Scoping Report - Partnerships for Renewables

Cloich Forest Wind Energy Development
Scoping Report
July 2011
AMEC Environment & Infrastructure UK Limited

Cloich Forest Wind Energy Development
Contents
1 Introduction...................................................................................... 4
1.1 Background ......................................................................................................... 4
1.2 PfR ........................................................................................................................ 5
1.3 Forestry Commission Scotland – Forest Enterprise Scotland Dumfries
and Borders Forest District................................................................................ 5
2 Environmental Impact Assessment and the scoping process.... 8
2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ......................................................... 8
2.2 Scoping an EIA.................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Scoping methodology......................................................................................... 9
2.4 The EIA assessment methodology.................................................................. 11
2.5 Purpose of this scoping report ........................................................................ 12
2.6 Early consultation ............................................................................................. 12
2.7 Key Questions ................................................................................................... 13
3 The Site........................................................................................... 14
3.1 Site identification process................................................................................ 14
3.2 The PfR scheme development process .......................................................... 14
3.3 Site description ................................................................................................. 16
3.4 Summary of relevant policy ............................................................................. 17
4 Description of the proposed development.................................. 26
4.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................... 26
4.2 Scheme layout................................................................................................... 26
4.3 Purpose and objective...................................................................................... 26
4.4 Candidate wind turbines................................................................................... 27
4.5 Associated infrastructure................................................................................. 27
4.6 Site access......................................................................................................... 27
4.7 Construction of the wind energy development .............................................. 28
4.8 Decommissioning of the wind energy development ..................................... 28
5 Environmental baseline ................................................................ 30
5.1 Site environmental context .............................................................................. 30
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5.2 Historic Environment........................................................................................ 30
5.3 Hydrology, Hydrogeology ................................................................................ 31
5.4 Landscape and Visual....................................................................................... 31
5.5 Ecology .............................................................................................................. 32
5.6 Ornithology........................................................................................................ 34
5.7 Noise................................................................................................................... 35
5.8 Traffic and Transport ........................................................................................ 35
5.9 Socio-Economics .............................................................................................. 35
6 Proposed scope of the EIA ........................................................... 37
6.1 Scope.................................................................................................................. 37
6.2 Climate change and atmospheric emissions ................................................. 37
6.3 Historic Environment........................................................................................ 37
6.4 Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology.......................................................... 40
6.5 Landscape and visual....................................................................................... 43
6.6 Ecology .............................................................................................................. 48
6.7 Ornithology........................................................................................................ 51
6.8 Noise................................................................................................................... 53
6.9 Traffic and transport ......................................................................................... 57
6.10 Shadow flicker................................................................................................... 58
6.11 Socio Economics .............................................................................................. 58
6.12 Future Baseline ................................................................................................. 59
7 Other information supporting the application for consent........ 61
7.1 The Supporting Statement ............................................................................... 61
8 Consultation during the EIA process .......................................... 62
8.1 Consultees......................................................................................................... 62
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Figures
Figure 1.1 Site location plan
Figure 1.2 Site boundary plan
Figure 1.3a ZTV with indicative proposed viewpoint locations (35km study area)
Figure 1.3b ZTV (15km study area)
Tables
Table 3.1 Potentially Relevant Policies from the Scottish Borders Structure Plan 19
Table 3.2
Potentially Relevant Policies from the Scottish Borders Consolidated
Local Plan 22
Table 5.1 Designated Landscapes within 10km of the Proposal Site 32
Table 5.2 Nature conservation designations within ~10km of the Cloich site* 32
Table 5.3 Ornithological designations within ~20km of the Cloich site 35
Table 6.1
Cumulative Wind Energy Developments within 35km of the Proposal
Site 44
Table 6.2 Provisional Viewpoints 47
Table 8.1 Indicative List of Consultees to be contacted 62
Appendices
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Glossary of Terms
References
Environmental Issues Checklist
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1 Introduction
1.1 Background
1.1.1 The Partnerships for Renewables Development Company Limited (PfR) is investigating the
potential to create a new wind energy development at Cloich Forest, situated between the
settlements of Peebles and Penicuik, in the Scottish Borders (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 approximately twenty four 2 MW to 3MW wind
turbines 1 . If twenty four 2.5MW turbines were constructed, they are expected to generate
approximately 157.68 GWh of electricity per year. This is equivalent to the amount of electricity
used annually by approximately 32,263 average UK households. In addition, a wind energy
development of this scale could displace approximately 67,802 tonnes of carbon dioxide
emissions per year 2 .
1.1.2 The purpose of this report is to serve as a formal request to the Scottish Ministers to provide a
scoping opinion under Regulation 7 of the Electricity Works (Environmental Impact
Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2000.
1.1.3 This is a report of the EIA scoping process that has been undertaken by PfR. 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. Various statutory bodies including
the Scottish Borders Council (SBC), 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 the
various non-statutory bodies will also be sought. 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 below, 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.
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 24 proposed 2.5MW turbines could together generate
157.68 GWh of renewable electricity per year (based on a capacity factor of 30%). These figures are derived as follows: 60,000
kW (24 x 2.5 MW turbines) x 8,760 hours/year x 0.30 (capacity factor) = 157,680,000kWh. Based on the 4,602kWh household
figure, and the predicted electricity generation of 157.68GWh, it is estimated that the yearly output from the wind energy
development will be equivalent to the approximate domestic electricity needs of 32,263 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 157.68GWh, a wind energy
development of this scale is expected to displace 67,802 tonnes of CO 2 emissions per year being emitted to atmosphere. These
figures are derived as follows: 157,680,000kW (output) x 430 gCO 2 /kWh / 1,000,000 = 67,802 tonnes CO 2 .
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1.2 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 Cloich 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 contribute 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.
1.3 Forestry Commission Scotland – Forest Enterprise; Scotland Dumfries
and Borders Forest District
1.3.1 Forest Enterprise Scotland is the Forestry Commission Scotland’s operating arm delivering the
Forest Strategy on the National Forest Estate. Dumfries and Borders Forest District 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.
Scottish Forest Strategy 2006
Sustainable Forestry
Standards & Policies
UKWAS
Strategic Plan for the National Forest Estate 2009
& Forestry Climate Change Action Plan 2009
Dumfries & Borders Strategic Plan 2009
Cloich Forest Design Plan
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1.3.2 The Scottish Forest Strategy, October 2006 sets out the Government’s aims and objectives for
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 to
tackle climate change, forest managers should “encourage [..] renewable energy projects on
forest land”. This is reinforced in the Strategic Plan for the National Forest Estate 2009 and
the Forestry Commission’s Climate Change Action Plan 2009 where one of the key actions is
to:
“In co-operation with other organisations working to develop the use of
renewable energy, promote the use of forest land for all forms of
renewable energy production, subject to appropriate environmental and
planning safeguards.”
1.3.3 The Dumfries and Borders Forest District Strategic Plan 2009 (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:
• D&B 1.01 – Maximise the potential for wind farms on the national forest
estate to help deliver government targets for renewable energy and carbon
reduction while balancing community and environmental interest.
• D&B 3.13 – Identify and test opportunities for income diversification, which
is vital to protect programme development in other areas, in particular by
increasing the percentage of revenue generated by non-timber sales. This
will be accompanied by engagement with stakeholders to make sure that
proposals are well thought through and that long-term relationships are not
damaged.
• D&B 3.15 – Remain open to new business ideas on the national forest
estate that are compatible with our objectives and standards and capable
of generating income.
1.3.4 The emerging Cloich Forest Design Plan brief identifies opportunities for the site to contribute
to 7 key themes of Climate Change, Timber, Business Development, Community
Development, Access and Health, Environmental Quality and Biodiversity.
1.3.5 The Forest Design Plan seeks to prioritise delivery of these themes tailored to the site specific
attributes at Cloich Forest. The top 3 priorities for Cloich have been identified as Timber,
Environmental Quality and Climate Change. This is justified as:
1.3.6 Timber – Soil types, internal and external road links and proximity to markets mean that Cloich
is an important forest for timber income in the district.
1.3.7 Environmental Quality – The site is within the catchment of the internationally designated
River Tweed. With the agreement of SEPA, the FDP has been able to make a contribution to
the improvement of wider water quality.
1.3.8 Climate Change – The site is in an area of upland landscape and good wind resource which
combined with a lack of other important technical constraints means that it is well suited to
wind energy development and Forestry Commission Scotland is seeking to capitalise on this.
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1.3.9 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.
1.3.10 For further information on the Forestry Commission Scotland visit:
www.forestry.gov.uk/Scotland
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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2 Environmental Impact Assessment and the scoping
process
2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
2.1.1 Under Section 36 of the Electricity Act, consent is required from the Scottish Ministers for the
construction and operation of all power generating plant which would have an installed
capacity of more than 50MW. The proposed development will have an installed capacity
exceeding 50MW and as such “Section 36 Consent” is therefore required.
2.1.2 The Electricity Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2000 apply
to any Section 36 application and Schedule 1 of the Regulations lists types of development for
which an EIA is mandatory. The proposed development falls under Schedule 2 of the
Regulations – a generating station, the construction of which (or the operation of which) will
require a Section 36 consent but which is not Schedule 1 development. Under the Regulations
all Section 36 development considered likely to have a significant effect on the environment
must be subject to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the findings set out in an
Environmental Statement (ES)
2.1.3 The process of EIA which culminates in the production of an Environmental Statement (ES)
involves collecting information about the existing environment likely to be affected by a project.
The nature and scale of the project’s effects on the environment are then assessed in an
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.
2.2 Scoping an EIA
2.2.1 Once the requirement for an EIA has been established, ‘scoping’ is the next important stage
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.
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2.2.3 European Directive 85/337/EEC (as amended) notes that the primary purposes of an EIA are:
• 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
• 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.
2.3 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 Scottish Ministers’ 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
process. This checklist is based on guidance included in the ‘Preparation of environmental
statements for planning projects that require environmental assessment - a good practice
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guide’ (Department of Environment, 1995) and it covers all aspects of the environment referred
to in the EIA Regulations.
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
(e.g. ‘Historic Environment’) and the nature of potential changes resulting from the
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. The Scottish
Ministers and consultees are invited to comment on the scope of the EIA and to highlight any
significant matters which may have been overlooked.
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2.4 The EIA assessment methodology
2.4.1 Once the scope of the EIA is agreed, and the necessary surveys have been completed,
potential ‘effects’ will be verified and assessed by analysing the identified magnitude of
change against the established sensitivity of the environmental receptor. For ease of
comparison across topic areas this assessment will utilise a standard matrix and terminology,
although this may not be appropriate for all topic areas. The assessment will establish whether
identified effects are ‘significant’ and will also make it clear whether these significant effects 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
enhancement measures, which although not required to provide mitigation for an identified
significant effect, are nevertheless identified as an opportunity for environmental enhancement.
Ultimately the EIA process reported in the ES will identify the ‘residual’ 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, Scottish Borders 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 impacts 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.
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• Planning policy overview
• Climate change and atmospheric emissions
• Traffic and transport
• Noise
• 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 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
2.5 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 Cloich Forest. The Scottish Ministers 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.
2.6 Early consultation
2.6.1 As part of the EIA process, early discussions between PfR, the Scottish Government, Local
Authority, and statutory bodies have been used to highlight any key issues which should be
covered as part of the EIA process.
2.6.2 PfR has attended two meetings on 4 th November 2010 and 7 th June 2011 hosted by The
Tweedgreen Group based in Peebles to discuss the project inclusive of the potential for
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community involvement. The second meeting included representatives from the community
councils of Eddlestone and Peebles.
2.6.3 PfR has been maintaining contact with Scottish Borders Council throughout 2010 with updates
on progress with PfR sites in the local authority area. PfR met with Scottish Borders Council
on the 3 rd May 2011 to discuss the Cloich Forest project and the scoping process. This was
followed by a site visit the following day.
2.6.4 A meeting was also arranged with SNH on the 1 st April 2011 with landscape specialists to
discuss the landscape character and sensitivity of the area and likely important visual
receptors.
2.6.5 Meetings such as these will continue throughout the EIA assessment process, a transparent
approach to the environmental assessment is essential to ensure all statutory stakeholders are
satisfied with the scope of works and delivery of the supporting information to the planning
application.
2.6.6 A variety of public exhibitions and drop-in events will also be arranged to allow ample
opportunity for the public and local councillors to comment on the proposals.
2.7 Key Questions
2.7.1 Below are the key questions which require a response to this scoping report:
• Are Scottish Ministers 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 the Scottish Ministers
satisfied with the list of projects due to be considered?
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3 The Site
3.1 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
Scotland’s land holdings, investigating (with the aid of a Geographical Information System
(GIS)) issues such as the proximity of housing, environmentally-designated areas and wind
speed. The Cloich 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, 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.
3.2 The PfR scheme development process
3.2.1 PfR has established a scheme development process 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 undertook a broadly sequential three stage process
designed to investigate and resolve/avoid the key risks to the development of the site and any
potentially significant environmental effects in a structured manner. The purpose of this
process was 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 was
determined using professional judgement and experience taking account of the site’s unique
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.
3.2.4 For the Cloich Forest site it was determined that there were few aviation and
telecommunications constraints which is rare locally. Two main issues were raised by the
Ministry of Defence (MoD) which were: 1) that the area is used for low flying training and that
turbines had the potential to present an obstacle; and 2) that the site is within the 50km
consultation zone for the seismic array at Eskdalemuir 3
3 The UK government is a signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and contributes to the operation of
the International Monitoring System (IMS) through its seismic station at Eskdalemuir near Langholm. The UK government is
bound by the treaty not to compromise the detection capabilities of the IMS station which is safeguarded by the MoD.
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3.2.5 These studies (with the exception of the Eskdalemuir issue) reached their conclusion towards
the end of 2010 and it was decided to progress the Cloich site into DP2 as it was concluded
that any concerns can reasonably be expected to be overcome through design development,
and that the site is economically and technically viable.
Eskdalemuir
3.2.6 In response to increasing concerns that the very quiet nature of the Eskdalemuir location could
be compromised by new wind energy developments, the DTI and BWEA (now Renewable UK)
set up a working group to investigate the issue. In 2005, Professor Peter Styles of Keele
University completed a report which identified the principal mechanisms for the transmission of
turbine generated vibrations through the ground over long distances at the detection
frequencies of the seismic array. A predictive model was developed which would allow the
quantification of additional vibration that would be experienced as a consequence of any newly
planned wind turbines and the comparison of those levels with the ambient vibration
environment currently experienced at the array.
3.2.7 In an effort to maximise the renewable energy potential of the Southern Uplands the working
group sought agreement from the CTBT on the ambient vibration threshold below which the
detection capabilities of the array would not be compromised. A maximum permissible ambient
vibration increase due to newly planned wind turbines was set at 0.336nm, effectively the
‘noise budget’ for new wind turbine developments to work within.
3.2.8 Using the predictive model, it was possible to determine which planned developments were
capable of being permitted without exceeding the noise budget and that would maximise
renewable energy potential. This prioritisation list effectively exhausted the noise budget and
schemes that did not make the cut would follow in chronological order should other
developments drop out for unrelated planning or technical reasons.
3.2.9 Since the noise budget for new wind turbines was exhausted, those sites not making the first
cut would be expected to generate their own noise ‘headroom’ within the budget by both
mitigating their own development’s overall vibration emissions and by reaching agreement with
already consented and operating wind farms to mitigate those ‘third party’ generators too.
3.2.10 The current situation at the time of writing is that developers not on the list of prioritised sites
are continuing to negotiate agreements with the MoD over the degree and type of mitigation
required to allow their schemes to proceed. This includes both demonstrating that the
proposed mitigation methods will work and to what degree but also include the management
mechanisms and legal agreements surrounding the continuous compliance monitoring of any
related conditions for the life of each scheme.
3.2.11 Therefore, in the absence of these detailed agreements the situation remains that the MoD will
object in principal to any commercial scale wind energy developments proposed in the 50km
consultation zone irrespective of size or distance from the array. PfR fully expects that the
currently identified combination of technical and management solutions will be agreed with the
MoD but in part because of delays to the determination of other wind energy applications in the
region, this has not been achieved at the time of writing.
3.2.12 PfR will continue to pursue negotiations with the MoD over agreeing a suite of mitigation
measures for the Cloich site in the coming months and this has not delayed the progression of
the application to date.
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Development phase 2
3.2.13 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 screening and scoping opinions would be secured from the
planning authority during this stage.
3.2.14 Detailed environmental and technical survey information is gathered during this phase which
continuously fed back into the design process along with information from the consultations.
3.2.15 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.
3.2.16 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
and analysis of relevant survey data depending on timing in relation to the appropriate survey
seasons.
3.2.17 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
3.2.18 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 of environmental impact significance.
3.3 Site description
3.3.1 The Cloich Forest site is located within an area of productive forestry at Cloich Hill in the
Scottish Borders approximately 10km south of Penicuik and approximately 25km to the south
of Edinburgh. Wether Law (479m AOD) is the highest closest hill within this land mass. The
site area consists of an area of outlying upland, separated from the larger mass of the
Moorfoot Hills to the east, the Southern Uplands to the south and southwest and the Pentland
Hills to the west and north. This landmass is most closely associated with the Moorfoot Hills
and Southern Uplands and collectively forms one larger continuum of upland and upland fringe
landscape across which a broad pattern of wind farm development has occurred.
3.3.2 Land cover is characterised by productive forestry and surrounding areas of upland moorland
and grassland vegetation types. Pasture land, some areas of moss / heath and some arable
are present on the lower lying areas to the north, east, and west of the main Wether Law /
Cloich Hill land mass. These lower lying areas comprise the valleys of the River North Esk to
the west and north and the Eddleston Water to the east and north, both flowing north.
3.3.3 The forest consists of some 1081ha mainly coniferous tree species with a few small scattered
areas of broadleaved woodland. The majority of first rotation crops were planted over a short
period of time between 1970 and 1975, with other small areas planted outside this period in
1960 and the 1980’s. During the last ten years there has been restructuring within the forest
with 8 coupes being felled and restocked.
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3.3.4 The site falls within the SNH Landscape type “Plateaux Outliers”, and lies within the catchment
area of the River Tweed (SSSI/SAC).
3.3.5 Access to the forest is gained from an unclassified road which connects Eddleston and
Lamancha (via Shiplaw) which in turn joins the main A701 and A703 arterial roads. Those
transport routes (A701, A702 and A703) and the main areas of settlement (Penicuik, West
Linton, Biggar, Peebles, Eddleston and Leadburn) are located along river valleys. Continuing
north the land falls towards the Firth of Forth and areas of development, settlement and roads
and transport increase towards Edinburgh.
3.3.6 Whilst much of the lower lying land is settled or populated, much of the surrounding upland
areas are designated and valued for their recreational (Pentland Hills Country Park) and scenic
qualities (Upper Tweeddale National Scenic Area). There are a number of isolated residential
properties within 1km of the forest boundary, namely Cloich farm, Nether Stewarton and a
small group of settlements around Wester Deans.
3.4 Summary of relevant policy
The National Planning Framework for Scotland 2
3.4.1 The National Planning Framework for Scotland 2 (NPF2) discusses the Scottish Government’s
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.
3.4.2 NPF2 supports the continued expansion of renewable energy development by stating:
“The European Union has responded by committing to deriving 20% of the
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-generation.”
3.4.3 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 impact. With regards
to wind farm development the following are of relevance:
• Economic Development;
• Rural Development;
• Historic Environment;
• Landscape and Natural Heritage;
• Transport;
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• Renewable Energy; and
• Flooding and Drainage.
3.4.4 Key subject policies in regards to the proposed wind energy project are noted below.
SPP: Renewable Energy
3.4.5 The SPP recognises that the planning system has a key role in tackling climate change and
states that: “the need to help mitigate the causes of climate change and the need to adapt to
its short and long term impacts should be taken into account in all decisions throughout the
planning system.” The SPP states that the current (non-capped) target for electricity
generation is 50% from renewable sources by 2020 and recognises the current role of onshore
wind power. The SPP also states that “Development plans should support all scales of
development associated with the generation of energy and heat from renewable sources,
ensuring that an area’s renewable energy potential is realised and optimised in a way that
takes account of relevant economic, social, environmental and transport issues and maximises
benefits”.
3.4.6 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 impact
on the surrounding area. Key to the support of wind farm developments is the proposal’s
ability to demonstrate that it can operate efficiently in the proposed location and satisfactorily
address environmental and cumulative impacts. SPP’s assessment criteria, which should
inform Development Plan policies for wind farm development, include:
“landscape and visual impact, effects on the natural heritage and historic
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
telecommunications, noise and shadow flicker, and cumulative impact.”
The Scottish Borders Structure Plan
3.4.7 The approved Scottish Borders Structure Plan provides a strategic statement about the future
use of land in the region which incorporates the overall Strategic Goals and Values of the
Council. The Structure Plan was originally approved in 2002; however it has undergone an
alteration (mainly focused on housing issues) which was approved in 2008. A consolidated
Structure Plan was approved by the Scottish Ministers in June 2009. The site outlined
includes and is immediately affected by a number of policies within the Structure Plan. These
are outlined and discussed in Table 3.1 below:
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Table 3.1
Policy
Potentially Relevant Policies from the Scottish Borders Structure Plan
Discussion
Policy I19 - Renewable Energy
The Council supports the development of renewable
energy sources that can be developed in an
environmentally acceptable manner.
Policy I20 - Wind Energy Developments
Proposals for wind energy developments will be assessed
against the following criteria:
(i)impact on the landscape character of the areas, and
neighbouring Structure Plan areas, as guided by
Landscape Character Assessments,
(ii)the Structure Plan's environmental policies,
(iii)the impact of noise on residential and other noisesensitive
developments,
(iv)interference with aircraft activity,
(v)a significantly increased risk of 'shadow flicker' or 'driver
distraction', or,
(vi)any unacceptable cumulative impacts.
This policy demonstrates that the Council supports the
development of renewable energy generation, providing
proposals meet certain criteria and do not adversely affect
the built and natural environment.
Structure Plan Diagram 18 details Areas of Search for
Wind Energy Development within the Scottish Borders
Council area. The areas of search have been defined
around environmental designations and areas not subject
to such designations are identified as the ‘preferred’ areas
of search. The proposed site is located within the
preferred area. Potential constraints in respect of
landscape character and cumulative impact have not been
included.
The Structure Plan provides further policies in relation to
the preservation of the built and natural environment etc.
Some of these policies are mentioned in the following
section.
The Scottish Borders Consolidated Local Plan
3.4.8 The main local planning policy document is the Scottish Borders Consolidated Local Plan,
adopted February 2011. The Council has stated that the Local Plan should be relevant for a
period of five years (i.e. until 2011), or longer where it is still considered to be a relevant and
valid policy document.
3.4.9 The main policy relating to Renewable Energy development is Policy D4 – Renewable Energy
Development:
The Council will support proposals for both large scale and community scale
renewable energy development including commercial wind farms, single or
limited scale wind turbines, biomass, hydropower, biofuel technology and solar
power where they can be accommodated without unacceptable impacts on the
environment. The siting and design of all renewable energy developments
should take account of the social, economic and environmental context.
Renewable energy developments will be approved provided that,
1. there are no unacceptable adverse impacts on the natural heritage
including the water environment, landscape, biodiversity, built environment
and archaeological heritage, or that any adverse impacts can be satisfactorily
mitigated;
2. there are no unacceptable adverse impacts on recreation and tourism,
including access routes, or that any adverse impacts can be satisfactorily
mitigated.
If there is judged to be significant adverse impacts that cannot be mitigated,
the development will only be approved if the Council is satisfied that the
contribution to wider economic and environmental benefits outweighs the
potential damage to the environment or to tourism and recreation.
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Commercial Wind Farms
1. Commercial wind farm development will normally be more acceptable
in locations within “preferred areas” outwith environmental designations as set
out in Structure Plan Policy I 19. As noted in the justification of the local plan
policy on AGLV, the Council proposes to carry out a review of the whole
Council area with a view to adding additional areas which merit safeguarding
under Policy EP2. The results of that review will also be taken into account in
assessing the suitability of locations for commercial wind farms.
2. Locations within large scale landscape settings defined as Upland type
in the Landscape Classification hierarchy (contained within the Borders
Landscape Assessment) will normally be more acceptable than other
landscape character types subject to detailed assessment of the fragility of the
area to change.
3. Locations where there is surrounding landform that minimises the
external visibility of the development, where there is no interference with
prominent skylines or where there is no conflict within sensitive habitats will be
looked on more favourably than other locations.
4. In assessing the landscape impacts of wind farm developments,
particular attention will be given to the effects on high sensitivity receptors
including major tourist routes and important landscape viewpoints.
5. In addition to the general provisions for assessment as set out in
paragraph 2 of this Policy, proposals for commercial wind farms will be
assessed against the following criteria and will be approved where the overall
impact is judged acceptable:
i. Impact on landscape character and areas exhibiting remote qualities
as guided by expert advice and relevant research including the Scottish
Borders Landscape Assessment 1995;
ii. Views of the turbines and associated transmission lines, tracks, plant
and buildings from “sensitive major tourist routes and popular public
viewpoints, including those out with the Scottish Borders boundary;
iii. Visual impact assessment will include cumulative impact, shadow
flicker and the potential for driver distraction, and take account of the distance
of the facility from receptors and screening. Decision making will be guided by
expert advice and relevant research.
iv.
Generation of noise;
v. Traffic generation, including access during construction;
vi. Ecology and ornithology, particularly statutorily protected species and
habitats, species and habitats of conservation concern or species vulnerable
to wind farms by virtue of their behaviour. Assessment of cumulative impacts
on regional populations of birds will be required as appropriate.
vii.
viii.
use;
Interference with radio telecommunications and aviation;
Provisions for decommissioning, land restoration, after care and after
ix. Cumulative impact of wind farm development, including developments
in adjoining local authority areas. Unacceptable cumulative impact may
restrict development potential in otherwise appropriate areas. In assessing
potential cumulative impact, account will be taken of the effect of perceived
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visual impact/
6. Reference should be made to SPP and PAN 45 Renewable Energy
Technologies (revised 2002) in respect of assessing visual and other impacts
of wind farm proposals, giving consideration to the size and the number of
proposed turbines, the position and number of receptors affected and the
distance of the receptors from the turbines.
Developers must demonstrate that they have considered options for
minimising the operational impact of the development including:
1. Positioning of the wind farm in relation to landscape character, surrounding
landform, wind farms and power lines;
2. Positioning of the wind farm in relation to the biodiversity interest of the site
and surrounding area;
3. Siting and design of tracks and ancillary development;
4. Turbine positioning and separation from residential properties and radio
telecommunications;
5. Turbine specification and technical controls, including consideration of
predicted noise levels at specific properties closest to the wind farm at wind
speeds corresponding to cut-in, full rated power and maximum operational
wind speed, along with background noise levels and wind speeds;
6. Colours and finishes;
7. Routeing and timing of construction traffic;
8. Road access and improvements, taking account of constraints posed by
wetland and upland habitats.
“Other Renewable Energy Development
Small scale or domestic renewable energy developments including community
schemes, single turbines and micro-scale photovoltaic/solar panels will be
encouraged where they can be satisfactorily accommodated into their
surroundings in accordance with the protection of residential amenity of the
historic and natural environment.”
3.4.10 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 demonstrate that the development would not have unacceptable
adverse effects which could not be mitigated or which were not outweighed by the potential
positive effects from the development. The policy outlines a number of environmental topics
which, where relevant in terms of the proposed development, need to be assessed within a
planning application submission.
3.4.11 The site is not allocated to any land use designations but the project will be covered by
general policies on development in the countryside. The relevant planning policies are listed
and discussed in Table 3.2 below:
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Table 3.2
Potentially Relevant Policies from the Scottish Borders Consolidated Local Plan
Policy
Discussion
Policy G1 Quality Standards for New Development
All new development will be expected to be of a high
quality in accordance with sustainability principles,
designed to fit with Scottish Borders townscapes and to
integrate with its landscape surroundings.
Policy G8 – Development outwith Development
Boundaries
Where Development Boundaries are defined on Proposals
Maps, they indicate the extent to which towns and villages
should be allowed to expand during the Local Plan period
to 2011. Development should be contained within the
Development Boundary and proposals for new
development outwith this boundary and not on allocated
sites identified on the proposals map will normally be
refused.
Exceptional approvals may be granted provided strong
reasons can be given that:
It is a job-generating development in the countryside that
has an economic justification under Policy D1 or D2, or
It is an affordable housing development that can be
justified under in terms of Policy H1, or
There is a shortfall identified by Scottish Borders Council
through the housing land audit with regard to the provision
of an effective 5 year housing land supply; or
It is a development that it is considered would offer
significant community benefits that outweigh the need to
protect the Development Boundary;
And the development of the site:
Represents a logical extension of the built-up area, and
Is of an appropriate scale in relation to the size of the
settlement, and
Does not prejudice the character, visual cohesion or
natural built up edge of the settlement, and
Does not cause a significant adverse effect on the
landscape setting of the settlement of the natural heritage
of the surrounding area.
Policy BE1 – Listed Buildings
New development that adversely affects the setting of a
Listed Building will not be permitted.
(Other sections of this policy are considered irrelevant).
The policy continues to provide 15 criteria which apply to
all development. These criteria include the requirement
for proposed development to;
Be compatible with the surrounding area;
Retain physical or natural features or habitats which are
important to the amenity or biodiversity of the area; and
Be of an appropriate scale, massing, height and density
for the surrounding area.
This policy will be used by the Council to ensure that any
development is designed in a way which will integrate into
the surrounding landscape.
All of the criteria should be taken into consideration during
the progression of the site, including during the design
phase. It will be necessary to show how these have been
factored in to the proposal at the application stage.
This site is located in the countryside outwith defined
development boundaries. While the policy criteria are not
inclusive of wind energy development, a countryside
location is generally considered the norm for wind energy
developments provided it would not result in any
significant adverse effects.
The nearest Grade A listed building is Lamancha Sundial
2.0km to the west of the site. Portmore House (also Grade
A listed) lies 2.4km to the east. There are numerous
Grade B listed buildings in the surrounding area, the
nearest of which is Harehope House, 2km to the south. It
will be necessary to show that the proposed development
would not adversely affect the setting of this building in
order for the application to be approved. Therefore, the
provision of photomontages and a landscape and visual
assessment should be anticipated.
Policy BE2 Archaeological Sites and Ancient Structure Plan Policies N14 and N15 protect Scheduled
Ancient Monuments or other nationally important sites not
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Monuments
Where development proposals impact on a Scheduled
Ancient Monument , other nationally important sites not
yet scheduled, or any other archaeological of historical
site, developers will be required to carry out detailed
investigations to ensure compliance with Structure Plan
policies N14, N15 and N16.
Policy H2 Protection of Residential Amenity
Development that is judged to have an adverse impact on
the amenity of existing or proposed residential areas will
not be permitted. To protect the amenity and character of
those areas, any developments will be assessed against:
1. the principle of the development, including where
relevant, any open space that would be lost; and
2. the details of the development itself particularly in terms
of:
a) the scale, form and type of development in terms of its
fit within a residential area,
b) the generation of traffic and noise,
c) the level of visual impact.”
Policy NE1 – International Nature Conservation Sites
Sites of international importance for nature conservation
will be afforded the highest level of protection from
development. Development proposals that impact on an
internationally important wildlife site must comply with
Structure Plan Policy N2.
Structure Plan Policy N2 states:
Development proposals which will have a significant effect
on a designated or proposed Natura 2000 site, or a listed
or proposed RAMSAR site, and are not directly connected
with or necessary to the conservation management for
that site, will be subject to an assessment of the
implications on the site’s conservation objectives. The
development will only be permitted where the assessment
demonstrates that;
(i) there are no alternative means of meeting that
development need, and
(ii) there are imperative reasons of overriding public
interest, including those of a social or economic nature
that clearly outweigh the international nature conservation
values of the site.
Policy NE2 – National Nature Conservation Sites
Where development proposals impact on a national
nature conservation site, developers will be required to
submit sufficient information about the impact of the
development on the features of interest of the site to
ensure compliance with Structure Plan Policy N3.
Information should include the consideration of alternative
sites for the development and opportunities for mitigation
of potential damage.
Structure Plan Policy N3:
Development proposals which will have an adverse effect,
either directly or indirectly, on a Site of Special Scientific
interest will not be permitted unless:
(i) the development will not adversely affect the integrity of
the site; and
(ii) the development offers substantial benefits, including
those of a social or economic nature, that clearly outweigh
yet scheduled, and archaeological sites of regional or local
importance, respectively.
Structure Plan Policy N16 requires an Archaeological
Evaluation to be provided if there is reasonable evidence
of the existence of archaeological remains.
There are three Scheduled Ancient Monuments within the
site boundary; and a number in the surrounding area. A
number of National Monument Record sites are located
within the site boundary. Therefore, a detailed assessment
of the potential impact of the development upon known
and unknown archaeological features, including their
setting, should be anticipated.
The site is located in the rural area; however there are a
number of individual residential properties within the
surrounding area. This policy seeks to protect their
residential amenity and wind turbine developments have
the potential to affect residential amenity in particular, by
means of noise, visual and shadow flicker impact and
traffic generation during construction. Assessment or
consideration of impacts will require to be incorporated
within a planning application submission.
The nearest international nature conservation sites to the
proposed site boundary are the River Tweed SAC
(~0.4km). The site is located 6.7km from the Gladhouse
Reservoir SSSI, SPA, RAMSAR and Important Bird Area
(IBA) in particular, noted as an important winter roosting
area for Pink-footed Goose.
The potential impact upon Natura 2000 sites will need to
be assessed in particular, ecological, ornithological and
hydrological impacts
Appropriate Assessment may be required, where the
potential for significant impact effects cannot be
conclusively ruled out.
There are a number of SSSIs in proximity of the site, and
the Moorfoot Hills ISAC / SSSI is also located ~4.7km
from the site. It will be necessary to show that the
proposed development would not adversely affect these
sites in any subsequent application.
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the national conservation value of the site.
Where the site concerned is a National Nature Reserve,
particular regard shall be paid to the sites of national
importance.
Policy NE3 Local Biodiversity
1. The Council will seek to safeguard the integrity of
habitats both within and outwith settlements which are of
importance for the maintenance and enhancement of local
biodiversity. The rationale and detail for this is set out in
the Supplementary planning Guidance.
2. Where development is proposed on a site for which
there is evidence to suggest that a habitat or species of
importance exists, the developer may be required, at their
own expense, to undertake a survey of the site’s natural
environment. Major development, as defined by the
categories of development identified in the Council’s
biannual Scottish Government Planning Application
Returns, may require an Ecological Impact Assessment.
3. Development that could impact on local biodiversity
through impacts on habitats and species should:
(i) Be sited and designed to minimise adverse impacts on
the biodiversity of the site, including its environmental
quality, ecological status and viability,
(ii) Aim to avoid the fragmentation or isolation of habitats;
(iii) Aim to enhance the biodiversity value of the site
through the creation or restoration of habitats and wildlife
corridors and provision for their long term management
and maintenance.
4. Development that would have an unacceptable adverse
effect on habitats or species of Conservation Concern as
identified in the regional listings in the Local Biodiversity
Action Plan (LBAP) habitats will be sought, including the
creation of new habitats or the enhancement of existing
habitats, in accordance with Policy G5 Developer
Contributions and associated Supplementary planning
Guidance.
Policy NE4 – Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows
The Council supports the maintenance and management
of trees, woodlands, including ancient woodlands and
ancient woodland pastures, and hedgerows (hereafter
referred to as the “woodland resource”) and requires
developers to incorporate, wherever feasible, the existing
woodland resource into their schemes.
Development that would cause the loss of, or serious
damage to the woodland resource, will be refused unless
the public benefits of the development at the local level
clearly outweigh the loss of landscape, ecological,
recreational, historical or shelter value. Decision making
will be informed by the Scottish Borders Woodland
Strategy, expert advice from external agencies, the
existing condition of the woodland resource and
BS5837:Trees in Relation to Construction;
The siting and design of the development should aim to
minimise adverse impacts on the biodiversity value of the
woodland resource, including its environmental quality,
ecological status and viability;
Where there is an unavoidable loss of the woodland
resource, appropriate replacement planting will normally
be a condition of planning permission. In some locations
planning agreements will be sought to enhance the
woodland resource;
Development proposals should demonstrate how the
protection of the woodland resource will be carried out
during construction, adopting British Standard 5837.
This policy will be used by the Council to ensure that there
would not be any adverse impact on habitats considered
to be of local importance. An assessment of impact upon
nature conservation will need to take into account locally
important biodiversity.
The proposed site is largely covered by conifer plantation
with some mixed broadleaved riparian corridors and open
areas. As there is an accepted pattern of deforestation
and replanting with plantation sites, part of this policy may
not directly apply. Nevertheless, there is the potential to
impact upon important biodiversity as a result of the
development and alterations to existing forestry
management areas.
Reference should be made to the potential to keyhole
turbines, and to undertake construction at a time which
complements the current production cycle.
Policy NE5 Development Affecting the Water This policy will be used by the Council to ensure that this
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Environment
The Council aims to protect the quality of the water
resource and requires developers to consider how their
proposals might generate potentially adverse impacts and
to build in measures that will minimise any such impacts
and enhance and restore the water environment.
Development affecting a water body, water catchment
area, river corridor or other waterside areas, that is judged
to have an unacceptable impact on nature conservation,
biodiversity, landscape, fisheries, recreation, riverworks or
public access, will be refused.
Decision-making will be guided by an assessment of:
(i) Pollution of surface or underground water, including
water supply catchment areas, as a result of the nature of
any surface or waste water discharge or leachate,
(ii) Pollution resulting from the disturbance of
contaminated land,
(iii) Flooding risk or the exacerbation of existing flooding
problems, within the site or the wider river catchment,
(iv) Compliance with current best practice on sustainable
Urban Drainage (SUDS)
development would not have any adverse impact on water
bodies and their catchments areas. Development of wind
turbines has the potential to result in both hydrological and
hydrogeological impacts in particular, during construction
stages. The proximity to River Tweed SAC is noted
previously. Consideration and assessment of potential
impacts are likely in order to limit potential impacts during
construction.
SEPA online maps indicate that some watercourses on
the boundary of the site have a 0.5% or greater probability
of being flooded in any given year.
Policy EP1 – National Scenic Areas
Where development proposals impact on a National
Scenic Area, developers will be required to comply with
Structure Plan Policy N10.
Policy EP2 – Areas of Great Landscape Value
Where development proposals impact on an Area of Great
Landscape Value (AGLV), developers will be required to
comply with Structure Plan Policy N11.
The proposed site is 2.9km north of the Upper Tweedale
National Scenic Area, which is covered by Policy EP1. As
such, it will be necessary to demonstrate that the
proposed site would not have an unacceptable adverse
effect upon the designation of this area.
Structure Plan Policy N11 states that development will
only be permitted in these areas where the reason for
designating the site is not compromised or where the
benefits of the development clearly outweigh any
anticipated adverse effects.
The proposed site is 2.2km north of an AGLV. The AGLV
covers the majority of the area between Peebles and the
Council’s boundary with Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Therefore, any subsequent application will need to
illustrate that the development would not have an
unacceptable adverse effect upon this AGLV.
Structure Plan Policy N11 relates to applications for
development within AGLVs, and states that the Council
will “seek to safeguard landscape quality and will have
particular regard to the landscape impact of the proposed
development.
Proposals which have a significant adverse impact will
only be permitted where the impact is clearly outweighed
by social or economic benefits of national or local
importance.”
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4 Description of the proposed development
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 At this early stage it is envisaged that the planning application will be made for the
erection, 25 year operation, and subsequent decommissioning, of approx. 24 wind
turbines, each likely to have a maximum overall tip height of approx 130m, together with
access tracks, temporary works, hard standing areas, electricity sub-station and
underground cabling, a new vehicular access off the unclassified road and up to two
permanent meteorological monitoring masts.
4.1.2 A grid connection is viable in the area and likely to extend to Kaimes substation 16.3km
north of the site. 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. This chapter describes the project as
proposed at this stage. The scheme has evolved to respond to the findings of the early
development process described earlier, and is likely to change further through the
scoping and EIA processes in response to consultation and growing knowledge of
potential environmental effects.
4.2 Scheme layout
4.2.1 The proposal is to construct and operate a wind energy development at Cloich Forest in
the Scottish Borders comprising:
• Approximately 24 turbines
• Associated infrastructure including access tracks, meteorological
mast, control building and temporary contractors compound and
laydown areas
4.2.2 The layout of the scheme elements and immediate geographical context of the site is
shown in Figure 1.2, with the approximate grid reference for the centre of the
development being NT207480.
4.3 Purpose and objective
4.3.1 As identified in chapter 1, the purpose of the scheme is the generation of electricity. If
twenty four 2.5MW turbines are constructed they are expected to generate
approximately 157.68 GWh of renewable energy per year. This is equivalent to the
amount of energy used annually by approximately 32,263 average households and
would avoid many tonnes of C0 2 equivalent emissions per year. Final calculation of
CO2 savings will reflect the BWEA energy mix assumptions as well as other on site
effects once these are confirmed and appraised using the Nayak model – see climate
change sections.
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4.4 Candidate wind turbines
4.4.1 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.
4.4.2 Twenty four turbines with a potential height to blade tip of 130 metres have been used
in order to establish an indicative conceptual layout design. Other options may be
considered within the design development and assessment process.
4.4.3 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.
4.5 Associated infrastructure
4.5.1 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 750mm deep and 450mm wide. To minimise
ground disturbance, cables will be routed along the side of the access tracks wherever
practicable.
4.5.2 The grid connection for the proposed development would be via a substation building.
Metering and switchgear will be contained within this building. The connection between
the substation and the wider grid is subject to a separate consent procedure.
4.5.3 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
4.6 Site access
4.6.1 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. It is the intention,
wherever possible, to use existing roads and tracks for this purpose however, it is
recognised that new access tracks will also be required. For the majority of the site, the
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.
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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).
4.7 Construction of the wind energy development
4.7.1 The construction period for the wind farm is expected to last around 18 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.
4.8 Decommissioning of the wind energy development
4.8.1 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.
4.8.2 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 the site landowner, or where
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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 road and turbine bases from
the site.
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5 Environmental baseline
5.1 Site environmental context
5.1.1 The following section outlines key features of the existing environment (environmental
baseline) at the Cloich Forest site.
5.2 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 GDLs) from
Historic Scotland.
5.2.2 The following scheduled monuments are within the site boundary:
• Nether Stewarton, settlement 850m west of;
• Courhope, ring enclosures 750m NE of Greenside; and
• Whaup Law, cairn.
5.2.3 On the southern boundary of the site is another scheduled cairn - Nether Stewarton,
and a short distance outside the west of the site is a further scheduled cairn on Wether
Law. On the south-western boundary is a scheduled monument encompassing two ring
enclosures and a barrow - Green Knowe,. In addition, the following assets lie within
5km of the site:
• Some 15 scheduled monuments, mostly of prehistoric features, to the
west;
• Some 25 scheduled monuments to the south;
• Several further scheduled monuments to the east and north-west;
• Some 84 listed buildings, including 3 listed at Category A –Whim House,
Stables, Portmore House and Sundial, Lamancha; and
• The Whim GDL.
5.2.4 It is important to note, with respect to the above, that many of these lie either outside
the indicative 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.
5.2.5 Land within the site is clearly of archaeological potential, particularly for prehistoric
remains, although this potential will have been substantially reduced by the presence of
forestry, which can cause disturbance to archaeological remains, both as a result of
forestry operations and the growth of the trees themselves.
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5.3 Hydrology, Hydrogeology
5.3.1 Several small watercourses cross the site. The site is on a watershed, flows from the
western side of the site drain to the Lyne Water and flows from the east drain to the
Eddlestone water, both of which are tributaries to the River Tweed. The River Tweed is
noted by SEPA to have poor ecological potential. The SEPA Flood Risk website shows
the Flemington Burn within the site boundary poses a flood risk. The remaining
watercourses on site are not shown as posing a flood risk, however this is because their
catchments are less than 3km 2 they do still however pose a localised flood risk to the
site, if care is not taken when laying out the site.
5.3.2 The British Geological Survey (BGS) website indicates that the site is underlain by
rocks of the Wacke series (Portpatrick, Kirkcolm and Glenwhargen formations) with
some superficial Diamicton Till deposits. Soils are expected to vary from an intergrade
upland brown earth to a shallow peaty gley across the site.
5.4 Landscape and Visual
5.4.1 The Cloich site is located within an area of productive forestry at Cloich Hill in the
Scottish Borders, ~10km south of Penicuik and ~25km south of Edinburgh. Wether Law
(479m AOD) is the highest closest hill within this land mass. The site area consists of
an area of outlying upland, separated from the larger mass of the Moorfoot Hills to the
east, the Southern Uplands to the south / southwest and the Pentland Hills to the north
west. Land cover within the proposal site is characterised by productive forestry, whilst
the surrounding areas of upland feature moorland and grassland vegetation types.
Pasture land, some areas of moss / heath and some arable fields are present on the
lower lying areas to the north, east, and west.
5.4.2 These lower lying areas comprise the valleys of the River North Esk to the west and
north and the Eddleston Water to the east and north, both flowing north. Transport
routes (including the A701, A702 and A703) and the main areas of settlement (Penicuik,
West Linton, Biggar, Peebles, Eddleston and Leadburn) are located along these river
valleys. Continuing north, the land falls towards the Firth of Forth and the Edinburgh
conurbation.
5.4.3 As assessed in the Borders Landscape Assessment (Ash Consulting Group, 1998) the
site is located within the Plateau Outliers landscape character type (LCT), which can be
described as a large scale, upland plateau landscape characterised by hills and ridges
covered by a mosaic of coarse grassland, heather and forestry. The Plateau Outliers
LCT is clearly separated from adjoining types by major river valleys. There is a low
density of settlement, with the majority of settlements confined to the sheltered valleys.
5.4.4 Neighbouring LCTs include the Rolling Farmland LCT (to the north west), Upland Valley
and Pastoral Floor LCT (to the south west), Poor Rough Grassland LCT (to the north
east), Pastoral Upland Valley LCT (to the east) and the Upland Valley with Woodland
LCT (to the south).
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5.4.5 The proposal site is not located within a designated landscape; hence there would be
no direct effects on landscape designations. However, there are several designated
landscapes in the surrounding area from which it may be possible to view the proposed
wind turbines. Effects on these resources would be limited to indirect effects, such as
those upon the views as experienced from within these areas. The key landscape
designations that are located within closest proximity to the proposal site are listed in
Table 5.1.
Table 5.1
Designated Landscapes within 10km of the Proposal Site
Designation
Details
Upper Tweeddale National Scenic Area (NSA)
Tweedsmuir Hills / Upper Tweeddale Areas of Great
Landscape Value (AGLV)
Moorfoot Hills Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV)
Pentland Hills Regional Park
Pentland Hills Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV)
Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDL)
Conservation Areas
Located ~2.9km to the south.
Located ~2.2km to the south.
Located ~4.5km to the east / north east.
Located ~6.3km to the north west.
Located ~6.7km due west.
Including The Whim, Penicuik House, Newhall (to the
north), as well as Stobo Castle and Dawyck (to the south).
The closest of these is The Whim, which is located 1.2km
to the north.
Including those at West Linton, Eddleston and Peebles.
5.4.6 Further afield (i.e. within the wider study area) there are further AGLVs, GDLs and
Conservation Areas. Those located within the ZTV will also be considered in the LVIA.
5.5 Ecology
5.5.1 Table 5.2 identifies nature conservation designations within approximately 10km of the
site.
Table 5.2
Nature conservation designations within ~10km of the Cloich site*
Designation Approx. distance from site Reason for designation
River Tweed SAC and SSSI 0.4km SAC - Atlantic salmon, brook
lamprey, river lamprey, sea lamprey,
otter and rivers with floating
vegetation often dominated by watercrowfoot
SSSI - Atlantic salmon, brook
lamprey, river lamprey, sea lamprey,
beetles, flies, trophic range
river/stream and vascular plant
assemblage
Whim Bog SSSI 1.4km Raised bog
Auchencorth Moss SSSI 2.8km Raised bog
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Dundreich Plateau SSSI 4.7km Blanket bog and sub-alpine flushes
Black Burn SSSI 5.6km Lowland acid grassland
Newhall Glen SSSI 6.0km Upland mixed ash woodland
Dolphinton – West Linton Fens and
Grassland SSSI
6.4km
Lowland calcareous grassland, valley
fen and bryophyte assemblage
Peeswit Moss SAC and SSSI 6.5km SAC - Active and degraded raised
bog
SSSI - Raised bog
Gladhouse Reservoir SSSI 6.7km Aquatic and emergent plants and
aquatic invertebrates
North Esk Valley SSSI 7.3km Lowland acid grassland and valley
fen
Moorfoot Hills SAC and SSSI 8.5km SAC - Blanket bog and dry heath
SSSI - Blanket bog, breeding bird
assemblage, breeding golden plover,
upland habitat mosaics and upland
birch woodland. The SSSI citation
notes that the site has been identified
as meeting the criteria for designation
as a wetland of international
importance under the Ramsar
Convention
* excludes geological designations
5.5.2 A tributary of the Lyne Water, forming part of the River Tweed SAC, extends to within
approximately 500m of the south-west boundary of the site. The NBN Gateway
website 4 reveals recent records of salmon spawning grounds in this area as well as
historic records (1987) of brook lamprey, both of which are designated features of the
River Tweed SAC.
5.5.3 An extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey (JNCC 2010 5 ) undertaken in March – April 2010
recorded the dominant habitat as monoculture conifer forest plantation, notably Sitka
spruce although there are several cleared areas where relatively more varied plant
communities are developing. A riparian corridor (semi-open (25% shade) with
broadleaved planting) has been established along part of Middle Burn.
5.5.4 Woodland and forest edges, including rides, comprise primarily of marshy grassland
and semi-improved acid grassland habitats, and these will be relatively more sensitive
in ecological terms, since they offer protection, shelter and foraging opportunities for
species such as bats and, potentially, other mammals such as badgers. Rides are also
important as:
• Habitat corridors, facilitating the movement of species;
• Repositories of remnant plant communities such as heathland or bog,
which may have ecological value in themselves, although it is noted that
4 http://data.nbn.org.uk/ accessed 13 January 2010
5 JNCC, (2010), Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey - a technique for environmental audit, ISBN 0 86139 636 7
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the area is largely underlain by till and the vegetation along rides and other
open areas comprises of mainly grassland with little heath or bog
vegetation apparent;
• Sheltered habitat for a range of reptiles and invertebrates including
potentially a refuge for notable butterflies such as the large heath
Coenonympha tullia.
5.5.5 Areas of mature forestry (and associated rides and edge habitats) have the potential to
support a variety of protected species such as bats, badgers, red squirrel, pine marten,
reptiles and flora. Watercourses and waterbodies within and associated with forestry
can also support amphibians, fish species, invertebrates, otter and water vole. The
desk study exercise (NBN Gateway website and The Wildlife Information Centre)
indicated that the following species have been recorded within approximately 2km of the
site 6 : common toad, common frog, great crested newt, European eel, Atlantic salmon,
brown/sea trout, invertebrates (including beetles, butterflies, true files), water vole,
brown hare, otter, badger (including a record from within the site), red squirrel,
Daubenton’s bat and numerous plant species. During the extended Phase 1 Habitat
Survey badger setts and otter spraints were recorded on site.
5.5.6 Based upon the results of the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey and the desk study
records, great crested newt surveys were deemed necessary and were completed in
April-June 2011 (no great crested newts were recorded). Bat surveys and reptile
surveys commenced in May/early June 2011. It is anticipated that there will be a
requirement for a number of additional species-specific surveys, including badger, otter,
water vole, red squirrel and pine marten. It is also anticipated that some level of
fisheries assessment may also be necessary. The habitats identified during the
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey were generally assessed as low quality and highly
modified, therefore at this stage it is not considered that targeted botanical assessment
is required (e.g. National Vegetation Classification) though this will remain under review.
5.5.7 Given proximity to the River Tweed SAC, consideration will also need to be given to
potential impacts on fish, which may require survey work. However, this would be
subject to prior consultation with Scottish Natural Heritage and the Tweed Foundation.
5.6 Ornithology
5.6.1 The Forestry Commission has noted the presence of breeding raptors and black
grouse, with a schedule 1 (Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended) raptor area
covering approximately 4km 2 in the south of the site, and a historic lek site recorded
near Cloich Rig immediately to the east of the site.
5.6.2 It is possible that regular flights of pink-footed geese between Gladhouse and
Westwater Reservoirs may pass over the site at Cloich Forest.
6 In some instances where data are only presented at 10km square resolution, a record may be up to 10km away (e.g.
great crested newt).
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5.6.3 Table 5.3 identifies ornithological designations within approximately 20km of the site.
Table 5.3
Ornithological designations within ~20km of the Cloich site
Designation Approx. distance from site Reason for designation
Gladhouse Reservoir SPA, Ramsar
and SSSI
6.7km
SPA/Ramsar - Winter roost for pinkfooted
geese and regularly supports
>10,000 wintering wildfowl.
SSSI as for SPA and Ramsar but also
of local significance for its aquatic and
emergent plants and aquatic
invertebrates
Westwater SPA, Ramsar and SSSI 8.4km SPA/Ramsar - Winter roost for pinkfooted
geese and regularly supports
>20,000 roosting waterfowl in winter
SSSI - Pink-footed geese
Moorfoot Hills SSSI 8.5km Blanket bog, breeding bird
assemblage, breeding golden plover,
upland habitat mosaics and upland
birch woodland. The SSSI citation
notes that the site has been identified
as meeting the criteria for designation
as a wetland of international
importance under the Ramsar
Convention
5.7 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 is likely to be related to traffic on the
A701 to the west of the site and A703 to the east.
5.8 Traffic and Transport
5.8.1 The anticipated access route to site is the A701 from the A720 Edinburgh bypass. This
route passes through Loanhead and to the east of Penicuik, before becoming the A703
at Leadburn. A right turn onto a minor road is made approximately 1 mile south of
Waterhead and this minor road then leads onto the site.
5.9 Socio-Economics
5.9.1 Primary employment categories for the working population within the Scottish Borders
Council area (2007 figures) include: Public administration, education and health
(32.1%); Distribution, hotels and restaurants (21.8%); and manufacturing (14.3%). The
nearest town is Peebles, located approximately 5km to the southeast of the proposed
development site.
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5.9.2 Although the site itself is not considered to be an important tourism facility, the main
transport corridors passing to the east and west are important gateways to the Scottish
Borders for the main population centres further north. An advertised trail passes east to
west through the southern part of the site. This ‘Tweed Trail’ is known as the Old Drove
Road and links Eddlestone with West Linton and Pentland Hills beyond.
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6 Proposed scope of the EIA
6.1 Scope
6.1.1 For each environmental topic set out below, the following format has been adopted in
considering the proposed scope of the EIA:
• Policy Guidance/Background;
• Methodology;
• Assessment and Consultation;
• Potentially Significant Effects; and
• Potential Mitigation/Enhancement.
6.2 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 these potential effects can be
controlled by standard construction practices. It is therefore proposed that any further
assessment of 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 potential impacts in terms of greenhouse gas emissions will be calculated in
accordance with the publication “Calculating carbon savings from wind farms on
Scottish Peatlands – a new approach” (Nayak et al., 2008).
6.3 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
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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 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 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 42: Archaeology - The
Planning Process and Scheduled Monument Procedures. PAN 42 has been partially
superseded by SHEP and SPP, but the advice on the implementation of policy
regarding archaeology in the planning process has been retained.
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
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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 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 mind available guidance such as
Historic Scotland’s Assessment of Impact on the Setting of 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 Scottish Borders 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;
• Scottish Borders 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.
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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 and
compensation method is subject to further discussion with relevant consultees.
6.4 Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology
Policy context, guidance and regulatory framework
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 Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (WEWS Act). The
core objective of the WEWS Act is to protect and improve Scotland’s water
environment. This includes preventing deterioration in status of water bodies and,
where possible, restoring surface waters and groundwater damaged by pollution, water
abstraction, dams and engineering activities to ‘Good Status’ by 2015. The Water
Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 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 are:
6.4.4 PAN 61, Planning and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems.
6.4.5 A number of general guidance relating to the water environment is also available this
includes 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);
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Methodology
• Floating Roads on Peat (SNH/FCS 2010);
• SEPA Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPGs); and
• SEPA Position Statement – Developments on Peat.
6.4.6 The assessment will comprise of 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.
6.4.7 There is the potential for 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 risk assessment.
Assessment and Consultation
6.4.8 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.
6.4.9 For the assessment, baseline data (within a 2km radius of the site) will be collated and
a walkover survey of the site undertaken. The site visit will help to determine which
areas of the site are least sensitive in terms of turbine and access track location and
identification of potential private water supplies in relation to nearby properties. 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;
• 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
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protection zone maps; local water supply undertaker for information
on locations of mains water supplies.
Potentially Significant Effects
6.4.10 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 impacts will
be appraised. Impacts 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 poorly
maintained 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.
6.4.11 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
6.4.12 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
increase in flood risk. Standard construction practices adopted on wind farm
developments would be assessed, and modified where necessary, to ensure that
predicted impacts and 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 (CEPM) for the
construction and operational phases of the development will also be provided.
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6.5 Landscape and visual
Policy context and guidance
6.5.1 The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) essentially consists of two
related assessments examining the effects on the landscape as a whole, as well as
those of potential visual receptors located within the study area. A key purpose of the
LVIA is to inform the project design as well as providing an indication of the likely
landscape and visual effects.
6.5.2 The LVIA for the Cloich Wind Farm will be undertaken in accordance with ‘best practice’
guidance and in reference to a number of publications and websites including (but not
limited to the following):
Methodology
• Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Second
Edition, Landscape Institute and IEMA (2002);
• Guidance: Cumulative Effects of Wind Farms, Version 2, SNH
(2005);
• Visual Representation of Windfarms: Good Practice Guidance, The
Scottish Renewables Forum and the Scottish Society of Directors of
Planning, Horner & Maclennan and Envision (2006);
• Visual Assessment of Windfarms: Best Practice, University of
Newcastle for Scottish Natural Heritage (2002); and
• Siting and Designing Windfarms in the Landscape, SNH (2009)
• Forest Landscape Design, Forestry Commission (1994)
6.5.3 The LVIA will clearly set out its methodology in its early sections utilising tables
wherever possible to maximise its transparency. Following on from the methodology
section, the LVIA will present the baseline conditions in a comprehensive but succinct
manner using a number of sub-headings to provide an overall analysis of the prevailing
landscape and visual conditions within a 35 km radius study area (based on guidance
by Scottish Natural Heritage in relation to turbine size). It should be noted that these
radii would be from the nearest proposed turbine as opposed to from the site centre.
6.5.4 The baseline study will review relevant landscape commentaries; the relevant sections
in the landscape character assessments; and descriptions of the designated features. It
will also review the relevant policies in the Development Plan. The baseline will be
supported by a number of figures on OS plans and annotated photographs of the
application site and its landscape setting.
6.5.5 As recommended by the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, the
LVIA will consider the potential landscape and visual effects of the proposed wind farm
in separate sections.
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6.5.6 Landscape effects include the direct and indirect effect on the landscape resource and
various landscape receptors such as landscape elements and features (existing forests
and field boundary patterns for example), as well as the effects upon the general
landscape character and its condition and value (landscape designations). In assessing
the landscape effects, consideration will also be given to the capacity of the landscape
to absorb change. This may be considered with reference to existing landscape and
visual characteristics, including the presence of existing development, the scale of the
landscape, topography and the presence of screening elements such as tall vegetation
and built form.
6.5.7 Visual effects are concerned with the effects generated by the construction and
operation of the proposed development on views as experienced by identified visual
receptors and the overall effect on visual amenity. Visual receptors are people within
the landscape using spaces or routes for work, recreation or residence.
6.5.8 Potential cumulative landscape and visual effects will be assessed in line with SNH
Guidance, including a 70km search area for other cumulative wind energy development.
This will include existing and approved wind farms and those currently within the
planning system. Wind farm proposals at the screening or scoping stages will be
excluded on the basis that they may not progress to full applications. The CLVIA will
include viewpoint assessment as well as cumulative ZTVs, demonstrating both the
relative visibility of the proposal site as compared to other sites, and the total cumulative
visibility. Sequential cumulative assessment (where more than one wind farm may be
viewed either simultaneously or in succession along a well-used route) will also be
assessed.
6.5.9 Those wind farms most relevant to this assessment are likely to be the existing,
approved and planned wind farms within ~15km of the application site, which include
the existing wind farms at Bowbeat and Carcant, as well as the proposed scheme at
Spurlens Rig. Between 15 and 35km there are several other existing and consented
wind farms, as well as several planning applications. These are listed in Table 6.1.
Table 6.1
Cumulative Wind Energy Developments within 35km of the Proposal Site
Wind Farm Site
Details
No. HH RD BT
Existing Wind Energy Development
Bowbeat 24 50 60 80
Carcant 3 67 80 107
Muirhall 6 80 90 125
Black Law 54 70 80 110
Pates Hill 7 67 80 107
Toddleburn 12 80 90 125
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Wind Farm Site
Details
No. HH RD BT
Longpark 19 60 80 100
Glenkerie 11 70 70 105
Consented Wind Energy Development
Tormywheel 15 60 84 102
Black Law Extension (I & II) 35 80 90 125
Wind Energy Development with Submitted Planning Application
Spurlens Rig 6 80 90 125
Harrows Law 17 70 90 115
Broadmeadows 13 60 66 93
Muircleugh Farmhouse 2 80 90 125
Rowantree 23 80 90 125
Key No. Number of turbines. HH Hub Height (m)
BT Blade Tip RD Rotor Diameter (m)
Note: This information has been collected from AMEC databases and www.yes2wind.com and is subject to change.
6.5.10 Consultees are encouraged to provide further information on other wind farm sites
which may be included in the CLVIA, in addition we shall consult the latest SNH and
SBC database of wind energy development.
Assessment and consultation
6.5.11 The LVIA will consider the direct and indirect effects of the proposed development on
the local landscape (including character, designations and existing elements) and on
the visual amenity (including local residents, road users and users of local recreational
facilities where the focus of activity is outdoors). On a wider scale; the cumulative effect
of the proposed development with other wind farms (existing, consented and in the
planning process) will also be considered.
6.5.12 A preliminary Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV), illustrated in Figures 1.3a and 1.3b
has been produced based on a conceptual layout and calculated to blade tip (assuming
turbines of 125m high to blade tip) as follows:
• Figure 1.3a: ZTV to Blade Tip, showing an area 35km radius from the site centre.
• Figure 1.3b: ZTV to Blade Tip, showing an area 15km radius from the site centre.
6.5.13 The ZTV reflects the landform, with much of the visibility focused on the river valleys
and upland fringes to the north, east and west of the site. To the north west of the
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proposal site; the river valley of the North Esk and the land along the south eastern
slopes of the Pentlands (incorporating the A701 and A702 between Loanhead /
Penicuik, West Linton, and Biggar) forms one area of concentrated potential visibility.
Another notable area of potential visibility is focused along the Eddleston Water valley
and fringes of the Moorfoot Hills (to the east), encompassing the route of the A703
between Penicuik and Biggar. The slopes and plateaus of the Southern Uplands and
Moorfoot Hills act as a visual watershed that substantially screens visibility further to the
east and south. Similarly the Pentland Hills limit visibility further to the northwest. These
hill ranges form important skylines and areas of visual backdrop when viewed from the
lowland areas / river valleys.
6.5.14 It should be noted that the ZTV does not take into account the effect of screening
provided by areas of woodland / plantation within the study zone which will be
considered as part of the visual assessment.
6.5.15 The key landscape and visual issues to be addressed as part of the assessment
include:
• Effects on landscape character as identified in the various
published SNH landscape assessments (including direct effects on
the Plateau Outliers LCT);
• Visual effects on local communities will be assessed throughout the
study area including the nearby settlements of Eddleston,
Leadburn, West Linton, Peebles and Carlops, which are all located
within relative close proximity to the site;
• Visual effects on residential properties including Blinkbonny, Wester
Deans, Cowieslinn, Shiplaw, Cloich Farm, Upper Stewarton, Nether
Stewarton, Harehope and The Steading, which are all located within
close proximity to the site;
• Visual effects on public rights of way including core paths and
designated long distance footpaths including the Southern Uplands
Way;
• Visual effects on recreational receptors, particularly well known
viewpoints, footpaths and elevated land / hill tops (such as White
Meldon and Cademuir Hill);
• Visual effects on landscape designations (including the Upper
Tweeddale NSA and various AGLVs) and Gardens and Designed
Landscapes;
• Visual effects on all major and local routes including the nearby
A701, A702 and A703, as well as the various B-roads in close
proximity to the site.
6.5.16 Following initial desk-studies and ZTV analysis, provisional viewpoints are listed in
Table 6.2.
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Table 6.2
Provisional Viewpoints
Viewpoint Location Distance Grid Ref Reason for Selection
Viewpoints within approximately 15km
1. Eddleston Church Yard 2,889 N324 377,
E647 206
2. A703 lay-by 6,050 N324 054,
E654 072
3. Peebles 6,117 N324 942,
E641 853
4. White Meldon 3,763 N321 936,
E642 900
5. West Linton 5,681 N315 049,
E651 135
6. Scald Law 11,375 N319 033,
E660 536
7. Gladhouse Reservoir 9,619 N329 012,
E654 078
8. Cademuir Hill 9,248 N323 055,
E637 528
9. Elsrickle A721 13,578 N306 779,
E644 033
10. Byrahope Mount 10,538 N311 358,
E654 645
11. NSA Viewpoint 7,815 N323 686,
E639 203
12. Stobo 11,486 N317 749,
E635 481
13. Glentress Forest 8,135 N328 678,
E643 758
14.Romanobridge 4,169 N315 967,
E648 103
15. Auchencorth Moss 8,970 N322 077,
E658 058
16. Nine Mile Burn 8,751 N317 925,
E657 636
Elevated view from local settlement due east of the
proposal site.
View from local transport route to the north east.
View from edge of settlement to the south east, also
representative of views from the Crossburn Caravan Park
and the A703.
Elevated view from summit to the south that is popular with
hill walkers (selected iconic / scenic viewpoint by Scottish
Borders Council).
View from local settlement to the north west.
View from hill summit in the Pentland Hills Regional Park.
View from recreational area below the Moorfoot Hills.
Viewpoint from hill fort within the NSA.
Settlement and ‘A’ road corridor to the west.
View from hill summit in the Pentland Hills Regional Park.
Scenic viewpoint at hill fort within the NSA.
View from Stobo Castle estate.
View from Glentress Forest and cycle routes.
View from small settlement / A701.
View from minor road over Auchencorth Moss
View from small settlement / A702.
Viewpoints within approximately 15-35km
17. Stob Law 13,288 N323 051,
E633 418
18. Lee Pen 14,033 N 332 610,
E638 632
19. Minch Moor 20,008 N335 893,
E633 163
Hill top within the NSA.
Scenic viewpoint above Innerleithen.
View from Southern Upland Way.
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Viewpoint Location Distance Grid Ref Reason for Selection
20. Tinto Hill 27,698 N295 416,
E634 343
View from popular hill summit in Lanarkshire.
6.5.17 Consultees are encouraged to provide further information on other suitable or
alternative viewpoint locations that should be included in the LVIA.
6.5.18 Consultations will be held with Scottish Borders Council and Scottish Natural Heritage,
as well as members of the public, with regard to the design of the proposed
development and the most appropriate way of integrating it into the local and wider
landscape.
6.5.19 With regard to the detailed design of the turbine layout and ancillary elements, it is
intended to adopt a design led approach. This will include consideration of
environmental and technical constraints alongside aesthetic considerations to minimise
the incidences of potentially adverse design features such as the clustering of turbines;
the presence of isolated ‘outlier’ turbines; the formation of an unbalanced turbine array
or excessive amounts of blade overlapping.
Potentially significant effects
6.5.20 The proposed development would incorporate the introduction of approximately 24
turbines at the Cloich Forest proposal site, resulting in potentially significant effects on
the existing landscape character, nearby landscape designations, as well as potentially
significant effects on views as experienced by identified visual receptors within the
study area.
6.5.21 The cumulative effect of the proposed development in association with other wind
energy developments located in the surrounding area will also be assessed for
potentially significant effects on the landscape and visual resource.
Potential mitigation and enhancement measures
6.5.22 As the LVIA proceeds, mitigation proposals and potential enhancement measures will
be developed with regard to variables such as the colour and height of the turbines,
location and detail design of ancillary elements (such as the control building and access
routes); and any potential for other mitigation and enhancement measures such as
screen planting close to individual sensitive visual receptors.
6.6 Ecology
Policy context and guidance
6.6.1 The assessment will take account of the requirements of, and advice given in:
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• 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;
• PAN 60: Planning for Natural Heritage (Scottish Govt, 2000), which
provides advice on how development and the planning system can improve
the natural environment;
• The Scottish Government’s Policy on Control of Woodland Removal
(Forestry 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);
• The Scottish Biodiversity List; and
• The Scottish Borders Local Biodiversity Action Plan.
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 interrelated
considerations:
• A development can affect habitats and species directly (e.g. the land-take
required) and indirectly (e.g. disturbance), the impacts 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.
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6.6.4 A desk study has been undertaken to obtain any available information relating to
statutory and non-statutory 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 has
also been requested on additional sites, habitats or species which are the subject of
relevant planning policies to ensure compliance with planning policy. A visual
inspection of the site and its surrounding area using digital aerial photography and OS
mapping has also been carried out.
6.6.5 The extent of this desk study includes the site and the surrounding area up to a radius
of 2km (10km for bat roosts). This desk-based information also provides contextual
information to help interpret any ecological data relating to the site. This preliminary
assessment has identified the likely habitats and species present, as well as providing
general information on the site.
6.6.6 Information has been requested from The Wildlife Information Centre (which
administers biological records from the Scottish Borders) and local natural history
groups (e.g. local badger, bat groups) which have records for the site. Data has also
been gathered from websites such as NBN Gateway and SNH Sitelink.
6.6.7 A Phase 1 Habitat Survey has been undertaken in accordance with standard Joint
Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) Methodology. This has identified all habitats
within the site boundary. The Phase 1 Habitat survey was undertaken based on the
following assumptions:
• Habitats with a minimum polygon size of 30m x 30m to be mapped whilst
smaller areas of particular nature conservation interest to be target noted;
• Any areas of particular botanical interest to be recorded;
• The Phase 1 Habitat Survey to be “extended” to include an assessment for
the potential for the habitat to support protected or notable species such as
those that may be listed on the UK BAP, Scottish Biodiversity list or Local
Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) or are afforded protection under nature
conservation legislation noted above. It is also to include
recommendations for any species-specific surveys that may be required.
6.6.8 Following on from the extended Phase 1 Survey the following targeted surveys are
underway:
• Great crested newt surveys with reference to Langton, T, Beckett, C. and
Foster J. (2001) Great Crested Newt: Conservation Handbook. Froglife,
Suffolk;
• Reptile surveys with reference to Froglife Advice Sheet 9: Reptile Survey;
and
• Bat surveys with reference to Bat Conservation Trust 2011, Bat Surveys –
Good Practice Guidelines: Surveying for Onshore Wind Farms (2nd Ed.)
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6.6.9 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; and
• 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.
6.6.10 No additional surveys have been identified at this time.
Potentially significant effects
6.6.11 Careful design and the incorporation of appropriate standoffs from watercourses should
ensure that there will be no impact upon the River Tweed SAC, although the need for a
Habitats Regulations Assessment has not been ruled out. It is considered that the
proposed development should not affect the ecological designated features of other
SACs / SSSIs within 10km.
6.6.12 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 monoculture coniferous
forest, it is considered unlikely that the proposed development would have any
significant effects on habitats.
6.6.13 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
6.6.14 A range of mitigation measures are likely to be incorporated into the design where
appropriate, including careful scheme design to avoid ecologically sensitive areas
wherever possible.
6.7 Ornithology
Policy context and guidance
6.7.1 Along with LVIA for wind farms, ornithological impact assessment also commonly forms
one of the key components of the EIA process. The ES will be prepared in accordance
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with a number of ‘best practice’ documents and in particular, the following publications
and guidelines:
• Band, W., Madders, M. & Whitfield, D.P. (2007). Developing field and
analytical methods to assess avian collision risk at windfarms. In: Birds
and Windfarms. de Lucas, M, Janss, G. and Ferrer, M. (eds). Lynx
Edicions, Barcelona;
• Scottish Natural Heritage (2006). Assessing significance of impacts from
onshore windfarms on birds outwith designated areas;
• Scottish Natural Heritage (2005) [amended Dec 2010]. Survey methods
for use in assessing the impacts of onshore wind farms on bird
communities.
6.7.2 The key issues relating to birds and wind farms are as follows:
• The effects of direct habitat loss due to land take by wind turbine bases,
tracks and ancillary structures;
• The effects of indirect habitat loss, i.e. the displacement of birds from the
proximity of the wind turbines. Such disturbance may occur as a
consequence of construction work, or due to the presence of the wind farm
close to nest or feeding sites or on habitual flight routes;
• The effects of collision with rotating turbine blades, overhead wires, guy
lines and fencing (i.e. killing or injury of birds), which is generally
considered to be of particular relevance for sites located in areas known to
support raptors or large concentrations of waterfowl.
Methodology
6.7.3 The key document that has been used to draw up the scope of bird surveys is SNH’s
Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore wind farms on bird
communities.
6.7.4 A desk study will be carried out to gather existing ornithological information for the site
and surrounding area.
6.7.5 The principal methodology used to determine the likelihood of wind farms adversely
affecting birds is the vantage point (VP) watch method which collects detailed
information on the flight patterns of the birds using the site. The guidance specifies that
the surveys should be spaced across each season to provide a representative sample
of bird usage and should as a minimum span a full year. VP watches are proposed
during the non-breeding and breeding seasons and will include coverage during the
migratory periods. It is possible that the presence of trees may mean VP surveys are
not possible in part of the site. If this is the case then a suitable alternative
methodology will be agreed with SNH
6.7.6 In addition to VP surveys, SNH guidance recommends carrying out point count surveys
during the breeding season and over winter to characterise the breeding and wintering
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bird community on site. Surveys will be undertaken from a representative sample of
locations within the site.
6.7.7 In addition to the Vantage Point watches and Point Counts, Species-Specific Surveys
will be undertaken on site. The exact scope will be determined following the completion
of a desk-study; but at this stage it is intended to at least include surveys for goshawk,
and black grouse and possibly short-eared owl/hen harrier in recently restocked
compartments.
6.7.8 During the winter, surveys will also be undertaken in the surrounding area to look for
foraging geese (other flocks of wildfowl and waders would also be noted). This is likely
to be achieved through a ‘drive around’ survey, i.e. driving around the surrounding area
where suitable habitat exists and stopping and scanning fields at suitable points (using
binoculars and telescope).
Assessment and consultation
6.7.9 Following the methodologies set out above, the EIA will focus on assessing the
potential impact of the proposed development on those species and habitats of
ornithological value that have been identified within the site or adjacent to its boundary.
Consultations will include contact with Scottish Natural Heritage, the RSPB, the local
branch of the Scottish Ornithologists Club and the local raptor study group.
Potentially significant effects
6.7.10 Goshawk may be directly affected given the potential for nesting sites within mature
areas of plantation. However surveys so far have found no evidence of nesting on site.
There is also the potential for disturbance during construction and operation, and also
collision risk once turbines are operational.
6.7.11 Black grouse could be disturbed at leks during construction and operation, although
surveys to date have recorded no evidence of black grouse presence.
Potential mitigation and enhancement measures
6.7.12 Appropriate stand-off distances will be observed between turbines and protected raptor
nests, black grouse leks (if present) and goose flight paths (if necessary). Construction
control measures will be put in place to avoid disturbance to nests/leks during
construction. It is expected that it will be possible to avoid potential impacts through
careful wind farm design and construction methods.
6.8 Noise
Policy context and guidance
6.8.1 The following policies are of relevance to the noise assessment:
• PAN56 - Planning and Noise; and
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• Scottish Borders Local Plan (Consolidated Local Plan Adopted 2011)
Policy D4 – Renewable Energy Development.
Methodology
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 and additional timber 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 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 ten-minute 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.
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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.
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.
6.8.8 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.
6.8.9 Discussions with the Environmental Health Officer at Borders Council 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 eleven properties is
considered likely to provide appropriate representative data, as follows, noting that
monitoring is subject to agreement from the occupiers of the property (moving from the
north of the site, clockwise):
• Westerdeans,
• a property in Cowislinn,
• the property to the west of Shiplaw,
• Cloich Farm,
• Whitelaw Burn,
• a property around Barony Castle,
• a property in Stewarton,
• a property in Harehope, immediately south of the site,
• Fingland, centrally west of the site (if occupied), and
• Buddenleys, to the northwest.
6.8.10 In the assessment, reference will be made to an article which was published in 2009 by
a number of noise consultants who act on behalf of both developers, local authorities
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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.
6.8.11 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
6.8.12 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.
6.8.13 The noise monitoring strategy will be agreed with the relevant Environmental Health
Officer at the Scottish Borders Council.
Potentially significant effects
6.8.14 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
6.8.15 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).
6.8.16 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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6.9 Traffic and transport
Policy context and guidance
6.9.1 The following policy statements and guidance is applicable:
Methodology
• Scottish Planning Policy - Transport paragraph 168
• The Scottish Borders Local Plan (Adopted 2008) – Policy D4
Renewable Energy Development
• Institute of Environmental Assessment: Guidance Note No. 1 –
Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic 1993.
6.9.2 The methodology used in the assessment would adhere to the IEA guidelines and
would therefore focus on:
• Potential impacts on local roads and the users of those roads;
• Potential impacts on land uses and environmental resources
fronting those roads, including the relevant occupiers and users.
6.9.3 The following rules, taken from the IEA’s guidelines, would be used as a screening
process to define the scale and extent of the assessment:
• Rule 1: Include highway links where traffic flows are predicted to
increase by more than 30% (or where the number of heavy goods
vehicles is predicted to increase by more than 30%);
• Rule 2: Include any other specifically sensitive areas where traffic
flows are predicted to increase by 10% or more.
6.9.4 Increases below 10% are generally considered to be insignificant given that daily
variations in background traffic flow may fluctuate by this amount. Changes in traffic
flow below this level are therefore assumed to result in no discernible environmental
impact. The likely percentage increases in traffic would be determined by comparing
estimates of traffic generated by the site, with existing levels of traffic on the routes
affected.
6.9.5 Should the results of the percentage impact (as described in the assessment
methodology) exceed the thresholds identified by the IEA guidelines, consideration will
need to be given to the following potential effects:
• Severance;
• Driver delay;
• Pedestrian delay;
• Pedestrian amenity;
• Fear and intimidation;
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• Accidents and safety.
Assessment and consultation
6.9.6 The assessment will be undertaken in accordance with the guidance provided in the
1993 Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEA) 7 publication Guidance Notes No. 1:
Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic. Consultations with the
local roads authority and Transport Scotland will be carried out.
Potentially significant effects
6.9.7 The main transportation impacts will be associated with the movements of commercial
heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) travelling to and from the site and the increase in timber
traffic from forest operations during the construction phase of the development.
Potential mitigation and enhancement measures
6.9.8 Once the wind farm is operational, it is envisaged that the amount of traffic associated
with the scheme would be minimal.
6.10 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.
When the blades rotate, the shadow flicks on and off; this effect is known as ‘shadow
flicker’. It only occurs inside buildings where the flicker appears through a narrow
window opening. 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 8 .
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.
6.11 Socio Economics
Background
6.11.1 The development of the wind project may give rise to a number of socio-economic
impacts which require assessment; such as direct effects such as job creation, and
indirect effects such as potential impacts on tourism in the area. These potential
7
Now the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA)
8
Planning for Renewable Energy: A Companion Guide to PPS22, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, 16 December
2004
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impacts may principally affect the villages and towns closest to the proposed site,
though the perceptions of visitors to the area may also be affected.
Methodology
6.11.2 There is no standard approach to this topic within an EIA, however the general
approach will be to outline the areas of the proposed development where there will be
the potential for some economic / social effect within the wider area (including tourism,
etc.). This will be undertaken with a view to examining the significance of these effects.
Where possible (i.e. with quantifiable effects), the significance will be assessed by way
of comparison of the factor (e.g. construction jobs) with the variance of related factors
within the local economy. Where effects cannot be quantified, the assessment of
significance will be undertaken using professional judgement and experience.
Assessment and consultation
6.11.3 The assessment will consider the effects of the proposed wind energy development on:
• Job creation: there is the potential for local firms to be contracted
for construction or maintenance activities, though EC procurement
procedures prevent specific restrictions being adopted to secure
this involvement. Nonetheless the scale of potential employment
will be investigated. Effects on local business that may be directly
affected by the proposals will also be considered;
• Effects on tourism and perceptions of visitors. Emerging
information on the attitudes of residents and visitors to wind farm
developments will be presented to aid interpretation of the potential
effects on the development;
Potentially significant effects
6.11.4 No significant effects are anticipated, however an assessment of effects will be
undertaken to set out the positive economic benefits that will be realised, e.g. through
job creation. A review of effects on tourism will also be carried out in order to address
any potential public concerns over this aspect.
Potential mitigation and enhancement measures
6.11.5 No mitigation or enhancement measures are proposed.
6.12 Future Forest Baseline
6.12.1 The local landscape surrounding Cloich will continue to be influenced by changes in
tree cover which will vary over time. Each approved Forest Design Plan evaluates the
landscape and visual effects of the felling and restocking proposals together with other
effects on biodiversity and water quality.
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6.12.2 The Cloich 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 approximately. 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.
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7 Other information supporting the application for
consent
7.1 The Supporting Statement
7.1.1 In addition to the Environmental Statement, the application for consent will be
accompanied by a Supporting Statement.
7.1.2 The Supporting Statement will include a thorough review of planning policy context and
appraisal, identifying the policy framework at the national, regional and local levels.
Where relevant the Supporting Statement will also address any MoD, aviation,
infrastructure and telecommunications issues.
7.1.3 The supporting statement will highlight the benefits and advantages of the proposed
development in terms of the Government’s aim to tackle climate change and reduce the
dependence on non-renewable sources of power generation.
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8 Consultation during the EIA process
8.1 Consultees
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 non-statutory consultees, and the public. Consultee comments and views
will be reported in the environmental statement.
8.1.2 Public exhibitions will be held, and the scoping report will be available on PfR’s website,
with opportunity for comments to be submitted.
8.1.3 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
Planning
Topic
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
Consultee(s)
Scottish Government, Scottish Borders Council
Transport Scotland, Highways Authority roads engineers in
Falkirk, West Lothian, City of Edinburgh, Midlothian & Scottish
Borders local authority areas.
Scottish Borders Council – Environmental Health Officer
Directorate of the Built Environment
Scottish Borders Council Landscape Architect
Scottish Natural Heritage
SBC Heritage and Design Architect and Archaeologist
Historic Scotland
SEPA
RSPB Scotland
Scottish Borders Council – Nature Conservation Officer
Scottish Natural Heritage
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Association of Salmon Fisheries Boards
River Tweed Commissioners
The Tweed Foundation
SEPA and SBC Ecologist and EHO
Scottish Water
Scottish Natural Heritage, Visit Scotland, SBC Access Officer,
British Horse Society, Tweed Trails, Mountaineering Council of
Scotland
Ofcom, JRC, Scottish Water, British Telecom
Joint Radio Company
OFCOM
Scottish Power, Scottish Water
NERL, CAA, BAA, MoD
Forestry Commission Scotland – South of Scotland
Conservancy
SEPA, Association of Salmon Fishery Boards, River Tweed
Commissioners, Marine Scotland, The Tweed Foundation
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Defence
Health & Safety, Aviation
and Other Aspects
Community Consultation
Defence Infrastructure Organisation
The BAA Edinburgh
Civil Aviation Authority
Defence Infrastructure Organisation
Health and Safety Executive
Mountaineering Council of Scotland
National Air Traffic Services
The Crown Estate
Tweedgreen, Eddleston and District, Lamancha, Royal Burgh of
Peebles and District, Newlands and Kirkurd, Manor, Stobo and
Lyne and West Linton Community Councils in Scottish Borders
and Penicuik and District, Howgate and Moorfoot Community
Councils in Midlothian.
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FIGURES
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Key
N
Site Boundary
0 km 15km
Scale 1:250,000 @ A3
Cloich Forest
Scoping Report
Figure 1.1
Site Location Plan
June 2011
29482 E071 stanm
Based upon Ordnance Survey digital data with the permission of the Controller of the Stationery Office Crown Copyright Reserved. Licence No: AL100001776

Key
N
Site Boundary
0 km 1500m
Scale 1:25,000 @ A3
Cloich Forest
Scoping Report
Figure 1.2
Site Boundary Plan
June 2011
29482 E072 stanm
Based upon Ordnance Survey digital data with the permission of the Controller of the Stationery Office Crown Copyright Reserved. Licence No: AL100001776

N
Key
(
Turbine location
Study area (35km)
10km from site centre
20km from site centre
30km from site centre
1-5 turbines may be visible
6-10 turbines may be visible
11-15 turbines may be visible
16-20 turbines may be visible
(((((((
(((((((((((((( (((((((
(((((((
((((((( (((((((
((((((( (((((((
(((((((
((((((( (((((((
((((((( (((((((
(((((((
(((((((
((((((( ((((((( (((((((
(((((((
((((((( (((((((
10km
Notes:
This figure has been based on the following
parameters:
Turbine Layout File: LCLOICH008.WFL (EDINB)
Rotor Diameter: 90m
Hub Height: 80m
Height to blade tip: 125m
20km
0 km 18km
Scale 1:300,000 @ A3
30km
Cloich Forest
Scoping Report
Figure 1.3a
ZTV to Blade Tip (35km)
June 2011
29482 E073 stanm
Based upon Ordnance Survey digital data with the permission of the Controller of the Stationery Office Crown Copyright Reserved. Licence No: AL100001776

N
Key
(
Turbine location
15km from site centre
1-5 turbines may be visible
6-10 turbines may be visible
11-15 turbines may be visible
16-20 turbines may be visible
(((((((
(((((((
((((((( (((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
((((((( (((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
(((((((
Notes:
This figure has been based on the following
parameters:
Turbine Layout File: LCLOICH008.WFL (EDINB)
Rotor Diameter: 90m
Hub Height: 80m
Height to blade tip: 125m
0 km 7.5km
Scale 1:12,500 @ A3
Cloich Forest
Scoping Report
Figure 1.3b
ZTV to Blade Tip (15km)
June 2011
29482 E074 stanm
Based upon Ordnance Survey digital data with the permission of the Controller of the Stationery Office Crown Copyright Reserved. Licence No: AL100001776

Cloich Forest Wind Energy Development
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Appendix A
Term
Anemometer and the Wind Vane
Capacity Factor
CLVIA
Control
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
Glossary of Terms
Explanation
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.
A microprocessor based control of all turbine functions
able to communicate with remote operators.
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 defined as ‘magnitude’.
Changes to the design of the wind farm layout in
response to continuous feedback about environmental
and technical constraints and opportunities.
EIA
Environmental fit
Environmental Impact Assessment
Assessment of main significant environmental effects
of certain projects conforming to European Directives
and UK regulations.
The relationship of a development to identified
environmental opportunities and constraints in its
setting.
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ES
Gearbox
Generator
GLVIA
High Speed Shaft
Hydraulic Brake
Indirect effects
JNCC
Kilowatt (kW)
Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
Landscape capacity
Landscape character
Landscape constraints
Landscape designations
Landscape effects
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 gearbox transfers power from the low speed shaft
to the high speed shaft making it turn at approximately
50 times faster than the low speed shaft
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.
The high speed shaft rotates with approximately.
1,500 revolutions per minute (RPM) and drives the
electrical generator
Used to stop and start the rotor dependant on wind
conditions
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
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.
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Landscape elements
Landscape features
Landscape fit
Landscape patterns
Landscape quality (or condition)
Landscape resource
Landscape sensitivity
Landscape value
LCA
Level of Effect
Low Speed Shaft
LVIA
Magnitude
Mechanical Brake
Megawatt (MW)
Mitigation
A component part of the landscape, such as trees,
woodland and ponds.
Prominent eye-catching elements, e.g. Wooded hill
tops and church spires.
The relationship of a development to identified
landscape opportunities and constraints in its setting.
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.
Determined through the combination of sensitivity of
the receptor and the proposed magnitude of change
brought about by the development.
The low speed shaft of the wind turbine connects the
rotor hub to the gearbox. The shaft contains pipes for
the hydraulics system to enable the aerodynamic
brakes to operate
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.
A combination of the scale, extent and duration of an
effect also defined as ‘degree of change’.
A mechanical disc brake which can be applied
mechanically to stop the turbine in emergencies or
when being serviced
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.
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Nacelle
Photomontage
Positive or Negative Types of Landscape
Effect
Positive or Negative Types of Visual Effect
Power Coefficient
Power curve
RAMSAR
Rated Power Output Capacity
Rated wind speed
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.
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
The landscape and visual effects may be positive,
neutral or negative. In landscape terms – a positive
effect would require development to add to the
landscape quality and character of an area. Neutral
landscape effects would include low or negligible
changes that may be considered as part of the
‘normal’ landscape processes such as maintenance or
harvesting activities. A negative effect may include the
loss of landscape elements such as mature trees and
hedgerows as part of construction leading to a
reduction in the landscape quality and character of an
area.
In visual terms – positive or negative effects are less
easy to define or quantify and require a subjective
consideration of a number of factors affecting the
view, which may be positive, neutral or negative.
Opinions as to the visual effects of wind energy
developments vary widely, however it is not the
assumption of this assessment that all change,
including substantial levels of change is a negative
experience. Rather this assessment has considered
factors such as the visual composition of the
landscape in the view together with the design and
composition, which may or may not be reasonably,
accommodated within the scale and character of the
landscape as perceived from the receptor location.
The ratio of the power extracted by a wind turbine to
the power available in the wind stream.
A chart showing a wind turbine's power output across
a range of wind speeds.
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 second (m/s) or over. The
turbine will ‘cut in’ at 3.5m/s and ‘cut-out’ at 25m/s.
The lowest wind speed at which the rated output
power of a wind turbine is produced.
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Receptor
Red List
Renewables Obligation (RO):
RenewableUK
Residential Visual Amenity
Residual effects
Rotor
Rotor Blades
Rotor Hub
Scale Indicators
Sense of Place (genius loci)
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
A collective term describing the views and general
amenity of a residential property, relating to the
garden area and main drive, views to and from the
house and any garden area and the relationship of the
outdoor garden space to the house.
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
Landscape elements and features of a known or
recognisable scale such as houses, trees and vehicles
that may be compared to other objects where the
scale of height is less familiar, to indicate there true
scale.
The essential character and spirit of and area: genius
loci literally means ‘sprit of the place’.
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Significant Effects
SNH
SPA
SSSI
Sustainability
Temporary or permanent effects
The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets
(Ofgem)
Time Depth
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
negligible’. 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.
Special Protection Area
Designated (European) Site under the ‘Habitats
Directive’ (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 ‘imprint’ of the past on the present day landscape
as a result of long term interaction between human
activity and natural processes. Time depth enhances
our appreciation of how landscapes have changed
through time or survived through continuity.
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Tower
Tranquillity
Turbine
Type or Nature of Effect
Visual amenity
Visual dominance
Visual effect
Visual sensitivity
Visualisation
Wind Farm
Wireframe or Wireline
Yaw Mechanism
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 perceptual description applied to landscape that is
perceived to be relatively more natural, peaceful, and
quite when compared to other areas, which may be
visually developed of noisy.
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.
A visual effect on properties that in relation to wind
farm development would be subject to excessive
shadow flicker, blocking of views, or reduction of light
and visual intrusion.
A subset of landscape effects and concerned wholly
with changes in visual receptors’ views and visual
amenity of visual receptors resulting from
development.
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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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
References and further information
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 1999 (S.I. 1999 No. 01) as amended.
• Circular 08/2007: Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999.
Forestry
• Dumfries and Borders Strategic Plan 2009-2013
• 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
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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)
• 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 Smallscale
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
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Historic Environment
• Scottish Planning Policy
• 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
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
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Noise
• PAN56 – Planning and Noise
• BS5228: Parts 1 & 2 (2009) - ‘Code of practice for noise and vibration control on
construction and open sites’
• ETSU-R-97 'The Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms’
• 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
• 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
Socio-economics
• http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/outabout/aboutborders/employment/index.html
• http://www.sup.org.uk/TrailRiding/maps/Cross%20Borders%20Leaflet.pdf
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APPENDIX C
Environmental issues checklist
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Environmental issues checklist for scoping
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
Local air quality (criteria pollutants) No No No No -
CLIMATE
CHANGE AND
ATMOSPHERIC
EMISSIONS
Particulates and dust No No No Yes
Odour No No No No -
Local climatic effects No No No No -
Transboundary air quality No No No No -
Control measures standard – Will be dealt with within
Construction Environmental Management Plan
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 -
Land cover No No No No Sustainable forestry use will continue.
LANDSCAPE
AND VISUAL
Landscape / townscape character Yes Yes No Yes Changes to landscape character likely.
Landscape / townscape quality Yes Yes No Yes Changes to landscape quality likely.
Protected landscapes / townscapes Yes Yes No Yes Views from cSLA and NSA.
Sensitive views Yes Yes No Yes List of viewpoints to be agreed with consultees within LVIA.
Wilderness No No No No -
ECOLOGY AND
ORNITHOLOGY
Habitat types Yes No No Yes To be considered within Ecology chapter.
Plant communities Yes No No Yes To be considered within Ecology chapter.
Animal communities Yes Yes No Yes
Individual / protected species Yes Yes No Yes
Disturbance and collision effects on birds and bat communities to
be considered.
Disturbance and collision effects on birds and bat communities to
be considered.
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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
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
TRAFFIC AND
TRANSPORT
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 AND
VIBRATION
Noise Yes Yes No Yes Construction and operational noise to be considered.
Vibration (not Eskdalemuir) No No No No Unlikely to be necessary - few nearby receptors.
HISTORIC
ENVIRONMENT
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.
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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
Geology and geomorphology No No No No -
Ground contamination No No No No -
GROUND
CONDITIONS
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
Surface water 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
Avoidance of sediment laden runoff to water courses and the
canal to be assessed.
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 No -
HYDROLOGY
Groundwater hydrology / recharge No No No No -
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
SOCIO-
ECONOMICS
Population profile and density No No No No -
Demography 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
Housing No No No No -
Employment No No No Yes Temporary employment during construction.
Lifestyle / standard of living No No No No -
Education, health and local
services
No No No No -
Public health and safety Yes No No Yes Forest is access land, PRoW crosses southern part of the site.
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.
LAND USE
Agriculture No No No No -
Forestry Yes Yes Yes Yes Short and long term but minor impacts due to minima 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 -
Industrial / commercial / retail No No No No -
Residential No No No No -
Health / social / education 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
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
NATURAL
RESOURCES
Use of natural resources No No No No -
Waste management No No No No
Waste characterisation No No No No
Wastes generated during construction / felling to be covered by
SWMP.
Wastes generated during construction / felling to be covered by
SWMP.
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