to be of importance. All sites graded C are recommended for further survey. The site is described as having some of the scarcer elements of a fauna typical of northern English upland, including a number of nationally notable species. The records are mainly for beetles (Coleoptera). These include nationally notable: {\it Dryocoetinus alini} (Scolytidae), {\it Ancistronchya abdominalis} (Cantharidae), {\it Anotylus mutator} (Staphylinidae), {\it Cneorhinus plumbeus} (Curculionidae) and {\it Aphodius putridus} (Scarabeidae). There is also a record for a nationally notable fly (Diptera) - {\it Platycherius podagratus}. For the full records please consult the ISR.

VEG:
This common lies on hills above the Calder Valley to the SE of Hebden Bridge. To the east, the common fringes the upper reaches of Broadhead Clough. Part of this valley forms the Broadhead Clough SSSI, which overlaps part of the common (see map). In addition, the area was also covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991. In addition to these sources, further notes were made during the site visit (northern part of the common only).

The underlying geology is of the Millstone Grit series. There is a thin acidic soil, with remnant blanket peat on the plateau. The main reason for the notification of the SSSI are the woods which occupy the clough, which are said to be the best example of such a feature in West Yorkshire. The common itself includes only a very small portion of the upper woodlands.

The greater part of the common comprises the habitats of the moorland plateau (1). This includes the entire extent of this habitat type occurring within the SSSI. Most of the plateau supports a marshy grassland vegetation dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}. This forms a very impoverished/grazed sward growing on a peaty substrate, mainly less than 0.5m in depth. Also present are abundant {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}, locally frequent {\it Juncus squarrosus}, plus locally occasional {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} (both at 5 per cent cover, as a very suppressed short carpet). Locally within this vegetation were noted wetter areas with frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} with occasional {\it Sphagnum papillosum} and {\it S. recurvum}. In terms of the NVC, this vegetation appears compatible with NVC type M17 progressing to M25. As can be seen from the habitat map, this has been translated in Phase 1 terms as a mosaic of marshy grassland and wet heath, grading locally onto peat greater than 0.5m which equates to wet modified bog. Small areas appear to retain a higher cover of the heath species. For example, Bell House Moor appears, from a distance, to have wet heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} at around 50 per cent cover, with frequent tussocky {\it M. caerulea}, plus locally frequent {\it E. vaginatum}. Further species referred to in the SSSI citation for the open moor are {\it Dactylorhiza maculata} subsp. {\it ericetorum, Narthecium ossifragum, Vaccinium oxycoccos} and {\it Drosera rotundifolia}.

Around the fringes of the moorland there are further localised variations in the vegetation. For example, along the northern part of Cock Hill Moor (2), there is marshy grassland dominated exclusively by tussocky {\it M. caerulea}. Within this are locally frequent suppressed plants of {\it Calluna} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, plus locally frequent tussocks of {\it Nardus stricta}. In addition, there are small pure acidic grassland/dry heath areas characterised by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and occasional suppressed {\it Calluna}.

At Broad Head itself (3), the vegetation appears mainly to be a transitional marshy/acidic grassland. This is co-dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it M. caerulea}, with locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and locally occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Carex pilulifera}. This looks like a transitional NVC U2/M25 community. Locally there are small areas of very suppressed {\it Calluna} present (ie. short carpet). Elsewhere on this part of the common there are also pure swards of tussocky {\it M. caerulea} (NVC type M25), including wetter areas which have frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}.

At (4) a linear flush feature was noted, emanating from a small pool with abundant floating {\it Sphagnum auriculatum}.

The SSSI as a whole also contains several permanent grassland fields. The common may include a small number of these, although their boundary walls on the common seem to have fallen into disrepair. These support an acidic grassland sward of {\it Agrostis capillaris, Festuca} spp. and {\it Nardus stricta}, locally colonised by {\it V. myrtillus} and bracken. These also locally feature {\it Melampyrum pratense} and {\it Carex nigra}. One section of grassland is present with a less acidic soil which contains small populations of {\it Briza media, Carex flacca, C. caryophyllea, C. pilulifera} and {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum}. However, it is not clear whether this feature is present on the common.

MANAGE:
The greater part of the common is grazed by sheep. Overall grazing levels appear high. The moorland habitats on the common (at least those viewed during the present survey), generally appear to be in a very suppressed condition, with the heath species often being reduced to a short carpet only a few centimetres tall. Their cover is patchy and may be in danger of declining still further is present grazing levels continue. However, with some remnant heath vegetation still remaining, there is still at present the potential to restore the wet heath habitat on the common if grazing levels could be reduced.

The margin of the open fell appears to be unfenced at the upper edge of the Broadhead Clough woodlands, with the precise boundary of the common being undefined in this region. However, it is not clear whether the woodlands are grazed to any extent by stock wandering from the moor.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: 1). Gorpley Clough: robin, blackbird, chaffinch, wren, blue tit, blackcap, dipper, rabbit, grey squirrel, green-veined white (butterfly), plus 7-spot ladybird. 2). Open fell: meadow pipit.

VEG:
The common lies on hills to the SW of Todmorden. Most of the site comprises a broad plateau, rising onto Oatley Hill along its western edge. To the north, the land falls steeply into Gorpley Clough. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (1991). This provides basic habitat, dominant species and target noted information. There is a detailed Phase 2 survey of woods which occupy Gorpley Clough (English Nature, 1993), part of which fall within the boundary of the common. The site was visited, walking up onto the edge of the open fell, via the footpath which runs along the clough. The underlying geology is of the Millstone Grit series.

Most of the plateau comprises a grazed marshy grassland sward typified by tussocky {\it Molinia careulea} (NVC type M25). On the steep edge of Oatley Hill there is also a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland characterised by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There is further similar vegetation on the steep southern slope of Gorpley Clough. Locally here there are also scattered bushes of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

The Gorpley Woods are described as "ancient" in origin. The canopy is dominated by a mixture of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus} sp., with an undershrub layer of {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, and rarely, {\it Crataegus monogyna, Salix capraea} and {\it S. cinerea}. Wet ground has the occasional individual of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and rarely, young {\it Ulmus} sp. There are frequent young {\it Betula} sp., plus occasional saplings of {\it A. glutinosa, Betula} sp. and  {\it Quercus} sp.

Most of the steeper ground above the stream is dominated by {\it Quercus} sp., with frequent {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. The field layer includes frequent or abundant {\it Holcus mollis, Athyrium filix-femina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Oreopteris limbosperma} and {\it Oxalis acetosella}. Locally frequent species include {\it Luzula sylvatica, Blechnum spicant, Solidago virgaurea} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. Bryophytes include {\it Mnium hornum, Atrichum undulatum, Isopterygium elegans, Eurynchium praelongum, Plagiothecium undulatum} and {\it Polytrichum formosum}. This woodland equates to NVC type W11a.

Wet ground corresponds to one of the flushed {\it Alnus} sp. woodland types (W7a or W7b), although a tree canopy is not always present. Constant species here include {\it Ranunculus repens, Carex remota, Epilobium palustre, Cirsium palustre, Holcus lanatus, Phalaris arundinacea, Geranium robertianum, Filipendula ulmaria, Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus effusus} and {\it Angelica sylvestris. Sphagnum} spp. mosses are locally abundant in these areas and include {\it S. recurvum} and {\it S. fimbriatum}.   

A full species list is included within the Phase 2 survey. Species noted in addition to the above during the present survey include {\it Myrrhis odorata, Equisetum sylvaticum, Circaea lutetiana, Mercurialis perennis, Eupatorium cannabinum, Stellaria alsine, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Filipendula ulmaria, Stachys sylvatica, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Stellaria holostea, Lysimachia nemorum, Eurynchium striatum} and {\it Scrophularia nodosa}. Additional bryophytes noted from wet rocks include {\it Pellia epiphylla, Diplophyllum albicans, Bryum ? pseudotriquetrum, Dichodontium pellucidum, Calliergon cuspidatum, Brachythecium rivulare, Bazzania trilobata} and {\it Rhizomnium punctatum}. 

At the lower reaches of the valley the edges of the clough have some stands of {\it Impatiens glandulifera}.

MANAGE:
The open fell is grazed by sheep and cattle. Grazing levels appear relatively high. The tussocky {\it Molinia} appears to offer little palatable grazing, although there are signs that some of it is burnt to promote a lush growth of the grass in the spring. This vegetation appears to be of very poor botanical diversity, but the site may be important for ground nesting birds such as skylark and meadow pipit.

The Gorpley Woods are managed by the Calderdale Countryside Service under a Community Programme. Most of the work done appears to be maintenance of the path which runs along the clough. This includes the provision of steps, plus the bridges which allow the path to cross from one side of the clough to the other at several points. 

In contrast to the open fell, the wood is of relatively high botanical diversity (65 species recorded during Phase 2 survey), with further detailed survey recommended. There is also potential for bryophtyes, eg. wet rocks. These provided some records from the present survey, but a comprehensive bryophyte survey is recommended. Among similar sites in West Yorkshire, it is one of the least affected by non-native species. There are isolated small stands of {\it I. glandulifera} which it would be feasible to control, as they are as yet confined to the clough edges. Some areas of the wood are rather open and it would be beneficial to restore or extend tree cover over these areas. The clough also appears to be of ornithological importance, note dipper amongst birds seen during present survey. The Gorpley Clough Wood is also a visually attractive feature and it is important that its character be maintained.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: carrion crow, jackdaw, meadow pipit, swift, common frog, hare.

VEG:
This common lies at the top of the steeply-sloping Calder Valley to the NW of Todmorden. The area is underlain by rocks of the Millstone Grit series, with a number of prominent Gritstone boulders outcropping on the common. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991. This provides a basic habitat map. More detailed survey information was gathered during a site visit.

The southern section of the common (1) mainly supports a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland. The heath component is dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} at around 40 per cent cover and is superimposed upon a sward of acidic grassland which is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. The heath element also has around 10 per cent cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Other associates of the grassland include locally frequent {\it Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, plus locally occasional {\it Nardus stricta, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. This vegetation probably belongs to NVC type U2b. There are a number of Gritstone boulders scattered around this area.

Crossing the SE corner of the common is a small acidic flush feature (2). This is dominated by Juncus effusus with abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c). Associated with this are locally frequent {\it Viola palustris, Holcus lanatus, Polytrichum commune, Potentilla erecta, Eriophorum angustifolium, Epilobium palustre} and {\it Agrostis canina}, plus locally occasional {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. 

At the top of the slope, on the skyline, are the Whirlaw Stones, amongst which is a sward of dry dwarf shrub heath co-dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. A large proportion of this vegetation had been recently burnt at the time of the site visit.

To the north of here (2) is a shallow valley where the dry heath/acidic grassland vegetation locally is joined by vegetation with the character of a wet heath and marshy grassland. This vegetation is represented variously by locally abundant species such as {\it D. flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Agrostis canina, Molinia caerulea, Carex nigra} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. The heathy areas have {\it Calluna vulgaris} at around 40 per cent cover. Here these plants are between 15-20cm tall, with the bushes having a rather untidy and somewhat suppressed, "topiary" appearance. Parts of this area have further acidic flushing, and these areas have seen much trampling by cattle.

The northern portion of the common was not visited, but has an acidic grassland sward with further small gritstone outcrops with some heath vegetation present.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by cattle. The track crossing the common, "Whirlaw Lane", is gated and the site boundary is stock-proof. Grazing levels appear moderate overall, but high with trampling of the vegetation in some areas. The most heavliy grazed area appears to be the more gently-sloping northern section of the common. It is not clear whether the area of {\it Calluna/Vaccinium} heath among the Whirlaw Stones has been burnt accidentally, or as part of deliberate management. Whirlaw lane appears to be an old pack horse route. The presence of this, plus the prominent Whirlaw Stones, add further interest to the value of this site, which appears to capture, in a small area, many elements typical of the local landscape character.


VEG:
This common lies adjacent to the A1 Hook Moor interchange. It forms part of a large area under arable production and is crossed by the course of the new A1 - M1 link road. To the west of the site, the embankment of the A1 forms part of the Hook Moor SSSI. It is not entirely clear whether any of this SSSI actually lies on this particular common. For an account of the SSSI, which is a site for {\it Orobanche reticulata}, please refer to (the partially contiguous) CL 594, which definitely does include a portion of this SSSI. 

To the east of the common lies the contiguous segment of CL 594. The boundary between the two commons is marked by a hedge, continuous in places, but defunct elswehere. From a distance this appears to include {\it Prunus spinosa, C. monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with trees of {\it F. excelsior} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus} growing from it.

MANAGE:
The common is under arable production and part now lies under the new A1 - M1 link road. It is not clear whether this new road will have any damaging impact on any of the SSSI (eg. destroying part of it?).


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: robin, wren, willow warbler, wood pigeon, magpie.

VEG:
This common lies on a steep, north-east facing slope ovelooking the Calder Valley. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. Most of the site is also scheduled as a Site of Scientific Interest in West Yorkshire (Ecological Advisory Service). ie. the two site boundaries are identical, apart for the westernmost tip of the common, an area of semi-improved acidic grassland, which is not included within the SSI boundary. Most of the following description is based on these sources, with additional notes made during a brief site visit.

A significant part of the common comprises a mosaic of dry dwarf shrub heath with acidic grassland. An area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland occupies a band across the centre of the site. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is the predominant heath species (ie. locally abundant), with {\it Calluna vulgaris} present only occasionally. However, this plant becomes locally dominant on the lower (northern) part of the slope. Areas of heath tend to have an understorey of {\it Hypnum jutlandicum}, with locally abundant {\it Cladonia} sp. lichens. The acidic grassland component is dominated by a mixture of {\it Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with the moss, {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} locally abundant. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and locally occasional {\it Potentilla erecta, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Juncus effusus}. In terms of the NVC, most of this vegetation is probably transitional between NVC types U2b and U5a. Additional species recorded in the SSI schedule are {\it Conopodium majus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Carex nigra}.

Parts of the site are being actively colonised by trees of {\it Betula pendula}. On the slopes downhill from the wood, other tree/shrub species were noted which include {\it Ilex aquifolium, Rosa} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Localised parts of this area also are being invaded by scattered fronds of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, whilst occasional individuals of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} were also noted here.

To the north of the woodland, noted during the present survey was a small area of pure heath vegetation, with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} dominant at 90 per cent cover. Amongst this are frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with occasional-to-frequent {\it Melampyrum pratense} (flowering profusely at this time). Occasional plants of suppressed {\it Calluna} are present here and also some of {\it Molinia caerulea}. Once again there are locally frequent colonising saplings of {\it B. pendula}, here and elsewhere over this southern part of the common.

The wooded section of the common has a canopy comprising a mixture of {\it Quercus petraea, Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens}. Locally there are signs of good regeneration. Locally there are occasional individual planted trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Drier parts of the wood appear to conform to a species-poor {\it Quercus} sp./{\it Betula} sp. type with a shrub layer comprising scattered {\it Ilex aquifolium} and occasional regenerating {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The field layer of these areas is dominated mainly by either {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} or {\it Holcus mollis}. Locally this is accompanied by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Other locally occasional or frequent associates include {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum} and ferns such as {\it Oreopteris limbosperma}. 

A further feature of the wooded portion are small streamsides and associated flush zones. Here the canopy tends to be dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix aurita}. The marginal, drier areas of these streams have scattered undershrubs such as {\it Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

The streamsides and flush zones have a diverse marshland flora which includes abundant {\it Equisetum sylvaticum, Viola palustris, Juncus effusus, Caltha palustris, Carex laevigata, Valeriana dioica, Galium palustre, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Angelica sylvestris, Stellaria alsine} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}.

The westernmost part of the common lies outside the SSI boundary and comprises semi-improved acidic grassland.

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged at present. There were signs at the time of the site visit of occasional slight grazing by the odd straying sheep (there is no fence along the southern edge of the common). The site has a wide diversity of habitats which includes typical acidic {\it Quercus} sp./{\it Betula} sp. woodland with scrubby magrins, plus a representative mosaic of acidic grass and heath vegetation. Additional variability is added by the presence of the streams and flush vegetation, plus the associated presence of {\it Salix aurita}, a species of infrequent occurrence in West Yorkshire. 

The three dimensional structural diversity of habitats suggests a high potential value of the common for invertebrates. A detailed survey in this respect may prove fruitful. The site may also be important for a range of birds of woodland/woodland edge and scrub. The main threat to the site at present comes from the lack of grazing, which appears to be allowing the spread of {\it Betula} spp. saplings across the site. If these are not thinned, they will eventually colonise the whole site, with a consequent loss in the overall habitat diversity.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: chiffchaff, blue tit, blackbird, wren, pied wagtail, song thrush, rabbits.

VEG:
The common comprises three separate parcels of land lying adjacent to the A1 Hook Moor interchange. Parts of the site include sections of the Hook Moor SSSI, a site for {\it Orobanche reticulata}. The remainder of the site has been mapped and described during the present survey.

The common appears to include all of the larger, south-western section of the SSSI, also possibly the north-eastern section, plus smaller areas of the other three embankments (see SSSI map). These embankments provide ideal habitat conditions for the nationally rare {\it Orobanche reticulata}, here present in relative abundance. The embankments comprise open and unmanaged grassland/tall ruderal communities, thereby allowing the host species, {\it Cirsium arvense}, to flourish unchecked. Other associated species include {\it Senecio jacobea, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The lower section of the south-western embankment (1) was examined during the present survey. This locality appears to have significant areas of disturbed ground present. Species noted at this time from the grassland here include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Holcus lanatus, Plantago lanceolata, P. major, Trifolium dubium, Bellis perennis, Lathyrus pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Silene latifolia, Senecio jacobaea, Cirsium arvense, C. vulgare, Rumex obtusifolius, Chamerion angustifolium, Prunella vulgaris} and {\it Reseda luteola}. There are also localised areas of scrub and trees on the embankments which include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and, also recorded, {\it Rubus caesius}. 

Away from the embankment section, the remainder of this section of the common mainly comprises broadleaved semi-natural woodland. This area is divided into a number of different separate compartments by the major roads which cross the area. At (2) the woodland has a canopy dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Occasional standing dead trees were noted. Understorey shrubs comprise abundant {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rosa canina}. The {\it C. monogyna bushes} include some well-developed old individuals. The field layer has locally dominated by {\it Mercurialis perennis} with an abundant moss layer of {\it Eurynchium praelongum}, plus some {\it Brachythecium rutabulum}. Other higher plants include locally frequent {\it Viola} ? {\it odorata, Hedera helix} and {\it Glechoma hederacea} plus occasional {\it Geum urbanum} and {\it Arum maculatum}. Towards the roadside edges the field layer also has species such as {\it Galium aparine, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. 

The compartment on the opposite side of the road (3) has a rather similar canopy, with an understorey again of abundant {\it M. perennis} plus locally frequent {\it R. fruticosus} agg. Abundant regenerating seedlings of {\it F. excelsior} are present here, plus several dead stumps of {\it Betula} sp. trees. The smaller woodland compartment at (4) appears to be of planted origin. This has canopy trees which include {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Prunus} sp. and {\it Populus x canadensis}, plus occasional {\it F. excelsior} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. There appears to be abundant growth of {\it A. pseudoplatanus} seedlings here. The woodland block at (5) has a canopy of {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it F. excelsior}, plus an understorey of {\it Ulmus} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

Other verge habitats occur on this part of the common. At (6) for example is a mixture of mainly ruderal and ephemeral species which includes {\it Cirsium arvense, Arctium minus, Potentilla anserina, Urtica dioica, Rumex obtusifolius, Trifolium repens, Senecio jacobaea, Geranium pratense, Silene latifolia, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Ranunculus repens}.

Of the two remaining sections of this particular common, the smaller one (7) lies to the other side of the A1 embankment. It is not clear from the maps whether the embankment itself (ie. the {\it Orobanche reticulata} site) actually lies on the common or not. Most of this area is disturbed and furrowed. Present here are abundant {\it Poa trivialis} and {\it Sonchus asper} plus occasional {\it Silene latifolia, Myosotis} sp., {\it Stellaria media, Cirsium arvense, C. vulgare, Plantago lanceolata}, plus {\it Papaver rhoeas}. The area is edged by a well-cut {\it C. monogyna} hedge.

The final compartment of the common (8) lies a little way to the east, on the far side of the contiguous CL 469. The boundary between the two commons is marked by a hedge, continuous in places, but defunct elswehere. From a distance this appears to include {\it Prunus spinosa, C. monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with trees of {\it F. excelsior} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus} growing from it. This part of the common is itself under arable crop production.

MANAGE:
Due to agricultural intensification, the distribution of {\it Orobanche reticulata}, has been reduced nationally to a mere handful of localities in West and North Yorkshire. It occurs erratically from year to year, generally as isolated individuals on permanent pasture. Hook Moor is one of the top two sites in Britain for this species. The site is regularly monitored by the county recorder. Grazing of the vegetation by rabbits is thought to be essential in maintaining a shorter, more open grassland sward. {\it O. reticulata} is thought to thrive best where the surrounding vegetation is not too dense. It is not clear whether the new road will have any impact on the SSSI, and if so, what mitigating measures, if any, have been agreed. 

The remainder of the larger, western block of the common appears largely unmanaged, save for localised trimming of the vegetation along the roadside edges. The woodland blocks are relatively undisturbed and may be of significant value to local wildlife (note the presence of a number of mature dead trees). However, the volume of traffic may pose a constant threat to the survival of birds and larger mammals. There has been localised tipping of rubbish close to the edges of the roads (old coils of barbed-wire, bottles, bin-liners, disgarded christmas trees etc.). The eastern portion of the common is part of an area under arable production and is unlikely to have any nature conservation value.


FAUNA:
No fauna records relating specifically to this common.

VEG:
This common lies at the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI, at the edge of Heptonstall Moor (ie. outside the SSSI boundary). The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. As the site is fairly small, it was not visited during the present survey due to time constraints, but it was viewed through binoculars from the track running to the SE. From this point, the common appears to comprise marshy grassland with {\it Juncus effusus, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. There may be localised flushing. The Phase 1 survey appears to show it as a mosaic of wet heath and acidic grassland, but no obvious heath element was noted at the present time.

MANAGE:
The common is not fenced from the contiguous CLs 139 and 397, with the whole area grazed by sheep. It was a bit difficult to see precisely where this plot actually was on the ground as there are numerous fallen-down enclosure walls in this area complicating matters somewhat. For a more detailed account of the management of the area, see under CL 139.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna available specifically relating to this common.

VEG:
This common lies at the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI, at the edge of Heptonstall Moor (ie. outside the SSSI boundary). The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. This shows the common to have an acidic grassland sward. This appears to have a peaty substrate and has abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. Other associates include frequent {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Carex nigra}, locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Nardus stricta}, plus locally occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} (NVC type U5).

MANAGE:
The common appears to be occasionally grazed by cattle (no stock present at time of survey). Field boundaries no longer stock-proof.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna relating specifically to this common. For an account of the fauna of the South Pennine Moors SSSI, plese see under the contiguous CL 139.

VEG:
This common lies at the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI at the edge of Heptonstall Moor. The northern portion lies inside the SSSI, while the southern portion lies outside the SSSI boundary. The common lies in a small valley along Cross Clough. As well as this clough itself, there are a number of smaller streams crossing the common. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. The common was viewed through binoculars during the present survey, from a short distance to the north. The habitats present are typical of those on the surrounding land. The principal habitat type present appears to be marshy grassland dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea}. To the extreme south is eroding blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. One of the banks above the clough appears to have a small area of dry heath dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

For a full account of the vegetation of the SSSI as a whole, please see under CLs 139/397.

MANAGE:
There were no stock noted at the time of the site visit. The area as a whole is grazed by sheep. The newly fenced boundary of the SSSI runs along the western edge of the common. The northern portion, however, although it lies within the SSSI, lies to the other side of the boundary fence (from memory). There are no boundaries to the common on the eastern edge, with this land being open to grazing by sheep from the adjacent moorland.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: wood pigeon, skylark, meadow pipit, carrion crow, magpie, lapwing, wheatear. 

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

 The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting habitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The pair of shelduck nesting at Blackstone Edge Reservoir are believed to be the highest altitude nesting birds of this species in Britain. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

VEG:
The common lies almost entirely within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Rishworth Moor, within which this common lies, plus Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land (see attached maps under CL 121).

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops throughout the SSSI. On this particular common there are outcrops to the north on the slope along the western edge which overlooks the valley at Todmorden. There are also a number of small disused quarries. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common lies at the margin of an extensive plateau which runs between the southern edge of the valley at Todmorden across to Rishworth Moor. It is one of the most northerly commons of a continuous block which runs as far south as Wessenden Head, within the Peak District National Park. The south-eastern section of the common lies on the plateau, within which are sited a number of reservoirs (these being mainly excluded from registration as common). To the north and west lies a steep slope at the edge of the Calder Valley. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991. This incorporated an earlier survey of 1983. There are some target notes from both sources. A habitat map was drafted from the 1991 survey. General information on habitats has been drawn from the SSSI citation. The habitat map was refined during the present survey, with most of the following description being based on notes made at this time. Finally, a section of the common to the SE of Warland Reservoir forms part of an area listed by the Greater Manchester Countryside Unit as a "Site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester". Note however that the section on this common lies entirely within West Yorkshire! (see map under CL 121/674).

The south-eastern section of the common lies at the margin of an extensive area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophroum vaginatum}. This has frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum}. There is localised evidence of peat erosion within the mire surface (see below). In Phase 1 terms this vegatation equates to dry modified bog and is typical of much of the South Pennine blanket mires. In NVC terms it belongs to M20. At Stony Edge there is a gritstone exposure which has dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. This has been burnt recently (by accident?). The surrounding blanket mire also has abundant {\it Calluna} present, although the species is very rare across much of the blanket mire in the surrounding area. 

Along the north-eastern edge of Warland Reservoir, the margin of the blanket peat is actively eroding, with great swathes of redeposited/eroded peat occupying the shoreline/draw-down zone. 

To the SE of the reservoir is an area of blanket mire which is within the above area listed as a "Site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester". This appears typical of the above blanket mire, but does not appear to be suffering from peat erosion. It is described as "Best example of blanket bog in area and amongst the best in Greater Manchester". 

To the west of the reservoir, the blanket mire also has areas of tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea}. This is wet modified bog in Phase 1 terms, and belongs to NVC type M25. 

Along the edge of the plateau, the blanket peat has been significantly eroded where is meets the upper edge of the valley. This marginal region generally has a peat depth of less than 0.5m. However, the vegetation here has a similar species complement to the intact blanket mire, with an abundance of both {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it E. vaginatum}. Other locally frequent/abundant associates include {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. This mosaic of habitats is problematical to translate into Phase 1 because of the influence of peat depth on the classification. As the peat appears to be mainly less than 0.5m deep, a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland would appear to be the most appropriate interpretation, with localised remants of dry bog on deeper peat. In addition, isolated tussocks of {\it M. caerulea} on thin peaty remnants in the south of this area seem to correspond to marshy grassland. This complex mosiac of habitats has clearly originated from peat erosion at the edge of the blanket mire.

The steep north-western slope carries an acidic grassland sward. This is dominated mainly by {\it Nardus stricta}. Other associates include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, M. caerulea, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Galium saxatile}. This appears to be mainly of NVC type U5, with localised pure {\it D. flexuosa} swards probably of NVC type U2.

Note one area of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} along this slope.

MANAGE:
The common forms part of a major water catchment area. The plateau itself appears to lack any form of internal boundaries (ie. unfenced from the contiguous CL 121) and the whole area is grazed by sheep. The boundary with Greater Manchester follows the southern edge of the common. 

The site appears to have had a sustained high grazing pressure for a considerable time. For example, there is a general lack of heath species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris} within the vegetation communities on the common. The north-western slope is generally dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, a species which sheep find unpalatable and generally regarded as an indicator of heavy grazing. A history of sustained grazing is also thought to be one of a number of factors which have produced the degraded/drying blanket mires typical of these South Pennine Moorlands. This is reflected in the active erosion of peat, lack of {\it Sphagnum} mosses and the dominance of unpalatable and tussock-forming species such as {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. A number of other processes are involved, such as burning and atmospheric pollution. It is not possible to go into this subject in detail here, but English Nature have produced a comprehensive review of the relevant literature (see references).

Recent burning of dry heath vegetation at Stony Edge was noted, possibly accidental. The footpath linking Warland Reservoir with Gaddings Dam has been come badly eroded across an area of blanket peat and urgent repair work is needed to prevent further damage. Recreational use of the moors may result in some disturbance to the ground nesting birds.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit: wheatear. The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (please see under CL 39 for a full account of the ornithological importance of this SSSI).

VEG:
The major part of the common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). For a general account of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to the contiguous CL 39. This particular common is one of a number which lie entirely within Greater Manchester and appear to be registered in the district of Oldham, although they also appear on the Kirklees (ie West Yorkshire) register. Also included in this category are CLs 487, 494 and 536).  There is habitat information available for the adjacent commons which lie in West Yorkshire. General reference has been made to this source, although most of the following description is the result of the present survey. 

The common lies on the western fringe of the South Pennine Moors above Oldham. The common includes a section of the plateau itself, which has blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (NVC type M20). This has frequent/abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally frequent tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea}. To the north of Haigh Gutter Moss, a steep, narrow valley cuts into the plateau, where there is a large shale exposure with areas of acidic grassland. A second, smaller valley cuts into the plateau further to the south and appears to have marshy grassland dominated by {\it M. caerulea}. 

Along the edge of the plateau at Hind Hill, the blanket mire has been considerably eroded, giving rise to a very complex mosaic of habitats. Some remnants of {\it E. vaginatum}/M20 blanket mire still remain. Elsewhere there are stands of {\it M. caerulea} (NVC type M25), apparently on both deep peat (ie. wet modified bog in Phase 1 terms) and also on thin peat (ie. marshy grassland). The threshold of peat depth in the Phase 1 context is 0.5m. Locally this vegetation also has frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum} (ie. giving wet heath in shallow peat areas). Finally, there are also areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5) and, where {\it E. nigrum} is present here, this constitutes the additional habitat category of dry heath/acidic grassland mosaic.

On the steeper slopes of Dowry Castle Hill, to the south, the vegetation gives way to an extensive area of tall {\it M. caerulea} marshy grassland.

Finally, to the north of the common, along the course of Dowry Water, there are a number of acidic flushes within an area of acidic grassland. These features are dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}. Other species noted include locally abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Agrostis canina}, plus locally occasional {\it Cirsium palustre, Stellaria alsine, Holcus mollis} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. These flushes all appear to belong to NVC type M6c. One area was also noted to have a well-developed stand of {\it Carex curta}, while elsewhere, other bryophytes were abundant - {\it Philonotis fontana, Dicranella palustris, Lophocolea bidentata} and {\it Brachythecium rivulare}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. There are no physical boundaries with any of the contiguous commons. However, the common is fenced from the A640, with a further internal fence lying just to the north of this (see 1:10,000 scale map under CL 536). The area to the north of this fence, which is contiguous with CL 536, is also grazed by cattle. For a general account of the management issues relating to the SSSI as a whole, please refer to CL 39.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipit, skylark, carrion crow, red grouse, rabbit, painted lady (butterfly).

VEG:
The common comprises an area of open fell on hills to the east of Bacup, the site partially straddling the border with Lancashire. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1991, which provides basic habitat details. Additional information was gathered while viewing the common from the rights of way which cross it.

Area (1) is a plateau which is mainly vegetated with species-poor acidic grassland dominated either by {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC type U6) or {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC U5). Locally frequent associates include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Carex nigra}. There are several localised areas with remnants of peaty substrate which have tussocks of {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (remnant NVC M20).

To the south and east of here (2) the land falls away into a broad, shallow valley. Here there is marshy grassland dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it E. vaginatum}. Areas in between the tussocks tend to be characterised by {\it Juncus squarrosus, M. caerulea, Carex nigra}, with occasional {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. Locally there are small clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}, while drier areas are tending to an acidic grassland sward dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. This vegetation appears to have developed on the peat which has probably been deposited after being eroded from the plateau. It does not appear to correspond well with any of the NVC communities, but may be transitional with types M20 and M25.

To the east of the common (3) lies a second hilltop area which is shown to have an acidic grassland sward, probably dominated by {\it N. stricta} and {\it J. squarrosus}.

To the north of the common are further areas of acidic grassland, with frequent clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}, and locally with evidence of eurtophication in the form of clumps of {\it Urtica dioica}. There is a steep bank of exposed shale above Limer's Gate (4).

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and cattle. The common is bounded by stock-proof fencing, apart for the southern edge, where the common is unfenced from the open fell on the remaining, non-registered portion of Inchfield Moor. Overall grazing levels appear high and the vegetation of the common appears to be of very low botanical diversity. However, the grassland may be important for ground nesting birds such as meadow pipit and skylark. On the plateau at (1), there had been a recent application (?lime or fertiliser). There has been extensive tipping of old ceramic pipes along the track (Limer's Gate) in the vicinity of the shale embankment (4). This could have come from the works on the opposite side of the A681. There is also an area of dumped rubble on the very northern part of the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna noted specifically on this common during the site visit. The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (please see under CL 39 for a full account of the ornithological importance of this SSSI).

VEG:
The major part of the common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). For a general account of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to the contiguous CL 39. This particular common is one of a number which lie entirely within Greater Manchester and appear to be registered in the district of Oldham, although they also appear on the Kirklees (ie. West Yorkshire) register. Also included in this category are CLs 487, 310 and 536).  There is habitat information available for the adjacent commons which lie in West Yorkshire. General reference has been made to this source, although most of the following description is the result of the present survey. 

The common lies on the western edge of the Pennine Moors above Oldham. It includes a section of the plateau ("Northern Rotcher"), which has blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (NVC type M20). This has frequent/abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. Along the edge of the blanket mire, which is followd by the Pennine Way, there is severe and extensive active peat erosion taking place. Much of this appears to have been initiated by the presence of the path, with a wide swathe of bare peat, up to 20m wide in places running along the top of the gritstone crags at the break of slope. Where the path crosses the plateau to the north, it has cut through the entire depth of the peat (1.5-2.0m) to the underlying mineral substrate.                    

The slope to the western side of the common mainly has a marshy grassland sward on thin peat dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC type M25), with smaller areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). Other associates of this grassland include frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} plus occasional {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Locally, {\it D. flexuosa} becomes dominant, possibly marking a transition to NVC type U2. Gritstone boulders are prominent in some areas, while on Coal Hill Slades there are occasional acidic flushes dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.

To the north of this slope is a transitional area with remnants of blanket mire vegetation, creating a complex habitat pattern. This is dominated in parts again by {\it E. vaginatum} but elsewhere by {\it M. caerulea}. The latter can be found here on both deep peat (ie. greater than 0.5m), translating to wet modified bog (with {\it Empetrum nigrum} locally frequent in these areas), and also on thin peat as marshy grassland. The picture is further complicated by the additional presence of acidic grassland as a component of this mosaic. 

The two smaller northern portions of the common lie adjacent to the A640. There are acidic grassland road verges dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. These quickly pass into the adjacent {\it Molinia} marshy grassland. One of the lay-bys at the edge of the A640 has seen some fly-tipping, with several large stands of {\it Urtica dioica} developing here.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, and on the lower slopes to the south, also by cattle. There are no physical boundaries with any of the contiguous commons. The eroding edge of the blanket mire has already been highlighted. This is a consistent feature of the South Pennine blanket mires and is discussed in more detail under CL 39. On this particular common, the presence of the Pennine Way appears to have been a significant factor instigating or exacerbating peat erosion. Several experimental revegetation trial plots were noted on bare peat on this common, close to the point where the Pennine Way turns northwards from the plateau edge (see photograph location). Part of the footpath along here has been repaired with hardcore laid on a matting base.


FAUNA:
No fauna noted specifically on this common during the site visit (please refer to contiguous commons).

VEG:
This common is one of a number which lie entirely within Greater Manchester and appear to be registered in the district of Oldham, although they also appear on the Kirklees (ie West Yorkshire) register. Also included in this category are CLs 487, 494 and 310). There is habitat information available for the adjacent commons which lie in West Yorkshire. General reference has been made to this source, although most of the following description is the result of the present survey, although the common was only viewed from the A640.

Most of the common comprises a tall sward of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}. To the north lies a smaller area of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. There is also one small area of dense bracken adjacent to the A640.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be only lightly grazed, possibly by cattle. It is not fenced from the contiguous CL 310. The A640 is fenced along both sides. Note that the northern point of the common is crossed by an internal dry stone wall (pre-dating registration).


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipit, swallow, red grouse, golden plover, painted lady.

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex (of which this common forms a part). The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat.

VEG:
All of this common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the new SSSI lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are the Howarth-Oakworth Moors (a section of which overlaps this common), Ilkley Moor, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land. (See attached maps of commons in this block and also of the boundary of this section of the SSSI).  

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops at several points within the SSSI. Further exposures are found in numerous abandoned quarries which often lie at the edge of the moor. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

The habitat map for the common has been drawn from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey. Additional information was gathered during a brief visit to parts of the site, using rights of way.

The greater part of the common comprises dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. This forms an almost continuous swathe across most of the site. {\it Calluna} is generally  overwhelmingly dominant, with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, inconspicuous {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. This vegetation probably belongs to NVC type H9. The {\it Calluna} occurs in large even-aged blocks (due to burning), at almost 100 per cent cover, mainly showing only slight signs of grazing by sheep. Note also the occasional small stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} indicated on the habitat map to the NE. 

The SW corner of the common lies at the edge of a plateau which has seen the development of blanket mire. This appears typical of the South Pennine mires, being dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, but with {\it Sphagnum} mosses absent - dry modified bog in Phase 1 terms. Over significant areas, {\it E. vaginatum} is overwhelmingly dominant (east of Little Wolf Stones), but elsewhere this is joined by abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally rare {\it Erica tetralix}. All of this vegetation belongs to NVC type M20. Where {\it Calluna} occurs, it rises to as much as 90 per cent cover, and is around 30cm tall, showing few signs of grazing by sheep. Aside the Pennine Way footpath the blanket mire tends to give way to a strip of {\it Nardus stricta} acidic grassland. 

Further east of Old Bess Hill the blanket mire peters out into a mosiac of dry heath and acidic grassland co-dominated by {\it N. stricta} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} (GR 983 390). Locally there are scattered remnants of blanket mire vegetation in the form of peaty tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Grazing levels overall appear slight. In the absence of any registered grazing rights (very unusual for such a common), the stock are probably put out by a tenant. 

The main form of management is as grouse moor, this common forming part of a major grouse shooting area. The {\it Calluna} is managed by a programme of rotational burning. As a result, most of the heather is present as even-aged blocks.

A stock-proof boundary was noted in the SW between this common and the contiguous CL 15 (North Yorks). However, looking from the other side of the site, at the Hitching Stone, on the boundary with N. Yorks CL 11, no fence was evident. There is apparently some dispute over the erection of boundary fences between the individual commons within this block. It appears as though CLs 600 and CL 11 (N. Yorks) are managed by the same individual as a single land unit, but that CL 15 is managed by someone else.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: 

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

 The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. The South Pennine Moors as a whole support 1.3 per cent of the British breeding population of this species. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting habitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The pair of shelduck nesting at Blackstone Edge Reservoir are believed to be the highest altitude nesting birds of this species in Britain. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

VEG:
This common lies at the edge of the open moorland at the upper edge of the Calder Valley. It lies at the edge of a section of the South Pennine Moors SSSI/pSPA. In fact the boundary at this point coincides with the southern and south-western boundaries of the common. For a fuller account of the SSSI, please see under the nearby and much larger common, CL 397. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey during 1991.

The common lies at the moorland fringe, with the NE portion lying on the edge of the plateau. This area supports dry-modified bog, part of a large expanse of this habitat occurring on the plateau. This vegetation is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with abundant-to-occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}, plus occasional {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (ie. NVC type M20). The {\it Calluna} plants here are well-developed mature bushes, up to 50cm tall, showing little evidence of grazing, at around 30 per cent cover overall. There are occasional areas of bare peat within the blanket mire surface, some measuring up to 10m across. These have been colonised locally by {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} (NVC type M3). Locally the underlying Millstone Grit substrate has been exposed. 

The south-western portion of the common lies on sloping ground at the plateau edge. This predominantly supports a dry heath vegetation co-dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} (probably NVC type H12). This {\it Calluna} is again at around 40 per cent cover, up to 1.0m tall and not grazed. A few small areas have been recently burnt, probably accidentally. Locally within this heath are small acidic grassland areas dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Carex nigra}, plus occasional {\it Festuca ovina} (NVC U2). In addition, there are a number of wet hollows and channels in this area which have tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} with occasional {\it E. vaginatum}. This {\it Molinia}-dominated vegetation becomes a more prominent feature at the base of the slope, adjoining New Road and has been taken to mark a localised transition to wet heath/marshy grassland.

At the margin of the blanket mire there is a band of transitional vegetation between the two principal habitat types.

MANAGE:
The common apears to be unfenced from the adjoining moorland. The boundary wall along New Road is collapsing. The site appears to be grazed only by an occasional sheep straying from the open fell. Most of the {\it Calluna} on the common is in a mature condition, and shows no sign of any modification by grazing effects. A small area had been recently burnt. As the site lies on the very edge of the moorland fringe, this may have been accidental, rather than part of deliberate management - no other burnt areas being obvious in the general vicinity.  There are several small, shallow abandoned quarries at the edge of New Road, now vegetated with mature {\it Calluna}.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: skylark, meadow pipit, flock of starlings, wheatear, ?ringed plover (Blackstone Edge Reservoir).

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires.  Blanket mire on this common around White Holme Reservoir thought to be the best area in Greater Manchester for dunlin. Several pairs of redshank also noted here (GMEU - SBI report). 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting habitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The pair of shelduck nesting at Blackstone Edge Reservoir are believed to be the highest altitude nesting birds of this species in Britain. The reservoirs also attract waders on passage (eg. knot). The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

VEG:
The major part of this common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Rishworth Moor, within which this common lies, plus Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land.

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops throughout the SSSI. On this particular common there are outcrops at several points along the edge of the plateau, where there has been past quarrying activity. The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common lies at the edge of an extensive plateau which forms the backbone of the South Pennine Moors to the east of Manchester. It is part of a continuous block of common land which runs from Todmorden as far south as Wessenden Head, within the Peak District National Park. The eastern section of the common lies on the plateau, within which are sited a number of reservoirs (these being mainly excluded from registration as common). To the west lies a steep slope which leads down into the valley of the river Roch. 

This particular common, although included within the West Yorkshire Register, lies entriely within the county of Greater Manchester (ie. along the county boundary). As such, it has not been covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey, which stops at the county boundary. The area was covered by a Phase 1 survey of Rochdale in 1988 (Greater Manchester Ecology Unit). In practice it proved to be quicker to survey the common from scratch, with reference to the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey for adjacent, similar habitats. However, the Rochdale survey was consulted for the Chelburn Moor area, which was not visited during the present survey. Part of this common also overlaps with a GMEU "Site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester". General information on habitats has also been drawn from the SSSI citation.

The eastern side of the common lies at the edge of a plateau which has extensive areas of rather degraded blanket mire. In the main this takes the form of dry modified bog dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. Within this are frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, plus locally frequent/abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type M20). Much of this blanket bog is actively eroding, with around 20-40 per cent bare peat showing over much of the area.

In between Warland Reservoir and White Holme Reservoir is an area of blanket bog which is listed as a "Site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester". This appears typical of the above, but does not appear to be suffering from peat erosion. It is described as "Best example of blanket bog in area and amongst the best in Greater Manchester". 

Blanket mire to the north of Blackstone Edge Reservoir is reported to be the "best area of {\it Erica tetralix} in Greater Manchester (A. GreatRex, pers. comm.).

Along the western fringe of the blanket mire is a zone dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} with frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, marking areas which equate in Phase 1 terms to wet modified bog. This is particularly prominent in the area between White Holme and Blackstone Edge Reservoirs and belongs to NVC type M25. Once again, {\it E. nigrum} and {\it E. angustifolium} are locally frequent. Bare eroded peat is also a consistent feature of this zone, with around 20 per cent of this being noted here. Some of the eroded peat within the plateau area is being colonised by {\it E. angustifolium}, while elsewhere, small areas of acidic grassland have developed and are dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} or {\it Nardus stricta}. In addition, there are exposed areas of underlying substrate, plus associated gritstone boulders. To the south-west of White Holme Reservoir there is around 50 per cent bare peat present, again with locally frequent colonising {\it E. angustifolium}. 

To the SE of White Holme Reservoir, across Middle Hill and Nigher Hill, {\it Calluna vulgaris} is present, being generally abundant and locally dominant withgin areas of both dry bog (ie. {\it E. vaginatum}/M20) and wet bog ({\it M. caerulea}/M25). In addition to {\it Calluna}, these areas also have occasional/frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum} and locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. This {\it Calluna} is all mature, between 20-30cm tall, at around 70 per cent overall cover and shows little evidence of grazing by sheep. Two species-poor acidic flushes associated with this area include {\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum, M. caerulea} and {\it E. angustifolium} (NVC type M6).

On Chelburn Moor at the margin of the blanket mire there is a transition to {\it Molinia}-dominated vegetation on thin peat, still NVC M25, but in Phase 1 terms this is marshy grassland. This may give way on better-drained slopes to an acidic grassland dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, whilst there are other areas which appear to have a transitional marshy/acidic grassland sward with {\it M. caerulea} and {\it D. flexuosa} both abundant. There are some stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} on the edges of Light Hazzles Clough, with scattered stands in a few other localities.

At the margin of Blackstone Edge Moor there is a steep hillside which leads down to Halifax Road. This has much acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC type U5). Towards the top of this hillside there is also a dry heath element to the vegetation in the form of locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum}. This appears to have persisted in association with vestigial remnants of dry blanket bog as repsesented by localised tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum}. In the abandoned Blackstone Edge Quarries to the north of this slope, this mosaic of vegetation is also joined by a sparse acidic grassland sward on spoil heaps, dominated purely by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type U2).  

To the other (western) side of Halifax Road, lie Cowberry Hill and Stormer Hill, gently undulating features outlying the main upland block. These tend to have {\it Molinia} marshy grassland on the level ground and slope bases, with areas of {\it N. stricta} acidic grassland on the steeper slopes. Locally the marshy grassland is of a type dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Juncus effusus}. Several stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are present on this part of the common.   

Blackstone Edge Reservoir is a site of Biological Importance in Greater Manchester, but this is excluded from registration as common land.

MANAGE:
The common lies at the edge of a major water catchment area. The common is unfenced from the contiguous CL 121 and land to the east. However the southern boundary with CL 675 has a stock-proof fence. The roads across the common are generally unfenced. The boundary with Greater Manchester follows the eastern edge of the common (ie. lies within Greater Manchester).  

The whole area is grazed by sheep and also possibly cattle at lower altitudes. The area appears to have had a sustained high grazing pressure for a considerable time. For example, there is a general lack of heath species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris} within the vegetation communities on the common.  A history of sustained grazing is also thought to be one of a number of factors which have produced the degraded/drying blanket mires typical of these South Pennine Moorlands. This is reflected in the active erosion of peat, lack of {\it Sphagnum} mosses and the dominance of unpalatable and tussock-forming species such as {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. A number of other processes are involved, such as burning and atmospheric pollution. It is not possible to go into this subject in detail here, but English Nature have produced a comprehensive review of the relevant literature (see references). 

There has been extensive experimental work undertaken looking at management methods suitable for thr restoration of eroded blanket mires. This issue can be reviewed by reading the site description for CL 39, Marsden Moor. This common, which is owned by the National Trust, has suffered particularly severe peat erosion and measures to try and restore vegetation to the bare peat are currently being undertaken.

The importance of the South Pennine Moors in general for ground nesting birds has been outlined elsewhere. Recreational use of the moors may result in some disturbance to these birds.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: meadow pipit, wheatear, skylark, curlew, flock of starlings, 

The South Pennine Moors, in addition to being scheduled as SSSI, have also been proposed as a Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. 

The moorlands support nationally important numbers of golden plover, curlew, merlin and twite. These species, together with a diverse assemblage of other breeding birds, all rely on the mosaic of habitats found across the moors for their survival and many are here at their southernmost British breeding stations. The most recent counts are of 51 pairs of merlin (minimum of 7.8 per cent of the British breeding population), 707 pairs of golden plover (3.1 per cent) and 694 pairs of curlew (1.8 per cent). 

The blanket mires are the main breeding areas for golden plover and dunlin. These birds need relatively short vegetation to nest in and also access to wet areas to feed, a combination of features found on the blanket mires. 

Large numbers of meadow pipit and skylark nesting on the moors provide a major food source for merlin. The deeper cover provided by the heather provides nest sites for a range of other species. For example, merlin prefer to nest in the older, leggy heather, bracken, or small trees on the moorland edge. 

Most dependent on the heather moors are red grouse. Their stronghold is on the managed moors of the Haworth Moors complex. The birds require a diverse age-structure within the heather stands, nesting in the shelter of taller, mature plants, but also needing young growth to provide the best food. Accessibility to flushed areas during the nesting period is also important for fledging success, with additional food available here in the form of cranefly (Tipulid) larvae in these localities.  

Golden plover are also known to nest on recently burnt areas of heather moorland. Curlew favour for breeding sites, the wet acidic grasslands and semi-improved areas on the edge of the moors. A significant number (ie. 0.8 per cent) of the British population breed within the South Pennine Moors, sharing this habitat with lapwing and in the wettest areas, snipe and redshank. 

The moors also support 1 per cent of the British population of twite. These birds are an isolated southern population of the race {\it piplans}, which occurs only in Scandinavia and the British Isles, being isolated from the remainder of the world population in the mountains of Central Asia. The South Pennine population is therefore seen as vital in maintaining the present world distribution. Twite usually use all of the moorland habitats at different stages of their life cycle. They prefer heather for nesting, but also use bracken, boulder screes, grass tussocks and dry stone walls. Feeding on small seeds, they utilise grassy areas across the moorlands, weedy areas on the moorland fringes, semi-improved pastures and even areas of burnt {\it Molinia} grassland.

Peregrine nest in small numbers on suitable crags and disused quarries and up to three pairs of short-eared owl have also nested in recent years. The moors also support wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel and in some years, stonechat. 

The large reservoirs within and adjacent to the site provide feeding areas for moorland birds such as dunlin, as well as nesting habitat for common sandpiper and grey wagtail. Two more unusual species which nest on the reservoirs are little ringed plover and shelduck. The pair of shelduck nesting at Blackstone Edge Reservoir are believed to be the highest altitude nesting birds of this species in Britain. The streams draining the reservoirs and moors support small numbers of dipper.

VEG:
The major part of this common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI (see map). This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the site lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are Rishworth Moor, Ilkley Moor, the Howarth Moors, and Moss Moor, with a considerable portion of the whole SSSI being common land.

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops throughout the SSSI. On this particular common there are outcrops most notably along Blackstone Edge, which forms a distinctive landscape feature. There are also exposures within small disused quarries along the western fringe of the common. 

The SSSI as a whole is the largest area of unenclosed moorland within West Yorkshire and contains the most diverse and extensive examples of upland plant communities within the county. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

This common lies at the edge of an extensive plateau which forms the backbone of the South Pennine Moors to the east of Manchester. It part of a continuous block of common land which runs from Todmorden as far south as Wessenden Head, within the Peak District National Park. The eastern section of the common lies on the plateau edge and forms part of a major water catchment area. To the west is the outlying plateau area of Low House Moor.

This particular common, although included within the West Yorkshire Register, lies entriely within the county of Greater Manchester (ie. along the county boundary). As such, it has not been covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey, which stops at the county boundary. There is probably some information on file with the Greater Manchester Countryside Unit, although there was insufficient time to consult this source. In practice it proved to be quicker to survey the common from scratch, with reference to the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey for adjacent, similar habitats. General information on habitats has also been drawn from the SSSI citation.

The eastern side of the common lies at the edge of a plateau which has extensive areas of rather degraded blanket mire. This takes the form of dry modified bog dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. Within this are frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, plus locally frequent/abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type M20). Much of this blanket bog is actively eroding, with many stages of the process being evident across the common. For example, along the upper course of Longden Edge Brook (GR 998 152), there is extensive marginal gullying of the mire surface to reveal a peat depth of 1.5-2.0m. The adjacent mire also has significant exposures of bare peat. More marked peat erosion has occurred to the north of here on the western flank of Blackstone Edge. Here there is around 20 per cent bare peat showing, plus a exposures of bare substrate and numerous gritstone boulders. Over extensive areas, the blanket mire has been reduced to isolated tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum}, situated within a mosaic of acidic grassland and heath dominated by {\it E. nigrum} and {\it D. flexuosa}. The final stage in the process appears to be the loss of {\it E. vaginatum} to produce a grass/heath mosaic with {\it D. flexuosa} and {\it E. nigrum}. This phenomenon can be seen on the plateau of Low House Moor.

On the steeper slopes to the west of the common there tends to be a pure acidic grassland sward dominated mainly by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). Associates of this include locally frequent {\it D. flexuosa}, plus locally occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. On the less well-drained slopes this grades into marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC type M25). Associated with the latter habitat are small species-poor acidic flushes, dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c). 

The plateau of Low House Moor has two small, isolated hollows which contain basin mires (GRs 958 153 and 962 149). These between them have abundant {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, plus frequent {\it E. vaginatum, D. flexuosa, Sphagnum recurvum, Agrostis canina} and {\it Polytrichum commune. M. caerulea} is locally frequent, while the most northerly one also has locally frequent {\it Viola palustris} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}. There is a small open water body in the nearby old quarry workings at Dry Mere (GR 957 153).

Clegg Moor has some small stands of dense bracken, mostly on sheltered marginal slopes, while smaller areas are evident at the western edge of Bleakedgate Moor.

The M62 lies is a fairly deep cutting in this locality, especially along its northern edge. The exposed rock along this section has developed a mosaic of acidic grassland and dry heath of {\it D. flexuosa, Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. The areas adjacent to the hard shoulder tend to have coarse neutral grassland, while locally, scattered scrub of {\it Salix} spp. is developing.

NB. The plateau of Low House Moor is rather difficult to map due to the topography. It is also difficult to view from the south due to the presence of the M62. The map shown here is only an approximate interpretation and a more satisfactory result would be obtained by referring to an aerial photograph. These are available for the area from the Greater Manchester Countryside Unit, but there was insufficient time to consult this source for this purpose.

MANAGE:
The common lies at the edge of a major water catchment area. It is unfenced from the contiguous CL 427 to the east. However, the northern boundary with CL 674 has a stock-proof fence. In addition, the M62 and the A672 have stock-proof fencing. The boundary with Greater Manchester follows the eastern edge of the common (ie. lies within Greater Manchester).  

The whole area is grazed by sheep and also possibly cattle at lower altitudes. The area appears to have had a sustained high grazing pressure for a considerable time. For example, there is a general lack of heath species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris} within the vegetation communities on the common.  A history of sustained grazing is also thought to be one of a number of factors which have produced the degraded/drying blanket mires typical of these South Pennine Moorlands. This is reflected in the active erosion of peat, lack of {\it Sphagnum} mosses and the dominance of unpalatable and tussock-forming species such as {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. A number of other processes are involved, such as burning and atmospheric pollution. It is not possible to go into this subject in detail here, but English Nature have produced a comprehensive review of the relevant literature (see references). 

There has been extensive experimental work undertaken looking at management methods suitable for thr restoration of eroded blanket mires. This issue can be reviewed by reading the site description for CL 39, Marsden Moor. This common, which is owned by the National Trust, has suffered particularly severe peat erosion and measures to try and restore vegetation to the bare peat are currently being undertaken. 

A particular problem in recent years has been erosion of blanket peat by walkers along the route of the Pennine Way. The damage extends to a progressively wider area as users walk to the edges to avoid the bare peat. Illegal use by mountain bikes may be further adding to this problem. The most successful permanent repair method is to lay a continuous causeway of recycled gritstone flags on top of the peat. These are very easy to walk on and offer a more favourable substrate to the damaged peat. The adjacent bare peat is seeded with a nurse crop of grasses such as {\it Lolium perenne}, with fertiliser added. This dies back naturally over several years as more natural vegetation establishes itself. The cost of this method is high, but the results are dramatic and the benefit long-lasting. It is also perhaps the most visually acceptable method, as it uses materials occurring neturally within the area. Used originally in the Peak District National Park, this method has been used on several sections of the Pennine Way in West Yorkshire, with other areas in urgent need of similar treatment. 

The importance of the South Pennine Moors in general for ground nesting birds has been outlined elsewhere. Recreational use of the moors may result in some disturbance to these birds. 

Note presence of a transmitter mast situated close to the A672.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: swallow, housemartin, greenfinch, blue tit, yellowhammer.

VEG:
This small common comprises a series of roadside verges along the B6428 at the edge of the village of Ryhill, in the south of the county. There is a basic habitat map from the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey (1987/88). Most of the following description is, however, based on a field survey. 

To the south of the road the vegetation is somewhat coarse and overgrown, comprising a mixture of tall neutral grassland, tall ruderals, scrub and scattered trees. Much of this grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally frequent associates such as {\it Heracleum sphondyium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Artemisia vulgaris, Lathyrus pratensis, Lamium album} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Toward the central portion of this area is a localised type of neutral grassland dominated by tussocky {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. In between the tussocks there tends to be abundant {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, while elsewhere within the sward are occasional-to-frequent {\it Juncus conglomeratus, Achillea ptarmica} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. There are also small areas dominated by {\it Holcus mollis}. 

To the extreme south is an area of damp grassland, again dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. This lies at the edge of a small pond, which is itself not actually on the common. Frequent within this area are {\it Potentilla anserina, Cardamine pratensis, Galium palustre, Angelica sylvestris, Geleopsis tetrahit} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. The scrub and trees are most strongly-developed toward the north, while a hedgerow with trees forms the southern boundary of the site. Species included within these features are {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Rosa canina, Sorbus aucuparia} (planted), {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Crataegus monogyna, Malus} sp., {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Salix} sp., {\it Salix fragilis, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.                                  

To the north of the road, the common is quite a narrow verge. This has a quite varied mixture of tall {\it A. elatius} grassland/tall ruderal species, plus further areas of scrub and trees, best developed toward the NE end. Here the scrub/trees include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus, Betula pendula, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rosa canina}. Other species noted in this area include {\it Urtica dioica, Teucrium scorodonia, Galium aparine, Agropyron repens}, plus small stands of dense bracken. Further to the south there are scattered trees which also include {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Salix} sp. and {\it Quercus} sp. Along the edge of the road is a narrow strip of mown grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Atriplex} sp./{\it Chenopodium} sp.

MANAGE:
The main management feature is the adoption of the part to the south of the road as a nature reserve by Wakefield Council. A limited amount of active management work has included the cutting of paths, provision of wooden picnic tables and a short length of boardwalk. At the time of the site visit, the latter area appeared to be drying-out somewhat. The overgrown and scrubby nature of the common probably provides shelter to a number of birds and small mammals. However, the B 6428 has a high density of fast-moving traffic which must result in frequent road kills of such. The road verges are closely mown to maintain visibility for motorists and there is a spread of halophyte species due to road gritting.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blackcap, yellowhammer, blackbird, willow warbler, bullfinch, rabbits.

VEG:
The common lies to either side of the A638 Wakefield Road at the edge of the village of Ackworth Moor Top. The WYEAIS Phase 1 survey gives a basic habitat map. The following description is based entirely on a field survey.

The predominant vegetation type on the common is a coarse neutral grassland with an element of tall ruderal species. This is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally frequent or occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium arvense, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. To the south of the road, other species noted locally within this vegetation include {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Tragopogon pratensis, Lathyrus pratensis, Artemisia vulgaris} and {\it Centaurea nigra}. Locally there are also small areas of dense and scattered bracken. 

The North-western arm of the common (1) has a rather different, somewhat damp grassland  with {\it D. cespitosa, Juncus inflexus, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Carex hirta}. 

At (2) is a small clearing with an acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Galium saxatile}, locally frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally occasional {\it Hypochoeris radicata}. Smaller areas of similar grassland occur elsewhere. There is also a part of this area which appears to have been burnt in the past and this has abundant {\it Holcus mollis} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. 

In addition to the above habitats, areas of dense and scattered scrub, plus scattered broadleaved trees also occur across parts of the whole site. The main scrub species appears to be {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with some {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and  {\it Ulex europaeus}, while the trees include {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Malus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Parts of the common are also bounded by hedges/trees which include {\it C. monogyna, Salix capraea} and {\it F. excelsior}. Along the edges of the road in area (1) are occasional small rather stunted, planted trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Tilia} sp. and {\it Prunus} sp.

MANAGE:
The common has been designated as a nature reserve, possibly by the owner, local authority or the parish council. There is a good structural diversity of habitats present. The scrub and trees appear to offer good cover to a variety of birds. The tall grassland may support small mammal populations and could be important for a range of invertebrates. The site is not especially diverse botanically, although the damp grassland at (1) introduces further habitat diversity. 

There are litter sources in the form of dead bracken fronds and at least one dead tree of {\it Sambucus nigra} was noted. The common therefore appears to be of nature conservation value in a local context. A policy of non-intervention is probably the best management strategy. Recent plantings of tree seedlings do not appear to have established particularly well.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: whitethroat, willow warbler, housemartin, robin, greenfinch, swallow, chiffchaff, yellowhammer, skylark, blackbird, small white butterfly and small skipper. Numerous water boatmen noted on small ponds, plus blue-coloured damselflies.

VEG:
The common lies to the edge of the Village of Ackworth Moor Top, some way to the SE of Wakefield. The area was covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey in 1987/88, which provides basic habitat information. The following description is, however, based on a field survey.

The southern portion (1) slopes down from the road to a beck which runs along the eastern edge. This area has a complex mosaic of habitat types. Toward the centre is an area of unimproved acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Galium saxatile}, plus locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. Surrounding this area is a mosaic of coarse neutral grassland plus tall ruderal species. This is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with occasional {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Convolvolus arvensis} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. Damp hollows within the grassland are dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. Also present across this area are patches of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, dense scrub, plus scattered broadleaved trees. The scrub/trees comprise {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Sambucus nigra, Quercus} sp., {\it Rosa canina, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

Along Hessle Beck (2) is a narrow strip of scrubby woodland. This has trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix fragilis, Salix} spp., {\it C. monogyna, Quercus} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The field layer/understorey includes {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Stachys sylvatica, Artemisia vulgaris, Plantago major, Pteridium aquilinum, Ranunculus repens, Galium aparine, Urtica dioica} and {\it Festuca ? gigantea}.

(3) includes a stand of marshy grassland dominated by tussocky {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. Within this are locally frequent {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Rumex acetosa, Holcus lanatus, Galium palustre} and locally occasional {\it Juncus effusus, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. Situated at the northern end of this compartment is a small pond, plus an adjacent area which appears now to be silted-up. Species present from these two features include {\it Typha latifolia, Ranunculus flammula, Sparganium emersum, Glyceria fluitans, Juncus bulbosus} and {\it J. articulatus}.

There are two further small ponds along the course of Hessle Beck. The next northwards appears to have been dug quite recently and has poorly-developed vegetation as yet. Noted here were occasional {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Iris pseudacorus, Veronica beccabunga, Typha latifolia} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. There is a small island within the pond. In addition, several tall trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior and Salix fragilis} lie along the course of the beck at this point. The final, most northerly pond, has much better-established vegetation. Noted here were {\it Juncus articulatus, J. effusus, J. acutiflorus, Typha latifolia, Rorippa nastrutium-aquaticum, Callitriche} sp., {\it Myriophyllum spicatum, Veronica beccabunga, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Glyceria} sp. 

This northern part of the common is mainly vegetated with more coarse neutral grassland and tall ruderal species, plus occasional scattered scrub as before. In the vicinity of (4), species noted along the beck include {\it Scrophularia aquatica, Impatiens glandulifera} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

Along the entire western side of the common runs a hedge with trees, plus a narrow neutral grassland verge along the edge of the road. This hedge includes {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with trees which locally include {\it Salix fragilis, Fraxinus excelsior, Malus} sp., {\it Corylus avellana, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Additional grassland species noted include {\it Galium cruciata, Potentilla reptans, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Lathyrus pratensis, Tragopogon pratense, Ranunculus acris, Bromus sterilis, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Plantago major}.

MANAGE:
The common has been designated as a nature reserve, possibly by the owner, local authority or parish council. There appears to have been a very low level of management activity on the site and there is presently a great structural diversity of habitats present. Additional diversity has been added by presence of several ponds, two of which at least, appear to have been deliberately created. The common appears to offer great potential for a range of birds, invertebrates and small mammals and is likely to be of significant local nature conservation importance. With the creation of the ponds, a low level of intervention is probably the best management strategy for the time being.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: housemartin, chiffchaff, blue tit, wren.

VEG:
The common lies at the southern edge of the Wintersett Reservoir. It is included within the boundary of a scheduled second tier site which incorporates the Wintersett and Cold Hiendley Reservoirs. The common itself comprises a small block of semi-natural broadleaved woodland which is briefly described within the citation for the site as a whole. A brief visit was also made to the common during the course of the present survey.

The woodland of the common has a canopy mainly dominated by {\it Quercus} spp., locally also with individuals of {\it Betula} spp. There is also a band of {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Salix cinerea} along the edge of the reservior. A sparse shrub layer comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Much of the field layer is dominated by either {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Agrostis capillaris} or {\it Holcus mollis}. Other species occurring occasionally include {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}. Some of the more mature trees have areas of dead wood developing and there is a scattering of fallen dead timber on the woodland floor. There is also abundant oak leaf litter present.

Next to the small pull-in beside the road along the southern edge of the common is a large clump of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Reynoutria japonica}.

MANAGE:
The common itself appears to have no evidence of any recent management. Despite the close proximity to areas of housing, the main part of the wood appears remarkably undisturbed. The only encroachments appear to be the areas of tipping (brick rubble/old tyres) at the two roadside locations. 

There are good sources of standing and fallen dead timber, plus leaf litter. The common therefore appears to have potential value for a range of woodland birds, plus dead wood and other invertebrates. There is a large body of data relating to the reservoirs and marginal habitats, but the common itself appears to require further study.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit: meadow pipit.

VEG:
This common lies on the eastern edge of Midgley Moor (ie. CL 498). A small, section to the SW in fact lies within the boundary of the open fell (1). This boundary is indicated by the fence line on the habitat map and also shows that this small section of the common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. The area has been covered by the WYEAIS Phase 1 survey, but with no target noted information, the following description is based on the present survey.

The area at (1) is part of a larger area of {\it Calluna vulgaris} dry dwarf shrub heath which extends across this part of the contiguous CL 498. {\it Calluna} is dominant at 90 per cent cover, with locally frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, plus locally occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. Areas which have been burnt at some time in recent years have {\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus} co-dominant. To the other side of the boundary wall (2) is a steep slope along the edge of a gully which has a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland. The heath is dominated by a suppressed sward of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} with occasional "drumstick" individuals of {\it Calluna}. The acidic grassland is dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it D. flexuosa}, with locally occasional {\it M. caerulea} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Toward the lower part of this slope, {\it Juncus effusus} appears abundant and this may indicate the presence of a flushed area.

The remaining, larger section of the common is gently shelving and has a complex and diverse mosaic of different habitats present. The drier (mostly up-slope) areas tend to have dry heath dominated by {\it V. myrtillus}, with {\it Calluna} being mainly only occasional, but locally becoming co-dominant. Rare individuals of {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} were noted within part of this vegetation. This part of the common also has a number of springs emerging within it and this has allowed areas of wet heath to develop. This is characterised by an abundance of {\it Molinia caerulea} and where {\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus} are joined by rare individuals of {\it Erica tetralix}. All of this heath vegetation is ungrazed and mature, between 0.5-0.75m tall. Other features of this area are scattered scrub and broadleaved trees which include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Quercus} sp., {\it Betula} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Salix capraea} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The central portion appears to have a stand of pure tussocky {\it Molinia} marshy grassland, plus small areas of wet heath. 

The springs have also produced numerous diffuse flushes which permeate across the site in a complex pattern. These contain a wide diversity of species which include abundant/frequent {\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum, Sphagnum palustre, Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosa, Cirsium palustre, Viola palustris, Epilobium palustre, Equisetum sylvaticum, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Galium palustre}. Other plants which are locally frequent include {\it Narthecium ossifragum, Oreopteris limbosperma, Blechnum spicant, Digitalis purpurea, Potentilla erecta, Holcus lanatus, Juncus acutiflorus, Agrostis canina, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Achillea ptarmica, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Sphagnum auriculatum}. 

To add yet further habitat diversity, there is a transition to drier neutral grassland habitats along the edges of the road to the NE of the common. Stands of tall ruderals within this area (and in small patches elsewhere) include {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Scattered scrub includes {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Rosa canina} and {\it C. monogyna}, while scattered trees here include {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. There are also occasional small patches of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The edge of the heath to the opposite side of the road at this point has locally occasional bushes of {\it Ulex gallii} amongst the {\it Calluna/V. myrtillus}.

MANAGE:
Area (1) lies within the SSSI and is at the edge of an expanse of managed grouse moor which lies on the plateau. This area appears lightly grazed by sheep. The steep slope at (2) is also sheep-grazed, but at a much higher intensity. This piece of land forms a single small grazing unit, with a single ewe plus lamb present at the time of the site visit. The heath species appear to be in a very suppressed condition. 

The remainder of the common is ungrazed and in fact appears totally unmanaged. This has allowed the vegetation to become tall, in contrast to the adjacent moorland, and has also allowed some colonisation by scrub and trees. This provides a wide structural diversity of habitats which have potential in general for a number of animal groups - birds of scrub habitats, invertebrates and small mammals. The mosaic of flushes within this area appears to have benefited from the lack of grazing and are the most botanically diverse examples of this habitat type noted during the entire survey. Flushes of this quality appear to be of rather limited occurrence in general within the county as a whole. Continued surveillance of this particular site is recommended, with a policy of non-intervention being the best management option. In the future, scrub and trees could take over drier parts of the site, but the flushing will probably limit naturally its spread onto wet/flushed areas.


VEG:
Lower, Upper and Middle commons are situated in the village of Kington Langley, north of Chippenham. The commons support semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Trifolium pratense, Dactylis glomerata, Plantago major, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon autumnalis, Ranunculus repens, Achillea millefolium, Cerastium fontanum} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. and locally occasional {\it Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Potentilla anserina}. {\it Lolium perenne} was less frequent on Lower common.

There was an uncut area on middle common comprising frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}, locally frequent {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Trisetum flavescens, Rumex acetosa, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Hypochaeris radicata, Cerastium fontanum, Leucanthemum vulgare, Alopecurus pratensis, Crepis capillaris, Ranunculus acris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and locally occasional {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Bromus commutatus} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. 

There is a small area of planted trees of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Salix fragilis, Fraxinus excelsior} and a few other ornamental species to the west of the school on middle common. There is a sparse groundflora beneath the trees with {\it Galium aparine, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There are a few planted {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Prunus} sp. at the western end of Middle common.

MANAGE:
The common is subject to Byelaws made under the Commons Act 1899. The majority of the common is regularly mown with the clippings left which will result in gradual nutrient enrichment of the soil probably resulting in a decline in species diversity by favouring the more competitive species. Part of Middle common was uncut at the time of the site visit but was not rank (possibly managed as a conservation area). This area was the richest area on the common. There has been some planting of ornamental trees and there is a bus shelter on Lower common.


VEG:
Lyneham Green is situated around the intersection of the A420 and A3102 at Lyneham to the south-west of Wootton Bassett. It largely supports poor, semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Poa pratensis, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum} sp. and {\it Trifolium repens} with occasional {\it Leontodon} sp. {\it Achillea millefolium} is locally frequent and {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Prunella vulgaris} were recorded locally. Scattered trees occur throughout most of the grassland including {\it Betula pendula, Fagus sylvatica, F. sylvatica 'Purpurea', Larix decidua, Acer psedoplatanus, Aesculus hippocastanum, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer campestre}, locally with a few conifers/shrubs etc. The trees are locally dense around the drains at SU021791 including {\it Salix alba} and {\it Populus} spp. with a groundflora of {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Primula vulgaris, Anthriscus sylvestris, Geranium robertianum, Rumex sanguineus, Silene dioica} and {\it Chaerophyllum temulum}. 

Locally there is continuous scrub comprising {\it Taxus baccata, Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulmus procera}. There is a pond marked on the OS map at the south-eastern end of the common which was within an area of continuous scrub at the time of the site visit of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Salix fragilis, Epilobium hirsutum, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is managed by regular mowing and there has been extensive planting of trees. There are numerous encroachments on the common including small car parks for local businesses, village hall and church, tarmac pavements and a garage forecourt has encroached on the north-western end of the common with a picnic bench and litter bin on the adjoining area of grass. It was noted later in the season that the area of scrub at the south-eastern end of the common (where a pond is marked on the OS map) had been cleared.


VEG:
Lydiard Plain is a level area of common land situated to the north of Wootton Bassett. The common retains ridge and furrow field patterns. The western end of the common supports improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with very occasional {\it Trifolium repens, Phleum pratense, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Bellis perennis, Ranunculus} sp. and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. There are some {\it Quercus robur} along a bank bordering the eastern edge of this area with a species-poor hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} trees forming the northern boundary. South of the tracks at the southern end of this section is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Festuca rubra} with {\it Achillea millefolium, Urtica dioica, Potentilla reptans, Geranium dissectum, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium dubium} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. 

The eastern end of the common also supports semi-improved neutral grassland with less frequent {\it Lolium perenne}, more {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and the additional species {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} (particularly in the furrows), {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}. There was scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} at the eastern end which was also locally abundant. This section was bordered by species-poor hedgerows predominantly of {\it Prunus spinosa} with a little {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Rosa} sp. There is a defunct hedgerow separating this section from the western section. It is bordered by an area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland to the south.

MANAGE:
Evidently this common has been much improved (the eastern section to a lesser extent) and there had been some recent muck spreading on the western end. There was an area of bare ground in the north-western corner (where the muck had been stored prior to spreading?). The area is managed for pasture and there were cattle grazing the eastern end at the time of the site visit although there are no registered rights on the common.


FAUNA:
Moorhen, swallow and meadow brown butterfly were recorded during the site visit. A heron flew over.

VEG:
This common is one of three adjoining roadside verge commons to the south of Cricklade in the north of the county (see also CLs 56 and 58). The verges support semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Elytrigia repens} with occasional {\it Conium maculatum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Epilobium hirsutum, Galium aparine, Cirsium palustre, Poa trivialis, Chaerophyllum temulum, Calystegia sepium} and {\it Equisetum arvense}. {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Caltha palustris} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} were recorded locally and {\it Urtica dioica} was locally dominant. Species recorded in the hedgerows bordering the common were {\it Ulmus procera, Salix alba, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre, Euonymus europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Cornus sanguinea}. The hedgerows were locally defunct.

MANAGE:
The verges are kept cut back and a small area at the western end is regularly mown. The hedgerows are encroaching in places. There is some stored farm machinery on the common.


FAUNA:
Collared dove and meadow brown butterfly were recorded during the site visit. Ringlet, small tortoiseshell and meadow brown butterflies were recorded during the Wildlife Trust survey of part of the common 07.07.94. Small heath, meadow brown, large, green-veined and marbled whites, small and large skippers, small copper, gatekeeper, ringlet, common blue and small tortoiseshell were recorded during a previous survey 23.07.84.

VEG:
Dance common comprises a number of strips of land along the B4041 south of Cricklade in the north of the county. It is one of three adjoining roadside verge commons in this area (see also CLs 58 and 59). The largest section has been surveyed by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust on several occasions. The area to the south of the bridlepath was most recently surveyed in 1994. The latter area was described as supporting a mosaic of damp and much drier areas, with the wetter areas near the road holding the most botanical interest including species such as {\it Oenanthe fistulosa, Iris pseudacorus, Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Myosotis laxa} present but generally at fairly low cover. Elsewhere the vegetation comprises a rather species-poor MG1 {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} coarse grassland grading into MG6 {\it Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus} pasture and MG9 {\it Holcus lanatus-Deschampsia cespitosa} grassland. {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica, Glyceria maxima, G. fluitans, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Elytrigia repens} were locally abundant and {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Plantago major, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Calystegia sepium} and {\it Lolium perenne} locally frequent. Occasional species were {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Hordeum secalinum, Phalaris arundinacea, Anthriscus sylvestris, Carex otrubae, Equisetum arvense, Galium palustre, Heracleum sphondylium, Iris pseudacorus, Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Mentha aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides, Oenanthe fistulosa, Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus repens, Rumex conglomeratus, Valeriana officinalis, Vicia cracca, Solanum dulcamara, Symphytum officinale, Lycopus europaeus, Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Conium maculatum}. A substantial colony of {\it Oenanthe fistulosa} was noted opposite Godby's Farm during the survey on 20.05.92. 

The whole of this larger section was surveyed in 1984 and was similar to the area described above but has apparently declined in diversity to a certain extent with an increase in abundance of the coaser species such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. There was quite a bit of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. along the roadside noted during the site visit with {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense} growing amongst it. The southernmost end of this section supports continuous scrub with some {\it Salix fragilis} and areas of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Galium aparine} etc. 

The narrow strip on the opposite side of the road from the main area described above supports an area of semi-improved neutral grassland which has been incorporated into a field and continuous scrub of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Ulmus procera} with pockets of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. 

South of the disused canal and west of the road, is a small area of low-lying marshy grassland (below the level of the road) supporting some {\it Typha latifolia, Glyceria maxima, Urtica dioica, Scrophularia} sp., {\it Symphytum} sp. and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. This area had been planted with young broadleaved trees and there were a few {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} bushes along the roadside.

On the opposite side of the road south of the disused canal is an area of tall ruderal vegetation comprising {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine} and {\it Conium maculatum} with some {\it Salix fragilis}. The stream bordering this part of the common was choked with {\it Glyceria maxima}.

The southernmost section of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with a broad fringe of {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine} etc. along the stream bordering this section. {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea} were recorded in the stream. The hedgerows bordering this section are largely species-poor comprising {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} locally with occasional {\it Salix alba} trees and {\it Ulmus} sp. and locally defunct. There was a pollarded {\it Populus} sp. ({\it P. nigra?}) on the northern section.

MANAGE:
No management was observed during the 1994 survey of the northern part of the common by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. In 1992, occasional grazing by horses and tethered goats was noted and there had been some recent scrub clearance by burning. In 1984 the northern end of the northern section had been cut for hay and there was some horse grazing on the remainder. There was a caravan parked on the common. 

Little management was observed during the site visit. There were some goats grazing a small part of the common opposite Broadleaze Farm. There had been some recent planting of trees on part of the common. The immediate road verges are kept cut back. Part of the common has been incorporated into an adjoining field and there was some agricultural machinery parked opposite Broadleaze Farm and some dumped manure.

The common has apparently declined in diversity to a certain extent since 1984 with an increase in abundance of the coaser species such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} consistent with a decline in management.


VEG:
Broadleaze Farm common comprises two stretches of road verge bordering a minor road south of Cricklade. It is one of three adjoining roadside verge commons in this area (see also CLs 56 and 59). The eastern end of both verges supports species-poor, semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Galium aparine} etc. A ditch running along the southern part supports {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. There is a small area south of the minor road, adjoining the B4041 supporting marshy grassland with frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Geranium pratense, Vicia cracca, Arrhenatherum elatius, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Silene alba}. There is a mature {\it Quercus robur} tree just off the common here. The common narrows to broad hedgerows at the western end supporting {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Acer campestre}.

MANAGE:
The only mangement on this common comprises routine roadside verge maintenance. There was an area of bare ground where nettles had been stripped. There is a concrete parking area on the common outside the houses adjoining the southern boundary.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. Swallow, heron, skylark, reed bunting, moorhen, mistle thrush, chiffchaff, sparrowhawk, treecreeper, cormorant, sedge warbler, linnet, mallard, house martin, pheasant, corn bunting, blackcap, bullfinch, swift, stock dove, kingfisher, common tern, herring gull, woodpigeon, rook, jackdaw, carrion crow, starling, chaffinch, blue tit, great tit, long-tailed tit, wren, robin, dunnock, house sparrow, greenfinch, goldfinch, blackbird, willow warbler, cuckoo and magpie were recorded from the common in April/May 1994 (B. Pinchens). Birds recorded in 1993 (R. Whiteley) were magpie, grey heron, pied wagtail, blue and great tits, carrion crow, mistle thrush, treecreeper, skylark, mallard, reed bunting, sparrowhawk, willow warbler, chiffchaff, blackcap, long-tailed tit, kingfisher, kestrel, common gull, song thrush, house martin, swallow, collared dove, wren, dunnock, peregrine, little owl, buzzard (overhead), hobby, cormorant (overhead). Flocks of redwing, fieldfare, meadow pipits, black headed gull, starling and lapwing were recorded during the winter months and in autumn, flocks of blue and long-tailed tits, greenfinch, goldfinch, lesser black backed gull, lapwing and fieldfare. Occasional snipe, redshank and shelduck visit the common in winter. Teal and golden plover are also mentioned as visiting when the common floods in winter, and grey wagtail and green sandpiper are described as regular visitors to the river sides in winter (1988 NNR leaflet). Skylark and song thrush are listed on the short-list and reed bunting, linnet, corn bunting and bullfinch on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

There are butterfly records for 1992, 1993 (R. Whiteley) and 1994 (B.Pinchens) with a total of 22 species recorded. The following species were recorded in all three years; brimstone, peacock, small white, small tortoiseshell, large white, speckled wood, orange tip, green-veined white, small copper and common blue. Small skipper, meadow brown, small heath and marbled white were recorded in 1992 and 1993, wall brown in 1993 only and gatekeeper, large skipper, red admiral, ringlet, painted lady, clouded yellow and comma were only recorded in 1992. The moths burnet and scarlet tiger were also recorded in 1993. Marsh fritillary has also been recorded from the common (SSSI citation) which is included in the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Odonata records for the common include broad bodied chaser, four-spot chaser, large red damselfly, {\it Coenagrion puella} and banded agrion (R. Whiteley, 1993) and large red damselfly, banded demoiselle and common blue damselfly (B.Pinchens, 1994). The SSSI citation refers to a total of 14 species of Odonata having been recently recorded from the common, mainly at the meadow edge although several species such as brown hawker, black-tailed skimmer and ruddy darter also feed over the meadow. 

Other fauna recorded from the common includes common toad, {\it Amblyteles armatorius} (Ichneumon), {\it Bombus lucorum, B. lepidarius, B. terrestris}, grass snake, {\it Panorpa cognata} (scorpion fly), common frog, mink footprints, roe deer fawn, 2-spot ladybird, 7-spot ladybird (B.Pinchens, 1994) and weasel, dead mole, dead shrew, brown hare (R.Whiteley, 1993/94).

VEG:
North Meadow is situated on river alluvium between the rivers Thames and Churn to the north of Cricklade in the north of the county. It supports unimproved neutral grassland supporting over 250 species of higher plant. The common was subject to vegetation monitoring 1986-1990 recording presence or absence of species in 20 1m square quadrats in a 10m by 2m block at five locations on the common. The most frequent species recorded were {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cerastium fontanum, Cynosurus cristatus, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Leontodon autumnalis, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense, Ranunculus acris, Rhinanthus minor, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale, Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and the bryophyte {\it Calliergon cuspidatum}, closely followed by {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Poa trivialis} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. Locally frequent species are {\it Cardamine pratensis, Carex flacca, Leucanthemum vulgare, Dactylis glomerata, Silaum silaus} and {\it Trisetum flavescens}. Other species recorded include {\it Bromus commutatus, Lathyrus pratensis, Lotus corniculatus, Sanguisorba officinalis} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} (also locally frequent) and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Hordeum secalinum, Prunella vulgaris, Ranunculus bulbosus, R. repens, Vicia cracca} and the moss {\it Eurynchium praelongum}. {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum} and {\it Thalictrum flavum} also occur on the common (SSSI citation) and {\it Ornithogalum umbellatum} and {\it Allium vineale} were listed on English Nature's 1982 Phase 1 survey. The common is of great importance for the population of the nationally scarce* {\it Fritillaria meleagris} being estimated to support 80 percent of the British population supporting around 500 000 flowering plants each year (SSSI citation). Unimproved lowland hay meadows are one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Several ditches border the meadow adding to the biological diversity of the site supporting {\it Carex acuta, Triglochin palustris} and {\it Rumex hydrolapathum}. Old channels crossing the meadow support {\it Oenanthe fistulosa, Caltha palustris, Alopecurus geniculatus, Dactylorhiza incarnata} and {\it Carex disticha}. 

*Nationally Scarce species are those recorded in between 16 and 100 10km squares ('Scarce Plants in Britain', Pearman, D.A. {\it et al}, 1994, JNCC).

MANAGE:
North Meadow is a lammas meadow, a relict from mediaeval times. The common is divided into separately owned strips marked by stones (most of the strips are now owned by English Nature). Many of these stones survive on North Meadow and are protected as listed buildings. From Candlemas (Feb 12th) until Lammas (Aug 12th) the meadows are shut for hay. Traditionally the hay crop is taken by each owner, however, in the case of North Meadow, the hay crop, which is cut between 1st July and 12th August, is sold to local farmers. A different part of the meadow (about eight hectares) is harvested each year for wildflower seed and many of the techniques of this new industry were pioneered here (1988 reserve leaflet). The meadows are then opened to grazing by rightholders. The common was not being grazed at the time of the site visit but there are rights for grazing sheep, cattle and horses although the NNR leaflet only refers to grazing by cattle and horses. There are only 14 functional Lammas meadows remaining in England and Wales (A.Brian, 1990). The common is also an important site for birds with two species on the short-list and four on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan having been recorded in recent years.


FAUNA:
Great tit and meadow brown butterfly were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
CL74 is a small area of low lying common land adjoining the National Nature Reserve of North Meadow (CL14) north of Cricklade in the north of the county. It is separated from the latter by a tall hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Quercus robur, Malus} sp. and {\it Salix} spp. There was only public access to the north-western end of the common. Here the common supports a semi-improved neutral grassland with {\it Cirsium arvense, Hordeum secalinum, Lolium perenne, Ranunculus acris, Trifolium repens, Dactylis glomerata, Trisetum flavescens, Convolvulus arvensis, Alopecurus pratensis, Agrostis stolonifera, Geranium dissectum} and {\it Holcus lanatus}.

MANAGE:
The common had been grazed? but was not being grazed at the time of the site visit. According to the rights entry grazing is restricted to between 12th August and 12th February as for CL14. However, it is unclear whether the common is still managed in the traditional way.


FAUNA:
Meadow pipit, partridge and brimstone butterfly were recorded during the site visit. Skylark was heard nearby. Skylark is listed on the shortlist of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Pewsey Hill is situated on the northern scarp of Salisbury Plain overlooking the Vale of Pewsey. It supports a semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent to abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca rubra} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} with occasional {\it Urtica dioica} (locally frequent), {\it Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Linaria vulgaris, Artemisia vulgaris, Vicia cracca, Cirsium arvense, Centaurea scabiosa, Reseda lutea, Geranium pratense} (locally frequent), {\it Achillea millefolium, Cerastium fontanum} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. {\it Anisantha sterilis} was locally frequent and {\it Bromopsis erecta} locally occasional together with a little {\it Galium verum, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Sanguisorba minor}. Additional species recorded at low frequency were {\it Veronica chamaedrys, Galium mollugo, Silene alba, Lamium album, Arctium} sp., {\it Tragopogon pratensis, Potentilla anserina, Filipendula ulmaria, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Symphytum} sp. A grass track runs the length of the common supporting improved grassland of {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Trifolium repens}. 

There are a couple of {\it Crataegus monogyna} bushes at the south-eastern end of the common and a couple of young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} at the north-western end. There is a small enclosure on the common planted with {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus} sp. and {\it Acer} sp. with some {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by infrequent cutting and judging by the rankness of the grassland appears to have been managed in this way for some time. There is a small, young plantation on the common which was not establishing well. There is a small car park at the north-western end of the common and there was some dumped garden waste and waste tarmac on the common.


FAUNA:
Chaffinch, woodpigeon, starling, skylark, carrion crow and the butterflies meadow brown and common blue were recorded during the site visit. Skylark is listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Marlborough common is situated on Rough Down on the northern edge of Marlborough sloping gently to the east and north-east. There are a few tumuli at the north-western end of the common. The majority of the common is managed as a golf course supporting species-poor, semi-improved neutral grassland with scattered plantings of trees including {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur} (including some mature specimens), {\it Sambucus nigra, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus aria, Pinus} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

There is a sizeable area of richer semi-improved neutral grassland towards the southern end comprising frequent to abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Crepis capillaris}, frequent {\it Trifolium repens, T. dubium, Cynosurus cristatus, Vicia cracca, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it  A. capillaris} with occasional {\it Bellis perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, Cerastium fontanum, Vicia sativa, Trifolium pratense, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Galium verum, Lolium perenne, Heracleum sphondylium, Trisetum flavescens, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Conopodium majus, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Rumex acetosa}. {\it Bromus} sp. and {\it Alopecurus pratensis} were recorded locally and {\it Pilosella aurantiaca} was also recorded. There are small areas dominated by {\it Festuca rubra} with frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Hypochaeris radicata} and occasional {\it Potentilla erecta, Achillea millefolium, Campanula rotundifolia, Conopodium majus, Stellaria graminea, Rhinanthus minor} (locally frequent) and {\it Luzula} sp. On the banks around the club house at SU18706995 {\it Reseda lutea} and {\it Verbascum} sp. were recorded. There is an area of old tarmac at SU188697 with regenerating grass and {\it Sisymbrium officinale, Crepis capillaris, Trifolium dubium, Papaver rhoeas} and a few ornamental species.

The southernmost end of the common supports amenity grassland of abundant {\it Lolium perenne} (locally with frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera}) with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Bellis perennis, Plantago major, Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Achillea millefolium} and locally {\it Capsella bursa-pastoris} and {\it Matricaria discoidea}. 

The remainder of the strip to the south-west of Frees Avenue supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it A. stolonifera} with occasional {\it Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Poa pratensis, Hypochaeris radicata, Bellis perennis, Stellaria graminea, Cerastium fontanum} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. There was a small bare area supporting {\it Polygonum aviculare, Capsella bursa-pastoris} and {\it Chenopodium} sp. and a small area of cut {\it Reynoutria japonica}. Locally there is some {\it Ulmus procera} scrub with {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} beneath and locally {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Ulmus} sp. scrub with {\it Hedera helix, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Arum maculatum, Galium aparine, Stachys sylvatica, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Geum urbanum} beneath. The northern end supports continuous scrub of {\it Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with some {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Urtica dioica} widening to semi-improved neutral grassland with tall ruderal vegetation comprising {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Geranium pratense, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} with scattered {\it Prunus spinosa}. 

There is an avenue of trees running along Frees Avenue comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Aesculus hippocastanum, Tilia x vulgaris} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} continuing along the tracks crossing the south-western area with {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Locally there is {\it Dactylis glomerata, Geum urbanum, Alliaria petiolata, Glechoma hederacea, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Viola hirta} beneath the avenue trees. 

There is a defunct, species-rich hedgerow along the north-western boundary supporting {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Viburnum lantana, Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Rosa canina} and a few mature {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is managed as a golf course with frequent mowing (with a few areas of 'rough') and some planting of trees. The amenity grassland and semi-improved neutral grassland to the southwest of Frees Avenue are also regularly mown. An area of {\it Reynoutria japonica} had been cut in the latter area. The main area of semi-improved neutral grassland was tall at the time of the site visit, even on the two rugby pitches in this area. The grassland is not particularly rank and is presumably cut at least once per year. A second cut following the 'hay cut' would be advisable to prevent the coarser species from increasing and to maintain the diversity. There were paths mown through this area. There are some swings in the area of amenity grassland. There was some dumped garden rubbish on the common and the golf club house stands on the common (now excluded from the common in exchange for an additional area of common land?).


FAUNA:
Robin, greenfinch, cuckoo, blackbird, chaffinch and chiffchaff were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Marston Green is situated to the south-west of Devizes. It largely supports semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Vicia sativa} with occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Poa pratensis, Trifolium pratense, Anthriscus sylvestris, Ranunculus acris, Filipendula ulmaria, Alopecurus pratensis, Heracleum sphondylium, Juncus inflexus, Festuca pratensis} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. {\it Bromus hordaceous, Lathyrus pratensis, Lolium perenne} (particularly near the farm half way down Long Street) and {\it Oenanthe crocata} were locally frequent and {\it Symphytum} sp. and {\it Iris pseudacorus} occur locally. {\it Allium vineale} was rare. Patches of scrub along Long Street comprise {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Galium aparine} beneath. {\it Angelica sylvestris, Barbarea vulgaris, Veronica anagallis-aquatica} and {\it V. beccabunga} were also recorded along Long Street. There has been some tree planting in places, particularly around Close Lane, including {\it Tilia x vulgaris, Acer} sp., {\it Malus} sp. and {\it Betula pendula}. 

The stream crossing the common at ST966567 is bordered by tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with some {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix fragilis}. {\it Callitriche} sp. and {\it Apium nodiflorum} were recorded in the stream. Other areas on the common also support tall ruderal vegetation comprising {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. 

The south-western end supports broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Corylus avellana, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Salix cinerea} and a groundflora of {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Circaea lutetiana, Stellaria holostea, Rumex sanguineus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Silene alba, Galium aparine, Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and locally {\it Agrimonia eupatorium} and {\it Angelica sylvestris}. 

Long Street is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, locally with {\it Ulmus} sp.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common supports fairly coarse grass probably managed by infrequent cutting. Areas near houses are regularly mown and this is where most of the tree planting has taken place. A few areas are being more actively gardened. The grassland near the farm half way along Long Street appears to be more regularly managed (possibly grazed) with frequent {\it Lolium perenne}. Some scrub clearance was noted. There is some internal fencing on the common.


FAUNA:
A grey heron flew over during the site visit.

VEG:
Bulkington drove is a low-lying area of common land situated to the south of the village of Bulkington southwest of Devizes. The common supports semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent to abundant {\it Lolium perenne}, frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Poa pratensis, Trifolium pratense} and {\it Cirsium arvense} and occasional {\it Bellis perennis, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Cerastium fontanum, Achillea millefolium, Holcus lanatus, Juncus inflexus, Taraxacum officinale} agg. (locally frequent) and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. There was a small bare area towards the southern end of the common with some {\it Stellaria media, Urtica dioica} and {\it Rumex} spp. There have been a few young trees planted in enclosures on the common ({\it Aesculus hippocastanum?} - most appeared to be dead) and a couple of enclosures along the stream with {\it Prunus avium} and a few other species. There are some {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} planted along the trackside at the northern end of the common. 

A stream borders the common to the west with limited vegetation of {\it Conium maculatum, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Symphytum} sp. with {\it Urtica dioica} on the bank. A tall mixed hedgerow forms the boundary on the eastern side supporting {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Rosa} sp.

MANAGE:
The common had been grazed by cattle but there were none on at the time of the site visit. There has been quite a bit of tree planting on the common and there was some parked farm machinery on the northernmost end.


FAUNA:
A buzzard was heard nearby during the site visit.

VEG:
Fullwood Green is a low lying area of common land situated to the south of Bulkington village, south-west of Devizes. The common supports a similar semi-improved neutral grassland as the adjoining Bulkington Drove (CL19), although with slightly less frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. and occasional {\it Cardamine pratensis, Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}. It is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Ulmus} sp. and {\it Prunus spinosa}. A little {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra} were recorded in the eastern hedgerow.

MANAGE:
Fulwood Green was being grazed by about eight young cattle at the time of the site visit. The western hedgerow was managed whereas the eastern hedgerow was apparently unmanaged.


FAUNA:
Carrion crow, swallow, great tit and the butterflies meadow brown and common blue were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Rowde common is situated along Cock Road, east of Rowde. The majority of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Festuca pratensis} with frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Trifolium pratense, Alopecurus pratensis, Deschampsia cespitosa, Ranunculus acris, Anthriscus sylvestris} (locally frequent), {\it Hordeum secalinum, Festuca rubra, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Senecio erucifolius}. {\it Lolium perenne, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Trifolium repens} are locally frequent. {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} also occurs locally. A small area adjacent to the cottage at the centre of the common has been 'gardened' with some planted trees. East of this cottage is a small area of unimproved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Festuca pratensis, Rhinanthus minor, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Vicia cracca, Trifolium pratense} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis} and occasional {\it Festuca rubra, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium repens, Hypochaeris radicata, Leucanthemum vulgare} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} was rare. Along the foot of the hedge here is some {\it Phragmites australis}. There is also some {\it P. australis} and {\it Oenanthe crocata} in the drain crossing the common at ST963627. Slightly less rich grassland was recorded further east (mapped as B21/B22). 

At the eastern end of the common there are a couple of areas of semi-improved {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}-dominated neutral grassland with tall herb species such as {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Galium aparine, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Humulus lupulus}. One of these areas has scattered young trees of {\it Ulmus procera, Aesculus hippocastanum, Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} and the other scattered scrub of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is an area of continuous {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub at this end of the common.

The grassland at the western end of the common is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Agrostis stolonifera, Vicia sativa, V. cracca}, locally frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Plantago major, Hordeum secalinum, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis} and occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Cirsium arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Rumex crispus, Geranium dissectum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Heracleum sphondylium, Festuca pratensis} and {\it Artemisia vulgaris} with occasional small trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. {\it Juncus inflexus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Carex otrubae, Tragopogon pratensis, Salix cinerea} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis} were rare. {\it Conium maculatum} and {\it Chaerophyllum temulum} occur along the foot of the hedgerows. The hedgerows here comprise {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Rosa canina} and {\it Cornus sanguinea} (locally defunct) with occasional {\it Fraxinus exclesior} trees and a mature {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is probably infrequently cut. Part had been cut as if for hay but with the cut grass left. Locally the common is regularly mown (such as the area to the west of the cottage at the centre). The rich grassland was apparently much more widespread in the past (local resident). It is unclear what has caused this decline. There does not appear to have been heavy application of artificial fertilisers and I would not have expected such a decline as a result of neglect. The {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} has appeared on the common since a local resident spread some seed of this species collected from a local site before it was destroyed. Locally there has been some planting of trees and there is some scrub encroachment at the far eastern end. There is an area of hardstanding in front of Rowde Hill Farm and a garden shed on the common adjacent to the cottage at the centre.


FAUNA:
Meadow brown butterfly was recorded during the site visit. Hobby, golden oriole, blackcap, goldcrest, hunting barn owl and little owl, buzzard, kestrel and sparrowhawk have been recorded from the common by a local resident.

VEG:
Heddington common is situated at Heddington Wick to the north-west of Heddington (south of Calne). It is a small level area of common land supporting semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} with occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Plantago major, P. lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Juncus inflexus, Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense, Alopecurus pratensis, Rumex crispus, Cerastium fontanum, Festuca rubra, Geranium dissectum, Phleum pratense} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. {\it Geranium pratense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Urtica dioica} were locally frequent. {\it Hordeum secalinum} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} were also recorded locally and {\it Trifolium pratense, Lathyrus pratensis, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis} were rare. At the eastern end of the common adjacent to the road is a small enclosure with scattered scrub of {\it Sambucus nigra, Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus avium}. 

The common is bordered by intact, species-poor hedgerows comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

MANAGE:
The common receives uneven grazing by tethered horses and has probably been subject to some 'improvement'. Part was regularly mown. One area is fenced off as a pony paddock and was heavily grazed. Another area is fenced off adjacent to the road at the eastern end of the common with various livestock pens and sheds for chickens and goats etc. There are also a few other sheds elsewhere on the common. There was some dumped gravel at the western end.


FAUNA:
Buzzard, woodpigeon, chiffchaff and small tortoiseshell butterfly were recorded during the site visit. There was mole activity on the common. Small copper butterfly was recorded during the 1987 survey of the area of marshy grassland (Wiltshire Wildlife Trust?). 

The richest fauna was recorded from the area of marshy grassland during the National Trust Biological survey (1982) including the local chimney sweeper moth {\it Odezia atrata}. The wetter parts support numerous grasshoppers, plant bugs, leafhoppers (including {\it Cicadella viridis} and {\it Neophilaenus lineatus}), microlepidoptera, sawfly larvae and weevils (including three species of {\it Sitona}). Flies included many tipulids, asilids and syrphids and the rhagonids {\it Rhagio scolopacea} and {\it Chrysopilus cristatus}. Caterpillars, probably of the mullein moth {\it Cucullia verbasci}, were present on {\it Scropularia} sp. The local slender groundhopper {\it Tetrix subulata} was found on a patch of bare ground and the local southeastern woodlouse {\it Ligidium hypnorum} in damp moss. Also present were many lycopsid spiders, the harvestman {\it Platybunus triangularis} and the local silky snail {\it Ashfordia granulata}. Most of the marginal wooded area is also wet and it was here that the local beetle {\it Plaeumaris discolor} was found on club-rush. 

Drier areas with coarser herbage held the local leafbeetle {\it Chrysolina oricalcia} on {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. The trees and scrub provide shelter for good numbers of warblers, tits, finches and other birds. Meadow browns were abundant and burnet moths common. Sweeping yielded the gorse shieldbug {\it Piezodorus uturatus}, a snipe fly {\it Rhagio scolopacea}, the beetle {\it Malachius bipustulatus} and numerous {\it Cantharis nigra} soldier beetles. Bewley common (including Bowden common) is listed on the English Nature Invertebrate Site register, the majority of species listed being recorded from Bowden common with the exception of {\it Zygaena trifolii} (location unknown).

VEG:
Bowden common is one of a group of three National Trust owned commons situated to the east of Lacock, 5km south of Chippenham (see also CL35 and 36). It lies on the west-facing slopes of the River Avon valley. These slopes comprise Corallian (Jurassic) to Lower Greensand (Cretaceous). The area is landslipped and a mosaic of different soil types has developed as a result (clays, marls, thin limestones, sandstones etc.). Gleyed brown earth soils of the Longworth series are dominant with gleys with humic topsoil locally (NT Biological survey report, 1982). 

The area of marshy grassland at the eastern end of the common is a County Wildlife Site and was surveyed by the Wildlife Trust on 05.07.94. {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Bromus commutatus, Holcus lanatus, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Juncus acutiflorus} were recorded as abundant with frequent {\it Festuca pratensis, Hypochaeris radicata, Lathyrus pratensis, Lotus corniculatus, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Rhinanthus minor} and occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca rubra, Caltha palustris, Cirsium palustre, Galium palustre, Heracleum sphondylium, Leontodon autumnalis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lotus pedunculatus, Potentilla reptans, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Stellaria graminea, Taraxacum} sp., {\it Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}. {\it Glyceria plicata} was locally dominant and {\it Galium verum, Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} locally abundant. {\it Eleocharis palustris, Scrophularia aquatica, Alchemilla vulgaris} and {\it Isolepis setacea} were also recorded. 

The grassland has apparently changed substantially since the previous survey in 1987 with a substantial increase in abundance of {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca pratensis} and {\it Juncus acutiflorus} (the latter three species not having been recorded in 1987). However, {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} was described in 1982 as dominating the drier areas with areas of tall {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland consistent with the 1994 survey (NT Biological Survey). {\it Festuca pratensis} was also recorded in 1982. {\it Centaurea nigra} was recorded as only locally frequent in 1987 and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare} was not recorded. Additional species recorded in 1982 and 1987 (not 1994) include {\it Helictotrichon pubescens, Trisetum flavescens, Briza media, Ranunculus flammula} and the sedges {\it Carex flacca} and {\it C. nigra}. {\it Elymus caninus, Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Triglochin palustris} were recorded in 1982 only. 

The remainder of the grassland on Bowden common is drier with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium palustre, Centaurea nigra, Cirsium arvense, Achillea millefolium, Festuca pratensis} and {\it Alopecurus pratensis}. There are locally rich areas within the grassland with {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Trifolium pratense, Cerastium fontanum, Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rumex acetosa, Rhinanthus minor, Cynosurus cristatus, Plantago lanceolata, Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Geranium pratense} and {\it Agrimonia eupatorium, Mentha aquatica, Pulicaria dysenterica, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Hypericum tetrapterum, Juncus acutiflorus, J. inflexus} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} where wetter. There are some large conifers along the northern boundary towards the eastern end. 

The drain is bordered by tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Cirsium arvense, Galium aparine, Urtica dioica, Angelica sylvestris, Silene dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Clematis vitalba, Eupatorium cannabinum} and {\it Scrophularia nodosa}. 

There is an area of woodland at the eastern end of the common comprising a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Prunus spinosa} are common in the understorey and the groundflora consists of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} (NT survey, 1982). {\it Betula pendula}, mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} and a few {\it Quercus robur} were also recorded in the canopy during the site visit and {\it Salix capraea} in the understorey. {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} occur where the canopy is more open. There is a pond at the north-western end of the woodland surrounded by {\it Urtica dioica} and scrub and supporting some {\it Typha latifolia}. The latter area was described as supporting {\it Salix} carr during the 1982 NT Biological Survey with a luxuriant tall herb-sedge groundflora including {\it Mentha aquatica, Scrophularia aquatica, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Carex pendula, Apium nodiflorum, Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Scirpus sylvaticus}. There is a second similar small area of woodland at ST937680.

A small area of woodland/scrub ({\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}) had been cleared at ST93656805 supporting {\it Glechoma hederacea, Cornus sanguinea, Dryopteris filix-mas, Cirsium arvense, Galium aparine, Ajuga reptans, Mercurialis perennis, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Carex pendula, Ranunculus repens, Eupatorium cannabinum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Geum urbanum, Allium ursinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Hypericum pulchrum?}.

There are a couple of areas of continuous scrub comprising {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} locally with a groundflora of {\it Mercurialis perennis}.

MANAGE:
Part of the common had been cut at the time of the site visit but not for hay. Very small areas are regularly mown. A small area of scrub/woodland had been cleared. A small pond has been excavated since the NT 1982 biological survey. The majority is probably only infrequently cut and consequently rather rank. The grassland is probably largely unimproved as indicated by a number of typical species recorded but appearing semi-improved due to neglect. With improved management the diversity of the grassland could increase. However, there has apparently been little deterioration since 1982 and the grassland forms a valuable habitat for invertebrates. Any increase in management should only be small scale to provide continuity of habitat for invertebrates. There has been some planting of ornamental conifers on the common.

Management recommendations in the NT Biological survey report include continued annual mowing of the majority of the grassland as late as possible in the season (with the cut material removed and burnt where the cut swathes are very dense)*, cut some tall herb/coarser areas (eg. along drainage lines) on rotation once every 3-4 years, periodic control of scrub/woodland invasion, removal of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} in favour of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} where woody growth to be retained, avoiding any improvements to drainage, dumping of garden rubbish, use of chemical sprays and encroachment onto the common from adjacent gardens, remove young ornamental trees and to liase with County Council over road verge cutting to avoid cutting all at once or too early. 

*Often a second cut of the aftermath is recommended in grassland mangement in the absence of grazing to maintain diversity. The cut material should always be removed to prevent nutrient enrichment of the soil. It could be left for a while to allow invertebrates to disperse.


FAUNA:
Small tortoiseshell, common blue, small white and meadow brown butterflies were recorded during the site visit. Little fauna of interest was recorded during the NT biological survey in 1982. However, Bewley common is listed on the English Nature Invertebrate Site register although most, if not all the species listed were recorded on Bowden common during the NT biological survey 1982.

VEG:
Bewley common is one of a group of three National Trust owned commons situated at the edge of the Avon valley east of Lacock (see also CL34 and 36). It lies on Denchworth series surface-water gley soils over Jurassic clay on a gentle west-facing slope. It supports a semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Cirsium arvense} with occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Ranunculus acris, Lolium perenne, Centaurea nigra, Bromus hordaceous} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. The south-eastern corner is a little more diverse than the rest of the common. The drain crossing the common is bordered by tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, C. vulgare, Oenanthe crocata, Angelica sylvestris, Equisetum telmateia} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with much scattered scrub of {\it Corylus avellana, Quercus robur, Salix cinerea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix fragilis}. {\it Carex pendula} was also recorded here during the 1982 NT Biological survey. Bewley common was the first recorded site in Wiltshire for the Nationally Scarce* {\it Oenanthe pimpinelloides} (1958) but it has not been recorded recently. 

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', 1994, JNCC).

MANAGE:
According to the NT Biological survey report, this area has been agriculturally improved which is consistent with the low diversity recorded. At the time of the NT survey, the common was being managed for hay and winter grazing (there are no registered rights on the common). It was recommended that further agricultural improvement of the common is avoided. The frequency of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} indicates that the common receives little grazing now, this species not being very tolerant of grazing. The common had not been cut at the time of the site visit. A very small part near a property at the south-eastern end is regularly mown.


FAUNA:
Chiffchaff, wren and the butterflies meadow brown and small tortoiseshell were recorded during the site visit. During the NT Biological survey (1982) meadow brown, small heath and small tortoiseshell were recorded as numerous. The red and black leafhopper {\it Aglais urticae} was common. There were several common beetle species and goldfinches were present. The longhorn beetle {\it Strangalia maculata} was found in the overgrown green lane running eastwards from the meadow and there were bullfinches in the dense hedgerow. The latter species is listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Bewley green is one of a group of three National Trust owned commons east of Lacock (see also CLs 34 and 35). It is a small level area of common land at the edge of the River Avon valley. It overlies Oxford clay and drift supporting Holwell series surface water gley soils. The majority of the common supports unimproved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Trisetum flavescens, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Hordeum secalinum, Lolium perenne, Festuca pratensis} (locally frequent), {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Ranunculus acris, Bromus hordaceous, Deschampsia cespitosa, Stellaria graminea, Cerastium fontanum, Trifolium pratense, Centaurea nigra, Lotus corniculatus, Hypochaeris radicata, Rhinanthus minor} and {\it Plantago lanceolata} (locally frequent). {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Trifolium repens} are locally frequent. There is frequent {\it Rubus caesius} amongst the grassland south of the stream on the eastern side of the road. There was a population of {\it Allium vineale?} on the opposite side of the road. This area was described as partly improved during the NT survey.

The easternmost spur (continuing along the drain along the south eastern border) supports broadleaved woodland comprising a canopy of {\it Salix fragilis, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with understorey species {\it Ulmus procera, Rosa arvensis, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Acer campestre}. Species recorded in the groundflora include {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Mercurialis perennis, Rumex sanguineus, Glechoma hederacea, Urtica dioica, Hedera helix, Bromopsis ramosa, Carex pendula, Vicia sativa, Galium aparine, Stachys sylvatica, Stellaria holostea, Ranunculus repens, Angelica sylvestris, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Oenanthe crocata}. Near the road the wooded strip opens out to a small area of {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Equisetum telmateia, Filipendula ulmaria, Carex pendula} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

MANAGE:
The sward was tall at the time of the site visit - for a hay crop? This common was the least rank of the three National Trust commons in this area with no {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} indicating that this common may be still grazed. This is consistent with the 1982 National Trust biological survey report which states that the common is managed for hay with winter grazing (there are no registered rights). This management seems ideal. According to the National Trust this area has been partly improved although the grassland seems quite rich for a semi-improved grassland and could pass as an unimproved grassland. Unimproved lowland hay meadows are one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the brief site visit.

VEG:
Challymead common is situated on the River Avon to the south of Melksham. There was no public access to the common which was only viewed from the roadside. The common appeared to support an improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional species such as {\it Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium palustre, Urtica dioica, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. There was a weedy bare area supporting {\it Sisymbrium officinale?}. Along the foot of the hedgerow was a strip supporting {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Elytrigia repens}. Species recorded in the hedge include {\it Ulmus procera, Cornus sanguinea, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are scattered {\it Salix fragilis} along the riverbank. The northern end of the common is under development for a sewage works (09.97).

MANAGE:
The common is apparently used for pasture but there was no stock on at the time of the site visit. It has apparently been heavily improved. It is probably subject to winter flooding and certainly flooded during the winter of 1997/98. The northern end of the common is under development for a sewage works. This area was fenced off from the rest of the common.


FAUNA:
Rabbit and common blue butterfly were recorded during the WWT survey of the common 12.09.96.

VEG:
Norrington common is a small level area of common land with a slight slope to the east, lying to the west of Melksham and overlying Kellaways clay. It was surveyed by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust 12.09.96 and not revisited for the common land survey. The eastern half of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Ranunculus acris} and {\it Trifolium pratense} and occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense, Achillea millefolium, Cirsium arvense, Hypochaeris radicata, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Trifolium repens}. {\it Festuca arundinacea, Galium verum} and {\it Genista tinctoria} were locally frequent. Additional species recorded at lower frequency include {\it Agrimonia eupatorium, Centaurea nigra, Cirsium vulgare, Lathyrus pratensis, Leontodon autumnalis, Lotus corniculatus, Pimpinella saxifraga, Pulicaria dysenterica, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Vicia sepium}. The sward was described as of variable quality with some small areas quite herb-rich. 

The western part of the common supports a rather species-poor coarse grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Phleum pratense, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris, Trifolium pratense} and {\it T. repens} and occasional {\it Agrostis capillaris, Lolium perenne, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Ranunculus repens} were locally abundant and {\it Festuca arundinacea, Achillea millefolium, Juncus acutiflorus, Juncus inflexus, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Urtica dioica} locally frequent. Additional species recorded include {\it Achillea ptarmica, Cerastium fontanum, Cirsium palustre, Crataegus monogyna, Glechoma hederacea, Lotus corniculatus, Potentilla anserina, P. erecta, P. reptans, Pulicaria dysenterica, Ranunculus flammula, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Rumex obtusifolius, Symphytum officinale} and {\it Quercus robur} seedlings. {\it Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare} were rare. {\it Genista tinctoria} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga} recorded in 1984 were not recorded in 1996.

There is a small pond along the southern edge supporting {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Juncus inflexus, J. effusus, Hypericum tetrapterum, Polygonum hydropiper} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. The uncut margins support {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium} sp. and {\it Rumex} sp.

MANAGE:
At the time of the WWT 1996 survey the majority of the common had been cut for hay. No stock was on the common except for a few geese, ducks and hens on the western part. There had been some grazing with cattle on the western part. Grazing by rabbits was also noted. There was some scattered scrub on the western part and the hedgerow here was also encroaching on the common. The area of the common between the pond and Norrington Lane was used for parking cars on and there was also a manure heap in the south-western corner. Some infilling of dips in the ground with soil on the eastern part was also noted. 

In 1984, the eastern part had been grazed by cattle and also appeared to have been used occasionally for training horses. The western half was grazed by cattle and horses within electric fencing and geese, rabbits, ducks and chickens (grazing rights are only for cattle). A rubbish tip noted on the eastern part in 1984 had been removed in 1996 as had two of the chicken runs on the western part (one remaining?). In 1984 the pond was dried up, the surrounding area being much trampled by cattle. 

The vegetation has apparently changed little since 1984 (possibly a little ranker). The common is possibly unimproved, appearing semi-improved due to neglect. With improved mangement the diversity could increase, a number of species typical of unimproved grasslands persisting.


FAUNA:
The butterflies small tortoiseshell, meadow brown and common blue and yellow shell moth were recorded during the 1995 Wildlife Sites survey. Mole hills were also recorded.

VEG:
Broughton Gifford common is a level area of common land situated on the edge of the village. The majority of the common was surveyed on 19.06.95 by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust which forms the basis of this report. 

The common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of abundant {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lolium perenne, Poa pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris, R. bulbosus} and {\it Trifolium repens} and occasional {\it Festuca arundinacea, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Lotus corniculatus, L. pedunculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, Rumex acetosa, Stellaria graminea, Taraxacum} sp. and {\it Trifolium pratense}. Other species recorded include {\it Achillea ptarmica, Briza media, Cardamine pratensis, Cerastium fontanum, Geranium dissectum, Hypochaeris radicata, Luzula campestris} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. There are some areas supporting {\it Potentilla anserina, Cirsium arvense} and locally {\it Elytrigia repens}, probably subject to past disturbance, and some of the margins are dominated by coarse grasses and thistles. There is a locally richer area at the northern end supporting {\it Potentilla erecta, Achillea ptarmica, Succisa pratensis, Lotus} spp. and {\it Centaurea nigra}. There are also some tussocky areas with {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Festuca arundinacea}. There are a few {\it Salix} sp. pollards near the western edge of the common. 

The area to the south of the road (not surveyed by the Wildlife Trust) supports a similar grassland, locally coarse with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Festuca arundinacea} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. There were three planted {\it Quercus} sp. on this part. 

There is a pond on the eastern edge of the common supporting {\it Ranunculus flammula, Galium palustre, Elodea nutallii, Lagarosiphon major, Achillea ptarmica, Apium nodiflorum, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Lycopus europaeus, Juncus acutiflorus, Carex hirta, Limosella aquatica} (refind of a county record), {\it Lotus pedunculatus, Potentilla anserina, Alopecurus geniculatus, Iris pseudacorus, Typha latifolia, Glyceria fluitans, Callitriche} sp. and {\it Chara} sp.

MANAGE:
The common is cut for hay and was subject to several years application of artificial fertilisers some years back. There was no application at the time of the WWT survey. Grazing rights have not been practised for several years. One area is cut as a football pitch. Some of the margins (now supporting coarser grassland) are apparently uncut and some areas of thistles had possibly been treated. There has been a build up of 'thatch' due to the lack of grazing which could hinder the growth and establishment of the finer species. There are a few planted trees on the common. There was a bonfire site at the southern end of the common and grass cuttings from the football pitch had been dumped next to the pond which could lead to nutrient enrichment of the pond affecting the diverse flora found there. According to a local resident there were 9 ponds on the common in the past.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the brief site visit. Skylark and common blue and meadow brown butterflies were recorded during the WWT survey 11.06.97. Dingy skipper, white-letter hairstreak, brown argus, chalkhill blue, red admiral, painted lady and comma have been recorded on or near Wadswick common (1984/85, Biological Records centre data). Brimstone, orange tip, peacock, small tortoiseshell, green-veined, large and small whites, chalkhill, common and holly blues, brown argus, dark green fritillary, gatekeeper, marbled white, meadow brown, ringlet, small copper, small heath, small skipper and speckled wood were recorded in 1991 by Prof. Dowdeswell. Skylark is listed on the short-list of globally endangered/threatened species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Wadswick common is situated on a gentle south-west facing slope near the village of Wadswick (south-east of Box) in the west of the county. The common overlies Jurassic Oolitic limestone. There is evidence of an ancient strip cultivation running from east to west (Prof. Dowdeswell, 1991). 

The majority of the common (the area to the west of the B3109) was surveyed on 11.06.97 by the Wildlife Trust. A total of 80 species were recorded from the unimproved calcareous grassland. {\it Bromopsis erecta} was abundant with frequent {\it Helictotrichon pubescens, Festuca rubra, Cirsium acaule, Leontodon autumnalis, Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Rhinanthus minor} (locally abundant), {\it Sanguisorba minor, Trifolium pratense} and occasional {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Briza media, Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Poa trivialis, Achillea millefolium, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Anthyllis vulneraria, Centaurea nigra, C. scabiosa, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Daucus carota, Galium verum, Knautia arvensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Orchis morio} (locally frequent), {\it Pimpinella saxifraga, Plantago lanceolata, Polygala calcarea, P. vulgaris, Primula veris, Ranunculus acris, R. bulbosus, Reseda lutea, Trifolium repens, Viola hirta, Vicia sativa} and {\it Silene} sp. {\it Hippocrepis comosa} and {\it Thymus polytrichus} were locally abundant and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Odontites vernus} locally frequent. Other species recorded include {\it Blackstonia perfoliata, Cirsium eriophorum, Onobrychis viciifolia, Stachys officinalis, Succisa pratensis, Carex divulsa} and the orchids {\it Listera ovata} and {\it Ophrys apifera}. 

A further 35 species were recorded from the grassland areas of the common during previous visits by Prof. Dowdeswell in 1991 including {\it Elytrigia repens, Catapodium rigidum, Festuca ovina, Leontodon autumnalis, L. saxatilis, Picris hieraciodes, Orchis mascula, Anagallis arvensis} and {\it Ononis repens} (fairly widespread), {\it Centaureum erythraea, Geranium lucidum, G. pyrenaicum, Euphrasia officinalis, Gentianella amarella, Campanula rotundifolia, Helianthemum nummularium} and {\it Asperula cynanchica} (largely restricted to the bank along the northern side of the road) and {\it Origanum vulgare, Verbena officinalis} and {\it Viola riviniana} (recorded locally). {\it Scabiosa columbaria} and {\it Clinopodium vulgare} were recorded during a field meeting of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History society 10.08.94 lead by Prof. Dowdeswell. 

The hedge species {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Cornus sanguinea, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Hedera helix} and {\it Clematis vitalba} were recorded in the hedge at the western end of the common by Prof. Dowdeswell (1991) with the additional species {\it Quercus robur, Euonymus europaeus, Sambucus nigra, Ligustrum vulgare, Viburnum lantana, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa canina} recorded during the field visit of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History society 10.08.94 lead by Prof. Dowdeswell. 

The northern boundary of the common is a stone wall with some scattered trees and shrubs. {\it Daphne laureola} was recorded on the wall. 

There were some recently planted {\it Sorbus aucuparia, S. domestica} and {\it S. aria} along the bank on the northern side of the road. The area to the south of the minor road has been planted with young {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

The areas of common to the east of the B3109 had not been surveyed previously. The largest area supports abundant {\it Bromopsis erecta} with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Festuca} sp. and occasional {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium pratense, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga}. It may be richer but had been mown when surveyed. The other small areas support frequent {\it Festuca rubra} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Plantago major, Geranium molle, Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Glechoma hederacea} were locally frequent and {\it Rumex} sp. locally occasional. There were some planted trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it A. campestre}. There is a small area of amenity grassland east of the track to Hazelbury Manor west of the B3109 dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with occasional {\it Bellis perennis, Ranunculus} sp. and {\it Plantago lanceolata}.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is cut for hay (usually late in the season). There are no grazing rights on the common. Small parts of the common are regularly mown and there has been some recent tree planting. The trees on the area to the west of the B3109 and south of the minor road will shade out the calcareous grassland here as they grow and it would probably be desirable from a conservation point of view to remove these. The Wildlife Trust is negotiating a Countryside Stewardship scheme for the main area to reintroduce grazing. There are a number of large boulders placed along the road side presumably to prevent vehicular access.


FAUNA:
Magpie, blackbird, woodpigeon, greenfinch and common blue and speckled wood butterflies were recorded during the site visit. Meadow brown, marbled white, gatekeeper, small skipper and common blue butterflies, the moths silver Y? and burnet, grasshoppers, and evidence of badgers were recorded during a survey of the Golf course 01.08.95 (P.Darby, WWT). Comma, Essex skipper and painted lady were recorded from the common in 1985 and clouded yellow in 1984 (Biological Records Centre).

VEG:
Kingsdown common and Ashley green are situated on a plateau area above the By Brook valley south-west of Box in the west of the county, dropping away to the west and north. There are a couple of tumuli and an earthwork on the common.

The majority of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional species such as {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Trifolium pratense} with scattered young {\it Pinus} spp. and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, sand bunkers and a few areas of scrub. The area of scrub along the eastern boundary comprises {\it Clematis vitalba, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Aegopodium podagraria} beneath. 

The section on Doctors Hill at the north-eastern end of the common has scattered trees of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Juglans regia} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} over semi-improved neutral grassland locally with {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

A few areas have largely escaped improvement (notably the 'roughs') which support calcareous grassland. These were surveyed by Paul Darby of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust 01.08.95. These areas are largely rank and invaded with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with scattered scrub (predominantly {\it Crataegus monogyna}, locally {\it Prunus spinosa}) and have been mapped as semi-improved calcareous grassland. {\it Festuca rubra} is also frequent, with locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris}. {\it Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Brachypodium pinnatum, Dactylis glomerata, Briza media, Bromopsis erecta} (locally frequent), {\it Achillea millefolium, Cirsium acaule, C. arvense, Convolvulus arvensis, Galium verum, Heracleum sphondylium, Knautia arvensis, Lotus corniculatus, Pimpinella saxifraga, Sanguisorba minor, Hypericum pulchrum?} and {\it Trifolium pratense} are occasional. Some of the areas have been planted with young trees such as {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus cordata, Fagus sylvatica, Acer platanoides, Salix capraea, Ilex aquifolium, Quercus} sp. {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and conifers. {\it Scabiosa columbaria} is locally frequent and {\it Clematis vitalba} occurs locally. Additional species recorded include {\it Agrimonia eupatorium, Centaurea scabiosa, Cirsium eriophorum, Campanula rotundifolia, Conopodium majus, Daucus carota, Hypericum perforatum, Leontodon hispidus, Pilosella officinarum, Plantago lanceolata, P. media, Potentilla sterilis, Primula veris, Rhinanthus minor, Veronica chamaedrys, Linaria vulgaris, Reseda lutea} and {\it Clinopodium vulgare?}. {\it Anacamptis pyramidalis} was recorded at a couple of locations (approx. ST817672 and ST819671) and {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} was recorded during the site visit as occasional along the roadside east of the club house. 

The community at ST817672 was the richest recorded with only locally abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, frequent to abundant {\it Bromopsis erecta}, frequent {\it Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Rhinanthus minor} and occasional {\it Achillea millefolium, Agrimonia eupatorium, Allium vineale, Anthyllis vulneraria, Blackstonia perfoliata, Campanula rotundifolia, Carlina vulgaris, Centaurea nigra, C. scabiosa, Cirsium acaule, C. vulgare, Crataegus monogyna, Daucus carota, Galium verum, Heracleum sphondylium, Leontodon hispidus, Lotus corniculatus, Onobrychis viciifolia, Plantago lanceolata, Plantago media, Primula veris, Sanguisorba minor, Thymus polytrichus, Viola hirta} and {\it Anacamptis pyramidalis?} and locally frequent {\it Scabiosa columbaria} and {\it Clematis vitalba}. {\it Asperula cynanchica} and {\it Euphrasia} sp. were rare. 

A further area of unimproved calcareous grassland was identified at the northern end of the golf course on the road bank with frequent to abundant {\it Bromopsis erecta}, frequent {\it Rhinanthus minor} and occasional {\it Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, P. media, Briza media, Listera ovata, Sanguisorba minor, Centaurea scabiosa, Galium verum, Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Primula veris}. {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} was rare. A second, less rich area was recorded on the edge of the woodland along the western edge of the common with frequent to abundant {\it Bromopsis erecta} and occasional {\it Centaurea scabiosa, Sanguisorba minor} and {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}.

Along the western edge of the common is a strip of woodland with a canopy predominantly of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}, locally with some {\it Larix decidua} and {\it Pinus} sp. and locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, an understorey of {\it Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Hedera helix, Rosa canina, Prunus spinosa, Cornus sanguinea, Lonicera periclymenum, Daphne laureola} and a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Geranium robertianum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Geum urbanum, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The small area of woodland at the north-eastern end is similar. There is a small area of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland midway along the northern edge of the golf course. There are a couple of open scrubby areas within the woodland with {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. with tall ruderal species {\it Urtica dioica}. There is frequent {\it Clematis vitalba} along the roadside at the southern end. 

This woodland continues down the hillside towards Ashley green with the additional species {\it Arum maculatum, Ligustrum vulgare, Viola} sp. and {\it Viburnum lantana} recorded. There is an open area adjacent to the road at the top of the hill with scattered scrub of {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Acer psedoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Amongst this scattered scrub {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Cirsium eriophorum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata}, a few plants of {\it Primula veris} and one spike of {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} were recorded. At the bottom of the hill the woodland opens out to tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with planted {\it Tilia} sp. and a few {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. 

The main part of Ashley green supports semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and planted {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Tilia} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} Locally there is continuous scrub of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with a few mature {\it Tilia} sp. and some {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Hedera helix}.

MANAGE:
The majority of the golf course and Ashley green is regularly mown and undoubtedly receives artificial fertilisers and probably herbicides. There has been quite a bit of ornamental tree planting. The rough areas (supporting remnants of calcareous grassland) appear largely unmanaged and are being invaded by coarser grasses, scrub and some tall ruderal species and would benefit from an occasional cut. Some of these areas have been planted with trees making management difficult and which will in time shade out the calcareous grassland. A small area east of Lower Kingsdown Road was being gardened by local householders. Some dumped garden rubbish was noted in the woodland. The golf club car park is situated on common land.


FAUNA:
Jackdaw, chiffchaff and blackbird were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Middlehill common is situated on a south facing hillside west of Box in the west of the county overlooking the By Brook. The majority of the common supports broadleaved woodland. The main area at ST817690 has a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with a groundflora of {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Carex sylvatica, Urtica dioica, Allium ursinum, Silene dioica, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. This area of woodland is centred around a stream with some {\it Symphoricarpos albus}. At the western end of the common the canopy comprises {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and a groundflora of {\it Rumex sanguineus, Geum urbanum, Hedera helix} and {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium}. A stream also runs through this area. There is a small area of {\it Fagus sylvatica} plantation at the southern end of the common with a very sparse groundflora. This grades into a small area of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland to the south. 

There is an area of continuous scrub in the middle of the common comprising {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus padus?, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with some {\it Hedera helix} beneath. There was a very large {\it Tilia} sp. amongst the scrub.

There is also a meadow area at the centre of the common supporting semi-improved neutral grassland comprising {\it Dactylis glomerata, Filipendula ulmaria, Centaurea nigra, Heracleum sphondylium, Festuca rubra, Lotus corniculatus, Ranunculus} sp. and {\it Trisetum flavescens}. {\it Urtica dioica} was locally dominant. 

There is a small area of mown semi-improved neutral grassland at the western end of the common supporting {\it Pilosella aurantiaca, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Carex} sp. The verges to the east support {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Anthriscus sylvestris, Tragopogon pratensis, Heracleum sphondylium, Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Dactylis glomerata} and some {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub.

MANAGE:
The areas of woodland are apparently unmanaged. There is quite a lot of the non-native {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} in the canopy and understorey and a number of other ornamental species such as {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Tilia} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica} including some mature specimens. {\it Prunus padus} is also considered an introduction in Wiltshire. Quite a bit of dumping of garden rubbish within the woodland areas was noted, particularly into the stream valley at the eastern end of the common from the properties along the northern boundary. The meadow area appeared to be managed for a hay crop but it was unclear whether it received any grazing (it had not been cut at the time of the site visit). It was not particularly coarse or rank. There are a couple of regularly mown areas at the western end of the common outside properties and a small area of {\it Fagus sylvatica} plantation at the eastern end.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit but see under the entry for Cowesfield Wood (CL9) which lies on the opposite side of the A27.

VEG:
Sam Bells common is one of a group of five woodland commons situated in the far south-eastern corner of Wiltshire overlying London Clay and Reading Beds (see also CLs 6,7,8,9). There is no public right of access over the common which was only surveyed from the roadside to the south and public footpath to the north. 

The woodland along the roadside has a canopy of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}, an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Taxus baccata, Rosa} sp. and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Ruscus aculeatus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercurialis perennis, Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Galium aparine}. At the northern end the canopy was of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with much {\it Ilex aquifolium} in the understorey and {\it Taxus baccata, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Acer campestre} and {\it Prunus spinosa} and a groundflora of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Hedera helix, Dryopteris dilatata, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina} (richer in ferns than the southern end). The common is mapped as mixed woodland on the OS 1:10 000 map but no conifers were seen. The woodland is superficially like that of Cowesfield wood on the opposite side of the A27 (CL9) and may support a similarly rich groundflora.

MANAGE:
The common is probably unmanaged. Cars from Testwood Cottages park on the common and there is also some dumping on the common there.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, chaffinch, blackbird, blackcap, blue tit, robin and a speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the site visit. There was a lot of bird activity in the woodland. Cuckoo, blackcap, mallard, robin and speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the 1985 survey of the woodland. Grazing of the woodland by deer and rabbits was also noted during the latter survey. The flora of the common is fairly similar to that of the nearby Whiteparish common SSSI which supports several uncommon butterfly species which may also occur on this common.

VEG:
Cowesfield wood is one of a group of five woodland commons situated in the far south-eastern corner of Wiltshire overlying London Clay and Reading Beds (see also CLs 6,7,8,10). It lies just to the north of Whiteparish common SSSI which includes the commons Whiteparish and Hayter's wood (CLs 7 and 8). The common was surveyed in 1985 by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust forming the basis of this report. 

The common supports a canopy dominated by {\it Quercus robur} locally with {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica, Betula pendula, Acer campestre} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} (near the stream at the south-western end of the common). There are a few conifers in a small area adjacent to Frogmore Cottage to the west. The understorey is predominantly {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., and {\it Viburnum opulus}. Also recorded were {\it Prunus spinosa, Euonymus europaeus, Taxus baccata, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus laurocerasus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Cornus sanguinea}. A rich groundflora was recorded including abundant {\it Anemone nemorosa, Anthriscus sylvestris, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Geranium robertianum, Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum, Lysimachia nemorum, Mercurialis perennis, Ranunculus ficaria, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Ruscus aculeatus}, locally abundant {\it Stellaria holostea, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Veronica montana}, frequent {\it Arum maculatum, Circaea lutetiana, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Galium aparine, G. odoratum, Geum rivale, G. urbanum, Holcus} spp., {\it Luzula pilosa, Oxalis acetosella, Potentilla sterilis, Primula vulgaris, Prunella vulgaris, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Viola} sp. Also recorded were {\it Melica uniflora, Carex remota, C. sylvatica, Conopodium majus, Iris foetidus, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Pteridium aquilinum, Stachys sylvatica, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. affinis, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Polystichum aculeatum, P. setiferum, Scrophularia nodosa, Succisa pratensis, Stachys officinale, Moehringia trinervia, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Sanicula europaea} with {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine} and {\it Oenanthe crocata} near the stream. A total of 76 woodland species were recorded in comparison with 121 from the larger Whiteparish common SSSI. 

A couple of small areas by properties to the west of the common were being gardened. There is a dry pond near the western edge supporting some {\it Solanum dulcamara}. The majority of the common is bordered by a bank and ditch system with {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Acer campestre}.

MANAGE:
The woodland is mostly mature with a flora fairly similar to that of the nearby Whiteparish common SSSI but perhaps a little less rich. The uncommon {\it Sorbus torminalis} and {\it Tilia cordata} which occur on the SSSI were not recorded during the site visit to Cowesfield wood. There was little evidence of any current management. There has been some very localised planting of conifers in the west where there had also been some felling work. A couple of small areas by properties in the west were being gardened. In 1985 some recent coppicing was noted at the western end of the common and some grazing by deer and rabbits. Some old second world war bunkers were recorded to the north-west. There was a dumped freezer on the common. In contrast to Whiteparish common, there are no registered rights on this common so the past management history presumably differs.


