The impact of out-of-town stores on local wildlife habitats (BL)

A study was undertaken to identify the environmental impacts of out-of-town retail warehouses on wildlife habitats, using the B&Q chain of do-it-yourself retail outlets as a sample population. A database was created containing details of the B&Q stores, which revealed their location, characteristics, and the nature of adjacent habitats which may be affected by their presence. It was discovered that the majority of the 284 warehouses had been constructed at out-of-centre or out-of-town locations, and predominantly on land which had been previously developed. Approximately 75% of the stores were surrounded by urban habitat, although 17% were situated adjacent to rivers or canals.

Impacts on local wildlife habitats were monitored throughout the construction process at three stores on brownfield and greenfield sites. Problems were discovered with the lack of site investigation, poor landscape design and the careless protection of natural features.

The landscaping at B&Q stores was assessed for wildlife value, using birds as an indicator species. Landscaping was biased towards the planting of non-vegetation, with low species or structural diversity. Birds appeared to generally avoid the central planting areas, with greater numbers and diversity seen in the peripheral vegetation. Birds particularly favoured tall trees and native species seemed to attract a higher diversity of bird species.

A high percentage of B&Q outlets (17%) were situated close to rivers or canals, with drainage from the store entering the water systems directly or via interceptor tanks. Accordingly, an investigation was carried out to establish the effect on aquatic wildlife of run-off from car park areas. Chemical testing for heavy metal content of water and sediment samples indicated localised pollution. Biological monitoring of macroinvertebrates suggested a reduction in quality at the outfall, although the effect again appeared localised and variable.

Recommendations are detailed for the avoidance or mitigation of the impact identified through this study.