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Scoping Report - Partnerships for Renewables

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Scoping Report January 2012

Scoping Report

January 2012

Blairadam Wind Farm

Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping

Report

January 2012

Sinclair Knight Merz (Europe) Limited

Blairadam Wind Farm

Environmental Impact Assessment: Scoping Report

January 2012

Contents

i

TABLES

ii

Introduction 1

Background 1

PfR 2

Forestry Commission Scotland 2

Environmental Impact Assessment and Scoping 4

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) 4

Scoping an EIA 4

Scoping methodology 5

The EIA assessment methodology 6

Purpose of this scoping report 8

Early Consultation 8

Key Questions 9

The Site 10

Site identification process 10

The PfR scheme development process 10

Site description 11

Summary of Relevant policy 12

The Proposed Development 20

Rationale for Development 20

Description of Proposed Development 21

Candidate wind turbines 21

Associated infrastructure 22

Site access 22

Construction of the wind energy development 23

Decommissioning of the wind energy development 23

Environmental Baseline 24

Site environmental context 24

Historic Environment 24

Hydrology, Hydrogeology 25

Landscape and Visual 26

Ecology 28

Ornithology 32

Noise 35

Traffic and Transport 35

Socio-economics 35

Proposed Scope of the EIA 36

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Scope 36

Climate change and atmospheric emissions 36

Historic Environment 36

Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology 38

Landscape and Visual 41

Ecology 48

Ornithology 51

Noise 53

Traffic and Transport 56

Shadow Flicker 57

Socio-Economics 58

Future forest Baseline 58

Summary of proposed scope of the EIA 59

Other Information Supporting the Application for Consent 60

Planning Statement 60

Consultation during the EIA process 61

FIGURES 63

APPENDICES 65

Appendix A Glossary of Terms

Appendix B References

Appendix C Environmental Issues Checklist

TABLES

Table 3.1

Table 3.2

Table 5.1

Table 5.2

Table 6.1

Table 6.2

Table 6.3

Table 6.4

Table 8.1

Fife Structure Plan Policy R1: Wind Turbines

Potentially Relevant Policies from the Dunfermline and Coast Local Plan

Nature conservation designations within 10 km of the Blairadam site

Designated Sites

Cumulative developments (principal sites within 30 km)

Provisional viewpoints

Breeding Bird Survey Findings

Environmental topics to be scoped out of the assessment

Indicative List of Consultees to be contacted

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Introduction

Background

1.1.1 The Partnerships for Renewables Development Company Limited (PfR) is investigating the

potential to create a new wind energy development at Blairadam Forest, situated to the west of

Kelty in Fife (Figure 1.1). The purpose of the proposal is the generation of renewable

electricity. Preliminary studies suggest that the site under consideration could accommodate

up to fourteen 2MW to 3MW wind turbines. For the purposes of this scoping report, if fourteen

2.5MW 1 . (35MW total rated capacity) turbines were constructed, they are expected to generate

an estimated 91.98 GWh of electricity per year. This is equivalent to the amount of electricity

used annually by approximately 19,987 average UK households. In addition, a wind energy

development of this scale could displace an estimated 39,551 tonnes of carbon dioxide

emissions per year 2 .

1.1.2 The project will require planning permission to be granted by Fife Council (the Council). In

support of the application for this planning permission, an Environmental Impact Assessment

(EIA) is to be undertaken, as required by the Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland)

Regulations 2011 (the EIA Regulations). An Environmental Statement (ES) will be prepared to

document the EIA and will comprise the formal written statement of the findings of the EIA.

The ES will address the predicted beneficial and adverse effects on the environment during

the construction and operational periods of the development, as well as the predicted effects

during decommissioning, and restoration. The ES will form part of the material informing and

supporting the application for planning permission.

1.1.3 PfR has commissioned SKM Enviros to lead the independent EIA and this report constitutes

the start of the EIA process by serving as a formal request to Fife Council to provide a scoping

opinion under Regulation 14 of the EIA Regulations. It provides preliminary environmental

information about the proposed site and development, and suggests the scope of key issues

that the EIA will need to examine. In addition to Fife Council, various statutory bodies including

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Historic Scotland (HS), the Scottish Environment Protection

Agency (SEPA) and Scottish Water (SW) will be consulted to obtain their comments on the

provisional scope set out in this report. Comments from various non-statutory nature

conservation bodies will also be sought, these are likely to include RSPB, SWT and other

1 A 2.5MW turbine has been assumed for the purposes of this report.

2 The Digest of UK Energy Statistics (2010) gives 2009 domestic electricity consumption as 122,543 gigawatt-hours (GWh)

(http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/statistics/source/electricity/dukes5_1_2.xls) which, when divided by the number of

households in the UK - 26,625,800 (http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/statistics/publications/ecuk/269-ecuk-domestic-

2010.xls (table 3.3) - gives an average electricity usage of 4,602 kWh per year per household (122,543,000/26,625,800 =

4,602). Taking into account the candidate turbine for the site, it is expected that the 14 proposed 2.5MW turbines could

together generate 98.98 GWh of renewable electricity per year (based on a capacity factor of 30%). These figures are

derived as follows: 35,000 kW (14 x 2.5 MW turbines) x 8,760 hours/year x 0.30 (capacity factor) = 91,980,000kWh. Based

on the 4,602kWh household figure, and the predicted electricity generation of 91.98 GWh, it is estimated that the yearly

output from the wind energy development will be equivalent to the approximate domestic electricity needs of 19,987 average

households in Britain. In September 2008, the Advertising Standards Authority endorsed a figure of 430 gCO 2/kWh, based

on the assumption that the energy generated by the wind turbines displaces Combined Cycle Gas Turbines and an average

mix generation (430 gCO 2/kWh). On this basis, and on the assumption that the wind turbines annual output is 91.98GWh, a

wind energy development of this scale is expected to displace 39,551 tonnes of CO 2 emissions per year being emitted to

atmosphere. These figures are derived as follows: 91,980,000kW (output) x 430 gCO 2/kWh / 1,000,000 = 39,551 tonnes

CO 2.

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species specific bodies. All consultee comments will be considered, and the scope of the EIA

will be amended as appropriate.

1.1.4 A brief background to EIA and the scoping process is set out in this report after which a

description of the site and the proposed development is provided. The full results of the

scoping exercise are set out and the report concludes with a provisional list of the significant

issues to be addressed during the assessment. A list of the organisations consulted on the

preliminary scope and plans for stakeholder engagement are also provided.

PfR

1.2.1 PfR was established to facilitate renewable energy projects on land controlled by public sector

bodies. In partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland, it has established the viability of a

site at Blairadam Forest for a wind energy development.

1.2.2 PfR was set up by the Carbon Trust in 2006 to develop, construct and operate renewable

energy projects primarily on public sector land. The public sector can play a significant part in

the effort to increase renewables capacity, as public sector bodies own approximately 10% of

the land in the UK (over one million hectares) and thousands of buildings.

1.2.3 The aspiration of the public sector to develop renewable energy has been hampered by a lack

of funds and the desire to avoid diverting financial resources from frontline services towards

the development of potential sites for renewable energy. PfR works in partnership with public

sector bodies throughout the entire development process and covers all development costs.

1.2.4 Focused on a development process tailored to the specific needs of the public sector, PfR

provides a way for public sector bodies to access the economic and environmental benefits

associated with renewable energy and contributes towards the fight against climate change

without diverting public sector resources away from frontline services. As well as Forestry

Commission Scotland, PfR is currently working with a variety of public sector bodies across

the UK, including the Environment Agency, HM Prisons Service, University of Reading, British

Waterways, the Coal Authority, Caerphilly County Borough Council and Clackmannanshire

Council.

1.2.5 Further information about PfR and its public sector partners can be found at www.pfr.co.uk.

Forestry Commission Scotland

1.3.1 The Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) is working with Partnerships for Renewables to

assist in the delivery of its economic and climate change objectives set by Government and

the Forestry Commission as described below.

1.3.2

all forestry in Scotland. It describes how forestry will deliver diverse benefits to the people,

economy and environment of Scotland. The strategy describes at Outcome 3 that in helping

encourage [..] renewable energy projects on

forest landThis is reinforced in the Strategic Plan for the National Forest Estate 2009 and

to:

-operation with other organisations working to develop the use of

renewable energy, promote the use of forest land for all forms of renewable

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energy production, subject to appropriate environmental and planning

1.3.3 The Scottish Lowlands Forest District Strategic Plan 2009-2013 (available online) describes

the principal methods of delivering its renewable energy objectives within the national policy

framework and industry standards for sustainable forest management. Key themes 1

Climate Change, and 3 Business Development, state that the Forest District will:

Scot Low 1.01 Maximise the potential for wind farms and other renewable

energy projects with regards to landscape, biodiversity, public access,

community and economic values. We have three active sites with two pending

at Whitelee and Murdostoun and working with PfR on 20 other sites.

Scot Low 3.13 Seek the best and most reliable returns from developments to

support our objectives locally and nationally, supported by expert help and well

trained staff.

1.3.4 The current Blairadam Forest Design Plan identifies opportunities for the site to contribute to 7

key objectives under the headings of, Timber, Landscape, Recreation, Biological diversity,

Water, Local community and Archaeology as follows:

Timber maintain productive potential allowing sustained flow of timber to the

market;

Landscape long and short distance views are sympathetic to land form and land

use;

Recreation increase opportunities for informal access on foot, bicycle and

horseback;

Biological diversity manage Local Bio-diversity Action Plan (LBAP) species

according to plans;

Water protect integrity of watercourses and loch;

Local community local communities are able to participate in planning process and

use the forest for recreation; and

Archaeology historical and cultural features protected and public access facilitated.

1.3.5 The current plan is likely to be superseded in early 2012 so PfR will also ensure that the

proposals comply with the objectives of the new plan.

1.3.6 By developing renewable energy projects, the Forestry Commission is helping to limit and

adapt to the effects of climate change, reduce dependency on fossil fuels and help develop a

low-carbon economy. It is also securing economic benefits for the Forestry Commission and

local communities. These economic benefits are both directly identified as income to the

Forestry Commission and local communities as well as indirect benefits to the rural economy.

1.3.7 For further information on the Forestry Commission Scotland visit:

www.forestry.gov.uk/Scotland

1.3.8 For further information on renewables on Forestry Commission land visit the forest renewables

website http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-7stf2a

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Environmental Impact Assessment and Scoping

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

2.1.1 Under the Town and Country Planning Act (Scotland) 1997, planning permission is required

for the construction and operation of power generating plants including wind farms. The

Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 2011 apply to any wind farm

proposal that is likely to have significant environmental effects and Schedule 1 of the

Regulations lists types of development for which an EIA is mandatory. Schedule 2 of the EIA

Regulations lists those developments which may require an EIA and this includes installations

for the harnessing of wind power for energy production (wind farms) with applicable thresholds

and criteria as follows:

The development involves the installation of more than two turbines; or

The hub height of any turbine or any other structure exceeds 15 metres

2.1.2 The proposed Blairadam Wind Farm falls under Schedule 2 of the Regulations and, as it is

considered to have the potential to give rise to significant environmental effects, is therefore

subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), with the findings of the EIA set out in

an Environmental Statement (ES).

2.1.3 The process of EIA which culminates in the production of the Environmental Statement (ES)

involves collecting information about the existing environment likely to be affected by a project.

impartial, objective and transparent manner and presented in a systematic way. The process

is designed to allow environmental concerns to be addressed during the planning and design

of a project, by incorporating into the proposal, measures to mitigate adverse effects or

enhance beneficial ones.

Scoping an EIA

2.2.1 Once the requirement for an EIA has

because it sets the parameters for the rest of the process. The main functions of scoping are

to determine:

The nature and characteristics of the development;

The alternatives under consideration;

The breadth of the EIA;

The range and complexity of significant issues; and

The extent to which each environmental topic area needs to be investigated.

2.2.2 If the scope of the EIA is defined too narrowly, a critical area of uncertainty or an unexpected

adverse effect may emerge later in the process, with potential consequences for the design

and timetable for development. If the scope is defined too loosely, then time, expense and

effort may be wasted on pursuing unnecessary detail.

2.2.3 European Directive 85/337/EEC (as amended) notes that the primary purposes of an EIA are:

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To ensure that the authority giving the primary development consent for a project

makes its decision in the knowledge of any likely significant effects on the

environment; and

To provide information so that the public can properly understand the importance of

the predicted effects.

2.2.4 There has been a trend for increasing scale and complexity of EIAs since the Regulations

were implemented, often because non-significant issues have been analysed and included. As

a result, focus can be lost, and it is difficult for the determining authority, consultees and the

public to understand the key findings of the ES, that is, the most significant effects associated

with the proposed development. This works against the objectives of the EIA process. Hence

in the preparation of this scoping report, careful consideration has been given to the scale and

nature of the project proposals, in the context of site specific and local environmental baseline

conditions.

2.2.5 The intention has been to scope issues considered to be potentially significant into the EIA.

Where a particular issue has not been included within the proposed scope of the EIA, this is

not to suggest that there will be no associated effects, but rather that these will not be

significant.

Scoping methodology

2.3.1 The approach taken for this scoping study can be broadly categorised into a number of

overlapping stages, summarised as follows:

Consultation, both pre-submission by the applicant (information presented herein)

and post submission by the consenting authority, with statutory consultees and

others who may have information relevant to the site, the intention being to open

dialogue and ascertain the extent of any existing information in order to avoid

unnecessary fieldwork as well as to identify any particular need for focus of fieldwork;

Examination of readily available environmental information for the site and its

immediate surrounds. This may provide background information on the site and

surrounding area, identify sensitive receptors and assist with determining the scope

for the proposed development;

Iteration of site design (conceptual layout);

Review of scope of additional baseline data collection;

Formal request for scoping opinion; and

Provision of Fif scoping opinion.

2.3.2 The proposed scope of the EIA for this development has been determined by examining the

proposals in the context of the receiving environment. Key issues and sensitivities for

consideration came out of discussions with members of the project design team and

environmental specialists. A checklist of potential environmental issues was used to aid the

statements for planning projects that require environmental assessment - a good practice

referred to in the EIA Regulations.

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2.3.3 The following list of topics has been compiled to cover all of the likely significant environmental

issues that this proposal may present at this location:

Climate change and atmospheric emissions;

Traffic and transport;

Noise;

Landscape and visual;

Historic Environment;

Ecology;

Ornithology;

Hydrology and Ground Conditions inclusive of Peat;

Shadow flicker; and

Socio-economics;

2.3.4 Cumulative effects will also need to be considered in each case.

2.3.5 All known issues that could arise as a result of the construction, operational and

decommissioning phases of the development proposals were noted.

2.3.6 The issues identified as being relevant were then considered in greater detail in order to

determine whether they are likely to give rise to significant environmental effects, positive or

negative, and hence should be included within the scope of the EIA. The checklist again

records those issues that have been excluded from further consideration as being not

significant.

2.3.7 Potential effects on infrastructure, aviation and telecommunications are not considered to be

environmental issues and are therefore not included within the scope of the EIA, although

where appropriate they will be identified as technical constraints and if necessary, addressed

in more detail in the Supporting Statement to accompany any forthcoming planning

application.

2.3.8 The likely significant environmental issues have been summarised under broad topic headings

development (e.g. increased noise levels), and the importance of potential receptors (e.g.

nearby residential properties), were then considered.

2.3.9 Where relevant, this scoping report includes consideration of the geographical extent,

methodology and timescale of assessment proposed for issues included in the EIA.

2.3.10 The consideration of topics and issues in this scoping report is preliminary. Fife Council and

consultees are invited to comment on the scope of the EIA and to highlight any significant

matters which may have been overlooked.

The EIA assessment methodology

2.4.1 Once the scope of the EIA is agreed, and the necessary surveys have been completed,

against the established sensitivity of the environmental receptor. For ease of comparison

across topic areas, the description of significance will utilise a standard terminology, although

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this may not be appropriate for all topics. The assessment will establish whether identified

are judged

to be slight, moderate, substantial or very substantial and whether they are direct, indirect,

secondary, cumulative, short, medium and long-term, permanent and temporary, positive and

negative effects of the development. The assessment of effects will also distinguish between

the construction, operational and decommissioning phases of the development and where

appropriate, take account of cumulative effects.

2.4.2 Each environmental topic will clearly identify mitigation measures which are an inherent part of

the design of the development and will establish a level of significance before and after

additional mitigation or control measures that may be required to address an identified

significant effect. Such additional measures will be set out in the Environmental Management

Plan at the end of the ES and, if required, are normally expected to be managed through

conditions attached to any subsequent consent. The ES may also identify some environmental

improvement measures, which although not required to provide mitigation for an identified

significant effect, are nevertheless identified as an opportunity for environmental

significant effects that are left after all mitigation and control measures are taken into account.

2.4.3 The final design of the project is an ongoing iterative process informed by the studies and

assessments undertaken as part of the EIA and a series of public consultation events

formulated to engage effectively with the local community. A key part of the evolution of the

project is also effective pre-application engagement with statutory and non-statutory bodies

and other stakeholders, such as: SNH, the RSPB, SEPA, Historic Scotland, aviation

stakeholders, The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (formally Defence Estates),

telecommunications and infrastructure providers, Fife Council, Transport Scotland, and the

local Roads Authorities.

2.4.4 Although the issues are described in this Scoping Request under grouped topic headings, the

EIA will recognise the interrelationship of the various factors, and thus take a holistic approach

to the likely effects and mitigation measures. EIA is an iterative process, and matters not

recognised at a preliminary stage can be addressed subsequently.

2.4.5 The Environmental Statement structure is likely to be as follows, subject to any changes to the

scope identified through the consultation process:

Non-technical Summary (bound separately)

Introduction

The EIA process

Scheme development, alternatives and scoping the EIA

Description of the proposed development (including construction). This will include

outlines of Management Plans for construction, pollution prevention and waste

management.

Planning policy overview

Climate change and atmospheric emissions

Traffic and transport

Noise

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Landscape and visual

Historic Environment

Ecology

Ornithology

Hydrology

Shadow flicker

Socio-economics

Environmental Mitigation and Management Plan and Summary of Residual Effects

2.4.6 It is envisaged that the Individual environmental topic chapters will follow a consistent format:

Introduction and Overview

Legislative Context

Methodology

Baseline Information

Design Evolution

Predicted Significant Effects of the Scheme

Mitigation and Enhancement Measures

Assessment of Residual Significant Effects

Purpose of this scoping report

2.5.1 This report sets out the proposed scope of the EIA, the findings of which will be presented in

the ES that will accompany any subsequent planning application for consent for a wind energy

project at Blairadam Forest. Fife Council and consultees are invited to make comments and

suggestions on this scope and to highlight any pertinent information that they hold and can

make available to PfR for the assessment.

Early Consultation

2.6.1 As part of the EIA process, early discussions between PfR, and Fife Council have been

undertaken to highlight any key issues which should be covered as part of the EIA process.

2.6.2 The key issues relating to the proposed development which were raised by the Council

included:

The potential landscape effects to the current AGLV designation or future SLA

designation;

Potential for visual effects of the turbines from isolated properties, settlements and

major transport routes;

Effects to biodiversity and the water environment and the proximity of Tipperton

Mosses SSSI;

Potential amenity effects to users of the forest; and

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Potential positive effects of investment into this and other local FCS properties.

2.6.3 The benefits associated with stakeholder consultations are fully recognised by PfR and the

EIA team. Throughout the EIA, PfR will liaise and consult with the key statutory and nonstatutory

bodies relevant to the assessments. PfR will seek to agree a plan of consultation

with Fife Council early in the process.

Key Questions

2.7.1 Below are the key questions which require a response to this scoping report:

Are Fife Council and statutory consultees satisfied with the assessment methodology

and assumptions which have been used to inform the Environmental Statement

content and coverage?

Is there any further guidance and/or relevant policy which should be referred to

during the EIA process not covered in this report?

With regards to the cumulative assessment, is Fife Council satisfied with the list of

projects due to be considered?

2.7.2 Contact details for Fife Council are as follows:

Fife Council

Development Services

Forth House

Abbotshall Road

Kirkcaldy KY1 1RU

2.7.3 Contact details for PfR are as follows:

Partnership for Renewables

Westpoint

4 Redheughs Rigg

Edinburgh EH12 9DQ

info@pfr.co.uk

www.pfr.co.uk

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The Site

Site identification process

3.1.1 The EIA process started when PfR began investigating the feasibility of locating a wind energy

development on land owned by the Forestry Commission Scotland in 2010. The first step was

an initial screening process that involved a desktop assessment of Forestry Commission

(GIS)) issues such as the proximity of housing, environmentally-designated areas and wind

speed. The Blairadam Forest site was identified as having good potential to support a wind

energy development and was progressed to a more detailed feasibility study that included a

site visit, technical consultations i.e. telecommunications links, utilities and aviation,

assessment of grid connection and access options, energy yield analysis, preliminary noise

modelling and a planning policy review. This feasibility study indicated that the site was

potentially technically, environmentally and financially viable for a wind energy development,

but that further assessment and clarification was needed.

The PfR scheme development process

3.2.1 PfR has established a scheme development process for wind energy projects that integrates

the activities required for EIA within a structured, holistic, approach to confirming the technical

and economic viability of a particular development proposal.

3.2.2 Following the feasibility study, PfR undertakes a broadly sequential three stage process

designed to investigate and resolve/avoid any key risks to the development of the site and any

potentially significant environmental effects in a structured manner. The purpose of this

process is to identify any irresolvable issues which would make the site inappropriate for

development. The exact scope and order of task investigation in the different stages is

determined using professional judgement and experience,

combination of technical and environmental factors as well as other seasonal factors.

Development phase 1

3.2.3 Following the completion of the feasibility study, this development phase is designed to

investigate and understand the basis of any objections received from consultees during

feasibility (such as aviation stakeholders or telecommunications operators) during initial

discussions, and to verify that fundamental practical issues such as slope steepness, ground

conditions, grid connection and access would not be likely to affect the economic or technical

viability of the site.

Development phase 2

3.2.4 The objectives of this phase are usually to fully cost the civil engineering works necessary to

construct the wind turbines, to verify further the economic and technical viability of the site,

and to work with key statutory consultees and others to resolve any outstanding objections,

where possible. It is likely that EIA scoping opinion would be secured from the planning

authority during this stage.

3.2.5 Key constraints would be expected to be verified through the scoping process and activities

progressed to establish whether these were capable of resolution. This may involve gathering

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and analysis of relevant survey data depending on timing in relation to the appropriate survey

seasons.

3.2.6 Detailed environmental and technical survey information is gathered during this phase which is

continuously fed back into the design process along with information from the consultations.

3.2.7 The most intensive design development effort is concentrated into this phase where the main

environmental effects are avoided or ameliorated and mitigation measures that can be

incorporated into the scheme are agreed.

3.2.8 Where it is concluded that any concerns can be overcome through further design development

or the incorporation of mitigation measures into the scheme, and that the site is economically

and technically viable, the site will progress to Development phase 3.

Development phase 3

3.2.9 This phase comprises the preparation and submission of the planning application and the

relevant supporting documents. The planning application materials are prepared inclusive of

the detailed assessments on the significance of environmental effects.

Site description

3.3.1 The Blairadam site is located within an area of commercial forestry to the south and south east

of the Cleish Hills in Fife, approximately 6km north of Dunfermline and approximately 3km to

the west of Kelty. The location of the site is shown in Figure 1.1. The site lies wholly within

the jurisdiction of Fife Council and covers an estimated 492 ha in area. The Perth and Kinross

A site boundary for scoping

purposes and an indicative layout for 14 turbines are illustrated in Figure 1.2.

3.3.2 The site is gently undulating and generally slopes towards the east and the south. The

elevation of the site is approximately 200m to 300m above ordnance datum (AOD). To the

east of the site is the Blairadam Estate and the eastern half of Blairadam Forest, with the B914

running west from Kelty to the south. To the west runs the A823, while the heights of the

Cleish Hills and Loch Glow lie to the north. Loch Leven is situated approximately 4km to the

northeast, separated from the forest by the M90 which lies approximately 2.5km to the east of

the site.

3.3.3 The Blairadam Forest is largely a coniferous plantation of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) in

the western part of the Forest, whereas there are other species along with more open areas in

the east. The plantation was established on open moorland to the west of the Blairadam

estate, which is designated as a Historic Garden and Designed Landscape (HGDL). Opencast

coal mining and small reservoirs are a feature of the surrounding area. The Knockhill motor

racing circuit is located to the immediate west of the site.

3.3.4 The forest is divided into two distinct areas (east and west) with the eastern side being a

longer established woodland interspersed with residential property and with historic links to the

Blairadam estate, whilst the western side of the site is a more recently established plantation

on former moorland and rough pasture. Substantial areas of the eastern side of the forest

have been exploited for opencast mining in the past. Parts of the western block have been

used by the MOD, and some MOD infrastructure remains. An unclassified road leading to

Loch Glow reservoir and residential properties divides the two main forest blocks. The site of

the proposed Blairadam Wind Farm lies in the western side of the Forest.

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Introduction

Summary of Relevant policy

3.4.1 The context for the proposed development lies in international, national (UK) and regional

(Scottish) policy on climate change and energy generation. This is distilled into local (county

and district level) planning through policies on sustainability and energy, where policies exist.

3.4.2 The proposed development is in general supported by national and international policy on

renewable energy which encourages the development of renewable energy sources as a

response to the threat of climate change. The below section focuses on those regional and

local planning policies which will apply to the determination of the application for planning

consent, highlighting the key determining factors for this application.

3.4.3 A review of the relevant development plan, including the West Villages Local Plan (2002), has

identified several key issues within and around the site boundary which could be affected by

the wind turbines and ancillary infrastructure. Sufficient evidence will be required to

demonstrate that there would not be any significant detrimental effect on these designations,

specifically regarding ecological, ornithological and hydrological effects, in order to meet the

policies contained in the local development plan.

Regional Planning Policy

3.4.4 The National Planning Framework for Scotland 2 (N

vision for Scotland. This document was approved in June 2009 and guides Scotland's spatial

development to 2030, setting out strategic development priorities to support the Scottish

Government's central purpose - promoting sustainable economic growth.

3.4.5 NPF2 supports the continued expansion of renewable energy development by stating:

energy it uses from renewable sources by 2020. The Scottish Government

supports this objective and has in place its own, higher target for electricity

generated from renewable sources. It also wants to see continued

improvements in energy efficiency; the development of technologies which

derive clean energy from fossil fuels; the harnessing of renewable sources of

heat; and decentralised energy production, including local heat and power

schemes and micro-

3.4.6 In addition to NPF2, existing national planning policy relevant to the proposed wind energy

project is contained within the Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) which was approved in February

2010. This provides a statement of Scottish Government policy on nationally important land

use and other planning matters, supported where appropriate by a locational framework and

provides advice on how and where development should occur. Policies expressed within the

SPP should inform the content of the development plan and, so far as relevant, be material

considerations to be taken into account in development management decisions. In this

regard, SPP covers a number of subject policies covering development type and effect. With

regards to wind farm development the following are of relevance:

Economic Development;

Rural Development;

Historic Environment;

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Landscape and Natural Heritage;

Transport;

Renewable Energy; and

Flooding and Drainage.

3.4.7 Key subject policies in regards to the proposed wind energy project are noted below.

SPP: Renewable Energy

3.4.8 The SPP recognises that the planning system has a key role in tackling climate change and

states that:

its short and long term effects should be taken into account in all decisions throughout the

The SPP states that the current (non-capped) target for electricity

generation is 50% from renewable sources by 2020 3 and recognises the current role of

onshore wind power. The SPP also states that:

the generation of energy and heat from renewable sources, ensuring that an

account of relevant economic, social, environmental and transport issues and

3.4.9 The SPP sets out key factors to be considered in the decision making process for renewable

energy developments and more specifically, wind farm development. Overall, the relevance of

these factors or criteria will depend upon the scale of the development and its potential effect

ability to demonstrate that it can operate efficiently in the proposed location and satisfactorily

address environmental and cumulative effects t criteria, which should

inform Development Plan policies for wind farm development, include:

Development Plan

environment, contribution of the development to renewable energy generation

targets, effect on the local and national economy and tourism and recreation

interests, benefits and disbenefits for communities, aviation and

3.4.10 Decisions on planning applications must be made in accordance with the development plan

unless material considerations indicate otherwise, as required under the Planning Acts. The

development plan for the area comprises:

The Approved Fife Structure Plan 2006-2026 (adopted by Scottish Ministers in

2009);

The Adopted Dunfermline and Coast Local Plan (adopted 2002);

Adopted West Villages Local Plan (adopted 2002); and

The Draft Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan (2010)

3 This target has now been superseded by the requirements of the Climate Change Act 2009 for 100% by 2020, see para. 4.1.3.

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3.4.11 For the purpose of this policy review, the key development plan policy issues relating to the

proposal and land subject of the application are outlined below.

Regional Policy -The Approved Fife Structure Plan 2006-2026

3.4.12 The Approved Fife Structure Plan provides a strategic statement about the future use of land

in the region which outlines the overall development strategy and land use policies and

proposals which provide the context for Local Plans.

3.4.13 The Structure Plan includes one policy which relates to wind farm development; and a number

relating to the protection and enhancement of environmental designations. The policy relating

to wind farm development is outlined in Table 3.1 below:

Table 3.1 Fife Structure Plan Policy R1: Wind Turbines

Policy

Policy R1: Wind Turbines

In accordance with SPP6, local plans and local development plans will include spatial frameworks for wind farms over 20

megawatts to reflect the following:

Areas of search where proposals for large and small scale wind farm development will be supported subject to specific

proposals satisfactorily addressing all other material considerations.

Areas designated for their national or international natural heritage value and green belts will be afforded significant

protection from large scale wind farms.

The integrity of national or international designations should not be compromised.

Cumulative impact will be assessed in all relevant cases, taking into account existing wind farms, those which have

permission and those that are the subject of valid but undetermined applications. The weight to be accorded to

undetermined applications will reflect their position in the application process. Where the limit of acceptable cumulative

impact has been reached the area will be afforded significant protection.

Outside the areas of search, wind farm proposals will be assessed against the following constraints, any positive or

adverse effects on them and how the latter can be overcome or minimised:

historic environment

areas designated for their regional and local natural heritage value

tourism and recreational interests

communities

buffer zones

aviation and defence interests

broadcasting installations.

Proposals affecting areas designated for their local and regional natural heritage value shall satisfactorily address any

impacts on the particular interest that the designation is intended to protect but the designation shall not unreasonably

restrict the overall ability of the plan area to contribute to national targets.

In all cases, applications for wind farms should be assessed in relation to criteria including as appropriate, grid capacity,

impacts on the landscape and historic environment, ecology (including birds), biodiversity and nature conservation, the

water environment, communities, aviation, telecommunications, noise and shadow flicker.

Wind farm and individual turbine proposals will be considered in relation to the issues in policy R1 and the Fife

Landscape Character Assessment. The extent to which the considerations in the spatial framework will be relevant to

proposals below 20 megawatts will be dependent on the scale of the proposal, its design, location and the landscape.

3.4.14 The other key Structure Plan policies which are considered relevant to the assessment of the

proposed development are set out below:

Policy ENV2 Nature Conservation International Sites ;

Policy ENV3 Nature Conservation National Sites;

Policy ENV4 Nature Conservation Enhancement;

Policy T1 Transport and Development; and

Policy DC1 Developer Contributions Essential Community Infrastructure.

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Local Planning Policy

The Dunfermline and Coast Local Plan (Adopted 2002)

3.4.15 The Dunfermline and the Coast Local Plan identifies the main issues, problems, constraints

and opportunities facing the area over the Plan period. The Plan is now relatively dated being

prepared prior to the preparation of SPP6: Renewable Energy, and recently, Scottish Planning

Policy (SPP).

3.4.16 Renewable energy developments will be supported by the Plan provided that they do not

significantly impact on local communities and/or the built and natural environment.

3.4.17 Policy D4 sets a presumption in favour of wind energy developments, providing they do not

create unacceptable adverse effects. A planning application for renewable energy

development would need to prove that the development would not have any significant

adverse effects which could not be mitigated or which were not outweighed by the potential

positive effects from the development.

3.4.18 The Blairadam site is directly affected by two land use designations (Policies COU4,), and all

relevant planning policies are listed in Table 3.2 below:

Table 3.2

Potentially Relevant Policies from the Dunfermline and Coast Local Plan

Policy

Policy COU4 Areas of Great Landscape Value

Within an AGLV, development that is supported under other policies in this Local Plan must maintain or enhance the

character of the landscape through the highest standards of design and finish.

Policy INF5 Safeguard Zones and Pipeline Corridors

Development proposals within the safeguard consultation zones and pipeline consultation corridors identified on the

Proposals Maps will be determined in consultation with the Health and Safety Executive and the facilities' operators/owners.

Policy BE1 Development Outwith Town and Village Envelopes

Outwith the settlement limits as defined by the town and village envelopes shown on the Proposals Maps, development will

only be acceptable where it is in accordance with Policies COU1 to COU22.

Policy BE10 Listed Buildings and Design

Alterations or extensions to a listed building, or development which affects the setting of a listed building, should preserve

features of special architectural or historic interest; match or complement the design, details and external finish of the

building and should not detract from its appearance or setting.

Policy BE12 Development Affecting Listed Buildings

Development proposals affecting listed buildings and their settings should not detract from those settings, and will be

required to conform to the highest design standards, including siting, materials, landscaping and boundary enclosures.

Policy BE14 Historic Gardens

Sites included in "An Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland", and others which during the lifetime of

the Plan may be assessed as worthy of Inventory status, will be protected from development which would adversely affect

their character. Features which have led to their designation will be safeguarded. Due consideration will also be given to the

protection of any sites which may have significant local interest. Protection will also be given to non- Inventory Historic

Garde

Policy BE15 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites

Archaeological and historic features of significance and their settings will be protected and conserved in-situ. Unless

exceptional circumstances are demonstrated, support will not be given to development which would adversely affect:

a) Scheduled Ancient Monuments and their setting;

b) Archaeological Sites and Areas of Regional Importance; or

c) Non-Statutory Register Sites.

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Policy COU2 Siting and Design of Countryside Development

Development in the countryside will require, through careful siting and design, to be sympathetic to the local landscape

character in terms of scale, form, use of materials and visual impact.

Policy COU8 Nature Conservation - International Sites

Development likely to have a significant effect on a Natura 2000 site will be subject to an assessment of the implications for

where the assessment indicates that:

a) it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site; or

b) there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, and there are no

alternative solutions.

Where such a site hosts a priority habitat and/or priority species as defined by the Habitats Directive (92/43/EC), the only

overriding public interest must relate to human health, public safety or beneficial consequences of primary importance to the

environment. Other allowable exceptions are subject to the views of the European Commission.

Policy COU9 Nature Conservation - National Sites

Development that would affect a National Nature Reserve or a Site of Special Scientific Interest will only be permitted where

ecological appraisals have demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council as planning authority that:

a) the overall objectives of the designation and the overall integrity of the designated area would not be compromised; or

b) any adverse effects on the qualities for which the area has been designated are clearly outweighed by social or economic

benefits of national importance.

Policy COU10 Nature Conservation: Regional and Local Sites

Development that would adversely affect sites containing habitats, species and/or geological or geomorphological features of

local or regional importance, whether designated or otherwise, will not normally be permitted, except where ecological

appraisals have demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council as planning authority that:

a) the overall integrity of the site and the features of natural heritage value will not be compromised; or

b) it can be demonstrated that the economic and social benefits arising from the proposal significantly outweigh the natural

heritage value of the site.

Policy COU11 Protection of Wildlife Habitats

All valuable wildlife habitats, including landscape features that have a migration or dispersal value to wild flora and fauna, will

be safeguarded from development.

Policy COU12 Tree, Woodland and Hedgerow Protection

Trees, woodlands and hedgerows that have a landscape, amenity and/or nature conservation value will be protected from

development.

Policy COU15 Trees and Development

Where development is proposed on a site where trees are present,

a) developers will be required to:

i) submit a comprehensive tree survey; and

ii) identify on site any affected trees; and

iii) submit for agreement by Fife Council a programme of works, details of tree protection and landscaping proposals,

including any appropriate tree planting; and

b) Fife Council will consider whether and in what form development should be permitted, having regard to the desirability of

retaining and protecting mature and semi-mature trees, and other examples likely to become attractive in amenity terms or of

a rare species. The provisions of Policy COU13 will be considered.

Policy INF2 Development and Flooding

Development will not be supported if:

a) it would increase the risk of flooding:

i) by reducing the capacity of, flood storage or conveyancing areas or by altering the flow characteristics of a river channel, or

increasing flows within, and area known to flood; or

ii) through the discharge of additional surface water; or

iii) by harming flood defences; or

b) it would be at risk from flooding; or

c) adequate provision is not made for access to watercourses for maintenance;

d) all unless adequate mitigation measures can be secured by conditions attached to a planning permission or a Section 75

Agreement.

Policy T5 Transportation Development Guidelines

Transportation Development Guidelines. Development proposals likely to generate a significant amount of traffic will require

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to be accompanied by Transport Assessments including, where appropriate, Travel Plans and Environmental Impact

Assessments.

Policy T10 Road Layouts in New Developments

The road layout of new developments should be appropriate for the locality and incorporate measures to achieve safe traffic

speeds and secure a pleasant and safe environment.

Adopted West Villages Local Plan (2002)

3.4.19 The Local Plan Strategy for the West Villages is one of restraint, with development based

primarily on local needs for local people. It aims to create a high quality environment within

which people have access to jobs, shops, community and recreational facilities. In the

interests of visual amenity the Blairadam Wind Farm proposal will need to demonstrate that

the development justifies a countryside location and therefore accords with the Policy COU 1

of the adopted West Villages Local Plan, it must also ensure that it is not contrary in terms of

design to policy BE3 of the Local Plan.

The Draft Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan (2010)

3.4.20 The Draft Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan will need to be taken into consideration as

this Plan will replace the current Dunfermline and Coast Local Plan (2002). The Plan is a

material consideration in the assessment of planning applications.

3.4.21 Fife Council approved the draft Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan for public consultation in

October 2009. The Draft Plan is currently undergoing pre-examination. The Local Plan

examination commenced on the 8th July 2011.

3.4.22 The draft plan contains one policy regarding Renewable Energy development (Policy I1). This

policy encourages the development of various types of renewable energy development,

provided that there are not any significant adverse effects, employment opportunities are

provided and a preference is given to the utilisation of brownfield or contaminated land.

3.4.23 The key Draft Local Plan policies which are considered relevant to the assessment of the

proposed development have been identified and are listed below.

Policy I1 Renewable Energy;

Policy E3 Development Quality Environmental Impact;

Policy E4 Development Quality Design;

Policy E20 Watercourses and Wetlands;

Policy E21 European Protected Species;

Policy E23 Protection of Biodiversity;

Policy E8 Listed Buildings;

Policy E12 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites;

Policy I4 Flooding and Water;

Policy T1 The Transport Network;

Policy T2 Traffic Safety in New Development; and

Policy D1 Developer Contributions.

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Other Material Considerations

3.4.24 A decision on the planning application will be considered firstly against the development plan

and then against material considerations offering additional subject matter which has the

potential to outweigh the development plan.

Edinburgh and SE Scotland Strategic Development Plan

3.4.25 The Scottish Government has recently instigated a significant modernisation of the planning

system in Scotland. The Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 introduced substantial changes and

one of the changes introduced is the replacement of the existing structure plan system with

Strategic Development Plans (SDP). The SDPs will only cover the four main city regions.

3.4.26 The Edinburgh and South East Scotland SDPA, which was designated by Scottish Ministers

on 25 June 2008 comprises City of Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, Fife, Scottish Borders

and West Lothian Councils.

3.4.27 The key role of the SDPA is to prepare and maintain an up to date SDP for the area. This

process will involve engaging key stakeholders and the wider community.

3.4.28 The SDP when completed will replace the existing Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan, the

Fife Structure Plan and the Scottish Borders Structure Plan. In addition, the individual councils

will have to prepare Local Development Plans in order to implement the requirements of the

new SDP.

3.4.29 Fife Council produced Wind Energy Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) in 2008. In

November 2010 Fife's Planning Committee approved a draft update of its wind energy

guidance which was subject to 12 weeks public consultation to February 2011. Fife Council

published the final version of its revised Wind Energy Supplementary Planning Guidance

(SPG) in June 2011. The SPG substantially revises earlier guidance but remains founded on

the Fife Landscape Capacity Study (Identifying Areas Of Search For Groupings Of Wind

Turbines In Fife prepared by ASH consultants in 2006). Based on this study, the June 2011

SPG firstly identifies a broad area of search for wind energy development within Fife. The site

at Blairadam Forest falls outside of this broad area of search. The SPG then identifies what

scales of wind energy development may be appropriate within different parts of the identified

broad area of search. It appears from the SPG that no part of Fife is considered as being

suitable for large scale wind energy developments. In paragraphs 6.1.1 and 6.1.2 the SPG

nevertheless acknowledges the need to identify locations in Scotland for wind energy

development of over 20 MW and:

expresses the opinion that the types of landscape found in Fife (and their varied,

fragmented nature) are not suitable for this scale of development; while also stating

that;

accepts developers may identify locations that they consider to be suitable and that;

such proposals will be evaluated on their own merits in the context of (i) the

considerations outlined in section 8 of the SPG, (ii) criteria given by Policy R1 of the

Structure Plan and (iii) the content of the Ash Capacity Study of 2006.

ASH Study Identifying Areas of Search for Groupings of Wind Turbines in Fife (2006)

3.4.30 This report accompanies the SPG and it identifies areas of search for groups of wind turbines

in Fife, the report was produced by ASH Design and Assessment in 2006. This document

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supports the SPG document by providing an indication of landscape capacity in Fife for Wind

Energy Development.

Fife Landscape Character Assessment (1999)

3.4.31 This study was completed in 1999, and was commissioned by Scottish Natural Heritage in

conjunction with Fife Council. The Blairadam proposal site is predominantly within the

being:

Distinctive silhouettes and skylines;

Recognisable shapes, peaks and slopes;

Open, large-scale, rolling hills of upland pasture with peaks, knolls and ridges;

The evidence of active natural systems and processes e.g. weathering and erosion;

Varied texture and mainly green/brown colour patchwork of the grasses, bracken,

sedge and rush communities with pockets of heather;

Stone dykes, burns and occasional minor roads flowing over and along the contours;

Lack of present day settlements but regular evidence of ancient human settlement

with many historical and archaeological features visible;

Vast scale, exposure, openness, peacefulness, simplicity;

Generally quiet, calm, harmonious, semi-natural, enduring landscape with irregular

patterns responding to the landform;

Weather conditions are important and can rapidly change the experience of the

upland landscapes; and

Extensive, panoramic and elevated views across substantial distances and many

other landscape ty

Summary

3.4.32 Renewable energy projects are generally encouraged at the national and regional level. Fife

Council is generally supportive of renewable energy development provided there are not any

overriding environmental concerns or constraints which would have a greater negative effect

than the positive effects anticipated through the development of a given proposal.

3.4.33 The following key issues have been identified:

The proposed site is within a candidate Special Landscape Area (cSLA) and partly

within and adjacent to an AGLV;

No areas of search for wind farms greater than 20MW have been identified within

There are a number of nature conservation areas close to the site as well as BAP

priority habitats and species within the site; and

There are a number of cultural heritage sites within and in close proximity of the site.

3.4.34 The EIA will take these issues into consideration.

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The Proposed Development

Rationale for Development

4.1.1 Wind power, together with other renewable forms of energy is seen as an essential element of

the strategies of the Scottish Government and European Union in tackling climate change.

environment, economy and society (from Climate Change - the UK Programme 2006). While

there remain those who argue either that climate change is not happening to any significant

extent, or who see it as no more than a natural stage in the cycle of the climatic system of the

world, the consensus of scientific opinion as presented to world governments by the

actions and a variety of climate-related issues such as rising sea and air temperatures, rising

sea-levels, melting ice caps and changes in the pattern and severity of a range of

meteorological conditions.

4.1.2 The response to the issues of climate change can be traced through a series of conventions,

directives and policy statements at international, European and national levels over the last 18

years. These include the Earth Summits at Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and Kyoto in 1997.

4.1.3 The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 put in place a legislative framework to pursue a

reduction in emissions associated with the unsustainable use of fossil fuels. The Scottish

Government commitment to increase the amount of electricity and heat generated from

renewable sources is a vital part of the response to climate change. The headline targets are

to generate the equivalent of 100 per cent of Scotland's gross annual electricity consumption

and the equivalent of 11% of Scotland's heat demand met from renewable sources by 2020.

While Scotland is on course to meet the previous target of 31% of electricity supply from

renewables in 2011, the revised target will clearly be demanding. In addition and despite the

progress in Scotland, the overall target for the UK as a whole of 30% of electricity from

renewables by 2020 remains to be met.

4.1.4 In addition to assisting the Scottish and UK Governments meeting the above renewable

energy targets, developments such as the proposed Blairadam wind farm bring the following

benefits:

Providing greater security of supply since the use of onshore wind reduces the

risks arising from increasing global energy demand and associated competition for

fuel supplies; and the upward pressure on fuel prices resulting from such demands;

The provision of additional generation capacity to meet the shortfall in electricity

supply created by decommissioning of old power stations and an increase in

electricity demand; and

Transitioning to a low carbon economy facilitating the mitigation or avoidance of the

most significant effects of climate change.

4.1.5 In addition to the above, increased renewable energy infrastructure in Scotland serves to:

Support a domestic manufacturing industry instead of relying on machines being

brought in from abroad (mainly Europe) for example the production of the steel

towers for the turbines (Arnish on Lewis, Macrihanish on Kintyre and Nigg in the

Highlands); and

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Provide economic benefits locally through the provision of employment and the

capital spend of the project as well as financial contributions to the community

(community fund) and opportunities for community investment.

Secure inward investment to FCS which can be used to improve facilities, expand

the forest estate and secure local jobs.

Description of Proposed Development

4.2.1 At this early stage it is envisaged that the planning application will be made for the erection, 25

year operation, and subsequent decommissioning, of approximately fourteen wind turbines.

The different components of the proposed development are listed below:

Approximately fourteen wind turbines with a hub height of up to 80m above ground

level and a rotor diameter of up to 100 m, resulting in a maximum potential blade-tip

height of up to 130m above ground level;

Crane pads adjacent to each turbine site for installation and maintenance;

Wind turbine transformers (one per turbine) - these will either be enclosed inside the

tower or located in a small container adjacent to the base section of each turbine

tower;

An anemometer mast

Access tracks for construction and operational access, with passing areas and

turning points as required;

Temporary lay-down /construction compound area;

Borrow pits;

One on-site electrical substation/control building to house electrical switchgear,

transformer, metering equipment and any required grid protection equipment;

Underground power and communication cables between the turbines and on-site

substation; and

High voltage export cable or overhead line to the nearest substation presently

assumed to be at Dunfermline.

4.2.2 An indicative layout of the wind turbines and immediate geographical context of the site is

shown in Figure 1.2.

4.2.3 At this stage, there is only a provisional timescale for the development - subject to the

successful completion of the EIA, a planning application may be submitted in the

summer/autumn of 2012.

Candidate wind turbines

4.3.1 There are a number of makes and models of turbines which are expected to be suitable for

this site. The final choice of the turbines that would be installed will be subject to a competitive

tendering procedure. A set of parameters will however be established to create the scheme

on which the environmental assessment is undertaken and with which the final turbine

selection will need to comply.

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4.3.2 Fourteen turbines with a potential height to blade tip of 130 m have been used in order to

establish an indicative conceptual layout design. Other options may be considered within the

design development and assessment process.

4.3.3 The turbines are likely to be installed on reinforced concrete foundations, established on

bedrock (following excavation) or on pilings, depending on ground conditions. These concrete

foundations are typically 15m to 20m square with a depth of approximately 2-3m and are

hidden below the surface by ground restoration.

Associated infrastructure

4.4.1 Wind turbine generators require transformers to convert generated electricity to a voltage

suitable for the distribution grid. Underground cables will link the transformers at each of the

turbines to the on-site substation. Detailed construction and trenching specifications will

depend on the ground conditions encountered on the site, but typically cables will be laid in a

trench approximately 750mm deep and 450mm wide. To minimise ground disturbance, cables

will be routed along the side of the access tracks wherever practicable.

4.4.2 The grid connection for the proposed development would be via a new substation building.

Metering and switchgear will be contained within this building. The connection between the

substation and the wider grid will be subject to a separate consent procedure.

4.4.3 The precise form of development and route for the connection may not be available at the time

of planning submission for the wind farm. Therefore, PfR will seek to describe as far as can

be reasonably expected, the likely significant environmental effects of the proposed

connection to allow decision makers to consider these effects in combination with the wind

energy development. It is currently anticipated that a 33kV overhead line or buried cable

connection to a substation at Dunfermline some 6km from the site will be possible.

Site access

4.5.1 Access tracks will be required on site to link turbines and the construction compound and to

facilitate access to the turbines from the public road network. There are a number of possible

existing access points on to the site and no new vehicular access from the public road system

will be required. The majority of the turbine locations would be largely accessible via well

established forest tracks which pass through the site, with most only requiring the

development of short subsidiary tracks to access the proposed turbine locations themselves.

More substantial lengths of access track would only need to be established for a small number

of turbines.

4.5.2 For the majority of the site, the new tracks will be to bedrock or suitable load bearing strata

with crushed stone capping. Where deeper surface deposits exist, tracks may be constructed

directly onto the ground (geogrid membranes and crushed stone laid on top of existing

ground). Stone for such tracks can often be won from borrow pits opened on site, providing

suitable sources of material can be identified, and this option will be explored in the EIA.

Alternatively stone/aggregate could be imported from a suitable off-site location (which will be

identified during the EIA process if borrow pits cannot be established).

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Construction of the wind energy development

4.6.1 The construction period for the wind farm is expected to last around 10-12 months, depending

upon the final form of the scheme put forward, weather conditions and ground conditions

encountered during the construction period. The construction process will consist of the

following principal activities:

Extraction of aggregates from borrow pits or import from an adjacent off-site source

for access track and turbine base construction;

Tree felling;

Construction of on-site access roads inter-linking the turbine locations, and

substation incorporating relevant works to maintain site hydrology and manage

surface water run-off from the roads;

Construction of temporary hardstanding and temporary site office facilities;

Construction of turbine foundations;

Construction of site sub-station;

Excavation of trenches and cable laying adjacent to site roads;

Connection of distribution and signal cables;

Delivery to site and erection of wind turbines;

Commissioning of site equipment; and

Site restoration.

Decommissioning of the wind energy development

4.7.1 The wind farm will be designed with an operational life of 25 years. At the end of this life a

number of options exist:

The site will be decommissioned and turbines removed;

An application could be made to extend the operational life of the site using the

existing equipment; or

An application could be made to replace the existing equipment with new equipment.

4.7.2 It is the former that will be covered in the ES and will include the removal of all above ground

structures and equipment, cables cut-off below ground but otherwise left in situ, base of

turbines cut-off below ground level and covered with topsoil to encourage regeneration.

Roads would either be left for use by FCS, or where appropriate material was available, may

be covered with topsoil to allow regeneration. The environmental effects of this approach to

decommissioning are considered to be less than those arising from the break up and removal

of track and turbine bases from the site.

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Environmental Baseline

Site environmental context

5.1.1 The following sections outline key features of the existing environment (environmental

baseline) at the proposed Blairadam site.

Historic Environment

5.2.1 An overview of the baseline relevant to the historic environment has been identified through a

desk-based appraisal of readily available sources, including datasets on designated heritage

assets (scheduled monuments, listed buildings, historic gardens and designed landscapes

(HGDLs) from Historic Scotland.

5.2.2 One scheduled monument lies within the site; the scheduled hut circles at Muckersies Know in

the south-western part of the forest.

5.2.3 There are also a number of non-designated archaeological sites within the proposed wind farm

boundary. To the east of the wind farm boundary, in the eastern part of the forest, are the

remnants of an eighteenth century designed landscape associated with the Blairadam Estate.

5.2.4 In terms of historic and archaeological sites close to the proposed turbines that may be

affected by the proposals, the following are the most significant assets that are likely to be

affected:

The Grade A eighteenth century Blair Adam House;

A number of Grade B and C buildings within and around the fringe of the Blair Adam

Estate;

Grade A Benarty House and Stables c.6km east of the site;

Kinross Conservation Area, which lies a minimum of 6.5km northeast of the

proposed turbines, which includes Grade A Kinross House on the shores of Loch

Leven;

Grade A Loch Leven Castle, a minimum of 7km north-east of the wind farm boundary

5.2.5 In addition, the following assets lie within 5km of the site:

8 scheduled monuments, mostly of prehistoric features, and mainly on surrounding

high ground to the west and east of Blairadam Forest;

Some 90 listed buildings, including 5 listed at Category A, 30 Grade B and the

remainder Grade C; and

Cleish Castle and Blaira

5.2.6 It is important to note, with respect to the above, that many of these lie either outside the

indicative Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV), or it is apparent that not all turbines will be

visible. Screening and filtering from the existing treescape will reduce the visibility of turbines

further from many locations.

5.2.7 A number of non-designated sites of archaeological interest, mostly of prehistoric and postmedieval

date, are known to exist within the site. The condition of these remains is likely to

have been substantially disturbed by the planting of forestry

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Hydrology, Hydrogeology

5.3.1 The commercial coniferous plantation on the site is served by a natural drainage system

draining to the south and east through numerous natural burns.

5.3.2 The site lies within the Leven Catchment which comprises 292 km of watercourses within the

Fife region of eastern Scotland. The site can be sub-divided into two surface water runoff

catchments serving Loch Ore in the east and Roscobie Reservoir in the south. The majority of

the northern part of the site drains to Loch Ore via Lochornie Burnand its associated minor

tributaries. The far south west of the site drains southwards to Roscobie Reservoir and a

small area of the north west of the site drains north to Tipperton Moss source of the Black

Devon.

5.3.3 A review of OS mapping and aerial photography shows there to be no water bodies on the

site, however, two water bodies are situated within close proximity of the site boundary, Loch

Glow and Roscobie Reservoir. Loch Glow is situated adjacent to the north west boundary of

the site, at an elevation of 290 m AOD, which is used by anglers. A tributary of Loch Glow

conveys flows south east towards Lochornie Burn. Roscobie Reservoir is situated

approximately 500 m south of the southern site boundary at an elevation of approximately 200

m AOD. The reservoir receives water from Craiggaveral and Din Moss areas of the site.

Roscobie quarry in the same area has various artificial water bodies associated with the

workings. A further water body, Loch Ore, is located approximately 5.5 km east of the site,

beyond the M90, and is an important recreational facility, notably for dinghy sailing. Loch Ore

receives water from within the site boundary. The River Ore, which conveys flows from the

Loch towards the River Leven at Windygates is a popular fishery for Rainbow and Brown

Trout, Pike, Eels and Perch.

5.3.4 quality.

(HMWB).

5.3.5 British Geological Society (BGS) mapping shows that drift deposits stretch across the entire

site, with the east covered in glacial till and a large proportion of the site covered in deep peat

(> 50 cm). A Soil Characteristics Assessment, carried out by RPS in April 2011 included a

desk top assessment of available information and a site visit. Although the preliminary

evidence from the geological and both soil maps indicates that substantial areas of thick peat

would be expected to be found, this was not confirmed by the site inspection. By comparison

with other upland areas, both in Scotland and elsewhere in the UK, the amount of true deep

peat on the Blairadam site appears limited and what there is tends to be associated with lowlying

and "receiving" sites, rather than occurring as an overall blanket.

5.3.6 Bedrock beneath the site consists of Carboniferous rocks of the lower limestone group and

limestone coal group of the Clackmannan Group which forms the South Fife bedrock and sand

and gravel aquifer. This aquifer is part of the South Fife Drinking Water protected zone,

due to the associated pressures on the aquifer from local mining and quarrying for coal and

large scale agricultural abstractions.

5.3.7 There are no records of licensed abstractions of water from within the proposal site. One well

is recorded on OS maps near to the Drumnagoil Burn. Further investigations during the EIA

will seek confirm whether this and any other sources are exploited by off-site users.

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Landscape and Visual

Site location and description

5.4.1 The site is located on gently sloping land between approximately 200m and 300m AOD, with

the topography gently increasing in elevation towards the north and northwest of the site.

Land surrounding the site is largely composed of medium scale arable fields, with intermittent

blocks of both coniferous and deciduous forestry. To the south of the site, the landscape is

more fragmented in nature, with signs of industry evident, including the St. Ninians Open Cast

Mine located directly to the south.

5.4.2 The topography and aspect of the upland area around Blairadam Forest differs in the north

and south. The site is located to the south and south east of the Cleish Hills. These visually

distinct hills comprise; Saline Hill, Knock Hill, Outh Hill, Park Hill, Dumglow, Cowden Hill and

Benarty Hill, ranging in height from 364m to 285m AOD. Further to the north lie the Ochils, a

series of larger hills, which reach 721m AOD at their highest point. To the south of the site,

the land falls away gently to sea level towards the coast of the Firth of Forth. The landscape

to the south, south east features numerous residential settlements. Key settlements comprise

Dunfermline, Rosyth, Cowdenbeath, Burntisland, Kirkcaldy and Glenrothes. The north and

west of the site is more sparsely settled, including many individual properties and the smaller

settlements of Kinross, Dollar, Alloa, Clackmannan and Saline.

The landscape character context

5.4.3 The Fife Landscape Character Assessment was completed for SNH by David Tyldesley

Associates in 1999. The preliminary site layout 4 is located entirely within an area of The

Uplands landscape type (UP4) which extends to include the more elevated parts of Blairadam

Forest (to the west of the minor road which passes through the Forest to the east of the site),

the open moorland areas of upper Outh Muir and the hilltops of Saline Hill, Knock Hill and

Wether Hill to the east. This area of Uplands is sandwiched between two areas of Upland

Slopes landscape type around Balgonar and the watercourse of Black Devon to the west

(US9) and the rest of Blairadam Forest and estate to the east (US10). To the north is an area

of Dolerite Hills landscape type (the Cleish Hills including Dumglow just across the Fife

boundary into Tayside) and to the south an area of Upland Foothills landscape type (centred

on Craigluscar Hill) (UF21). These five relatively small upland landscape character areas form

part of a line of uplands running in a broadly south west to north east alignment through this

part of Fife. These upland areas are surrounded by lowland landscape types divided

principally into Lowland Loch Basin type to the north (around Loch Leven but extending some

distance to the west) and Lowland Hills and Valleys type to the south (surrounding the

principal settlement of Dunfermline). Beyond these, the most visually prominent and extensive

landscape type is the large area of Igneous Hills type to the north west (the Ochil Hills rising to

an elevation of over 700 m to the west).

4 A small section of the site boundary in the S and SW is also within the Upland Foothills (UF21) character type.

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Landscape designations

5.4.4 There are no national landscape designations (National Park or National Scenic Area) or

Areas of Search for Wild Land in the vicinity of the Blairadam site. Preliminary research has

identified the following designations in the vicinity of the site. Those that fall within 15 km and

within the ZTV of the proposed development will be considered by the landscape and visual

assessment. Consultees are invited to identify additional designations that may require

consideration both within the Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan area and within East Fife

or Tayside.

AGLVs and cSLAs

5.4.5 The site of the proposed development is partially located within a candidate Special

Landscape Area (cSLA) named Cleish Hills. The Cleish Hills cSLA is identified within the Fife

Local Landscape Designation review carried out for Fife Council by LUC in November 2008 in

support of the Fife Structure Plan. The Review contains a Statement of Importance for each

cSLA which identifies the reasons for its designation. The Statement of Importance for the

Cleish Hills focuses on the visually prominent hilltop peaks to the north and west with only

limited and muted reference to the try [that] abuts the moor

(this reference appears to be more descriptive than a reason for

designation). Preliminary consideration of the cSLA notes that its eastern boundary adopts

the alignment of the minor road that passes through Blairadam Forest and that much of the

forest had previously been excluded from the AGLV (see below). The final adoption and

detailed boundary definition of the Cleish Hill cSLA will emerge following adoption of the

Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan (currently in public examination).

5.4.6 The current Fife Structure Plan identifies an Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) in the

vicinity of the Blairadam site. The current AGLV extends to a wider area than the cSLA to

include additional land to the south and west. It is understood that the current AGLV will be

superseded by the cSLA in due course. Consultation with Fife Council will seek to confirm the

status of the current AGLV policy and the timing of its replacement in relation to the anticipated

timescale for the Blairadam Wind Farm planning application.

5.4.7 The Fife Structure Plan identifies several other AGLVs within the wider area which, to varying

degrees, are reflected in Fife by cSLAs. The principal designations comprise:

Benarty and Loch Ore (AGLV and cSLA);

South west Dunfermline (AGLV and cSLA);

Cullaloe Hills and Coast (AGLV and cSLA);

Lomond Hills (AGLV and cSLA); and

High ground at the western end of the Ochil Hills to the north west of Dollar (AGLV

outside of Fife in Tayside).

HGDLs

5.4.8 The closest Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes (HGDLs) comprise;

The Blairadam Estate located approximately 2 km to the east of the site;

Cleish Castle located approximately 2 km to the north of the site; and

Pittencrief Park located approximately 6 km to the south of the site within the urban

area of Dunfermline.

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5.4.9 Additional HGDLs within 15 km of Blairadam Forest comprise:

Aberdour Castle (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area);

Balbirnie;

Culcross Abbey House (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area);

Donibristle (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area);

Dunimarle Castle (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area);

Kinross House;

Fordell Castle;

Raith House and Beveridge Park;

St Colme (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area);

Tulliallan (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area);

The Murrell (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area); and

Valleyfield (Dunfermline & West Fife Local Plan Area).

Conservation Areas

5.4.10 Conservation Areas in the Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan area comprise Dunfermline

(Pittencrieff Park); Kincardine; Culross; Charlestown; Pattiesmuir; Inverkeithing; North

Queensferry; and Aberdour. The closest of these is at Pittencrieff Park at a distance of over 6

km to the south. The remaining seven Conservation Areas are all located close to the coast in

southern parts of the local plan area at a considerable distance from the site.

Country Parks

5.4.11 Country Parks are located at: Townhill Loch and Townhill wood, Dunfermline (approximately 5

km to the south) and at Loch Ore (approximately 5 km to the east).

Ecology

5.5.1 Table 5.1 identifies statutory designated nature conservation sites within 10 km of the site,

excluding sites designated entirely for geological interest. Ornithological interests are included

(and shown in italics for completeness but are not relevant to this section (see Section 5.6,

Ornithology).

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Table 5.1

Nature conservation designations within 10 km of the Blairadam site

Site Name and Designation

Distance and Direction from

Application Boundary

Reason for designation

International designated sites

Loch Leven SPA and Ramsar

Wetland

This designation overlaps with

Loch Leven SSSI (see below)

4.5km northeast Habitats: Eutrophic loch (Ramsar

Wetland only)

Species:

Non-breeding waterfowl

assemblage and non-breeding

populations of pink-footed goose

and shoveler

Non-breeding populations of

teal, cormorant, gadwall,

goldeneye, pochard, tufted duck

and whooper swan (SPA only)

Firth of Forth SPA and Ramsar

Wetland

This designation overlaps with

Firth of Forth SSSI (see below)

8.5km southwest Species: Non-breeding waterfowl

assemblage and non-breeding

populations of redshank,

Sandwich tern, shelduck,

Slavonian grebe, turnstone, bartailed

godwit, goldeneye, great

crested grebe, knot and pinkfooted

goose

Non-breeding populations of

velvet scoter, lapwing, redbreasted

merganser, redthroated

diver, ringed plover,

scaup, common scoter,

cormorant, curlew, dunlin, eider,

golden plover, grey plover, longtailed

duck, wigeon, mallard and

oystercatcher (SPA only)

National designated sites

Park Hill and Tipperton Mosses

SSSI

Adjacent, northwest Habitats: Raised bog

Lurg & Dow Lochs SSSI 0.1km north Habitats: Open water transition fen

Oligotrophic loch

Roscobie Hills SSSI 0.2km south Habitats: Lowland calcareous grassland

Fen meadow

Open water transition fen

Lielowan Meadow SSSI 0.7km south Habitats: Fen meadow

Lowland neutral grassland

Black Loch (Cleish) SSSI 1.1km northwest Habitats: Mesotrophic loch

Steelend Moss SSSI 2.3km west southwest Habitats: Raised bog

Basin fen

Swallow Craig Den SSSI 2.4km west Habitats: Upland mixed ash woodland

Transition grassland

Lowland neutral grassland

Dalbeath Marsh SSSI 2.7km southeast Habitats: Basin fen

Lowland neutral grassland

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Site Name and Designation

Distance and Direction from

Application Boundary

Reason for designation

Wether Hill SSSI 3.3km west northwest Habitats: Blanket bog

Upland oak woodland

Lowland calcareous grassland

Loch Leven SSSI

This designation overlaps with

Loch Leven SPA and Ramsar

Wetland (see above)

4.5km northeast Habitats: Open water transition fen

Species:

Eutrophic loch

Breeding bird assemblage and

breeding populations of gadwall

and tufted duck

Aggregations of non-breeding

whooper swan, gadwall,

shoveler, pochard, teal, tufted

duck cormorant, goldeneye,

greylag goose and pink-footed

goose

Beetle assemblage

Flies

Vascular plant assemblage

Devon Gorge SSSI 7.7km northwest Habitats: Upland mixed ash woodland

Lockshaw Mosses SSSI 7.8km west southwest Habitats: Raised bog

Cullaloe Reservoir SSSI 8.4km southeast Habitats: Eutrophic loch

Firth of Forth SSSI 8.5km southwest Habitats: Transition grassland

Saline lagoon

Saltmarsh

Lowland neutral grassland

Maritime cliff

Sand dunes

Species:

Breeding populations of eider,

ringed plover and shelduck

Non-breeding populations of

velvet scoter, red-breasted

merganser, redshank, redthroated

diver, ringed plover,

scaup, shelduck, Slavonian

grebe, turnstone, bar-tailed

godwit, common scoter,

cormorant, curlew, dunlin,

eider, golden plover,

goldeneye, great crested grebe,

grey plover, knot, long-tailed

duck, oystercatcher and pinkfooted

goose

Northern brown argus

Beetle assemblage

Vascular plant assemblage

Glen Queich SSSI 8.8km northwest Habitats: Lowland neutral grassland

Bishop Hill SSSI 9.0km northeast Habitats: Upland habitat assemblage

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Site Name and Designation

Distance and Direction from

Application Boundary

Reason for designation

Camilla Loch SSSI 9.2km west-southwest Habitats: Open water transition fen

Springs (including flushes)

Meso-eutrophic loch

Otterston Loch SSSI 9.2km south-southeast Habitats: Wet woodland

Open water transition fen

Back Burn Wood and Meadows

SSSI

9.5km Habitats: Lowland acid grassland

Upland mixed ash woodland

5.5.2 An extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey (JNCC 2010 5 ) was undertaken by RPS in March 2011

that mapped all habitats greater than 0.1ha and produced target notes on notable habitats

smaller than 0.1ha, as well as other features of interest, including the potential of habitats to

support protected or otherwise notable species. The results will be reported in full in the ES,

and a brief summary of key findings is presented below.

5.5.3 The RPS survey recorded the dominant habitat as conifer forest plantation, notably Sitka

spruce, but with sections of mature European larch and mature Scots pine. Small areas of

broadleaved plantation woodland are also present, some of which (primarily in the east) are

woodlands of long established plantation origin (LEPO). There is no semi-natural broadleaved

woodland within the site boundary, although this habitat borders the site to the east.

5.5.4 Two watercourses and tributaries are present within the site boundary and are fringed by

marshy grassland in areas where a woodland cover is absent or has an open canopy. Marshy

grassland also occurs in forest edges, including rides.

5.5.5 Parts of the conifer plantation have been planted on former peat moorland and although there

is very little bog habitat present within the site boundary, dry and wet modified bog habitats are

included in Park Hill and Tipperton Mosses SSSI fringe the application boundary to the

northwest. These areas contain peat in excess of 50cm deep. A small amount of dry heath on

shallow (

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last 25 years: common toad, common frog, palmate newt, European eel, brook lamprey,

invertebrates (including beetles, butterflies, true files), brown hare, otter, red squirrel and bats

(including common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrel -eared bat,

Myotis species) as well as numerous plant species. There

are no records of reptiles on the NBN Gateway or SNH Interactive map, but common lizard

has been observed within 2km of the site in recent years (J. Driessen, RPS, cited in the

extended Phase 1 survey report) and by soil surveyors on site in April 2011. Similarly,

although there are no records of pine marten on site or within 2km, Forestry Commission

Scotland has received reports of pine marten sightings in the general area and a record

included on the SNH Interactive map suggests that pine marten is present within 5km of the

site. No records have been found of great crested newt, water vole, wildcat or badger.

Consultation with Scottish Badgers suggests that badger is rare in west Fife, with the M90

motorway being cited as a likely barrier to dispersal.

Ornithology

Designated Sites

5.6.1 A desk study to identify internationally designated sites within 10km and nationally designated

sites within 2km was undertaken. There are no nationally designated sites, designated wholly

or in part due to their ornithological interest within the search area. Internationally designated

sites, designated entirely or partially due to their ornithological importance, within 10km of the

site are included in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Designated Sites

Site and Designation

Distance and Direction

from Proposed

Development Site

Description / Reasons for Designation

Internationally Designated Sites

Firth of Forth Special

Protection Area (SPA)

and Ramsar

8.5km southwest

The Firth of Forth SPA qualifies under Article 4.1 of the EC Birds

Direction by supporting populations of European importance of

the following Annex 1 species

Wintering

Red-throated diver (Gavia stellata): 90 individuals, 2% of GB

population,

Slavonian grebe (Podiceps auritus): 84, 2% of NW Europe

population, 21% of GB population,

Golden plover (Pluvialis apricaria): 2,949, 1% of GB

population, and

Bar-tailed godwit (Limosa lapponica): 1,974, 2% of Western

Europe population, 4% GB population

Passage

Sandwich tern (Sterna sandvicensis): 1,617, 6% GB

population, 1% East Atlantic population

And Under Article 4.2 for Supporting:

Wintering Populations of European and International

Migratory Species

Pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus): 10,852, 6% of

Icelandic/Greenlandic population

Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna): moulting flock of 4,509, 2% of

NW Europe population

Knot (Calidris canutus): 9,258, 3% of Western

Europe/Canadian population

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Site and Designation

Distance and Direction

from Proposed

Development Site

Description / Reasons for Designation

Loch Leven SPA and

Ramsar

Species

4.5km northeast

Redshank (Tringa totanus): 4,341, 3% of European/West

African population

Turnstone (Arenaria interpres): 890 individuals, 1% of

European population.

Wintering Wildfowl Assemblage of European Importance

95,000 waterfowl (45,000 waterfowl and 50,000 waders):

The Ramsar citation includes the above species, plus:

Breeding

Common tern (Sterna hirundo): 889 occupied nests, 1.4% of

GB population

Spring/Autumn

Goosander (Mergus merganser): 191 birds, 1.1% of GB

population

Loch Leven SPA qualifies under Article 4.1 of the EC Birds

Direction by supporting populations of European importance of

the following Annex 1 species:

Wintering

Icelandic whooper swan (Cygnus Cygnus); winter peak mean

of 97, 2% of GB population)

And Under Article 4.2 for Supporting:

Wintering Populations

Icelandic/Greenlandic pink-footed geese (winter peak mean

of 18,230, 8.1% of total population)

Shoveler: 520, 1.3% of NW European population

Cormorant: 391, 3% of GB population,

Gadwall (Anas strepera): 245, 3% of GB population,

Teal (Anas crecca): 2,771, 2% of GB population

Pochard (Aythya ferina): 1,095, 2% of GB population,

Tufted duck (Anas fuligula): 3,636, 6% of GB population

Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula): 339, 2% of GB population.

5.6.2 Records on the NBN Gateway database identified that a number of bird species of

conservation importance have been recorded historically within 2km of the site. Records

include hen harrier (Circus cyaneus), barn owl (Tyto alba), peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus),

merlin (Falco columbarius), short-eared owl (Asio flammaeus), long-eared owl (Asio otus),

marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus), black-throated diver (Gavia arctica), black-necked grebe

(Podieps nigricollis) and golden plover.

5.6.3 The Tayside Raptor Study Group confirmed that there were at least two peregrine falcon nest

sites in the area surrounding Blairadam Forest, while osprey (Pandion haliaetus) are

frequently seen visiting the various lochs in the area. In addition, short-eared owl and hen

harrier have both been recorded in the surrounding area as well as more common raptors

such as common buzzard (Buteo buteo), kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) and sparrowhawk

(Accipiter nisus).

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Bird Surveys

Breeding Bird Surveys

5.6.4 Breeding bird surveys were undertaken at the site by RPS Group. This phase of bird surveys

at the site began in April 2011 and concluded in August 2011. Surveys were undertaken in

accordance with relevant SNH guidance 9 , and included in excess of the minimum required

hours of VP survey. During this time the following surveys were undertaken:

Vantage Point Survey

A total of 54 hours Vantage Point (VP) survey from each of three VPs was

undertaken (April 24 hrs, May 12 hrs, June 6hrs, July, 6 hrs, August 6hrs).

Breeding Bird Surveys

Three breeding bird surveys were undertaken, with surveys during April, May and

June. These surveys included the site (by means of point counts) and the

surrounding 500m buffer zone (by means of walkover surveys (Common Bird

Census 10 method)).

Breeding Raptor Surveys

Three raptor surveys were conducted and included the site plus a buffer zone of

2km. These surveys were undertaken during April, May and June 2011.

Target Species

5.6.5 Target species for the vantage point surveys are limited to protected species and other

species of conservation concern which are, as a result of their flight patterns or response

behaviour, likely to be subject to effects from wind farms. For this project, target species

included all:

Divers

Grebes

Herons

Skuas

Swans

Geese

Ducks

Terns

Annex 1 and Schedule 1 raptors

Waders

9 Scottish Natural Heritage (2005, updated 2010): Survey Methods for use in Assessing the Impacts of Onshore Wind Farms

on Bird Communities.

10 Marchant, J. H. (1983) BTO Common Bird Census Instructions. BTO Tring

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Noise

5.7.1 Noise levels at the receptors surrounding the site, are likely to be typical of those that would be

expected in a rural area, with some influence from traffic on the nearby main roads. The

dominant noise source in the area to the south and west is likely to be related to traffic on the

A823 and B914 as well as occasional noise from the racing circuit. To the east of the site, the

M90 motorway and other roads will most likely dominate with additional sources including the

St Nininans opencast mine.

Traffic and Transport

5.8.1 Vehicular access to the site will be via the M90 J4 and B914 and the A823 with the form and

location of the proposed access junctions to be agreed with the Fife Council Roads Authority.

5.8.2 An access study will be undertaken however, a provisional route for abnormal load vehicles is

likely to be from either the Port of Grangemouth or Rosyth and along the M90 J4, B914 and

A823. The suitability of the access route will be discussed and agreed with the affected Roads

Authorities and Transport Scotland.

Socio-economics

5.9.1 The nearest settlements to the proposed site are Kelty and Keltybridge, both of which lie

immediately to the east of the M90, the main transport corridor to the east of the site. There

are a number of settlements in the wider vicinity of the proposed site, the largest of these

being Dunfermline, approximately 6 km to the south and Saline approximately 4.5 km to the

west. The properties at Lochornie lie adjacent to the minor road that borders the eastern

boundary of the site.

5.9.2 The predominant land use of the area is forestry and recreation. The forest road network

within Blairadam Forest forms part of the Millennium Cycleway and the area is of local use for

walkers, cyclist and horse-riding. There are various trails within the woodland areas in the

east of the Forest, including the Blairenbathie Mine Trail which has links with the areas

industrial heritage. The woodlands also provide access to Loch Glow reservoir which lies

immediately to the north-western site boundary and which is popular with anglers. Of notable

interest are Wester Deanhead Equestrian Centre, located between the southern boundary of

the site and the B914 and Knockhill Motor Racing Circuit, located approximately 0.5 km to the

west.

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Proposed Scope of the EIA

Scope

6.1.1 For the majority of environmental topics set out below, the following format has been adopted

in considering the proposed scope of the EIA:

Policy context and guidance;

Methodology;

Assessment and Consultation;

Potentially significant effects; and

Potential Further Mitigation/Enhancement.

Climate change and atmospheric emissions

6.2.1 The only potentially adverse effects on air quality that may arise from the development are

from dust generated by construction activities and the effects they could have on residential

receptors and sensitive plants. Because of a lack of identified receptors and the fact that

these potential effects can be controlled by standard construction practices, it is proposed that

any further assessment of deleterious local air quality effects is scoped out.

6.2.2 The positive effects of the renewable energy project on climate change will be stated in the

application.

6.2.3 The carbon balance of the project will be calculated in accordance with the publication

Calculating carbon savings from wind farms on Scottish Peat lands a new approach

(Nayak et al., 2008).

Historic Environment

Policy context and guidance

6.3.1 Historic environment is a term which encompasses all features and remains which are the

product of human activity. These include standing buildings, earthwork monuments, industrial

features, sub-surface archaeological remains and artefact scatters. It also includes

landscapes and their constituent features which have been shaped by human occupation,

from planned features such as historic parks and gardens, field boundaries and plantations to

changes in flora and fauna as a result of human activity. Tangible features in the historic

environment are increasingly referred to as heritage assets. A broad definition of historic

environment also encompasses less tangible cultural aspects, such as traditions, customs,

beliefs and language.

6.3.2 Certain features that are deemed to be of particular importance are given legal protection as

Scheduled Monuments through the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act

(AMAAA) 1979. Similarly, the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland)

Act (LBCA(S)A) 1997 provides for the definition and protection of Listed Buildings or areas of

architectural and historical interest. The Town and Country Planning (General Development

Procedure) Scotland Order 1992 and subsequent amendments also requires the consideration

of nationally important designated features, including Historic Gardens and Designed

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Landscapes (HGDLs), in the planning process. The Historic Environment (Amendment)

(Scotland) Bill was approved on 20 January 2011. This makes amendments to provisions in

the existing LBCA(S)A, AMAAA and the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953,

which includes the provision of a statutory basis for the inventory of gardens and designed

landscapes (GDLs) and provide for the creation of a new inventory of battlefields.

6.3.3 Further advice on how historic environment issues should be treated is given in Scottish

Planning Policy (SPP) 2010 (paragraphs 110-124), Scottish Historic Environment Policy

(SHEP, 2008) and Planning Advice Notes (PAN), including PAN 2 2011: Planning and

Archaeology.

6.3.4 The SPP provides the national policy framework for future development, and includes a

section on the impacts of development on the historic environment (encompassing

archaeological sites, listed buildings, conservation areas and Gardens, Designed Landscapes

and World Heritage Sites).

Methodology

6.3.5 The small footprint of the built development associated with a wind farm development

significantly lessens the potential for direct effects on historic environment features.

Nevertheless there is some potential for such effects to occur. A study area extending up to

1km from the site boundary will be used to identify known historic environment features which

might be directly affected by the proposals and to assess the potential presence of previously

unrecorded features within the site. A site visit will also be undertaken, with the aim of

identifying any visible historic environment features within the site, checking available records

and noting general ground conditions. Owing to the predominance of forestry within the site,

this will concentrate on locations of recorded features any features or areas of interest

identified during the desk-based work which are accessible on the ground. It will be important

to ascertain where development is likely to coincide with areas where the ground has been

relatively unaffected by forestry. Where necessary, this information can be used to inform the

wind farm design in order to avoid or reduce effects.

6.3.6 Effects on the setting of designated heritage assets and other important features identified

through research and raised in consultation responses, as well as the wider historic landscape

will also be considered as part of the EIA. It is initially proposed that an assessment will be

made of all designated assets within 5km of the site. An initial appraisal of likely historic

environment receptors undertaken as part of the scoping exercise suggests that many

receptors within this study area may not fall within the ZTV, or visibility of turbines may be

reduced. This is particularly the case for features in the river valleys to the south of the site.

No features beyond 5km from the site have been identified at this stage which would be

expected to be significantly affected.

6.3.7 An assessment of the potential effects on the setting of the features within the study area will

be made through a combination of documentary study, site visits (from publicly accessible

areas), reference to the calculated Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) of the development and

wireframe illustrations (computer generated line drawings of the terrain and proposed wind

turbines). The aim will be to establish the current setting of the feature and how this might be

affected, in consideration of factors such as distance, topography and available screening from

vegetation and built development. Where the potential for a significant effect on setting is

identified, photomontage viewpoints may also be prepared. The assessment will then be

made based on professional judgement with reference to a stated methodology, bearing in

Assessment of Impact on the Setting of

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Historic Environment Resources and any scoping responses or information arising from further

consultation.

6.3.8 The assessment will be carried out in close consultation with the landscape and visual

assessment.

Assessment and consultation

6.3.9 The scope of the assessment undertaken as part of the EIA will be discussed with relevant

consultees, including Historic Scotland and Fife Council Archaeological Advisor.

6.3.10 All work will be completed in accordance with the Institute of Field Archaeologists Standard

and Guidance for Archaeological Desk-Based Assessments (2001). The following information

sources will be consulted during the EIA:

Registers of designated features maintained by Historic Scotland;

Fife Council Sites and Monuments Record (SMR)

Relevant cartographic sources held in the National Library of Scotland Map Library

and the National Archives of Scotland;

Relevant published and other documentary sources held by the SMR, Royal

Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS), other

library and internet sources; and

Aerial photographs and/or transcriptions held by RCAHMS.

Potentially significant effects

6.3.11 It is anticipated that the appropriate micro-siting of turbines during the process of finalising the

wind farm design will avoid direct effects on any features of historic environment identified

during the EIA. Should this not be possible, measures will be adopted to identify and preserve

by record any features which have not previously been recorded.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.3.12 Given the relatively low level of ground disturbance involved in the proposed development, the

potential for effects on unrecorded features is likely to be mitigated by archaeological

monitoring of intrusive construction works to identify and preserve by record any features

which have not previously been recorded. This mitigation strategy is subject to further

discussion with relevant consultees.

Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology

Policy context and guidance

6.4.1 The Flooding and Drainage policies of The Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) are of particular

relevance to the Hydrology and Hydrogeology scope. Both sections of the consolidated SPP

outline important elements of national policy on matters relative to flood risk, surface water

management and water pollution.

6.4.2 The core objective of the Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (WEWS

deterioration in status of water bodies and, where possible, restoring surface waters and

groundwater damaged by pollution, water abstraction, dams and engineering activities to

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2005 (CAR) provide the framework for consenting all activities that have the potential to impact

the water environment (SEPA, 2008).

6.4.3 In addition, Planning Advice Notes issued by the Scottish Government also provide advice on

good practice and other relevant information. Of particular relevance to this development

proposal is PAN 61, Planning and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems.

6.4.4 Further general guidance relating to the water environment is also available, including the

following:

Forestry Commission, Forest and Water Guidelines Fourth Edition

CIRIA Report C502: Environmental Good Practice on Site;

CIRIA Report C532: Control of Water Pollution from Construction Sites;

CIRIA Report C689: Culvert Design and Operation Guide;

CIRIA Report C697: The SUDS Manual;

BS6031: 2009 Code of Practice for Earth Works;

DEFRA Construction Code of Practice for the Sustainable Use of Soils on

Construction Sites (2009);

Good Practice during Wind farm Construction (SNH 2010);

Floating Roads on Peat (SNH/FCS 2010);

SEPA Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPGs); and

Methodology

SEPA Position Statement Developments on Peat (SEPA 2010)

6.4.5 The assessment will comprise a desk based study which will be complemented by a site visit,

to gain further understanding of the local hydrology, hydrogeology and geology and the

potential constraints it may place on turbines and track locations; and also identification of

potential private water supplies in relation to nearby properties.

6.4.6 The Blairadam Soil Characteristics report (RPS, 2011) identifies peat to be present on site and

preliminary geotechnical survey work will be carried out to establish the coverage and depths,

and consequently any potential requirement for peat slide risk assessment.

Assessment and consultation

6.4.7 The proposed site layout will not be affected by flood risk and therefore, flood risk assessment

is proposed to be scoped out. Furthermore, the drainage characteristics at the site will be

unaffected by the proposed wind turbines as the small footprint of the turbines and access

tracks are unlikely to increase run-off rates, therefore the changes in area of impermeable

surfaces will be negligible.

6.4.8 For the assessment, baseline data (within a 2km radius of the site) will be collated. The

hydrological data relevant to the assessment will include the following as appropriate:

Topography 1:50000, 1:25000 and 1:10000 Ordnance Survey maps;

Climate monthly average rainfall, potential evapotranspiration and hydraulically

effective rainfall;

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Geology and soils maps (inclusive of FCS soils map), memoirs and borehole logs

from the BGS and the Soil Survey; any previous site investigation reports;

Hydrology Agency surface water flow and quality records and classifications;

Hydrometric Register gauge records; records of flooding;

Hydrogeology SEPA hydrogeology and groundwater vulnerability maps; SEPA

groundwater level data and any relevant policy and guidance documentation; BGS

Aquifer Properties Manuals; and

Water Supply - Local Authority Environmental Health records of small private surface

water abstractions; SEPA licence records of any local surface and groundwater

abstractions, including source protection zone maps; local water supply undertaker

for information on locations of mains water supplies.

Potentially significant effects

6.4.9 The collated data will be used to present the understanding of the baseline conditions and

interpreted to develop a conceptual understanding of the site's hydrology, hydrogeology and

geology. From this understanding, details of the proposed development and the results of the

consultation, the potential hydrological effects will be appraised. Environmental effects to be

addressed during the assessment include the following:

The control of concrete pouring for turbine bases on soil hydrology and surface water

flows;

The control of runoff and entrained sediments from access roads within the site.

Flow balancing and sediment treatment will be assessed during both the construction

and operational phases;

The control of drainage during soil excavations for turbine bases and cable laying;

Spills and leaks from temporary compound areas and vehicles;

The presence or absence of other licensed or unlicensed abstractions, and any

mitigation measures required to safeguard these supplies; and

The possibility of turbine bases interfering with groundwater flow paths.

6.4.10 Particular importance will be placed on the presence of any water supplies and other users of

water (e.g. agriculture) which rely on flows from the site.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.4.11 The assessment will be based on the design of mitigation measures, which will be fed into the

method statement for the development covering: the control of drainage runoff from

excavations and access tracks; watercourse crossings; and, the control of concrete pouring.

Drainage control will involve treatment and discharge into surrounding vegetation so that no

increase in runoff into the watercourse is experienced. These measures will reflect current

best practice in the industry and will serve to prevent an increase in flood risk. Standard

construction practices adopted on wind farm developments would be assessed, and modified

where necessary, to ensure that predicted effects could be controlled. Guidance on the

protection of the water environment will also be used to assist with the development of

mitigation. Such guidance will be based on SEPA and recent CIRIA guidance. Input into

pollution prevention plans and the construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) for

the construction and operational phases of the development will also be provided.

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Background

Landscape and Visual

6.5.1 Project development work to date has identified a preliminary potential layout comprising 14

turbines of up to 130 m high to blade tip. This possible layout and turbine dimension has been

used to generate a preliminary Zone of Theoretical Visibility shown over the full 35 km radius

study area (see Figure 6.1), and over a 15km radius (Figure 6.2).

6.5.2 A detailed landscape and visual impact assessment (LVIA) including a cumulative assessment

(CLVIA) will be carried out to identify and assess the significant landscape and visual effects

anticipated to be associated with the proposed wind farm and to inform further refinement of

the proposed layout and design. The landscape and visual assessments will be undertaken

by Chartered Landscape Architects at RSK Environment Ltd (a practice registered by the

Landscape Institute with relevant wind energy experience).

Policy context and guidance

6.5.3 National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG), Scottish Planning Policy (SPP), and Planning

Advice Notes (PAN) provide statements of Scottish Government policy and good practice on

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) also publishes a series of policy guidance used to advise

Government and other public bodies on natural heritage matters. Policy Statements of specific

relevance to the assessment of landscape and visual effects comprise the following:

Policy Statement No. 01/02 Renewable Energy Policy;

Policy Statement No. 02/02 Strategic Locational Guidance For Onshore Wind

Farms in Respect of the Natural Heritage; and

Policy Statement No. 02/03

6.5.4 Planning policies relevant to the proposed scheme are also discussed in Chapter 3.4 of this

report.

6.5.5 The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) and the Cumulative LVIA (CLVIA) will

be carried out in accordance with all current and relevant advisory guidelines comprising:

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment; 2nd Edition; E & FN Spon,

2002;

Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland; Prepared

on behalf of the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage; Land Use

Consultants, 2002;

Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity, Topic Paper 6,

published by Scottish Natural Heritage and the Countryside Agency (2004);

Visual Assessment of Windfarms: Best Practice, University of Newcastle, 2002;

Visual Representation of Windfarms: Good Practice Guidance, Horner and

Maclennan/ Envision, March 2006 (released February 2007);

Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/09 - Use of Photography and Photomontages in

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (2009);

Cumulative Effect of Wind Farms, revised version 2 published by SNH (April 2005);

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Siting and Designing Windfarms in the Landscape, SNH (December 2009); and

Methodology

Study area

Forest Landscape Design, Forestry Commission (1994).

6.5.6 A study area extending to 35 km radius around the proposed development will be adopted for

the landscape and visual assessments. This distance is based on guidance published by

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) that recommends a 30 km radius study area for turbines of up

to 100 m in height (a nominal additional 5 km has been added to reflect the possibly greater

height of the turbines proposed at Blairadam). The proposed study area is in line with current

best practice and is precautionary in relation to the likelihood of significant landscape and

visual effects occurring over very long distances. Furthermore, to ensure a focus on

potentially significant issues, pre-application discussions and consultations will seek to agree a

focus on landscape character and viewpoints within 15 km of the proposed development (the

majority of the representative viewpoints will fall within this distance).

6.5.7 The landscape, visual and cumulative assessments will be based on an assessment of

sensitivity and magnitude of change to reach conclusions about the significance of the

landscape and visual effects. The assessments will be supported by clearly stated criteria to

determine levels of landscape and visual sensitivity and magnitude of change.

Landscape character assessment

6.5.8 Landscape character is a composite of physical and cultural elements. Aspects such as

landform, hydrology, vegetation, landcover, land use pattern and cultural features and

categorise the landscape into definable, homogenous units known as landscape character

types (LCTs) or areas (LCAs). The assessment of landscape sensitivity for each area will

include consideration of:

Landscape character: the local and wider landscape character within the study area

will be rated in relation to its potential sensitivity to the introduction of the proposed

development, taking account of its key elements, composition and defining

characteristics. This will determine the vulnerability of the key characteristics to the

changes likely to be associated with the introduction of wind energy development.

Landscape quality: the quality or condition of the landscape relates to judgements

made about the physical state of the landscape and its intactness from visual,

functional and ecological perspectives, together with the state of repair of the

constituent features or elements (e.g. hedgerows and woodland) which contribute to

its character.

Landscape value: the value of the landscape is the relative value or importance

attached to it, either at an international, national, regional or local level, because of

its quality, or due to perceptual qualities such as scenic beauty, wildness, tranquillity,

or cultural associations or other conservation values. Consideration will be given to

the value of the local landscape within the study area primarily by reference to

statutory designation. Absence of statutory designation, however, does not confirm

absence of local landscape value. Factors such as accessibility and local scarcity will

also be considered.

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Landscape visual sensitivity: the visual sensitivity of the landscape relates to its

topography and openness; to the nature and number of visual receptors present; and

to the probability of change in visual amenity due to the development being visible.

6.5.9 The magnitude of predicted landscape change will be assessed for each identified landscape

character area and designated area. The assessment will consider:

The degree to which the character, condition and value of the landscape would be

altered by the introduction of the proposed wind energy development;

The specific effect of the development on the identified key characteristics of the

landscape; and

The degree to which the wind energy development (or developments) would become

a characteristic by which the landscape would become defined.

Visual assessment

6.5.10 The visual impact assessment will consider the sensitivity to change of identified visual

receptors within the study area, and the magnitude of visual change associated with the

introduction of the proposed development into the existing visual context. The assessment will

commence with identification of the potential visibility associated with the proposed

development, leading to identification of representative visual receptors and viewpoints,

description of the existing visual context, and evaluation of the visual implications of proposal

introduction and operation within the study area. The assessment of visual sensitivity will be

based on categories of visual receptor based on their likely level of interest in the visual

surroundings. For example residential locations will generally be identified as high sensitivity

while road and places of work would display lower visual sensitivity.

6.5.11 The assessment of the magnitude of visual change will take account of the following:

Distance of the viewer from the proposed development;

Extent of the proposed development that will be visible and the breadth of view that it

would occupy;

The visual context and backdrop against which the development would be seen;

Degree of visual intrusion or obstruction that will occur;

Nature, scale or magnitude and duration of the visual change; and

Change in character or quality of the view compared to the existing.

6.5.12 Where necessary, seasonal variations in the magnitude of visual change would be considered.

The appearance of the proposed wind farm layout within key views, including the occurrence

of visual stacking or isolated outliers, would be considered as part of the iterative design and

assessment process.

Visual effects on residential amenity

6.5.13 All residential properties located within 1 km of any turbine included within the final wind farm

layout will be subject to a detailed assessment (from public areas) of the potential visual effect

on residential amenity (i.e. to consider whether where the introduction of turbines would result

in the property being regarded as an

- wording taken from Inspecto

relation to Enifer Downs / North Dover, March 2009).

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Significance of landscape and visual effects

6.5.14 The significance of landscape and visual effects (including cumulative) will be determined by

assessing the sensitivity of receptors against the magnitude of change to categorise levels of

significance. Assessment of the significance of residual effects will take into account any

mitigation measures to be implemented as part of the development and may take account of

modifying factors based on professional judgement (i.e. assessment matrices will not be used

solely and mechanically to determine the significance of the identified landscape and visual

effects).

Cumulative assessment

6.5.15 A cumulative landscape and visual assessment of operational, consented and proposed wind

energy developments will be carried out. Initially the cumulative assessment will identify

operational, consented and proposed developments within 60 km of the proposed

development. The scope of the detailed cumulative assessment will subsequently focus on

those sites with which Blairadam Wind Farm may have the potential to generate significant

cumulative effects. This is likely to be limited to sites within 30 km of Blairadam and to those

that fall within a shared ZTV or related landscape character area. Given the existing and

potential for further new wind energy proposals in the study area, consultations and preapplication

discussions with statutory consultees will be used to refine the scope of the

required cumulative assessment in the interests of focusing on the key developments and

most significant potential effects. The submitted cumulative assessment will therefore be

based on an agreed list of sites and it is not necessarily the case that all cumulative sites

within 30 km will be subject to detailed assessment and visualisation. This approach has been

discussed with SNH and will be agreed with Fife Council. For those cumulative sites selected

for detailed cumulative assessment, cumulative ZTVs and cumulative viewpoint assessments

(including wireline visualisations colour coded to identify each separate cumulative

development, the distance from the viewpoint and extent of each cumulative development and

turbine height data) will be presented.

6.5.16 Paragraph 6.2.3 of the Fife Wind Energy Supplementary Planning Guidance (June 2011)

requires that all wind energy developments within 60 km of Blairadam Forest are identified

with a subsequent focus in the cumulative assessment on wind turbines over 15 m to tip within

30 km. There are a number of planning applications in within 30km of Blairadam Forest for

single or small groups of small wind turbines. This scoping report therefore focuses on the

larger developments (more than one turbine of more than 50 m to tip) within 30 km as the

basis for consultation with Fife Council and SNH regarding the required scope of the

cumulative assessment. The table below identifies the number of developments within each

planning status category and lists the principal, larger, developments that have been identified

to date within 30 km of Blairadam Forest. The list is divided into those that are operational,

consented and proposed and the sub-lists are given in approximate order of proximity to

Blairadam Forest. Consultees are invited to identify additional relevant developments.

Table 6.1 Cumulative developments (principal sites within 30 km)

Name

Approximate distance

from Blairadam Forest

( 15 km)

Number of turbines

Turbine dimensions (m to

tip)

Operational Wind Energy Developments

21 operational sites within 60 km, of which;

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Name

Approximate distance

from Blairadam Forest

( 15 km)

Number of turbines

Turbine dimensions (m to

tip)

3 single turbine sites; and

All over 50 m to tip.

Principal Operational Wind Energy Developments within 30 km*:

Green Knowes >15 km 18 93m

Lochelbank >15 km 12 91 m

Burnfoot Hill >15 km 13 102m

Consented Wind Energy Developments

19 consented sites within 60 km, of which;

7 single turbine sites.

Principal Consented Wind Energy Developments within 30 km*:

Little Raith 15 km 6 tbc

Wind Energy Development with Submitted Planning Application

Approximately 76 applications within 60 km, of which;

Approximately 40 single turbine sites; and

An additional 8 comprising turbines under 50 m in height

Principal Planned Wind Energy Developments within 30 km*:

Halbeath 15 km 3 100 m

Clatto Hill / Devon Wood >15 km 7 121 m

* list includes only those sites with more than one turbine of over 50 m in height to tip.

6.5.17 Sequential visual effects will be considered as part of the cumulative assessment. Key routes

will be identified and agreed through consultation with SNH and the local planning authority.

All consultees are invited to nominate routes.

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Assessment and consultation

Provisional viewpoint list

6.5.18 The visual assessment will be based on detailed description and assessment of a list of

representative viewpoint locations. Representative viewpoints will be selected to examine and

illustrate the visual effect of the development over a range of different distances and

directions, and will seek to address the key assessment issues by selecting sensitive locations

within the study area. Each viewpoint will be photographed in clear weather conditions in

either winter or summer. Winter photographs will be presented where there would be a

significant degree of seasonal change in the view available towards the site. Baseline

photographs will be presented alongside computer generated wirelines of the appearance of

the proposed development in accordance with best practice guidelines. In addition, viewpoints

within 15 km of the proposed development will be illustrated with fully rendered photomontage

images presented at a viewing distance consistent with SNH guidance.

6.5.19 A consultation meeting took place with SNH in October 2011 during which potential viewpoints

were discussed. The Table below provides a provisional list of possible viewpoint locations.

out by RSK Environment Ltd. The provisional list will be used as the basis for further

discussion with consultees including the local planning authority (the list is therefore subject to

amendment and identification of additional or alternative viewpoint locations). All consultees

are invited to nominate viewpoint locations within 35 km of the site. The provisional viewpoint

locations (the location of some of which are yet to be confirmed in the field) are shown on

Figure 6.1 and listed in the table below

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Table 6.2

Provisional viewpoints

Viewpoint name

Approximate

distance

Grid Reference

Reason for selection

1. B914 south of Blairadam Forest 1 km 309769, 693058 Highway close to the site.

2. Loch Glow 1 km 309450, 695840 Tourist / visitor view from Loch towards

site

3. Knock Hill 2 km 305980, 694840 Tourist / visitor view looking east

towards site

4. Kingseat 5 km 312620, 690660 View from souh east looking from

residential settlement across Fife Earth

Project

5. Loch Leven 7 km 313021, 701778 Tourist / visitor view across Loch to

Cleish Hills

6. Loch Ore 7 km 316600, 696150 Tourist / visitor view across Loch to

Cleish Hills

7. Balgonar 6 km 302200, 694290 View from nearby residential settlement

looking east towards site

8. Crombie 10 km 304500, 685200 View from residential settlement looking

north east across to Saline, Knock and

Cleish Hills

9. A909 south of Cowdenbeath 10 km 318210, 689450 View from major highway with view

looking north west towards Cleish Hills

10. Milnathort 9.5 km 311280, 704550 View from busy M90 highway north east

of the site

11. A91 south of Lendrick Hill 9.5 km 301980, 701799 Slightly elevated position on highway

route with open view to Cleish Hills

12. Ben Cleugh 19 km 290402, 700675 Elevated panoramic view, looking south

east across the Cleish Hills

13. West Lomond Hills 15 km 319700, 706700 Elevated panoramic views from popular

walking route, looking south west

14. Cardenden 12 km 322120, 694880 Elevated view from residential

settlement east of the site

15. Newhaven 21 km 325460, 677090 View from south looking north west

towards the site

16. Forth Road Bridge 16 km 312620, 678709 View from south looking north, north

west from busy highway

17. Blackness Castle 14 km 305020, 680160 View from south looking north, north

east towards the site

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Potentially significant effects

6.5.20 The following will form the main focus of the landscape, visual and cumulative assessments of

the proposed wind farm:

The effect of the development on the landscape of the Cleish Hills and the

associated cSLA (assuming that the adoption of the local plan abolishes the existing

AGLV);

The general effect on local and wider landscape character and the suitability of local

Upland landscape type to accommodate a development of the scale being

considered;

An assessment of cumulative effects with other operational, consented and proposed

wind farms in the area; and

Visual effects on settled areas (principally to the east and south).

6.5.21 The design of the layout and the landscape and visual effects of the final scheme will be

specifically considered in relation to;

The reasons given for the designation of the Cleish Hills cSLA in the Statement of

Importance; and

The criteria and consideration outlined in the Ash Capacity Study, Policy R1 of the

Structure Plan and Section 8 of the Fife Wind Energy SPG of 2011.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.5.22 Opportunities will be sought to minimise any adverse landscape and visual effects through an

iterative approach to the siting of the individual turbines and the overall layout of the

associated infrastructure together with the design of the forest planting. It is unlikely that off

site planting would be recommended to reduce the visual effect of the proposed development.

The assessment of residual landscape and visual effects is therefore likely to be based on

mitigation embedded within the final design and layout of the proposed development inclusive

of the amended Forest Design Plan.

Ecology

Policy context and guidance

6.6.1 The assessment will take account of the requirements of, and advice given in:

Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild

Fauna and Flora (the Habitats Directive) as transposed into Scots law by The

Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland)

(The Habitats Regulations);

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended);

The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004;

The Protection of Badgers Act 1992;

The Consolidated Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) (February 2010) Landscape and

Natural Heritage;

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PAN 60: Planning for Natural Heritage (Scottish Govt, 2000), which provides advice

on how development and the planning system can improve the natural environment;

Commission, 2009);

Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) guidelines for ecological

impact assessment in the UK (IEEM, 2006);

The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP); and

The Scottish Biodiversity List.

Methodology

6.6.2 A key consideration in assessing the effects of any development on ecology and nature

conservation interests is to define the areas of land cover and the species and habitats that

need to be considered in the assessment. The importance of this lies in two inter-related

considerations:

A development can affect habitats and species directly (e.g. the land-take required)

and indirectly (e.g. disturbance), the effects potentially extending beyond the

development site boundaries;

It is impractical for an ecological assessment to consider every individual species

and habitat that may potentially be affected, rather it should focus on species and

habitats that are valued in some way (e.g. designated nature conservation sites,

habitats or species identified as having priority value in biodiversity terms, species

protected by specific legislation or species which have economic value) and which

could potentially be affected by the proposed development.

6.6.3 It is against this background that the scope of this assessment has been defined and will

evolve throughout the assessment process.

6.6.4 The preliminary desk study will be updated with records from the site and surrounding area up

to 2km (up to 10km for bats) to obtain any available information relating to statutory and nonstatutory

nature conservation sites, notable habitats and species, and legally protected and

controlled species. These are the sites, habitats and species that are of sufficient importance

that effects upon them could be significant. Information will also be requested on additional

sites, habitats or species which are the subject of relevant planning policies to ensure

compliance with planning policy. This information will be sought from relevant organizations,

including Scottish Wildlife Trust and Fife and Kinross Bat Group.

6.6.5 As described above, a Phase 1 Habitat Survey was undertaken in March 2011 in accordance

with standard Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) methodology, albeit slightly

outside the optimum time of Phase 1 survey, from April to September, inclusive. However,

sensitive habitats with the potential to be affected by the proposed development will be subject

to Phase 2 botanical surveys (see below) and the early date of the Phase 1 survey is therefore

not considered a limitation.

6.6.6 Following on from the extended Phase 1 Survey, bat surveys have been carried out by RPS

between June and October 2011. Two walkover transects were walked monthly from June to

October and two unattended data recorders were left in the field for two week periods on two

occasions (in June/July and August/September). Survey data are currently being analysed and

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will inform the design. The analysis will also inform the requirement for further bat surveys in

2012.

6.6.7 The following surveys have been identified at this stage as being necessary and are proposed

to be undertaken in due course:

Otter survey with reference to Chanin, P. (2003). Monitoring the Otter Lutra lutra.

Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Monitoring Series No. 10. English Nature:

Peterborough;

Water vole survey with reference to Strachan R and Moorhouse T (2006). Water

Vole Conservation Handbook, 2nd Edition. Wildlife Conservation Research Unit

(WildCRU), Oxford University;

Badger Survey with reference to Harris S, Cresswell P and Jefferies D (1989).

Surveying Badgers. Mammal Society;

Red squirrel survey with reference to Gurnell J, Lurz P and Pepper H (2009).

Practical Techniques for Surveying and Monitoring Squirrels. Forestry Commission,

Surrey. Pine marten survey to be undertaken at the same time;

Targeted Phase 2 botanical assessment to National Vegetation Classification

standard (Rodwell 1991 et seq.) of wetland, peat and heath habitats with the

potential to be affected by turbines or associated infrastructure; and

Further bat surveys as appropriate.

Assessment and consultation

Potentially significant effects

6.6.8 The impact assessment methodology used in the EIA will follow the IEEM (Institute of Ecology

and Environmental Management) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (Institute of

Ecology and Environmental Management, 2006) in the UK, incorporating other best practice

guidance as appropriate.

6.6.9 Turbines and infrastructure will be carefully sited to avoid hydrological impacts on raised bog

habitat inside Park Hill and Tipperton Mosses SSSI. It is considered that the proposed

development is unlikely to affect other designated non-avian ecological features of statutory

designated sites within 10km.

6.6.10 Given the absence of any notable habitats e.g. significant heath and / or bog communities

coupled with the fact that the site is dominated by conifer plantation, it is considered unlikely

that the proposed development would have any significant effects on habitats.

6.6.11 It is considered that adequate mitigation measures can be incorporated into the design of the

proposed wind farm in order to avoid possible significant effects on protected or notable

species.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.6.12 Following the assessment of the potential environmental impacts, measures to prevent any

significant adverse effects or reduce them to acceptable levels (should they be likely to occur)

will be developed, where appropriate.

6.6.13 Working closely with FCS and consultees, proposals for the enhancement of habitats on site

will be fed into the Forest Design Planning process.

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Introduction

Ornithology

6.7.1 This section sets out the proposed approach to the evaluation of the ornithological interest of

the proposed development site and to the assessment of potential effects on birds.

Methodology

6.7.2 Wind farm developments have the potential to affect birds adversely through direct loss of

habitat, displacement of birds (indirect habitat loss) or collision with turbine blades. An

evaluation of the effects of the development on target species and other species of

conservation importance through direct and indirect habitat loss due to land take and

disturbance respectively during the construction (including felling), operation and

decommissioning of the development will be carried out. This assessment will consider

whether such displacement of birds is likely to occur as a consequence of construction or

decommissioning work, or due to the presence of the operational turbines close to nesting or

feeding sites or important flight routes.

6.7.3 An evaluation of the potential effects on bird populations of target species through collision

with rotating turbine blades will be undertaken. Where appropriate collision rates will be

predicted through theoretical collision risk modelling 11 .

6.7.4 The impact assessment methodology used in the EIA will follow the IEEM Guidelines for

Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK 12. It will also incorporate other best practice

guidance, such as SNH 13 guidance relating to wind turbines and birds and reference relevant

literature as appropriate.

Assessment and consultation

6.7.5 To help establish the ornithological baseline condition of the development site and the

surrounding area, and to inform any required species-specific surveys an ornithological desk

study has been undertaken. This included contacting the Tayside Raptor Study Group for

raptor records (including nest sites) within 2km, and the Local Forestry Commission Scotland

(FCS) Forester 14 to obtain information on known nesting, roosting and breeding sites.

Furthermore, searches were conducted for any recent (i.e. within ten years) records within

2km using the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway database 15 .

Planned Wintering Bird Surveys

6.7.6 Wintering bird surveys are being undertaken by SKM Enviros. These surveys began in

September 2011 and will conclude in March 2012 (with surveys for geese potentially extended

until May 2012) and include the following:

11 Band et al. (2000). Wind turbines and Birds: Calculating a theoretical collision risk assuming no avoidance action. Scottish

Natural Heritage

12 Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM), 2006. Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK.

13 SNH (2006). Assessing Significance of Impacts From Onshore Wind turbines on Birds Outwith Designated Areas

14 Andy Gallacher, Forester (Fife & Clackmannanshire sites)

15 National Biodiversity Network Gateway [online] available at http://www.nbn.org,uk

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Vantage Point Survey

6.7.7 Due to the potential presence of migratory wildfowl, notably pink-footed geese from the nearby

Loch Leven and Firth of Forth SPAs, 36 hours of VP survey is being undertaken from each of

the same three VPs between September and November (combined) (autumn migration), with

a further 18 hours per VP 16 between December and March (winter) and 36 hours per VP

between March and May (spring). During each survey period a third of the VP survey will be

conducted within two hours of dawn and a third within two hours of dusk.

Migratory Wildfowl Aggregation Surveys

6.7.8 In accordance with SNH guidelines weekly visits will be undertaken between mid-September

and the end of November and between March and mid-May. Fortnightly surveys will be

undertaken during the intervening period (December to February inclusive). These surveys

will cover all potentially suitable habitats (i.e. fields) within 2km of the site (access allowing).

Winter Walkover Surveys

6.7.9 Three survey visits will be undertaken, spread evenly throughout the period from September to

March. These will cover land within the site itself plus a buffer zone of 500m (access

allowing).

Breeding Bird Survey Findings

6.7.10 A brief summary of key findings from the breeding bird surveys is provided below. The results

will be reported in full in the ES, along with the results of the wintering bird surveys currently in

progress.

Table 6.3 Breeding Bird Survey Findings

Month

Key Observations

April

May

June

July and August

13 target species recorded including greylag and pink-footed geese, osprey and peregrine falcon.

However, all observations involved small numbers of birds and low levels of flight activity.

Lapwing, curlew and snipe were logged in small numbers (although showed high levels of flight

activity). Most of these flights occurred outside the development area.

One or possibly two peregrine falcon nests were identified within 2km of the development area.

Osprey flights were recorded near Loch Glow, although no evidence of breeding was recorded.

Osprey and hen harrier recorded, although few flights logged.

Lapwing and curlew logged in small numbers.

Two chicks present within a peregrine nest within 2km.

Osprey flight activity around Loch Glow, although all involving sub-adults.

Four target species recorded.

A single chick present within the identified peregrine nest.

Osprey again logged at Loch Glow.

Four target species recorded, including 12 flight lines of osprey and peregrine falcon.

16 SNH (2010) recommends 36 hours survey from each VP between October and March. The additional 18 hours during this

period will be covered by the autumn VP surveys, rendering the total length of VP survey during the winter at least 36 hours,

in line with guidance.

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Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.7.11 Where necessary, measures will be considered to mitigate any identified adverse effects of the

development on bird species. The findings of the survey work will be used to inform the

detailed scheme design. Potential measures such as micro-siting, a review of construction

timing and land management regimes will be considered, as appropriate, in consultation with

the relevant statutory consultees.

6.7.12 It is also possible for wind farm developments to have beneficial effects on birds through the

implementation of beneficial habitat management measures. The potential for such

enhancements will be investigated and included as part of the proposed development, if

possible and appropriate.

Noise

Policy context and guidance

6.8.1 The following policies are of relevance to the noise assessment:

PAN56 - Planning and Noise;

Adopted West Villages Local Plan (adopted 2002);

The Draft Dunfermline and West Fife Local Plan (2010);.

The adopted Kinross Area Local Plan (2004); and

Methodology

The adopted Perth and Kinross Structure Plan (2003)

6.8.2 In order to undertake construction noise calculations, details of the construction programme,

phasing of the works and types and numbers of plant are required. Such data would only

become available once the contract(s) to construct the wind farm have been finalised.

Notwithstanding the above, a worst-case scenario for construction noise assessment, based

upon experience of similar projects, will be presented in the ES, following BS the methodology

given in BS5228-1:2009 Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and

open sites Part 1: Noise.

6.8.3 Depending upon the outcome of the Traffic Assessment, the impact of traffic along the site

access route will be assessed on the basis of the methodology within BS5228-1:2009. On

segments of road predicted to experience an increase of more than 25% in flows, or have a

noticeable increase in HGV composition, an assessment of construction traffic noise would

also be presented using the Department of Transport publication Calculation of Road Traffic

Noise (1988), where appropriate.

6.8.4 The methodology for the assessment of operational noise from wind farms in Scotland

recommended by Planning Advice Note 45: Renewable Energy Technologies is that

documented in ETSU-R-97: The Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms (ETSU

1996).

6.8.5 The assessment of wind farm noise is usually undertaken in two distinct phases. Initially the

noise level (in terms of L A90, 10min ) resulting from the operation of the wind farm (at a wind

speed of 10ms-1 measured at 10m height) is predicted using noise propagation software. If

these predictions show that noise levels experienced at the closest receptor are below L A90,

10min 35dB, there is no requirement to take the noise assessment further, with the low levels

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providing adequate mitigation. However, if the initial modelling shows that operational noise

levels at the closest sensitive receptors are likely to be greater than L A90, 10min 35dB then a full

assessment according to ETSU-R-97 guidelines should be carried out.

6.8.6 The aim of a full ETSU-R-97 assessment is to identify suitable noise limits for the wind farm.

In order to achieve this, an understanding of the change in background noise levels with wind

speed at receptors is required. This is achieved by monitoring background noise levels at the

receptors, and simultaneously measuring the variation in wind speed and direction at the wind

farm site. Noise and wind speed measurements are taken as a series of simultaneous tenminute

averaged measurements, over a period of at least two weeks. From these data,

regression analysis is performed to determine typical background noise levels for each

receptor across a range of wind speeds.

6.8.7 Noise limits are defined separately for day time and night time. During quiet day time periods

(18:00 - 23:00 weekdays, 13:00 - 23:00 Saturdays and 07:00 - 23:00 Sundays), noise limits

are as follows:

5dB above the background noise curve for wind speeds up to 12m/s;

Where background noise levels are below 30-35dB L A90,10min , the lower limit should

be fixed at 35-40dB;

For properties with a financial interest in the scheme, the lower limit is fixed at 45dB.

6.8.8 For night-time periods (23:00 - 07:00 every day), noise limits are as follows:

5dB above the background noise curve for wind speeds up to 12m/s;

The lower limit is fixed at 43dB;

For properties with a financial interest in the scheme, the lower limit is fixed at 45dB.

6.8.9 Initial noise modelling shall be conducted at locations representative of the closest receptors in

order to determine whether a full ETSU-R-97 assessment would be required, e.g. if predictions

show that noise levels experienced at the closest receptor are below L A90, 10min 35dB from the

chosen turbine type the need for background noise monitoring is no longer required.

6.8.10 Discussions with the Environmental Health Officers at Fife and Perth and Kinross Councils will

be held once the site design is firmed-up to confirm suitable representative sensitive receptors.

Initial noise modelling has been conducted and noise monitoring at approximately 5 properties

is considered likely to provide appropriate representative data. Suitable monitoring sites would

be selected (subject to agreement from the occupiers) from the below list (moving from the

north of the site, clockwise):

A recently constructed property north of the site called Millwood;

Properties at Lochornie;

Blairenbathie;

Norton Farm;

Log cabins at Yellowcott Country Park;

Deanhead Steadings;

Wester Deanhead;

Roscobie;

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Lylowan Cottage;

A recently consented but not yet constructed property at Lethans Muir (former MOD

site); and

South Lethans

6.8.11 In the assessment, reference will be made to an Institute of Acoustics (IoA) article which was

published in 2009 by a number of noise consultants who act on behalf of both developers,

local authorities and opponents of wind farms (Dick Bowdler, Andrew Bullmore, Bob Davis,

Malcolm Hayes, Mark Jiggins, Geoff Leventhall and Andy McKenzie; Acoustics Bulletin,

volume 34, number 2, March/April 2009), many of whom sat on the original ETSU Noise

Working Group. The article outlines an agreed approach to a number of topics, drawing upon

research experience and good practice in these areas. The recommendations of the article

have been widely adopted since publication, although were largely standard practice before

that time anyway. It is intended to carry out noise predictions in accordance with the modelling

parameters specified in the article, which are collectively confirmed as the correct approach to

modelling wind turbine noise emissions, based upon measurements of operating turbines.

6.8.12 The IoA bulletin article also proposes two methods by which to address wind shear within the

full assessment, by effectively correlating the measured background noise levels with hub

height wind speeds. This means that the noise limits are derived with reference to the wind

speeds which determine the noise emissions of the turbines. It is also proposed to adopt the

recommendations of the article in respect of wind shear within the assessment.

Assessment and consultation

6.8.13 The noise assessment will follow guidance set out in ETSU-R-97 The Assessment and Rating

of Noise from Wind Farms (ETSU 1996) as recommended in PAN45. The construction phase

assessment will follow guidance outlined in British Standard BS5228-1:2009 Code of practice

for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites.

6.8.14 The noise monitoring strategy will be agreed with the relevant Environmental Health Officer at

the respective councils.

Potentially significant effects

6.8.15 Preliminary noise modelling indicates that at a wind speed of 10m/s there are properties

surrounding the site that are expected to experience operational noise levels exceeding

35dB(A). Consequently a background noise monitoring survey will be required as part of the

environmental assessment process.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.8.16 In most cases, construction noise is controlled through the implementation of mitigation

measures (such as limiting hours during which construction can be undertaken) and

undertaking construction works in accordance with good practices as described in BS5228

(such as using well maintained and serviced plant, and the appointment of a site contact to

whom complaints/queries can be directed).

6.8.17 Operational noise is effectively controlled through good design of the site to comply with the

noise limits derived within the assessment.

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Traffic and Transport

Policy context and guidance

6.9.1 The following policy statements and guidance are applicable:

Scottish Planning Policy - Transport paragraph 168; and

Institute of Environmental Assessment: Guidance Note No. 1 Guidelines for the

Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic 1993.

Methodology

6.9.2 The environmental effects of the additional traffic generated during the construction and

operation of the wind farm will be a

Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic 17 .

6.9.3 The construction of a wind farm development requires the transportation of large components

and plant items that are used to build the infrastructure, including access tracks, and to erect

the turbines. Quantities of building materials including aggregate and concrete also need to be

transported unless sourced and batched on-site.

6.9.4 The following will be considered:

Abnormal Loads Routing Assessment: An access route comprising the M90 J4 and

A823 has been initially proposed. The ALRA will confirm the suitability of the access

route and identify any temporary off-site road improvements or mitigation measures

that may be required.

Traffic Generation: An assessment of traffic generation and any resultant

environmental effects from the construction, operational and decommissioning

phases of the project will be undertaken. As the operational traffic impacts are

typically insignificant when compared to daily traffic flows on the local road network,

the impact during the construction phase of the scheme will form the focus of the

assessment.

Assessment and consultation

6.9.5 The principal elements of the assessment study will be to:

Liaise with Fife Council and Transport Scotland to confirm the site access form and

location, confirm the abnormal loads access route and access for other construction

vehicles and to discuss the scope of work and the proposed methodology where

necessary;

Quantify the bulk construction materials, equipment and other materials required for

construction;

Identify likely sources of aggregates, concrete and other bulk materials (with

consideration for on-site aggregate sources and batching plants where practicable);

Estimate the likely numbers and types of vehicles that will be travelling to and from

the site, and over what periods of time;

17 Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic, UK, Institute of Environmental Assessment, 1993

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Assess the significance of the likely environmental effects associated with the

development generated traffic in terms of recognised thresholds of significance;

Identify any mitigation measures which may be required and any alternatives that

should be considered; and

Set out the residual effects of the development in terms of traffic and transport issues

taking account of the recommended mitigation measures.

Potentially significant effects

6.9.6 The potential effects of the development in traffic and transport terms may include:

Changes to traffic volumes during construction 18 and operation;

Changes in the composition of traffic, for example, more HGVs during construction;

Land take associated with junction improvements and access track creation, and the

requirement for reinstatement;

Temporary disturbance to local residents in terms of noise, mud on roads, and dust

during construction; and

Potential improvements to local roads and track as a result of the requirement to

transport abnormal length and abnormal weight vehicles to and from the site.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.9.7 Timings of abnormal loads will be looked at carefully to see when these would result in the

least impact on other road users. During operation it is considered that vehicle movements

will be minimal as these will be associated with the small number of maintenance visits to the

wind farm.

Shadow Flicker

6.10.1 Under certain combinations of geographical position and time of day, the sun may pass behind

the rotors of a wind turbine and cast a shadow over neighbouring properties that lie within

approximately 10 rotor diameters of the turbines. When the blades rotate, the passing shadow

across a narrow opening such as a window, can give the appearance of a shadow which flicks

on and off. T

flicker appears across a narrow window opening and only properties located within a 130

degree segment either side of due north, relative to the turbines, are affected at UK latitudes.

Flicker effects have been proven to occur only within ten rotor diameters of a turbine 19 . As the

part of the layout design process, turbine positions will be reviewed for proximity to residential

receptors, i.e. if there are no turbines planned within 10 rotor diameters and 130 degrees

either side of north, the assessment will be automatically excluded from the final ES.

6.10.2 Where properties meet both of the criteria for there to be a potential shadow flicker effect, the

seasonal duration of this effect will be calculated from the geometry of the machine and the

latitude of the site, to assess potential impacts upon the amenity of local residents. Mitigation

measures will be implemented as necessary.

18 Construction traffic would include additional traffic generated by felling operations

19 Planning for Renewable Energy: A Companion Guide to PPS22, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, 16 December 2004

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Background

Socio-Economics

6.11.1 The potential for both adverse and positive local effects will be evaluated in the environmental

assessment process. This will involve identification of the existing socio-economic baseline

conditions in the surrounding area, and consideration of potential direct or indirect effects on

employment, recreation and tourism and the local population in terms of community benefit

and investment opportunities.

Methodology

6.11.2 There is currently no established EIA methodology for the assessment of socioeconomic

impacts. The socio-economic impact assessment will therefore be based on professional

experience and EIA good practice (DCLG, 2006).

Assessment and consultation

6.11.3 The assessment will consider the likely effects of the proposed scheme on the economic

profile of the area (including employment opportunities), tourism and recreation, and public

perception of wind farms. The assessment will also consider socio-economic impacts

associated with other technical disciplines addressed within the EIA (i.e. noise, landscape and

visual, and traffic).

6.11.4 Data will be collected on the socio-economic profile of the area (with specific reference to the

importance of tourism and the recreational use of the forest). This data will be collected from

FCS, Fife Council, Visit Scotland and other local tourist information/organisations as well as

field survey and interviews.

Potentially significant effects

6.11.5 The potential effects of the development may include:

The generation of employment and business opportunities during manufacturing,

construction and operational phases of the development;

Effects, both positive and negative, on local tourism and recreational amenity; and

Effect on social capital from the proposed scheme.

Potential mitigation and enhancement measures

6.11.6 Thorough communication will take place throughout the development of the project and every

effort will be made to fully engage the community in order for them to suggest enhancements

and identify specific local opportunities.

6.11.7 The project will offer a financial contribution to the local community through the community

fund and the opportunity for the community to invest directly in the completed scheme.

6.11.8 Improvements to forest access and facilities will be proposed and consulted upon.

Future forest Baseline

6.12.1 The local landscape surrounding Blairadam will continue to be influenced by changes in tree

cover which will vary over time. Each approved Forest Design Plan evaluates the landscape

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and visual effects of the felling and restocking proposals together with other effects on

biodiversity and water quality.

6.12.2 The Blairadam Forest wind farm application will seek to define what the future baseline of the

forest will be at the date of opening i.e. the future without development scenario. This is likely

to be the year 2015 approx. The Forest Design refreshment process will proceed as normal

and, at the point of application, there will be information available as to the long term future

shape of the forest without development. However, it is not expected that there will be an

attempt to forecast long term changes in climatic conditions that may influence forest planning.

Summary of proposed scope of the EIA

6.13.1 This scoping request outlines the proposed approach to the specialist chapters of the

Environmental Statement and highlights the likely impacts of the development and their

mitigation. The issues identified in this report will be addressed in the EIA to determine the

likelihood of any significant environmental effects and reported in the ES.

6.13.2 In preparing this scoping request, an attempt has been made to also identify those issues that

are not considered to be relevant to the assessment. It is proposed that these issues, which

are not considered to be significant, are scoped out of the EIA. These are summarised in

Table 6.4

Table 6.4 Environmental topics to be scoped out of the assessment

Environmental topic

Issue to be scoped out of

assessment

Rationale

Noise and vibration

Traffic noise

Vibration

Temporary nature of traffic noise during

construction and low levels of operational traffic

The relatively large distances and minor scale of

the construction activity also means that vibration

levels during all phases of the development are

not considered likely to affect sensitive receptors.

Transport and traffic Operational traffic Operational traffic movements will be minimal.

Air quality

Impacts on local air quality

The generation of dust during construction activity

is unlikely to have a direct impact on any human

receptors and will be controlled by means of best

practice.

6.13.3 It is therefore requested that Fife Council and consultees consider whether these issues can

be scoped out of the assessment. Scoping out issues of insignificant impact and importance

will enable the EIA process to focus on those issues that are potentially of significance. This

appraisal has been made by a review of the site, its environmental setting and available

baseline information and is based on professional judgement.

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Other Information Supporting the Application for

Consent

Planning Statement

7.1.1 A separate Planning Statement will be prepared to identify the policy background against

which the proposals will be considered. This will involve a planning policy review at national,

regional and local levels including a review of local and regional plans (existing and emerging).

7.1.2 The objective will be to place the development proposal in a complete planning context and to

provide a clear understanding to the decision making bodies, and the statutory consultees of

how the proposal can be assessed against the strategic and local planning frameworks and

the national need for renewable energy. This is very important, as the planning policy

framework will encompass a diverse range of issues, such as the promotion of economic

development, protection of the natural and built environment and the national need for

renewable energy generation infrastructure. A careful balance will therefore need to be struck

in weighing up the relevance and materiality of these differing policy areas.

7.1.3 Accordingly, the Planning Statement will consider at a broad level, the aims and objectives of

contributes to the thrust of European en

7.1.4 The Planning Statement will also focus on the national planning policies that are applicable to

the proposal. Regional planning policies will also need to be addressed as these will place an

emphasis on how regional government agencies seek to improve the economic performance

of the region.

7.1.5 The wind energy proposal will need to be considered with respect to the applicable

development plan policies. The determination made by Fife Council will need to be in

accordance with these policies unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

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Consultation during the EIA process

8.1.1 During this scoping stage, PfR will undertake a planned programme of community consultation

and stakeholder engagement. This will include local Community Councils, statutory and nonstatutory

consultees, and the public. Consultee comments and views will be reported in the

environmental statement.

8.1.2 PfR will seek agreement from Fife Council on the proposed consultation strategy early in the

development.

8.1.3

opportunity for comments to be submitted.

8.1.4 In addition to a planned programme of community consultation and engagement, the following

statutory and non-statutory consultees will be contacted and all consultee correspondence will

be fully documented and reported in the ES.

Table 8.1

Indicative List of Consultees to be contacted

Topic

Consultee(s)

Planning

Traffic and transport

Noise

Landscape and Visual

Historic Environment

Ecology and ornithology

Hydrology and Geology

Tourism, access and rights of

way

Telecommunications

Utilities

Aviation

Forestry

Fisheries

Health & Safety, Aviation and

Other Aspects

Community Consultation

Scottish Government, Fife Council, Perth and Kinross Council

Transport Scotland, Highways Authority roads engineers in Fife

Fife Council and Perth and Kinross Council Environmental Health Officers

Scottish Natural Heritage, Fife Council, Perth and Kinross Council

Fife Council Archaeologist

Historic Scotland

SEPA

RSPB Scotland

Fife Council Nature Conservation Officer

Scottish Natural Heritage

Scottish Wildlife Trust

Association of Salmon Fisheries Boards

SEPA

Scottish Water

Scottish Natural Heritage, Visit Scotland, Fife Council Access Officer, British Horse

Society

Ofcom, JRC, British Telecom

Joint Radio Company

OFCOM

Scottish Power, Scottish Water

NERL, CAA, BAA, MoD

Forestry Commission Scotland

SEPA, Association of Salmon Fishery Boards

BAA Edinburgh

Civil Aviation Authority

Defence Infrastructure Organisation

Health and Safety Executive

National Air Traffic Services

Cleish and Blairadam Community Council, Kelty Community Council, Kingseat

Community Council

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FIGURES

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January 2012 64 Sinclair Knight Merz (Europe) Ltd

KEY:

Blairadam Wind Farm

Site Boundary

±

BLAIRADAM WIND FARM

FIGURE 1.1

Site Location

SCALE

PROJECT NO.

1:125,000 @ A3 JE30456

CONTENT

PG

DRAWN

JM

CHECKED

DATE

PG

DECEMBER 2011

Km

0 2 4 6 8 10

KEY:

Blairadam Wind Farm

Site Boundary

Turbine Locations

14

12

13

10

11

9

8

3

7

5

4

1

6

2

BLAIRADAM WIND FARM

FIGURE 1.2

Indicative Site Layout

SCALE

PROJECT NO.

1:25,000 @ A3 JE30456

CONTENT

PG

DRAWN

JM

CHECKED

DATE

PG

DECEMBER 2011

m

0 250 500 750 1,000

KEY:

! Proposed Turbine Locatoins

Proposed Viewpoint

Site Boundary

Distance Marker

35km

13

10

15km

12

11

5

5km

±

7

3

!

! !! ! !

!

!! !

!

2

1

6

14

4

9

8

BLAIRADAM WIND FARM

17

16

15

FIGURE 6.1

Preliminary Zone of Theoretical

Visibility - Blade Tip at 130m for

35km area

SCALE

PROJECT NO.

1:125,000 @ A3 JE30456

CONTENT

RSK

DRAWN

JG

CHECKED

DATE

PG

DECEMBER 2011

Km

0 2 4 6 8 10

KEY:

! Proposed Turbine Locatoins

Proposed Viewpoint

Site Boundary

Distance Marker

13

10

15km

11

5

12

7

3

!

! !

!

! ! !

!

2

5km

6

14

±

1

4

9

BLAIRADAM WIND FARM

8

FIGURE 6.2

Preliminary Zone of Theoretical

Visibility - Blade Tip at 130m for

15km area

SCALE

PROJECT NO.

1:125,000 @ A3 JE30456

CONTENT

RSK

DRAWN

JG

CHECKED

DATE

17

PG

DECEMBER 2011

Km

0 2 4 6 8 10

16

Blairadam Wind Farm

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APPENDICES

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Appendix A Glossary of Terms

Term

Explanation

Anemometer and the Wind Vane

Capacity Factor

CLVIA

Cumulative effects

Cut-in wind speed or start-up wind speed

Cut-out wind speed or shut-down wind speed

Degree of change

Design Iteration

EIA

ES

Generator

GLVIA

Indirect effects

JNCC

Kilowatt (kW)

Kilowatt-hour (kWh)

The anemometer and the wind vane are used to measure the

speed and the direction of the wind. The electronic signals from

the anemometer are used by the wind turbine's electronic

controller to start the wind turbine when the wind speed reaches

approximately 5 metres per second (10 knots). The computers

stop the wind turbine automatically if the wind speed exceeds

25 metres per second (50 knots) in order to protect the turbine

and its surroundings. The wind vane signals are used by the

wind turbine's electronic controller to turn the wind turbine

against the wind, using the yaw mechanism.

The amount of energy a turbine generates in a full year divided

by the amount of energy it could produce in a year if it ran at full

power constantly. Turbines in the UK are likely to generate

30% of their full capacity.

Cumulative landscape and visual impact assessment.

Additional changes to the landscape or visual amenity caused

by the proposed development in conjunction with other

developments (associated with or separate to it), or actions that

occurred in the past, present or are likely to occur in the

foreseeable future. And: The summation of effects that result

from changes caused by a development in conjunction with

other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable actions.

The wind speed at which a wind turbine begins to generate

electricity.

The wind speed at which a wind turbine ceases to generate

electricity.

A combination of the scale extent and duration of an effect also

Changes to the design of the wind farm layout in response to

continuous feedback about environmental and technical

constraints and opportunities.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Assessment of main significant environmental effects of certain

projects conforming to European Directives and UK regulations.

Environmental Statement

Supporting document to Planning Application providing

environmental information to the planners (in a form suitable for

public consumption) reporting the outcome of the EIA.

The electrical generator is a so-called asynchronous generator.

On a Nordex N100 the maximum electricity generated is 2500

kilowatts (kW) or 2.5 Mega Watts (2.5MW).

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment,

Second Edition, published jointly by the Landscape Institute and

Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2002.

Not a direct result of the development, but are often produced

away from it or as a result of a complex pathway. Also used by

some practitioners to describe visual effects in respect of effects

on setting issues.

Joint Nature Conservation Committee - statutory adviser to

Government on UK and international nature conservation

One thousand watts of electricity

One thousand watt hours

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Term

Explanation

Landscape capacity

Landscape character

Landscape constraints

Landscape designations

Landscape effects

Landscape elements

Landscape features

Landscape patterns

Landscape quality (or condition)

Landscape resource

Landscape sensitivity

Landscape value

LCA

LVIA

Magnitude

Megawatt (MW)

Mitigation

Nacelle

The degree to which a particular landscape character type or

area is able to accommodate change without unacceptable

adverse effects on its character. Capacity is likely to vary

according the type and nature of change being proposed.

A distinct and recognisable pattern of elements that occurs

consistently in a particular type of landscape and how this is

perceived by people. It reflects particular combinations of

geology, landform, soils, vegetation, land use and human

settlement. It creates the particular sense of place of different

areas of the landscape.

Components of the landscape resource such as views or

mature trees recognised as constraints to development. Often

associated with landscape opportunities.

Areas protected either by law or through planning policies for

reason of their landscape attributes or general amenity e.g.

National Parks.

Change in the elements, characteristics, character, and qualities

of the landscape as a result of development.

A component part of the landscape, such as trees, woodland

and ponds.

Prominent eye-catching elements, e.g. Wooded hill tops and

church spires.

Spatial distributions of landscape elements combining to form

patterns, which may be distinctive, recognisable and

describable e.g. hedgerows and stream patterns.

Based on judgements about the physical state of the landscape,

and about its intactness, from visual, functional, and ecological

perspectives. It also reflects the state of repair of individual

features and elements which make up the character in any one

place.

The combination of elements that contribute to landscape

context, character, and value.

The sensitivity of a landscape is defined by consideration of

factors such as value, quality / condition and capacity of the

landscape relative to a particular type of proposed development.

The relative value or importance attached to a landscape or

view; (often as a basis for designation) which expresses

national or local consensus, because of its quality, including

perceptual aspects such as scenic beauty, cultural associations

or other conservation issues.

Landscape Character Area usually defined by a landscape

character assessment, and usually occurs within and/or may

contain LCTs and relates to particular geographical locations.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.

A combination of the scale, extent and duration of an effect also

One Million Watts

Measures including any process, activity, or design to avoid,

reduce, remedy or compensate for adverse environmental

impact or effects of a development.

The body/shell/casing of a wind turbine. The nacelle contains

the key components of the wind turbine, including the gearbox,

and the electrical generator. Service personnel may enter the

nacelle from the tower of the turbine. For example, the Nordex

N100 has a total Nacelle weight of 91 tonnes.

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Term

Explanation

Photomontage

RAMSAR

Rated Power Output Capacity

Rated wind speed

Receptor

Red List

Renewables Obligation (RO):

RenewableUK

Residual effects

Rotor

Rotor Blades

Rotor Hub

Significant Effects

SNH

An illustration of a computer generated perspective model of the

proposed development that has been superimposed or

combined onto a photograph from a recorded location

Site of Importance (International) to Water Birds

Designated under The Convention on Wetlands, signed in

Ramsar, Iran, in 1971 and brought into force in Europe by

Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds (the

Birds Directive)

The rated power output is the maximum amount of electricity

generated at a set (rated) wind speed. The Nordex N100 has a

rating capacity of 2500kw at wind speeds of 13 metres per

-

The lowest wind speed at which the rated output power of a

wind turbine is produced.

Physical landscape resource, special interest or viewer group

that will experience an effect.

Red List - Birds of conservation concern

Birds of conservation concern assesses the status of all the

UK's regularly occurring birds. The status of birds in the UK is

regularly assessed by a partnership of the UK's leading

conservation organisations

The renewables obligation requires licensed electricity suppliers

to supply a certain proportion of their total sales in Great Britain

from electricity generated by renewable sources. The electricity

supplier will need to show evidence of compliance. This can be

via Renewables Obligation Certificates (ROCs) and/or the

payment of a buyout price. Further information about the

Renewables Obligation can be found at:

www.dti.gov.uk/renewables/renew_2.2.htm

Trade and professional body for the UK wind and marine

renewables industries

Potential environmental effects, remaining after mitigation.

The rotor blades and the hub. The Nordex N100 has a rotor

diameter of 99.8m and weighs 55 tonnes.

The rotor blades capture the wind and transfer its power to the

rotor hub. Again, using the example of a Nordex N100, there

are 3 blades of 48.7 metres in length which are designed much

like a wing of an aeroplane.

The hub of the rotor is attached to the low speed shaft of the

wind turbine

It is a requirement of the EIA Regulations to determine the likely

significant effects of the development on the environment which

should relate to the level of an effect and the type of effect.

Where possible significant effects should be mitigated. The

significance of an effect gives an indication as to the degree of

importance (based on the magnitude of the effect and the

sensitivity of the receptor) that should be attached to the impact

described. Whether or not an effect should be considered

significant is not absolute and requires the application of

professional judgement. Significant noteworthy, of

considerable amount or effect or importance, not insignificant or

The Concise Oxford Dictionary. Those levels and

types of landscape and visual effect likely to have a major or

important / noteworthy or special effect of which a decision

maker should take particular note.

Scottish Natural Heritage Statutory advisor on conservation in

Scotland.

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Term

Explanation

SPA

SSSI

Sustainability

Temporary or permanent effects

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem)

Tower

Turbine

Type or Nature of Effect

Visual amenity

Visual sensitivity

Visualisation

Wind Farm

Wireframe or Wireline

Yaw Mechanism

Special Protection Area

(92/43/EEC on the Conservation of natural habitats and of wild

fauna and flora)

Site of Specific Scientific Interest

Designated (UK) Site for nature conservation under The Wildlife

& Countryside Act 1981 as amended by the Countryside &

Rights of Way Act 2000)

The principle that the environment should be protected in such

a condition and to such a degree that ensures new development

meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability

of future generations to meet their own needs.

Effects may be considered as temporary or permanent, in the

case of wind farm development the application is for a 25 year

period after which the assessment assumes that

decommissioning will occur and that the Proposal Site will be

restored. For these reasons the development is referred to as

temporary, long term and reversible.

The Regulator for Britain's gas and electricity industries. Further

information about electricity regulation can be found

at:www.ofgem.gov.uk

The tower carries the nacelle and the rotor. Generally, it is an

advantage to have a high tower, since wind speeds increase

farther away from the ground. The Nordex N100 turbine could

have a tubular tower of 80 to 100 metres (to the hub). Tubular

towers are safer for the personnel that have to maintain the

turbines, as they may use an inside ladder to get to the top of

the turbine. A 100m tower would weigh about 300 tonnes.

A machine for generating rotary mechanical power from the

energy of a moving force (such as water, hot gas, wind, or

steam). A Wind Turbine converts the force of the wind into

energy.

Whether an effect is direct or indirect, temporary or permanent,

positive (beneficial), neutral or negative (adverse) or cumulative.

Value of a particular place in terms of what is seen by visual

receptors, taking account of all available views and their total

visual experience. The assembly of components, which provide

and attractive setting or backcloth for activities, to which value is

attached in terms of what is seen.

The sensitivity of visual receptors such as residents, to visual

change proposed by development categorised in accordance

with the guidance provided in the GLVIA.

Computer visualisation, photomontage, or other technique to

illustrate the appearance of the development from a known

location.

A group of wind turbines, often owned and maintained by one

company. Also known as a wind power plant.

A computer generated line drawing of the DTM (digital terrain

model) and the proposed development from a known location.

The yaw mechanism uses electrical motors to turn the nacelle

with the rotor against the wind. The yaw mechanism is operated

by the electronic controller which senses the wind direction

using the wind vane. Normally, the turbine will yaw only a few

degrees at a time, when the wind changes its direction.

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Term

Explanation

ZVI Zone of Visual Influence or ZTV Zone of

Theoretical Visibility

Area or zone of visual influence or theoretical visibility of the

wind farm within the study area for the visual assessment,

generated by a computerised model of the development and a

digital terrain model of the landscape.

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Appendix B References

Energy Policy

Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (2007) - Meeting the Energy

Challenge: Energy White Paper 2007. Cm 7124

BERR, UK Renewable Energy Strategy, Consultation, June 2008

Department of Trade and Industry (2007) - Energy White Paper Meeting the Energy

Challenge

Department of Trade and Industry (2006) - The Energy Challenge: Energy Review Report

2006.

Department of Trade and Industry (2003) - Energy White Paper: Our Energy Future

Creating a Low Carbon Economy.

DECC (2009) - The UK Renewable Energy Strategy; Cm 7686.

DECC (2009) - The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan; National strategy for climate and energy

White Paper.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

European Directive 85/337/EEC on the assessment of the effects of certain public and

private projects on the environment, as amended by Directive 97/11/EC and Directive

2003/35/EC

The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations

2011 (S.I. 2011 No. 139).

Circular 03/2011: Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 2011.

Forestry

Forestry Commission, Forest and Water Guidelines Fourth Edition

The UK Woodland Assurance standard second edition (2008)

The Scottish Forest Strategy (2006)

Forestry Commission Scotland, The National Forest Estate Strategic Plan 2009 -2013

Forestry Commission Scotland, Forestry Climate Change Action Plan 2009-2011

The UK Forestry Standard, 2004

National Policy Specific to Renewables

Scottish Planning Policy: Renewable Energy

Landscape

SNH (2005) - Cumulative Effects of Windfarms

SNH (2006) - Visual Representation of Windfarms Good Practice Guidance Envision and

Horner McLennan (2006)

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University of Newcastle (2002) - Visual Assessment of Windfarms Best Practice. Scottish

Natural Heritage Commissioned Report F01AA303A

The Highland Council (2010) - Visualisation Standards for Wind Energy Developments

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 2nd Edition (2002) Landscape

Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment;

Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland (2002) Countryside

Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage

SNH (2009) - Siting and Designing wind farms in the landscape.

SNH (2009) - Strategic locational guidance for onshore wind farms in respect of the natural

heritage Policy Statement No. 02/02

SNH (2001) - Guidelines on the Environmental Impacts of Wind Farms and Small-scale

Hydro-electric schemes

Hydrology

Scottish Planning Policy

CIRIA Report C532 Control of water pollution from construction sites (2001)

CIRIA Report C502 Environmental good practice on site

CIRIA Report C689: Culvert Design and Operation Guide

CIRIA Report C697: The SUDS Manual

BS6031: 2009 Code of Practice for Earth Works

DEFRA Construction Code of Practice for the Sustainable Use of Soils on Construction

Sites (2009)

Good Practice during Wind farm Construction (SNH 2010)

Floating Roads on Peat (SNH/FCS 2010)

SEPA Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPGs)

SEPA Position Statement Developments on Peat

Historic Environment

PAN 2 2011: Planning and Archaeology

Scottish Historic Environment Policy (SHEP, 2008)

Collcutt (July 2008) - The Settings of Cultural Heritage Features Assessment Principles,

Oxford Archaeological Associates

Ecology Habitats

Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2006) - Guidelines for Ecological

Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom

JNCC 2010 Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey - A technique for environmental audit

UK BAP (2008) - UK and Cornwall Biodiversity Action Plans on www.UKBAP.org.uk

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Ornithology

SNH (2005) - Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore wind farms on

bird communities SNH 2000. Calculating a theoretical collision risk assuming no avoiding

action

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) 2005 - Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of

onshore bird communities

SNH 2006 Assessing Significance of Impacts from Onshore Windfarms on Birds Without

Designated Areas

Bats

NE (2008) - Bats and onshore wind turbines: Interim guidance

Bat Conservation Trust 2011, Bat Surveys Good Practice Guidelines (2 nd Ed.)

Rodrigues, L., L. Bach, M.J Dubourg-Savage, J. Goodwin & C. Harbusch 2008: Guidelines

for consideration of bats in wind farm projects. EUROBATS Publication Series No. 3 (English

version). UNEP/EUROBATS Secretariat, Bonn, Germany pp.51

English Nature 2004, Bat Mitigation Guidelines

Carbon

Scottish Government (2008) - Calculating carbon savings from wind farms on Scottish peat

lands - A New Approach (incorporating spreadsheet update version 2.0.0, 30 May 2011)

Parliamentary Select Committee on Science and Technology Fourth Report (2004) Energy

Payback Times

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200304/ldselect/ldsctech/126/12620.htm

RenewableUK, emissions reductions calculations http://www.bwea.com/edu/calcs.html

Noise

PAN56 Planning and Noise

BS5228: Parts 1 & 2 (2009) -

ETSU-R-

BERR (2007) - Government statement regarding the findings of the Salford University report

into Aerodynamic Modulation of Wind Turbine Noise

Traffic

The Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEA) (1993) Guidelines for the Environmental

Assessment of Road Traffic

Soils

DEFRA (2009) - Construction Code of Practice for the Sustainable Use of Soils on

Construction Sites

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Scottish Government. (2006) - Peat landslide hazard and risk assessments. Best Practice

Guide for Proposed Electricity Generation Developments

Scottish Government (2008) - Calculating carbon savings from wind farms on Scottish peat

lands - A New Approach

Ron Munro - The Highland Council (2004) - Dealing with bearing capacity problems on low

volume roads constructed on peat

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Appendix C Environmental Issues Checklist

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Environmental issues checklist for scoping

Topic area

CLIMATE CHANGE AND

ATMOSPHERIC

EMISSIONS

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

ECOLOGY AND

ORNITHOLOGY

TRAFFIC AND

TRANSPORT

NOISE AND VIBRATION

HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT

GROUND CONDITIONS

Component

Potentially

Significant

construction effect

envisaged?

Potentially

Significant

Operational effect

envisaged?

Potentially Significant

decommissioning effect

envisaged?

To be considered

further?

Comments / reason for exclusion from further consideration in the scoping process or any

specific issue(s) to be considered further in the EIA

Local air quality (criteria pollutants) No No No No -

Particulates and dust No No No Yes

Control measures standard Will be dealt with within Construction Environmental

Management Plan

Odour No No No No -

Local climatic effects No No No No -

Transboundary air quality No No No No -

Global climate No No No Yes To be covered in carbon/climate chapter of ES

Carbon dioxide budget / emissions No Yes No Yes To be covered in carbon/climate chapter of ES

Landform / topography No No No No No significant groundworks necessary.

Land cover No No No No Sustainable forestry use will continue. General absence of hedgerows in the area.

Landscape character Yes Yes No Yes

Protected landscapes Yes Yes No Yes

Sensitive views Yes Yes No Yes

The effects on landscape character types and/or areas identified by SNH will be assessed

(including cumulative effects).

Site is located within AGLV and cSLA. The effects on the character and value of

Views from conservation areas will also be considered.

A schedule of representative viewpoints will be agreed with the LPA and SNH. Cumulative

visual effects will also be considered.

Wilderness No No No No No areas of search for Wild Land are located within 35 km of the site.

Habitat types No No No Yes To be documented within Ecology chapter.

Plant communities No No No Yes To be documented within Ecology chapter.

Animal communities Yes Yes No Yes Disturbance and collision effects on birds and bat communities to be considered.

Individual / protected species Yes Yes No Yes Disturbance and collision effects on birds and bat communities to be considered.

Ecosystem integrity No No No No -

Wildlife conservation No No No No -

Resource management No No No No -

Natural processes No No No No -

Road and junction capacity/traffic flows Yes No No Yes Impacts of abnormal loads during construction

Infrastructure No No No Yes Temporary changes to road infrastructure and furniture to accommodate abnormal loads

Accident record No No No Yes Impacts of abnormal loads during construction

Pedestrians, equestrians and cyclists No No No Yes Temporary changes to road infrastructure and furniture to accommodate abnormal loads

Public transport (Bus, rail, tram) No No No No -

Air traffic No No No No -

Water traffic No No No No -

Noise Yes Yes No Yes Construction and operational noise to be considered.

Vibration No No No No Unlikely to be necessary - few nearby receptors.

Archaeology / monuments Yes No No Yes

Architecture / buildings / structures Yes No No Yes

Historic parks and gardens No No No Yes

Impacts on known archaeology/monuments to be considered within Historic Environment

chapter

Impacts on known architecture/buildings/structures to be considered within Historic

Environment chapter

Visual impact to be considered within LVIA chapter, setting effects to be considered within

Historic Environment chapter

Other historic interest Yes No No Yes Possible impact on unknown archaeology during construction.

Geology and geomorphology No No No No -

Ground contamination No No No No -

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Topic area

Component

Potentially

Significant

construction effect

envisaged?

Potentially

Significant

Operational effect

envisaged?

Potentially Significant

decommissioning effect

envisaged?

To be considered

further?

Comments / reason for exclusion from further consideration in the scoping process or any

specific issue(s) to be considered further in the EIA

Erosion / deposition / stability No No No No -

Mineral resources No No No No

Borrow pits to be opened on site but not affecting supply of commercial minerals to the

construction industry.

Soils / agricultural land quality Yes No No Yes

Minimal land-take as a result of the development. Reinstatement of land use following

project lifetime. Impacts on peat to be considered early in development

Surface water quality Yes No No Yes Impacts to be considered within Hydrology chapter of ES

Surface water hydrology Yes Yes No Yes Long and short terms in drainage patterns to be assessed,

Surface water temperature No No No No -

Groundwater quality No No No Yes Impacts to be considered within Hydrology chapter of ES

Groundwater hydrology / recharge No No No No -

HYDROLOGY

Groundwater temperature No No No No -

Coastal / marine water quality No No No No -

Coastal / marine water temperature No No No No -

Sea level change No No No No -

Coastal processes / hydrodynamics No No No No -

Flood risk No No No No

Population profile and density No No No No -

Demography No No No No -

Housing No No No No -

Employment No No No Yes Temporary employment during construction.

Lifestyle / standard of living No No No No -

SOCIO-ECONOMICS

Education, health and local services No No No No -

Public health and safety Yes No No Yes Impacts on public access within forest to be addressed.

Social inclusion / exclusion, cultural issues No No No No -

Availability of utility services No No No No -

Local environmental amenity Yes Yes No Yes Changes of views and visual amenity to be covered in Landscape and Visual chapter of ES.

Electromagnetism / radiation No No No No -

Tourism No No No Yes To be covered within Socio-economic Chapter of ES.

SHADOW FLICKER Daylight / sunlight /wind / shadow flicker No Yes No Yes Shadow flicker to be examined within ES.

Agriculture No No No No -

Forestry Yes Yes Yes Yes Short and long term but minor impacts due to minimal land take

Recreation / open space / rights of way No No No Yes

Possible restrictions on access during construction. Changes to amenity of forest and rights

of way in long term.

Mineral extraction No No No No -

LAND USE

Industrial / commercial / retail No No No No -

Residential No No No No -

Health / social / education No No No No -

Waste disposal / processing / management No No No No

Other (specify) Water storage No No No No

Demolition waste No No No No -

WASTE AND USE OF Use of natural resources No No No No -

NATURAL RESOURCES Waste management No No No No Wastes generated during construction / felling to be covered by SWMP.

Waste characterisation No No No No Wastes generated during construction / felling to be covered by SWMP.

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