GARREG LWYD HILL WIND FARM ROUTE Environmental Statement July 2013
Volume II – Main Document
Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
PREFACE
This Environmental Statement (ES) has been prepared in support of a planning application for works to facilitate access to a proposed wind farm at Garreg Lwyd Hill, between Felindre and Llanbadarn Fynydd in Radnorshire, Powys.
The ES is contained within three separate volumes: Volume I - Non Technical Summary Volume II - Main Document Volume III - Supporting Appendices: Technical material to support Volume II
The ES has been prepared by Arup, using existing reports to inform the environmental baseline for the project. The existing reports used are detailed within the ES.
Copies of the full ES may be viewed during normal opening hours at the following locations:
RES Powys County Powys County Newtown Library Knighton Library Cedar House Council Council Park Lane West Street Greenwood Close Severn Road The Gwalia Newtown, Knighton Cardiff Gate Welshpool Llandrindod Wells Powys Powys Business Park Powys Powys SY16 1EJ LD7 1DN Cardiff SY21 7AS LD1 5LG CF23 8RD
Hard copies of the full Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Environmental Statement 2013 (ES) are available from RES priced £150 each. Copies of the ES are available on CD-ROM for £25. Copies of the non-technical summary are available upon request free of charge. The non-technical summary can also be viewed on the RES web page http://www.garreglwydhill.co.uk/. Requests for documents should be made in writing, including payment if purchase of the full ES is required. RES has an environmental management system which actively encourages the reduction of paper consumption and recycling where possible.
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VOLUME II – MAIN DOCUMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page Section No. No. PREFACE i TABLE OF CONTENTS ii ABBREVIATIONS iv 1 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 The Application 1 1.2 The Applicants 1 1.3 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Statement (ES) 1 1.4 Defining the Significance of Environmental Effects 2 1.5 Scope of Environmental Impact Assessment 4 2 PLANNING POLICY 6 2.1 Introduction 6 2.2 National Planning Policy 6 2.3 Local Planning Policy 8 2.4 Further Guidance 8 2.5 Legislative Context 9 2.6 Conclusions 11 3 DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT 13 3.1 Introduction 13 3.2 Description of Proposed Access Works 13 3.3 Legislative Context (highway upgrade) 14 3.4 Road Condition Survey (Strategic Access Route) 15 Track Construction Design (new and upgraded tracks for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind 3.5 15 Farm Access Route) Track Construction Method (new and upgraded tracks for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind 3.6 16 Farm Access Route) Site Access Construction Method (new and upgraded tracks for Garreg Lwyd Hill 3.7 16 Wind Farm Access Route) 3.8 Background and Description of Environmental Assessment Work Completed to Date 16 3.9 References 17 4 ALTERNATIVES 18 4.1 Project Evaluation 18 4.2 Preliminary Access Route Assessment 18 4.3 Detailed Access Route Assessment 18 4.4 Site Access 19 Alternatives to Proposed Access Route Since the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES 4.5 19 (2008) 4.6 References 19 5 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 20 5.1 Introduction 20 5.2 Scope of Assessment 20 5.3 Policy Context and Guidance 20 5.4 Methodology 21 5.5 Assumptions and Limitations 24 5.6 Landscape and Visual Considerations Assessment 24 5.7 Cumulative Impacts 50 5.8 Mitigation and Enhancement 50 5.9 Conclusions 50 5.10 References 51 6 ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 52
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Section Page Section No. No. 6.1 Introduction 52 6.2 Scope of Assessment 52 6.3 Assessment Methodology 52 6.4 Assumptions and limitations 53 6.5 Identification and Characterisation of Potential Effects 53 6.6 Assessment of Significance 53 6.7 Ecological Significance 54 6.8 Significance of Impacts 54 6.9 Policy Context and Guidance 54 6.10 Data Sources 55 6.11 Baseline 56 6.12 Nature Conservation Evaluation 61 6.13 Predicted Impacts 64 6.14 Cumulative Impacts 67 6.15 Mitigation and Enhancement 67 6.16 Residual Effects 69 6.17 Assessment Summary Matrix 70 6.19 References 71 7 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT 72 7.1 Introduction 72 7.2 Scope of Assessment 72 7.3 Policy Context and Guidance 72 7.4 Data Sources 73 7.5 Assessment Methodology 73 7.6 Assumptions and Limitations 73 7.7 Baseline 74 7.8 Predicted Impacts 77 7.9 Cumulative Impacts 78 7.10 Mitigation and Enhancement 78 7.11 Residual Effects 79 7.12 References 79 8 HYDROLOGY, HYRDOGEOLOGY AND GEOLOGY 80 8.1 Introduction 80 8.2 Scope of Assessment 80 8.3 Policy Context and Guidance 80 8.4 Data Sources 82 8.5 Assessment Methodology 83 8.6 Assumptions and Limitations 84 8.7 Baseline 85 8.8 Predicted Impacts 88 8.9 Cumulative Impacts 91 8.10 Mitigation and Enhancement 91 8.11 Residual Effects 92 8.12 References 92 9 SOCIOECONOMIC ASSESSMENT 93 9.1 Introduction 93 9.2 Scope of Assessment 93 9.3 Policy Context and Guidance 93 9.4 Assessment Methodology 93 9.5 Assumptions and Limitations 93 9.6 Baseline 93
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Section Page Section No. No. 9.7 Predicted Impacts 94 9.8 Cumulative Impacts 97 9.9 Mitigation and Enhancement 97 9.10 Residual Effects 98 9.11 Summary 98 9.12 References 98
FIGURES
Figure Section No. 3.1 Delivery Access from Port to Site 01589D2407-09 3.2 Heol Treowen Option Overall Layout 3.3 Mochdre Industrial Estate Option Overall Layout
VOLUME III - TECHNICAL APPENDICES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
No. Appendix
1 Strategic Transport Management Plan (sTMP) 2 Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Traffic Management Plan 3 Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) Figures 4.4 and 4.5 4 Environmental Assessment of Transport Route (2010) Figures 5 Screening Request Correspondence
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Abbreviations
AILs Abnormal Indivisible Loads ATS Automatic Traffic Counts BAP Biodiversity Action Plan DNO Distribution Network Operator EA Environment Agency (now Natural Resources Wales, but reference remains to historical publications) EcIA Ecological Impact Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment ELS Ecological and Landscape Strategy ES Environmental Statement HGV Heavy Goods Vehicle LBAP Local Biodiversity Action Plan IPC Infrastructure Planning Commission LPA Local Planning Authority NRW Natural Resources Wales NSIP Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project NTS Non Technical Summary PCC Powys County Council PPW Planning Policy Wales RES Renewable Energy Systems SEI Supplementary Environmental Information SSA Strategic Search Area sTMP strategic Traffic Management Plan TAN Technical Advice Note TN Target Notes WAG Welsh Assembly Government (now Welsh Government but reference remains to previous publications) WG Welsh Government
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 The Application
1.1.1 RES (Renewable Energy Systems) UK & Ireland Ltd, hereafter referred to as RES, is applying to Powys County Council (PCC) for consent for works to facilitate access to the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm between Felindre and Llanbadarn Fynydd in Radnorshire, Powys. 1.1.2 The proposed works consist of highway upgrades (hereafter referred to as the ‘Access Proposals’) between Elsemere Port and the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm to facilitate deliveries of Abnormal Indivisible Loads (AILs). The Access Proposals include construction of a new and upgraded track from Cwm Y Berllwyd, across the proposed Llanbardarn Fynydd Wind Farm to access the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm site. 1.1.3 The Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm proposal does not form part of this application. For completeness, the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm proposal includes the erection of 23 wind turbines and associated infrastructure, including on site tracks, borrow pits, meteorological masts, electrical connection works, a control building, a substation and associated works (hereafter, ‘the proposed wind farm’). 1.1.4 In May 2008, a planning application (P/2008/0785) was submitted to PCC accompanied by an Environmental Statement (ES). 1.1.5 The proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm was submitted to the Department of Buisness, Enterprise and Reform (now the Department of Energy and Climate Change) by Vatenfall in 2007 and does not form part of this application. Supplementary Environmental Information (SEI) was submitted in July 2008 and September 2010, which contained an improved site track layout, and habitat and traffic management plans. The most recent SEI was submitted February 2013. The application is to be considered at a Public Inquiry in 2013. The cumulative affects of the proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm and the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm have been assessed as part of those individual wind farm applications.
1.2 The Applicants
1.2.1 RES is one of the world’s leading wind energy companies and has constructed or developed medium to large-scale wind farms around the world, with a combined capacity of over 4,700MW to date and has a large portfolio under construction and development. From long term involvement in the wind industry, RES has gained a high level of expertise in the technical, environmental and financial disciplines essential for the development of a successful wind farm. 1.2.2 RES’s award winning eco-friendly headquarters and education centre in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire is self-sufficient in renewable energy which is generated on-site and includes solar power, energy crops, and a wind turbine next to the M25. RES also has a number of regional offices in key markets worldwide.
1.3 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the Environmental Statement (ES)
1.3.1 This ES has been prepared by Arup, in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999 as amended, which implement Council Directive No. 85/337/EEC on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (the EIA Directive), as amended by Directive 97/11/EC and 2003/35/EC. 1.3.2 The legal requirements are supported by guidance on best practice including the publication ‘Preparation of Environmental Statements for Planning Projects that Require Environmental Assessment – A Good Practice Guide’ (DETR, 1995). 1.3.3 The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process follows guidelines to predict and evaluate a proposal’s impact on the environment in a systematic and transparent manner. An impact or effect may be beneficial (i.e. positive) as well as adverse (negative).
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1.3.4 In April 2013, RES submitted an screening request to Powys County Council (PCC). The response from PCC considered that the Access Proposals are a Schedule 2 development as defined by the EIA regulations. The relevant correspondence is included in Appendix 5. An EIA has therefore been undertaken. 1.3.5 EIA is a process whereby information about the environmental effects of a project is collected, both by the applicant and independent consultants, and is submitted within an ES to accompany a planning application. This will inform decision makers and interested parties of the proposed development details and potential significant effects resulting from the project. 1.3.6 The ES for the Access Proposals has therefore been prepared in accordance with the Regulations. The ES describes the Access Proposals, the nature of the site and its surroundings, the likely significant effects of the Access Proposals and measures proposed to mitigate any potentially significant adverse impacts. The ES comprises the Non-Technical Summary (NTS) as Volume I, the full text Environmental Statement (Volume II) and the Supporting Appendices (Volume III). 1.3.7 The Full ES (Volumes II) comprises the following sections:
Section A
• Introduction • Planning Policy • Description of Development • Alternatives
Section B
• Landscape and Visual Assessment • Ecological Assessment • Cultural Heritage Assessment • Hydrology Hydrogeology and Geology Assessment • Socio-Economic Assessment • Transport • Other Issues
1.4 Defining the Significance of Environmental Effects
1.4.1 To maintain consistency within Environmental Statements produced by RES, a standard set of criteria has been developed for use by all consultants working for RES and for use by RES staff. The intention of the system is to enable a common order of ‘magnitude’, ‘sensitivity’ and ‘significance’ to be applied to the effects of a proposal, whether they relate to landscape, hydrology, cultural heritage or any other discipline. The term ‘significance’ is used in the context of impacts as identified in Schedule 3 of The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999, as amended. 1.4.2 The methodology used to determine significance is described below. This should be read in conjunction with the relevant sections of the ES, as it is a guide and is not exhaustive, and professional judgement is required in every case to ensure that conclusions reached regarding significance are fully informed and appropriate. Furthermore, individual assessment methodologies have been tailored to the specific requirements and features of the different environmental disciplines. In some cases consultants may have used alternative definitions for sensitivity, magnitude and significance according to their
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industry’s guidelines, or definitions that may be considered more appropriate to that discipline, but the principles remain the same.
Methodology
1.4.3 Each assessment should determine the effect of the proposal on the environment. It should then determine whether an effect is significant. The first aspect that is assessed is sensitivity, as the effect of the proposal on the baseline environment can only be determined once the sensitivity of the baseline has been established. Sensitivity is generally a subjective judgement and is categorised as Low, Medium or High according to the receptor’s designation, rarity, relative size, or purpose, amongst other factors. No one set of guidelines exists to define sensitivity, but Table 1.1 below gives some examples of how different elements may be classed in terms of sensitivity.
Table 1.1- Definitions of Sensitivity Level of Definition of Sensitivity Examples Sensitivity
Environment is subject to major change(s) due to impacts: species present in nationally important numbers, or globally threatened; High Special Area of Conservation; National Park; World Heritage Site; a panoramic viewpoint.
Environment clearly responds to effect(s) in a quantifiable and/or qualifiable way: species present in locally important numbers; Medium people travelling on roads; lowland agricultural landscape; an archaeological feature that is not unusual but cannot be considered common.
Environment responds in a minimal way, or not at all, to effect(s) such that only minor, or no, changes are detectable: views from Low softwood commercial plantation; an archaeological feature that is common, or has been mostly destroyed; common, widespread species.
1.4.4 The magnitude of the effect on the baseline can then be assessed considering the scale, extent of change, nature and duration of effect. The characterisation of magnitude will vary from topic to topic, an example of definitions of magnitude are given within the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (2002). Table 1.2 below provides the definitions of magnitude used for the purposes of this assessment in the absence of topic specific criteria guidance being available or appropriate.
Table 1.2 - Definitions of Magnitude Level of Definition of Magnitude Magnitude
Total loss or major alteration to key elements/features/characteristics of the baseline (pre- High development) conditions such that post development character/composition/attributes of baseline will be fundamentally changed.
Partial loss or alteration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics of the baseline (pre- Medium development) conditions such that post development character/ composition/ attributes of baseline will be partially changed.
Low Minor loss of or alteration change arising from the loss/alteration
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will be discernible but underlying character/composition/attributes of the baseline condition will be similar to pre development circumstances/patterns.
Very minor loss or alteration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics of the baseline (pre- Negligible development) conditions. Change barely distinguishable, approximating to the “no change” situation.
1.4.5 Using these definitions, a combined assessment of sensitivity and magnitude can then be undertaken to determine how significant an effect is, as demonstrated in Table 1.3 below. Where effects are usually considered significant, they have been shaded: effects can be either beneficial or detrimental. 1.4.6 Significant effects in terms of EIA regulations are considered to be moderate or above.
Table 1.3 - Significance Matrix
Major / High Moderate Major Moderate Medium Minor / Moderate Moderate Major / Moderate Low Minor Minor / Moderate Moderate MAGNITUDE Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Low Medium High SENSITIVITY
1.4.7 Once significant effects have been predicted, measures can be devised to mitigate the probability or magnitude of those effects, resulting in the residual effects, which can be assessed. 1.4.8 This ES gives details of the processes involved in the project development including the method of site selection, the details of the project, EIA, and proposed mitigation measures which are designed to reduce harmful effects and maximise beneficial effects of the development upon the environment throughout the lifetime of the Access Proposals.
1.5 Scope of Environmental Impact Assessment
1.5.1 The scope of this application includes highway upgrades that are outside the boundaries of the adopted highway. Additional works within the adopted highway are identified and assessed within the stategic Transport Management Plan (sTMP), but do not require planning permission under the Town and Country Planning Act (1990) and therefore have not been assessed. 1.5.2 The entire access route emcompassing the Strategic Access route and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access via the proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm will be used for the construction and operation of the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm. The effects of the proposed wind farm itself have been assessed as part of the Garreg Lwyd Hill ES (2008) and Supplementary Environmental Information (SEI) (2013). 1.5.3 For completeness the updated traffic calculations for use of the proposed access route are set out and assessed in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Traffic Management Plan (2013), provided in Appendix 2. 1.5.4 Traffic associated with the construction of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route has been included in the traffic calculations and assessment relating to the proposed wind farm. Potential for traffic arising from the physical construction of the highway works on the Strategic Route would be managed by the Local Authority in line with usual arrangements for maintainance and upgrades of local highway, or via a construction management plan to be agreed. The management of traffic associated with the use of the Strategic Route is detailed within the sTMP. Any increase in traffic associated with the
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physical construction of the Access Proposals would be marginal in comparision with the exisiting baseline traffic flows, and therefore is unlikely to result in signficant effects requiring EIA. 1.5.5 As set out in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Proposals, noise arising from construction of the Access Proposals would be managed in line with BS 5228 1997 ‘Noise control on construction and open sites’ and is approved as being suitable for the purpose of giving guidance on appropriate methods for minimising noise from construction activities. It is proposed that a Construction Method Statement would be prepared prior to construction that would include mitigation measures to minimise any potential noise arising from the construction process. Any increase in noise associated with the physical construction of the Access Proposals would be marginal in comparision with the exisiting baseline, and therefore is unlikely to result in signficant effects requiring EIA.
1.6 References
DETR, 1995. Preparation of Environmental Statements for Planning Projects that Require Environmental Assessment – A Good Practice Guide, ODPM, London. European Commission (EC) 1997, Directive 97/11/EC of 3 March 1997 amending Directive 85/337/EC of 27 June 1985 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment. Available from: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CELEX:31997L0011:EN:HTML Viewed September 2009. The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment (England and Wales) Regulations 1999 (SI 1999 No 293).
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2. PLANNING POLICY
2.1 Introduction
2.1.1 The following section provides an overview of the planning policy relevant to the Access Proposals set out in Section 3 Description of Development. This Section does not detail the policy need for the proposed wind farm, which is set out in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) and SEI (2013), but relates to the Access Proposals.
2.2 National Planning Policy
Overarching National Policy Statement for Energy (EN-1)
2.2.1 Chapter 5.13 of EN-1 relates to transport. The report acknowledges that a new energy Nationally Signficant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) may give rise to substantial impacts on the surrounding transport infrastructure and the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) should therefore ensure that the applicant has sought to mitigate these impacts, including during the construction phase of the development. 2.2.2 In addition, it is stated in the section ‘Mitigation’ that the IPC may attach requirements to a consent where there is likely to be substantial HGV traffic that: ”ensure satisfactory arrangements for reasonably foreseeable abnormal disruption, in consultation with network providers and the police force”.
National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3)
2.2.3 EN-3 acknowledges in paragraph 2.7.74 that many onshore wind farms will be situated in areas served by minor roads, and that the turbine components are abnormal in terms of size and weights. EN-3 stipulates in paragraphs 2.7.75 & 2.7.76 that: “the applicant should have assessed the various potential routes … and selected the route that is considered to be the most appropriate.” “Any sections of the route which will require modification to allow for the transportation of components to site should be identified and potential effects assessed as part of the ES.” 2.2.4 It is stated in the section 'Mitigation' of EN-3 that: “the applicant may have to undertake modifications to the highway to facilitate delivery and/or minimize disruption to other users. It may be also appropriate ... to undertake a ‘dry-run’ … to ensure delivery is possible in a way that minimizes disruption.” 2.2.5 EN-3 goes on in paragraph 2.7.81 stating that: “in some cases, the local highways authority may request that the IPC impose controls on the number of vehicle movements to and from the wind farm site in a specified period during its construction and, possibly, on the routeing of such movements particularly by heavy vehicles.”
Water Preferred Policy Guidelines for the Movement of AIL
2.2.6 This document, issued by the Highways Agency (HA) in 2012, encourages the use of inland waterways as an alternative to AIL road transport. This relates mainly to loads that have the greatest potential to cause traffic congestion and impact adversely on journey times of general traffic, which the report lists as follows: • heavy loads over 150 tonnes gross vehicle weight; • wide loads over 5m in width; and • long loads over 30m in length which exceed a typical carriageway width of 3.5m.
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2.2.7 Other factors that influence the need for water to be considered include: • loads that are starting and finishing their journey either at or by water when the distance by road is significantly reduced by using water; • where there are multiple loads with the same start and finish points; and • abnormal loads that are part of any large-scale project. 2.2.8 ‘Water preferred policy’ however acknowledges that water transport may be uneconomical for ad hoc transport movements where it is not possible to establish a long term or high volume pattern of movements. The practicality of water transport shall be determined in terms of: • Practicality (any technical or practical reasons preventing the load from being moved by water); • Environmentally desirable grounds (a water move will generally be environmentally justified if it brings about an overall reduction in congestion when compared to a road only move; Loads that require lift on/lift off operation, where there is no permanent dockside cranage available, will require the services at either end of the water section of a suitable mobile crane. The type of crane normally required to lift an abnormal load will be large and ... require numerous ancillary ballast and boom carriers. These are also abnormal loads and the congestion caused by moving this ancillary equipment will have to be considered); and • Economic grounds (Costs of using water, including taking into account any congestion cost, should not be disproportionately higher than a road option). 2.2.9 As a general rule, water transport shall be used if the total additional cost of water transport does not exceed 20% of the component value, and if the total water transport cost is less than the cost of traffic congestion plus 2 times the base road transport cost.
Planning Policy Wales
2.2.10 Chapter 12 of Planning Policy Wales (PPW) relates to Infrastructure and states with regard to renewable energy that: “In determining applications for renewable and low carbon energy development and associated infrastructure local planning authorities should take into account … the capacity of, and effects on, the transportation network relating to the construction and operation of the proposal.” 2.2.11 It also states that: “Local authorities should use planning conditions or obligations.. to mitigate impacts, and secure the benefits and opportunities arising from a renewable or low carbon energy development proposal. This may include securing the decommissioning of developments and associated infrastructure and remediation of the site as soon as their use ceases, controlling of transport movements and highway works.” 2.2.12 The Welsh Government identifies strategic scale wind energy as offering the greatest potential for renewable and low carbon energy in Wales. PPW states that: “Wales has an abundant wind resource and power generation using this resource remains the most commercially viable form of renewable energy. The Assembly Government accepts that the introduction of new, often very large structures for onshore wind needs careful consideration to avoid, and where possible minimise their impact. However, the need for wind energy is a key part of meeting the Assembly Government’s vision for future renewable electricity production as set out in the Energy Policy Statement (2010) and should be taken into account by decisions makers when determining such applications.” (Paragraph 12.8.12) 2.2.13 PPW also outlines the importance of strategic scale wind energy as stated through TAN 8: “Technical Advice Note 8: Planning for Renewable Energy (2005) identifies areas in Wales which, on the basis of substantial empirical research, are considered to be the most
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appropriate locations for large scale wind farm development; these areas are referred to as Strategic Search Areas (SSAs).” 2.2.14 The identification of SSA C is relevant as this has led to the requirement for the proposed access route.
2.3 Local Planning Policy
Powys Local Development Plan (LDP)
2.3.1 Powys County Council has commenced work on the preparation of the Powys LDP. Once adopted, the plan will supersede the existing Powys Unitary Development Plan 2001 – 2016. The LDP will set out the policies and proposals for future development and land use, with planning decisions based upon its emerging policies.
2.4 Further Guidance
Technical Advice Note (TAN) 8 (2005)
2.4.1 TAN 8 recommended that: “for efficiency and environmental reasons amongst others, large scale (over 25MW) onshore wind developments should be concentrated into particular areas defined as Strategic Search Areas (SSAs).” 2.4.2 As a result, a number of proposed wind farms in Mid Wales have identified similar AIL delivery routes from Elsemere Port to SSA B and SSA C. Members of Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would assess the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures.
Guidance on the Movement of Abnormal Indivisible Loads (March 2010)
2.4.3 This guidance has been issued by the Association of Chief Police Officer of England, Wales & Northern Ireland and sets the general rules for escorting abnormal loads on British highways. This purpose of this document is to assist individual Constabularies concerning the movement of abnormal loads. 2.4.4 Section 2.14 of the Guidance states that: 2.4.5 “An escort or escort vehicle is not defined in legislation and there is no legal requirement for any abnormal loads to be escorted. There is however a requirement for loads of certain dimensions to have an attendant...” 2.4.6 Section 2.16 lists the dimensions of vehicles self or privately escorted as follows: “Motorways: • Width over 4.6m wide • Weight over 130 tonnes • Length no overall policy (load, route and dimensions considered) All other roads: • Width over 4.1m wide • Weight over 100 tonnes • Length over 27.4 rigid length These dimensions are a general rule and forces retain the right to vary them as considered necessary.” 2.4.7 RES or the appointed haulier will therefore, confirm the above with all relevant Police Constabularies. As a general rule, loads wider than 6.1m, heavier than 150 tonnes and/or with a rigid length in excess of 30m will be usually escorted by police vehicles.
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2.4.8 The document goes on, stating that: 2.4.9 “The police and Highway Authority encourage hauliers to use self or private escorts. Police escorts will only be supplied if specifically requested and payment for the services will be required [...] A minimum of 8 days notice will be required for the arrangement of a police escort.”
Dyfed-Powys Police Quick Guide to Abnormal Loads (2011)
2.4.10 With respect to escorting abnormal loads in Dyfed-Powys Area, the Police Quick Guide to Abnormal Loads states that: “Any abnormal load measuring between 2.9 & 3.5 metres in width (unless gross weight exceeds 100 tonnes) may travel on any road within the Dyfed-Powys Police Area unescorted. Any abnormal load measuring between 3.5 & 4.1 metres in width will require a self / private escort on all roads except dual carriageways, within the Dyfed-Powys Police Area. Any abnormal load measuring between 4.1 & 4.72 metres in width will require a self / private escort on all roads within the Dyfed-Powys Police Area at all times. Any abnormal load with a gross weight of 100 tonnes or more will also require a self / private escort on all roads within the Dyfed-Powys Police area. Any abnormal load measuring more than 4.72 metres in width, or exceeding 150 tonnes or more in weight, or exceeding 30 metres rigid length, will require a police escort at all times on any road within the Dyfed-Powys Police Area. We will require at least 8 days prior notice for these loads in order to arrange the police escorts. No abnormal loads to move on any road within the Dyfed-Powys Police Area during the hours of darkness. Unless on a dual-carriageway and must have a self / private escort. Please also be aware of bridge heights & weights when processing all movements.” 2.4.11 This document implies that all transport exceeding 30m rigid length (this mainly applies to blades) shall be escorted by police vehicles.
Wind Farm Developments – Requirement for a Traffic Management Plan at Planning Stage
(Letter by Andrew Cochran on behalf of Welsh Government, dated 24 April 2012) 2.4.12 The letter stipulates that all onshore wind farm developments with turbines that classify as AIL deliveries shall not be permitted until such time as a TMP has been agreed with the relevant highway authorities. An integral part of the TMP preparation shall be a ‘trial run’ escorted by the police, witnessed by the relevant highway authorities and recorded on video. 2.4.13 The letter also sets requirements for the extent of information to be provided in the TMP (Introduction; Context; Description of Route; Convoy Size; Traffic Management; Delivery Times; Highway Works; Structures; Trial Runs; Public Awareness; Environmental Impact; General Construction Traffic; Consultees for TMP). The sTMP has been created to meet these requirements.
2.5 Legislative Context
Abnormal Indivisible Loads
2.5.1 All movements of abnormal loads shall be in accordance with the following legislation: • Abnormal Indivisible Loads is Part II of the Road Traffic Act 1988; • Road Vehicle (Construction & Use) Regulations 1986; and
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• Road Vehicle (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 (the latter commonly referred to as S.T.G.O.). 2.5.2 An “abnormal indivisible load” is defined in The Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 as: “a load that cannot, without undue expense or risk of damage, be divided into two or more loads for the purpose of being carried on a road and that - On account of its length or width, cannot be carried on a motor vehicle of category N3 or a trailer of category O4 (or by a combination of such vehicles) that complies in all respects with Part 2 of The Construction and Use Regulations; or On account of its weight, cannot be carried on a motor vehicle of category N3 or a trailer of category O4 (or by a combination of such vehicles) that complies in all respects with- Authorised Weight Regulations (or, if those Regulations do not apply, the equivalent provisions in Part 4 of the Construction and Use Regulations); and Part 2 of the Construction and Use Regulations.” 2.5.3 Notifications for abnormal indivisible loads are required where loads or vehicles exceed maximum gross vehicle weight or dimension limits in any of the following ways: • a gross vehicle weight of more than 80,000kg; • a width exceeding 3m; and • a length exceeding 18.75m.
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Table 2.1 - Notifications for AIL
Weight Action Required Gross weight or axle weights exceeding C & u OR 2 clear days notice with indemnity to Highway Authorised Weight limits up to 80,000kgs and Bridge Authorities Gross weight (of vehicle carrying the load) 2 clear days notice to Police and 5 clear days exceeding 80,000kgs up to 150,000kgs notice with indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities Gross weight (of vehicle carrying the load) HA Special Order BE16 (8 – 10 weeks) plus 5 exceeding 150,000kgs clear days notice to Police and 5 clear days notice with indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities Width Action Required Width exceeding 2.9 metres (for C & U loads 3.0 2 clear days notice to Police metres) up to 5.0 metres for other loads Width exceeding 5.0 metres up to 6.1 metres HA form VR1 (2 weeks) plus 2 clear days notice to Police Width exceeding 6.1 metres HA Special Order BE16 (8 – 10 weeks) plus 5 clear days notice to Police and 5 clear days notice with indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities Length Action Required Length exceeding 18.65 metres up to 30 metres 2 clear days notice to Police rigid length (Vehicle or train or vehicles) Vehicle combination exceeding 25.9 metres 2 clear days notice to Police When exceeding 30.0 metres rigid length HA Special Order BE16 (8 – 10 weeks) plus 5 clear days notice to Police and 5 clear days notice with indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities 2.5.4 Each load requires at least 2 clear days’ notice to the relevant police and highway authorities, as detailed in Table 2.1. The haulier must also indemnify each highway authority against any damage caused to any road, bridge or other structure.
2.6 Conclusions
2.6.1 UK policy via the NPS’s for renewables provide significant support for renewable energy targets and onshore wind farm development in the location of the proposed wind farm. This has led to the requirement for the Access Proposals. 2.6.2 The Access Proposals, via the sTMP have been designed to accord with the relevant guidance and legislation set out above.
2.7 References
Andrew Cochran (2012) ‘Wind Farm Developments – Requirement for a Traffic Management Plan at Planning Stage’. Available from: http://www.newport.gov.uk/stellent/groups/public/documents/planningdocument/cont701211.pdf [Accessed on 10/06/2013].
Association of Chief Police Officer of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, March 2010, Guidance on the Movement of Abnormal Indivisible Loads. Available from: http://www.acpo.police.uk/documents/uniformed/2010/201003UONAILP.pdf [Accessed on 10.06.2013].
Depertment of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) July 2011, Overarching National Policy Statement for Energy (EN-1). Available from:
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https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/47854/1938- overarching-nps-for-energy-en1.pdf [Accessed 10/06/13].
Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) July 2011, National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3). Available from: https://whitehall- admin.production.alphagov.co.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/37048 /1940-nps-renewable-energy-en3.pdf [Accessed 10/06/13].
Highway Agency (HA) 2012, Water preferred policy guidelines for the movement of abnormal indivisible loads. Available from: http://assets.highways.gov.uk/specialist-information/abnormal- loads-industry-guidelines/WPP_guidelines_revised_2012.pdf [Accessed 10/06/13].
Welsh Government (WG) 2005, Planning for Renewable Energy. Available from: http://wales.gov.uk/topics/planning/policy/tans/tan8/?lang=en [Accessed 10/06/2013].
Welsh Government (WG) 2012, Planning Policy Wales Edition 5, November 2012.
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3. DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT
3.1 Introduction
3.1.1 The proposed works consist of highway upgrades and the construction of a new section of track between Newtown to the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm to facilitate deliveries of AILs. Figure 3-1 provides an overview and details of the access proposals. 3.1.2 A strategic route has been identified for the movement of turbine components to SSAs B and C in Mid Wales. Turbine components will enter the UK at Ellesmere Port and be moved as abnormal loads, south along the existing trunk road network to Welshpool, where the route diverges to provide access to SSA B (north), SSA B (south) and SSA C. 3.1.3 Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would address the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures. 3.1.4 The Access Proposals are in accordance with the sTMP, which has been developed in consultation with Welsh Government, Powys County Council, Police authorities, wind farm developers and other stakeholders. The relevant sections of the sTMP are enclosed in Appendix 1. The route detailed in the sTMP is hereafter referred to as the Strategic Route for the purposes of this EIA. The access route required to facilitate deliveries to the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm, from Elsemere Port to Cwm Y Berllwyd are covered by the Strategic Route. The option of using Heol Treowen as a alternative to the Strategic Route between Newtown and Dolfor, and the option to access the A483 via the Mochdre Industrial Estate have also been assessed and are shown on Figures 3-2 and 3-3. 3.1.5 The final 3.4km of the access track required to connect the Strategic Route with the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm, leaves the Strategic Route at Cwm Y Berllwyd, and crosses the proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm to access the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm, as detailed below. This is hereafter referred to as the Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route for the purposes of this EIA.
3.2 Description of proposed access works
3.2.1 All the proposed works are adjacent to the existing highway except those required to cross the proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm site which will require a new access track. Figures 3-1, 3-2 and 3-3 provide an overview of the Access Proposals, for which further technical drawings are provided in the Appendices (Volume III) and referenced below.
Strategic Route Works from Elsemere Port to Newtown
3.2.2 The Strategic Route has been proposed as part of the sTMP detailed above. Figure 01589D2407-06, Appendix 1 provides an overview of the entire access route. Works proposed to accommodate passing places have been proposed within the adopted highway boundary between Elsemere Port and Newtown. Within the adopted highway boundary there are a mixture of measures proposed such as hedge trimming and verge hardening to facilitate passing places. Lay-over areas are also proposed. These works do not form part of this application, but are detailed within the sTMP Appendix 1. 3.2.3 The following Access Proposals have been assessed as part of this application:
Strategic Route Works in Newtown
3.2.4 To minimise disruption to other road users in Newtown it is proposed that the abnormal load vehicles will go through the forecourt of the Evans Shed business and join the A489. Minor works will be required regarding the footway and overrun area as detailed in sTMP drawing 6-4 b P5, Appendix 1. These works form part of the Access Proposals considered in this EIA.
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Strategic Route Works Newtown to Dolfor (The Vastre)
3.2.5 From Newtown to Dolfor vehicles will travel south on the A489 and will then turn right onto the minor road referred to as the Vastre. This latter right turn will require widening works as shown in sTMP drawing 6-4 c P8, Appendix 1. The road along the length of the Vastre shall be widened by approximately 1m to a width of 5m for 90% of the road with some pinch points of 4.5m and localised additional widening to 6m to allow for vehicles to pass. These works are shown in sTMP 6-4 c P8 to 6-4 s P8 (overview sTMP figure 6-4 a P4), Appendix 1. There will be drainage provided along the road and there will be some re profiling of the carriageway and re profiling of the earth banks. A convoy hold point will be constructed to allow traffic to pass the entire convoy if required. These works form part of the Access Proposals considered in this EIA.
Heol Treowen Option
3.2.6 An alternative to part of the Strategic Route has been considered and assessed as part of the Access Proposals. The option of using the Heol Treowen route in Newtown, as an alternative to the Vastre, was first presented in the ES for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm application (2008). 3.2.7 The Heol Treowen options consists of highway modifications to the eastern and western junctions of Heol Treowen in Newtown, and two bends between Heol Treowen and Dolfor on the A483. These proposals were shown in Figure 3-2.
Mochdre Industrial Estate Option
3.2.8 A further alternative to part of the Strategic Route has been considered and assessed as part of the Access Proposals. 3.2.9 This option involves accessing the A483 to the south of Newtown via the Mochdre Industrial Estate. The route follows the Strategic Route to Newtown on A483 before continuing on the A489 (Llandiloes Road) and turning left onto the Heol Ashley into Mochdre Industrial Estate. The route is shown in Figure 3-3.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
3.2.10 The proposed access track crosses an area of improved grassland (intensively grazed) that has been selected to avoid environmentally sensitive areas as shown in Plan 01589D2423-05 in Appendix 2. The length of track proposed is 3.4km, of which approximately 1.8km would be new track and 1.6km would be upgrading an existing track. The access tracks would have a running width of 5m with local widening on bends and at passing bays. The access tracks would be constructed of crushed and graded stone for the majority of the route with an asphalt construction for the site entrance leading to Hafod Fach. 3.2.11 The route of the access track proposed here has been chosen to run along the same route as that proposed by Vattenfall for their Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm application (which has been submitted to PCC). This will reduce the likelihood of two tracks being constructed to achieve the same purpose. The route was chosen by Vatenfall to avoid environmentally sensitive areas where reasonably practicable. A micrositing allowance of 50m is requested to allow for ground conditions that may only become apparent upon detailed site investigation and intrusive works. 3.2.12 There will be some widening works to make a 5m carriageway along the road between Llanbadarn Fynydd to the proposed wind farm with a passing bay. This is shown on Plan 01589D2431-04 in Appendix 2. 3.2.13 The site entrances will require some earthworks as shown on Plan 01589D2430-03, Appendix 2. The access to the offsite haul road is off the A483 at 308469E, 281487N, the exit from the offsite haul road is at 311001E, 282116N on the C1057 and the proposed wind farm site entrance is off the C1057 at 310903E, 218556N, and takes the form of a simple give-way priority junction. Plan 01589D2430-03, Appendix 2 provides details.
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3.2.14 The above works form part of the Access Proposals considered in this EIA.
3.3 Legislative Context (highway upgrades)
3.3.1 Highway upgrades will be carried out under Section 278 agreement along the delivery route to facilitate AIL transport and to mitigate for the effects of regular construction traffic. 3.3.2 Signage for the construction of the highways upgrade works shall be in accordance with the Great Britain Department of Transport Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 – Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations and the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991.
3.4 Road Condition Survey (Strategic Access Route including Heol Treowen Option and Mochdre Industrial Estate)
3.4.1 As outlined in the Traffic Management Plan, Appendix 2, RES are committed to ensuring that any damage to public or private roads caused by RES or their staff and or subcontractors during construction works is repaired or reinstated. RES are committed to maintaining, as a minimum, the level of service of local roads so that local road users are not unnecessarily adversely affected by the wind farm project. To this end, RES will work closely with PCC to undertake condition assessment surveys and inspections at the following stages of the project. 3.4.2 Prior to the start of construction a Baseline Road Survey will be completed recording the condition of the roads along the delivery routes. 3.4.3 At regular intervals during the life of the project updated condition surveys will be completed. These subsequent surveys will then allow RES, with agreement from the Highways Authority, to identify where maintenance works might be required and undertake them over a timescale agreed by both parties. 3.4.4 Between 1 and 3 months after construction activities have finished, RES and the Council shall undertake a Final Road Survey which will inform any repair works required which RES are to complete to the satisfaction of the Highway Authority. Common causes of concern for local road users are mud tracking and dust creation. If conditions warrant, the road will either be cleaned or doused to keep dust levels down The results of the initial survey will be used to provide a benchmark of the standard of roads along the delivery routes. Subsequent surveys will then allow RES, with agreement from the Council Highways, to identify where maintenance works might be required. A copy of the RES standard Public Highways Pre and Post Construction Condition Survey - Methodology is provided in Appendix 2.
3.5 Track Construction Design (new and upgraded tracks for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route)
3.5.1 The detailed design of the access tracks and the selection of the method of construction would be carried out once a detailed site investigation has been undertaken prior to construction. Designs that are likely to cover the expected site conditions are shown in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES Figure 4.4, Appendix 3. The tracks are designed for an axle load limit of 15 tonnes. 3.5.2 The access tracks would have a running width of 5m, with local widening on bends, at passing bays and around turbine bases. The access tracks would be constructed of crushed and graded stone (to be extracted from borrow pits within the development boundary, except for the track required to reach the first borrow pit). A stone thickness of approximately 250mm to 1000mm (average 400mm), dependent on ground conditions, would be used. Shoulders each side of the track would be approximately 1m in width and would be reinstated post construction. 3.5.3 The access tracks would be designed and constructed with sufficient drainage channels to prevent erosion of the road structure and to allow the efficient drainage of rainwater. Water running down the channels would be intercepted and diverted onto the surrounding
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vegetation for the natural filtering of any suspended silt before it reaches any watercourse. Positive drainage into existing streams would be avoided. 3.5.4 Field drains and streams would be piped directly under the track through appropriately sized drainage pipes which would be designed to cope with storm water flows at locations described in Section 8 Hydrology. The relevant consents and approvals for any culverts will be obtained from the Environment Agency prior to construction. Detailed design for any culverts would be modified following detailed site inspection prior to construction and agreement with the Environment Agency. A typical water course crossing is shown in Figure 4.5 of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES in Appendix 3.
3.6 Track Construction Method (new and upgraded tracks for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route)
3.6.1 The vegetation and soil would be stripped to the subsoil. The stone track (on average 400mm thick dependent on ground conditions) would be constructed on the subsoil. Approximately 100-150mm of the upper topsoil layer, together with turfs, would be stored separately from the rest of the subsoil in piles near the tracks for later reinstatement. 3.6.2 Following construction the appropriate topsoil and vegetation would be used to reinstate the track shoulders and turbine foundation areas. Any excess material produced from access track construction would be spread along the track shoulders and reseeded as necessary. 3.6.3 Once the soil has been removed to the depth of a suitable founding layer, the road and running surface would be constructed by tipping and compacting stone to the required shape and thickness. Cross sections of the final road profile can be seen in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES Figure 4.4, Appendix 3. 3.6.4 Following construction any excess material and the appropriate topsoil would be used to reinstate any excess track areas such as passing places at the turbines and crane hardstanding areas and the road surface would be left clear. 3.6.5 The track would be 3,400m long, and would be 5m wide, and would be 0.4m deep and would require a factor of x1.2 to allow for a site entrance and widening on bends: this would require a total of 8,160m3 of stone.
3.7 Site Access Construction Method (new tracks for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route)
3.7.1 The location of the site entrance has been agreed between Vattenfall and Powys Highways Authority and has been chosen to achieve appropriate visibility splays as shown in Plan 01589D2430-03, Appendix 2. 3.7.2 To achieve a suitable visibility splay to the south of the site entrance it is proposed to landscape the ground at SO 084 811, as shown in Plan 01589D2430-03, Appendix 2, to make it almost level with the road. As for other construction areas, topsoil would be spread over this area of works and allowed to reseed. 3.7.3 To achieve a suitable visibility splay to the north of the site entrance and to allow construction of the access track it is proposed to fell 0.05ha of the shelterbelt at SO 084 813.
3.8 Background and description of Environmental Assessment work completed to date
3.8.1 The Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm application submitted in May 2008 was accompanied by an ES which considered the environmental effects of the proposed wind farm and its associated works. The findings of the assessments carried out for the ES included consideration of the works required for the transport of the abnormal loads to the site. 3.8.2 Since the submission of the ES, PCC have requested further information. The assessment of environmental and socio-economic effects arising from the proposed wind farm, including transport have been assessed though that application.
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3.8.3 There have also been some amendments to the proposed access route that was assessed for the proposed wind farm ES. The works required for access to facilitate the proposed wind farm have been updated, and are now assessed as part of this new and separate application for the Access Proposals alone. 3.8.4 Works along the Strategic Route as reported in the sTMP (Appendix 1) have been assessed by Amec in the Strategic Traffic Management Plan Environmental Assessment of Mid Wales wind farms Transport Route. This EIA builds upon and expands on the work undertaken for this report. The relevant baseline information from this report has been used to inform this EIA.
3.9 References
Great Britain Department of Transport (2009) Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 – Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations and the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991. TSO, London.
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4. ALTERNATIVES
4.1 Project Evolution
4.1.1 Road transport has been chosen as the preferred mode of transport. Alternative modes were considered, but discarded for reasons as follows: Railway – The freight gauge with the largest height and width used on British railways is W6a2 (as defined in Working Manual for Rail Staff Freight Operations Manual) – maximum height 3,965 mm above the top of rail (giving approximately 2.9 m maximum load height), maximum total width 2,820 mm. The width / diameter of most turbine components are much greater than this. In addition, the end and centre throw of long narrow components (such as blades) on curved tracks would be substantial, and thus problematic to accommodate within the railway easement and without risking oversailing into the gauge of the adjacent track on double track railways. Further to the above, the use of railway would not entirely remove the need for road transport, as the components would have to be delivered from the nearest suitable railway station to the site. Waterway – the nearest waterway is the Llangollen Canal, which can only accommodate craft less than 7’ (2.14m) in berth and the headroom under older canal bridges is generally limited to 8’ (2.44 m), which is insufficient for any of the turbine component. 4.1.2 In addition, the components would have to be transferred onto AIL transporters to negotiate the last stretch of the journey, which would necessitate the construction of a temporary quay (which is undesirable due to possible negative environmental impacts).
4.2 Preliminary Access Route Assessment
4.2.1 Alternative access routes were considered between and Strategic Route and and Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm. A Preliminary Road Assessment involving a desktop study followed by a visual drive-over inspection was undertaken of the available options: • Route A: This would be from A483 via an unclassified road past Blaen-Nant Du to the C1057 to the site. This would be unviable due to extensive road realignment along the entire route impacting on residential properties and significant junction modifications at the junction with the A483. • Route B: This would be from A483 via off the road haul road to the C1057 to the site. This would be viable due to 60% of the route of the off road haul road, uses existing farm track alignment.
A detailed route assessment ascertained that Route B, would be viable and could be developed in accordance with the Strategic Transport Management Plan. Alternatives to specific sections of the Strategic Route via Heol Treowen and the Mochre Industrial Estate have also been considered within this ES.
4.3 Site Access
4.3.1 There are three site entrance locations forming part of the highway enabling works. These are the entrance and exits to the offsite haul road and the site entrance to the proposed wind farm. 4.3.2 The site entrance locations were identified as part of the route selection and chosen to minimise disruption, maximise safety and help facilitate delivery. There were Automatic Traffic Counts (ATC) carried out on the A483 160m either side of the site entrance and on the C1057 at the site entrance to Garreg Lwyd Hill between 15/11/2012 and 21/11/2012. The sight lines shown on drawing 01589D2430-03, Appendix 2 are based on the requirements of the DMRB and the recorded 85% of the roads. 4.3.3 The site entrance to the offsite haul road off the A483 has been relocated 18m north from the originally proposed location to improve the sight lines; this will replace the existing access to Hafod Fach. The existing access will be stopped up. The Welsh Government (WG)
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have been consulted on this by Key Transport Consultants Ltd on 17/12/2012 and have no objections in principle to the relocation or stopping up of the existing access.
4.4 Alterations to Proposed Access Route since the Garreg Lwyd Wind Farm ES (2008)
4.4.1 As set out above, the Access Proposals were previously detailed and assessed within the Garreg Lwyd Wind Farm ES (2008). A number of alterations have been made to the proposed route, now forming this separate application, as part of the design evolution to minimise effects. 4.4.2 In 2010 a planning application for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Windfarm Access Route was submitted to PCC. Since then the Strategic Route has been refined in consultation with stakeholders, as presented within this ES. 4.4.3 An alternative route, via Heol Treowen was considered as part of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) and remains an option, as included within this ES. 4.4.4 A further alternative route has also been identified through consultation with stakeholders via the Mochdre Industrial Estate. This option is included within this ES.
4.5 References
Railway Group Standard (2013) GO/RT3056 Issue 3: Working Manual for Rail Staff Freight Operations Manual, London, RSSB
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5. LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 Arup has been commissioned to undertake a high-level Landscape and Visual Consideration Assessment of the Access Proposals set out in Section 3 Project Description. 5.1.2 Potential landscape effects have been considered in the design of the Strategic Route, in consultation with the relevant stakeholders as set out in Section 3 Description of Development. An assessment of this route was undertaken by Amec. Information from Amec has been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA. 5.1.3 A landscape assessment of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route was undertaken by Enviros Consulting as part of an Environmental Impact Assessment for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008). Information from this assessment has been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA. 5.1.4 Arup has based this assessment on desktop data collection and information contained on the following studies: • Strategic Traffic Management Plan for Mid Wales Wind Farms Transport Route (sTMP) (Grontmij, 2012); • Technical Note: Strategic Traffic Management Plan – Environmental Assessment for Mid Wales Wind Farms Transport Route (Amec, 2013); • Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Impact Assessment prepared by RES Group (2008); and • Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of Transport Route (2010) submitted to PCC.
5.2 Scope of Assessment
5.2.1 The above reports included desk top reviews of exisiting published material including maps and photographic evidence. From the analysis of this material it was possible to assess the likely physical changes to the character of the landscape and the significance of the impact as a result of the Access Proposals. 5.2.2 The assessment includes for the consideration of the potential environmental effects upon landscape and visual receptors: • Direct effects arising from loss of landscape elements; and • The level of visual change to potentially sensitive receptors (residential properties, footpaths) resulting from the proposed works. 5.2.3 The study area comprises of land within 1km of the Access Proposals identified in Section 3 of this ES. 5.2.4 Locations have been included in this assessment where there are prima facie grounds for a potential effect, based on the information provided in the sTMP, such as ground disturbance, the removal of trees, etc. No effects are predicted for those locations not included in the Access Proposals, such works within the adopted highway. 5.2.5 The results of the data collection have been summarised in tables 5.7- 5.10. The passing place and swept path analysis locations have been cross-referenced within the tables below to the corresponding figures included in sTMP (Appendix 1).
5.3 Policy Context and Guidance
5.3.1 This overview assessment of the landscape and visual considerations relating to the Access Proposals was undertaken using a methodology developed by Amec and drawn from the following guidance:
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• ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Second Edition’ (The Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2002); • ‘Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland. Topic Paper 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity’ (The Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage, 2004); • ‘Making Sense of Place – Landscape Character Assessment Guidance,’ (The Countryside Agency and Scottish National Heritage, 2002); and • ‘LANDMAP Information Guidance Note 3 – Using LANDMAP for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment of Onshore Wind Turbines’ (Countryside Council for Wales, 2010).
5.4 Methodology (applies to Arup study)
Landscape Sensitivity 5.4.1 The term landscape receptor means an element or a group of elements which will be directly or indirectly affected by the Access Proposals. Landscape receptors are physical elements or attributes of the landscape that could be affected, such as landscape character, landform, water courses, woodland or hedgerows, land uses and field boundaries. 5.4.2 The sensitivity of landscape receptors is defined in the Table 5.1 below: Table 5.1 - Sensitivity of Landscape Receptors Sensitivity Landscape Type or Feature High An area possessing a particularly distinctive sense of place, in good condition, or highly valued for its scenic quality and/or landscape character, for example National Parks, AONBs, Heritage Coasts, Grade 1 listed buildings and historic parks; or an intact feature of high intrinsic value; [such as prominent trees or tree groups, forming a critical part of the landscape pattern or historic landscape pattern]; landscapes or features with a low tolerance to change of the type identified. Medium An area with a well-defined sense of place and/or character in moderate condition; or an area valued by designation at a local or regional level; or a partly damaged feature of high intrinsic value, or an intact feature of moderate intrinsic value [such as prominent trees or tree groups which contribute to the character of the site, screening of views, landscape or historic landscape pattern]; a landscape or feature which is partially tolerant of change of the type identified. Low An area with a poorly defined sense of place, and/or landscape character in poor condition, often not valued for its scenic quality; or a feature of low intrinsic value [such as trees and species poor hedges of no special quality or function]; or a landscape or feature that is tolerant of change of the type identified.
Magnitude of Landscape Impact 5.4.3 The criteria to assess the magnitude of landscape impacts (including those on landscape character and historical landscape character and setting) are based upon the amount of physical change that will occur as a result of the proposals, as described the Table 5.2, overleaf. These are based on best practice examples and experience:
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Table 5.2 - Magnitude of Landscape Impact Category Description Major adverse The proposals will be at complete variance with the scale, landform, pattern or landscape impact character of the landscape, and/or would diminish or destroy the integrity of characteristic features and their settings. Moderate adverse The proposals will be at odds with the scale, landform, pattern or character of landscape impact the landscape and/or would cause a noticeable diminution of the integrity of characteristic features and their settings. Slight adverse The proposals will not quite fit into the scale, landform, pattern or character of landscape impact the landscape and/or would cause a perceptible diminution of the integrity of characteristic features and their settings. Negligible adverse The proposals will create a perceptible deterioration in the scale, landform, landscape impact pattern or character of the landscape
No change The proposals will not cause any change to the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape. Negligible The proposals will provide a perceptible improvement to the scale, landform, landscape benefit pattern or character of the landscape. Slight landscape The proposals will achieve a degree of fit with the scale, landform, pattern or benefit character of the landscape and go some way towards improving the character, sense of place or scale of the landscape. Moderate The proposals will fit well with the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape benefit landscape and would noticeably improve the character, sense of place or scale of the landscape Major landscape The proposals will fit very well with the scale, landform, pattern or character of benefit the landscape and would restore the character, sense of place or scale of the landscape.
Visual Impact Assessment Method Sensitivity of Visual Receptors 5.4.4 The term visual receptor means an element or group of elements that will be directly or indirectly affected by the proposals. Visual receptors are publicly accessible viewpoints, the sensitivity of which would be dependent on the location, the activity of the viewer and the importance of the view. These would include viewpoints available to users of outdoor facilities, sporting activities and users of rights of way; viewpoints from landscape features and beauty spots; viewpoints outside local properties (which would represent the view for local residents); and viewpoints available to people travelling through the landscape. Views may be glimpsed or open. 5.4.5 The determination of sensitivity of the visual receptors is a matter of professional judgement. The Guidelines on Landscape and Visual Assessment recommend that the assessment of sensitivity will be dependent on: • the location and context of a viewpoint; • the expectations and occupation or activity of the viewer; • the importance of the view (which may be determined with respect to its popularity or the numbers of people affected, its appearance in guidebooks, on tourist maps, and in the facilities provided for its enjoyment and references to it in literature or art); and • the scale of the view and the extent of visibility. 5.4.6 The sensitivity of visual receptors is defined in the Table 5.3 below.
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Table 5.3 - Sensitivity of Visual Receptors Sensitivity Visual Receptor High Viewers with a particular interest in their visual environment and/or prolonged viewing opportunities, for example residents or visitors to National Parks, AONBs or Heritage Coasts, walkers on National Trails. Medium Viewers with moderate interest in their visual environment, for example residents or visitors to regionally or locally valued countryside, users of local open space facilities and walkers. Low Viewers with a passing or momentary interest in their everyday surroundings, for example motorists or people at their place of work, whose attention is focussed on other activities and are therefore less susceptible to change.
Magnitude of Visual Impact
5.4.7 The magnitude of visual impacts depends on factors such as distance, the time of day, weather conditions, elevation and aspect, as well as the context of the view. The impact has been assessed during good visibility and light conditions, therefore with the best possible view of the proposals. The following scale has been adopted for the magnitude of visual impact, based on the degree of change to the view, or to the composition. This is based on best practice examples and experience.
Table 5.4 - Magnitude of Visual Impact Visual Impact Descriptioni Magnitiude Major adverse The proposals will cause a dominant or complete change to the composition of visual impact or the view, the appreciation of the landscape character, the ability to take or benefit enjoy the view. Moderate adverse The proposals will cause a clearly noticeable change to the view, which would visual impact or affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character or the ability to benefit take or enjoy the view. Slight adverse The proposals will cause a perceptible change to the view, but which would not visual impact or materially affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character or the benefit ability to take or enjoy the view. Negligible adverse The proposals will cause a barely perceptible change to the view, which would visual impact or not affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character, or the benefit ability to take or enjoy the view. No change The proposals will cause no change to the view. 5.4.8 The scale shown in Tables 5.5 and 5.6 below, has been adopted to assess the significance of both landscape and visual impacts. The basis of this scale is derived from professional experience. In accordance with good practice only those impacts which are significant are described in this Section, unless there are particular reasons why moderately significant impacts are also relevant, for example where there are a large number of these.
Table 5.5 – Assessment of Landscape Significance Sensitivity Major Impact Moderate Slight Impact Negligible Neutral of Resource or Beneficial Impact or or Beneficial Impact or Impact Beneficial Beneficial High Significant Significant Moderately Not Significant Not significant Significant Medium Significant Moderately Not Significant Not Significant Not significant Significant Low Moderately Not Significant Not Significant Not Significant Not significant Significant
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Table 5.6 – Assessment of Landscape Significance
Sensitivity of High Medium Low Resource High Significant Moderately Significant Not Significant Medium Significant Not Significant Not Significant Low Not Significant Not Significant Not Significant
5.4.9 Where an effect is significant or not signficant it is considered as such in terms of the EIA regulations. Professional judgement has been used to determine whether a moderately significant effect is significant in EIA terms, depending on detailed consideration of the individual circumstances of such an effect.
5.5 Assumptions and limitations
5.5.1 For a development of this nature, it is our professional view that 1km can be reasonably taken as the maximum distance for anticipating significant visual impacts.
5.5.2 All visual assessment has been considering publicly accessible areas only; views from private properties and commercial buildings are approximate and have been estimated.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
5.6 Landscape and Visual Considerations Assessment
Strategic Route
Table 5.7 – Landscape Assessment of Strategic Route (from Amec study)
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis A483/A489 Area of grass verge in front of medium height Direct impacts on grass verge and probably upon the trees Newtown close boarded fence which is in front of some behind or at least upon their root systems indirectly leading to (sTMP Figure 6-4b) shrubs and 3-4 ornamental trees that form the their loss. boundary of an area displaying garden sheds Introduction of grasscrete apron with bollards and rear battering to accommodate the changes in level. This is likely to be backed by a new fence (in similar style to the one removed). Potential scope for replacement tree planting. This part of Newtown has seen considerable change in recent years and new arrangement would not affect overall townscape qualities. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Loss of moderate area of mown grass verge on Direct impacts upon grass verge, ~90m length of hedgerow and Road between the A489 Kerry Road northern side of junction, plus a length of some area of field. and the A483 (Vastre Route) medium height trimmed hedgerow (containing (sTMP Figure 6-4c) no trees) and the south-eastern corner of field. Replacement by large area of grasscrete which will be allowed to re-vegetate over short to medium term helping its reintegration into local landscape. Potential introduction of bollards would not accord with rural location.
STMP Figure 6-4c does not list any new hedgerow or fencing to mark the revised field boundary but this is highly recommended so that one landscape element would be replaced with a similar element over medium-long term.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Loss of narrow verges/ low banks on one or both Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road sides of the road and likely need to remove or relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) that can in and The A483 (Vastre Route) translocate roadside hedge on one side of the medium term be readily replaced either by a newly planted (Road widening to 5m from 0m to road. Should hedgerow loss be required hedgerow on a slightly revised line or else potential for existing 200m) preference should be given to the hedgerow on hedgerow sections to be translocated. Little difference in these (sTMP Figure 6-4c) the southern side potential solutions in purely landscape terms. Opportunity for The single hedgerow trees on the northern and introduction of limited number of hedgerow trees. southern sides are not scheduled for removal but the one on the northern side in particular would be highly vulnerable to root damage from any carriageway widening works. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Likely loss of ~140m of northern roadside Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road hedgerow which contains no trees. Again relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) that can in and the A483 potential for either planting of new native medium term be readily replaced either by a newly planted (Road widening to 5m width from hedgerow (including potential for some new hedgerow on a slightly revised line or else potential for existing 250m – 550m) hedgerow trees) or translocation of affected hedgerow sections to be translocated. (sTMP Figure 6-4d) section. The southern roadside could be replanted with new hedgerow More extensive potential loss of hedgerow along along some or all of its length although the re-profiled southern southern side of Vastre Route although a slopes will need re-seeding. proportion of this bracken covered low bank as opposed to hedgerow. The composition of all seeding and hedgerow mixes should be driven by ecological requirements. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Southern roadside hedgerow along entire 300m Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road long section will need to be removed to relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) that can in and the A483 accommodate widening especially once medium term be readily replaced either by a newly planted (Road widening to 4.5m from 550m likelihood of damage to root system is taken hedgerow on a slightly revised line or else potential for existing to 850m) into consideration. hedgerow sections to be translocated slightly further to the (sTMP Figure 6-4e) south.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified The southern roadside hedgerow over this 150m Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road long section is likely to require removal to allow relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) that can in and the A483 widening. Also a short section of the northern medium term be readily replaced either by a newly planted (Road widening to 4.5m from 850m hedge also likely to need to be removed to hedgerow on a slightly revised line or else potential for existing to 1000m (sTMP Figure 6-4f) allow the formation of the more easterly hedgerow sections to be translocated slightly further to the including two 6m wide sections for passing place. No hedgerow trees would be south or north as required. passing places) affected. (sTMP Figure 6-4f) Swept Path Analysis Unclassified The southern roadside hedgerow over this 150m Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road long section is likely to require removal to allow relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) and regularly and the A483 widening as the cutting into the low bank upon present landscape element (hedgerow trees). Both elements can (Road widening to 4.5m from 1000m which this section of hedgerow is located would be readily replaced in medium term through new planting and, -Cefn-y-Faesdre -to 1200m) be likely to damage its root system. Likely loss for the hedgerows, by translocation. However it is likely that (sTMP Figure 6-4f) of two hedgerow trees in southern hedgerow there would be a temporary reduction on the local level of tree and three trees on northern side in vicinity of cover in the vicinity of the road junction. northern road junction. Note it may be possible to retain the southern trees by concentrating widening works on northern side of this section of the Vastre Route where sections of hedgerow have already been replaced by post and wire fencing. Only one tree lost in small copse besides the road junction. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Due to the absence of verges on either side of Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road this section of the road it is likely that relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) and regularly and the A483 hedgerows and their low banks would need to present landscape element (hedgerow trees). There could be an (Road widening to 5.0m width from be removed or else could be affected by root indirect effect at a local scale by the loss increasing the sense of 1200m to 1500m plus a 6m wide damage. openness in an area that is already open. Both elements can be passing place) Loss of three hedgerow trees in the northern readily replaced in medium term through new planting and, for (sTMP Figure 6-4g) hedgerow, two of which are semi-mature. the hedgerows, by translocation. However it is likely that there would be a temporary reduction in the local level of tree cover
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Apart from the potential loss of 1 semi-mature Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road hedgerow tree on the northern side as a result relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) although in and the A483 of potential root damage and associated the medium term this could be readily replaced slightly further (Road widening to 5.0m width from instability, vegetation losses will be restricted to the south of the road by translocation or new planting 1500m to 1800m plus two 6m wide to the southern side of this section of the including, a replacement hedgerow tree(s). passing places) Vastre Route. Most , if not all of this 300m of (sTMP Figure 6-4h) hedgerow will need to be removed or translocated, although this contains no hedgerow trees. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Most, if not all, of the 300m long section of Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road southern roadside hedgerow would be likely to relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow) although in and the A483 (Road widening to need to be removed, although the copse of the medium term this could be readily replaced slightly further 5.0m from 1800m to 2100m plus trees to the north of Bron-y-vastre would be to the south of the road by translocation or new planting. two 6m wide passing places and unaffected. Along the western-most section allowance for swept path at curve) the presence of a wider southern verge may (sTMP Figure 6-4i) allow the adjacent hedgerow to be retained including two scrubby hedgerow trees Changes on northern side restricted to minor losses of already worn verge at ~1900m and outside of curve at ~2100m. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Verges maybe wide enough to allow widening Direct effects from the localised loss of a proportion of a Road between the A489 Kerry Road without the need to remove hedgerows. If relatively abundant landscape element (hedgerow). There could and the A483 widening works can be concentrated on the be an indirect effect at a local scale by the loss increasing the (Road widening to 5.0m width from northern (downside) side any effects upon the sense of openness in an area that is already open being the most 2100m to 2400m plus two 6m wide rooting systems would only affect a hedgerow elevated section of the Vastre Route. Any lost sections of passing places) that is already gappy and heavily trimmed and hedgerow (apart from the mature hawthorn bushes) can be (sTMP Figure 6-4j) which therefore has a diminished landscape readily replaced in medium term through new planting and, role. potentially, by translocation. However it is likely that until new The line lengths of scrubby hawthorns may have planting becomes established or the translocated sections grow their root systems affected but are probably too back there could be an increased sense of openness and mature to be translocated. exposure along this section of Vastre Road.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Lack of verges along this section could require Direct effects from the potential localised loss of sections of Road between the A489 Kerry Road that both northern and southern roadside hedgerow which as noted is an abundant landscape element and the A483 hedges to be removed, especially at the two although in the medium term its landscape role could be (Road widening to 5.0m width from passing places. No hedgerow trees affected. replicated by the planting and establishment of new sections of 2400m to 2700m plus two 6m wide roadside hedgerow and/or the translocation of sections of the passing places) existing hedgerow. As with section 6-4j the elevated and (sTMP Figure 6-4k) relatively open location of section 6-4k could result in a temporary increase in the sense of openness and enclosure within the local landscape. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified The verges, especially the southern (or eastern Direct effects upon the roadside verge and possible direct Road between the A489 Kerry Road verge) may be wide enough to be able to effects upon sections of hedgerow. Replanting or translocation and the A483 accommodate the requited widening without of the eastern hedgerow is unlikely because of lack of room due (Road widening to 5.0m width from the need to remove the hedgerow or impact to the adjacent coniferous shelterbelt. The presence of the 2700m to 3000m plus one 6m wide upon its root system. Northern or western latter landscape elements reduces the landscape role of the passing places) hedgerow on low bank. No effects upon the roadside hedgerows along this section. (sTMP Figure 6-4l) coniferous shelterbelt that runs along the eastern side of this section. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Verges on both sides are relatively wide so Direct effects upon verges and a short section of roadside hedge. Road between the A489 Kerry Road should be able to accommodate the widened No trees would be affected. Assumed that the short section of and the A483 road without loss of or damage to the roadside the hedgerow lost at the corner could be replaced on a setback (Road widening to 5.0m width from hedgerows. Exception would be the short alignment. Retention of hedgerows and coniferous shelterbelt on 3000m to 3300m plus one 6m wide section of hedgerow on the inside of the corner eastern side would minimise landscape effects. passing places) which is likely to be lost to allow re-profiling (sTMP Figure 6-4m) and swept path movement.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified This is a straight section of road where the Direct effects upon the grass verges through loss and it is likely Road between the A489 Kerry Road verge should generally be wide enough to that one relatively long and two short sections of hedgerow will and the A483 accommodate the 5m width widening works. be temporarily lost. Landscape effects could be considerably (Road widening to 5.0m width from The roadside hedgerows vary between low reduced if these sections, especially the 200m long section were 3300m to 4300m plus two 6m wide trimmed hedgerows to square trimmed to be either translocated or replanted along an adjacent passing places) hedgerow to untrimmed overgrown sections in alignment. (sTMP Figures 6-4n, o and p) section 6-4p. The limited number of hedgerow Incorporating Passing Place trees will be retained. Pantgwyn, sTMP Figure 6-3d) Alongside the ~200m long section required for the wind turbine component delivery vehicle holding area in Section 6-4n it is highly likely that the square trimmed hedgerow on the north-western side will need to be removed or translocated. It contains no hedgerow trees. Similar actions may be required at the two much shorter passing places. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified The hedgerow that runs alongside most of the Direct effects upon the grass verges through their loss to Road between the A489 Kerry Road south-eastern side of this section has been widened carriageway. Likewise potential direct effects upon and the A483 allowed to grow out although its roadside some sections of existing hedgerow although once again the (Road widening to 5.0m from 4300m frontage is trimmed. The north-western potential exists for such sections to be translocated or replanted to 4600m plus two 6m wide passing roadside hedgerow is trimmed much lower. the newly widened carriageway to minimise local landscape places) Along this initial part of this section the effects in the medium term. (sTMP Figure 6-4q) roadside verges should be sufficiently wide to allow the road to be widened without affecting the hedgerows with the possible exception of the more easterly passing place. Further towards Dolfor whilst the carriageway appears to be slightly wider the verge disappears making effects upon the hedgerows more likely, especially to accommodate the more westerly passing place. No trees should be lost.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified The hedgerows along much of this section, Direct effects upon the grass verges through their loss to Road between the A489 Kerry Road especially on the eastern side, are on low banks widened carriageway. Likewise potential indirect effects upon and the A483 (Road widening to so the carriageway appears to be slightly some sections of existing hedgerow if their root systems are 5.0m from 4600m to 4900m plus sunken. Hence in widening it the cutting into affected although once again the potential exists for such two 6m wide passing places) (sTMP the low banks may affect the hedgerows’ root sections to be translocated or replanted the newly widened Figure 6-4r) systems as well as requiring a low retaining carriageway to minimise local landscape effects in the medium structure to be used. No hedgerow trees would term. be lost. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified As this section of the road enters Dolfor on the There would be direct effects upon sections of grass verge, Road between the A489 Kerry Road western side the hedgerow gives way to several grassed hedge banks, two mature trees and possibly some and the A483 properties and their gardens with the section of hedgerow. Cumulatively these changes could alter the (Road widening to between 4.5m consequence that the scope for the widening landscape character of the northern entry/exit to Dolfor if the and 5.0m from 4900m to 5300m; works is restricted to the eastern side where widened road and the treatment of the verges and hedge bank allowance for swept path and the width of the grass verge varies. There are have a more ‘engineered’ appearance. passing places at two curves; sections of hedgerow on both sides that are The loss of the two trees should not have an effect of landscape relocation of estimated four located on hedge banks. It should be possible character as several other adjacent trees of similar age and size telegraph poles and three lighting to undertake the required widening without loss would remain in this location. columns) of any sections of hedgerow but these works (sTMP Figure 6-4s and 6-4t) may require some land take of the hedge bank, especially opposite the properties in Dolfor and the use of a retaining structure which could affect the hedgerow’s root system. In order to achieve the required swept path alignment and provide the accommodation works at a field entrance it will be necessary to remove two mature trees on the western side of the road.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Table 5.8 Visual Assessment of Strategic Route
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Reviews of aerial photographs and OS map supported No views are likely for any sensitive visual receptors in between the A489 Kerry Road and the by a site visit show that there are no nearby properties or using nearby PRoWs. Short lived views A483 residential properties (or PRoWs). would be certain for low sensitivity vehicular visual (Road widening to 5m from 0m to receptors using the closest section of A489 but the 200m) changes would represent only a low magnitude of visual (sTMP Figure 6-4c) change and consequently would be not significant. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Yewtree Cottage is located to the immediate north Residents at Yewtree Cottage would only have limited between the A489 Kerry Road and the of this section with Yewtree Farm approximately a views of works immediately in front of (to the south of) A483 couple of hundred metres to the south at a lower the Cottage. It has no windows in its eastern gable end (Road widening to 5m width from 250m elevation, nearby screening and an unfavourable and views from the western gable end window would be to 550m) orientation. filtered by garden vegetation and minor differences in (sTMP Figure 6-4d) levels although a couple of these trees will probably need to be removed. Width of carriage way immediately in front of the Cottage would necessitate minimal work. Hence from within the Cottage and garden residents would sustain only a low magnitude of visual change once the construction is completed resulting in moderate levels of visual effect that would be not significant although it is acknowledged that it using Vastre Route to access and exit the Cottage residents would have regular views of some of the wider visual changes. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Cefn-y-Faesdre is located slightly further to the west Any of the oblique views would be over a minimum between the A489 Kerry Road and the but its residents could have some oblique views from separation distance of 150m otherwise the likely loss of A483 their first floor windows in front elevation. the entire section of the southern hedge would not be (Road widening to 4.5m from 550m to visible to any residential receptors other than those in 850m) vehicles travelling along Vastre Route. No significant (sTMP Figure 6-4e) visual effects.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road These changes could only potentially be visible to Residents’ views of the likely loss of the southern between the A489 Kerry Road and the residents at Cefn-y-Faesdre and possibly recreational roadside hedgerow would nearly always be filtered by A483 receptors walking the northern-most few hundred the mature tree cover in the south-facing front garden. (Road widening to 4.5m from 850m to metres of a PRoW coming from the south to meet Assuming that the stretches of southern roadside 1000m, including two 6m wide passing the Vastre Route west of Cefn-y-Faesdre. hedgerow that have to be lost can be translocated or places) replanted the residents at Cefn-y-Faesdre would sustain (sTMP Figure 6-4f) only a low magnitude of visual change once the construction is completed resulting in moderate levels of visual effect that would be not significant although it is acknowledged that it using Vastre Route to access and exit the residents would have regular views of some of the wider visual changes. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road These changes could only potentially be visible to Tree cover around Cefn-y-Faesdre would also prevent between the A489 Kerry Road and the residents at Cefn-y-Faesdre and possibly recreational any western view available to residents being altered by A483 receptors walking the northern-most few hundred the proposed loss of some plantation and hedgerow (Road widening to 4.5m from 1000m - metres of a PRoW coming from the south to meet trees close to the road junction to the west. Cefn-y-Faesdre -to 1200m) the Vastre Route west of Cefn-y-Faesdre. (sTMP Figure 6-4f) Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road There are no residential properties with any The only visual receptors with potential views of visual between the A489 Kerry Road and the potential views of changes along this section of the changes along this section would be vehicular visual A483 Vastre Route, nor are there any nearby PRoWs. receptors using the road itself. (Road widening to 5.0m from 1200m to 1500m plus a 6m wide passing place) (sTMP Figure 6-4g) Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Although located just to the west of this section, The loss of the southern hedgerow along this entire between the A489 Kerry Road and the residents in Bron-y-Vastre could have views of some section and a hedgerow tree in northern section would A483 of the limited changes along this section from be visible in eastern views from Bron-y-Vastre. As long (Road widening to 5.0m from 1500m to windows in their principal east-facing elevation. as the northern roadside hedgerow remains unaffected 1800m plus two 6m wide passing and the southern one is either translocated or replaced, places) in the medium term the magnitude of visual change (sTMP Figure 6-4h) would be low and the resultant level of visual effect would be no more than moderate and not significant.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road This section passes close to the north of Bron-y- Residents at Bron-y-Vastre unlikely to sustain any visual between the A489 Kerry Road and the Vastre. effects from within and immediately around their A483 property due to its orientation and the close by (Road widening to 5.0m from 1800m to intervening presence of agricultural outbuildings and a 2100m plus two 6m wide passing places copse of mature trees. and allowance for swept path at curve) (sTMP Figure 6-4i) Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Although there are no residential properties whose The present, sometimes gappy northern roadside between the A489 Kerry Road and the residents could potentially have views of the hedgerow is a contributory element in some middle and A483 proposed limited changes this is one of the most long distance views in which it is a in a prominent (Road widening to 5.0m from 2100m to open and elevated sections and its roadside location hence unless any lost sections are replaced by 2400m plus two 6m wide passing places hedgerows are likely to be components close to the new planting (translocation unlikely to be successful in (sTMP Figure 6-4j) skyline in some middle and long distance views from an exposed location using sometimes old cutback stock) the north and north-west. the removal of a feature in these views would potentially have a low magnitude of visual effect and consequently no significant effects would arise. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Not clear if Pen-y-waun some 170m to the south-east There would be no views from Pen-y-waun due to is between the A489 Kerry Road and the is inhabited or just barns. lower elevation and belt of mature tree cover to its A483 immediate west. (Road widening to 5m from 2400m to 2700m plus two 6m wide passing places) (sTMP Figure 6-4k) Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Lower Blackhill is located some 200m to the west. Residents at Lower Blackhill would have no views of the between the A489 Kerry Road and the changes to the hedgerows as the property is 30-40m A483 lower and the tabletop effect would come into play. No (Road widening to 5m from 2700m to potential significant effects. 3000m plus one 6m wide passing places ) (sTMP Figure 6-4l) Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Blackhill is located some 150m to the west. The Residents at Blackhill would be unlikely to have any between the A489 Kerry Road and the buildings besides the road are only barns. East View views of Section 6-4m as the property is at slightly lower A483 is located some 50m to the east immediately south level and orientated so that the main front elevation is (Road widening to 5m from 3000m to of the coniferous shelterbelt. south-facing. The coniferous shelterbelt that runs 3300m plus one 6m wide passing adjacent to the eastern side of the road for this entire places) section would screen any potential views from this (sTMP Figure 6-4m) direction and also strongly restricts the potential views
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation from East View to its immediate south leaving only oblique or western gable end views of any changes around the road junction at the southern end of this section. Hence residents would have some views of the widening of the junction to accommodate the swept path requirement and the replanted, realigned short section of field boundary hedgerow. These changes could generate no-more than low magnitudes of visual change for these residential visual receptors hence the level of visual effect would be no more than moderate and not significant. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road Blackhill is located in a slightly elevated location a Residents at Blackhill would have views of the wind between the A489 Kerry Road and the minimum of 130m north of Section 6-4n. No other turbine component delivery vehicle hold area on the A483 properties are located close to any of these three northern side of the section of the Vastre Route to their (Road widening to 5.0m from 3300m to sections. Likewise there are no potentially affected south whose formation would require the removal and 4300m plus three 6m wide passing public rights of way. possible replanting or translocation of ~200m of places) hedgerow. Residents’ views from ground floor windows (sTMP Figures 6-4n, o and p) on their southern elevation and from within the garden Incorporating Passing Place Pantgwyn, would be filtered by the mature garden vegetation and (sTMP Figure 6-3d) boundary hedgerow but these would be less effective in views from the first floor windows. It is assessed that these changes would be likely to generate a low magnitude of visual change resulting in a moderate level of visual effect which would be not significant. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road There is an unnamed modern isolated two storey The detailed engineering plans show that the proposed between the A489 Kerry Road and the residential property located slightly back from the carriageway improvements in the vicinity of this A483 southern side of the road at 4370m. It has a front property would not require the loss of any sections of (Road widening to 5.0m width from garden laid to lawn and then a roadside hard the tall southern roadside hedgerow. Hence this 4300m to 4600m plus two 6m wide standing area. hedgerow would continue to provide the residents’ with passing places) heavy filtering in their oblique views west and east (sTMP Figure 6-4q) along Section 6-4q. Hence the only visual change would be the replacement of some of the grass verge opposite with grasscrete which would represent only a negligible magnitude of visual change and hence a slight level of visual effect that would be not significant.
Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road No residential properties are located alongside or Residents in Labour in Vain could have partial views of
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation between the A489 Kerry Road and the close to this section but the residents of Labour in the carriage way widening and re-profiling works. These A483 Vain, an isolated property on the northern edge of will impact upon the steep grass verges but may not (Road widening to 5.0m from 4600m to Dolfor, could have some limited northern views. require the loss of any sections of roadside hedgerow. 4900m plus two 6m wide passing No views available to residents in Genau-hafod Such view would only be available from a couple of first places) located to the north-west due to intervening higher floor windows on the property’s rear, north-western (sTMP Figure 6-4r) ground. elevation. These minor changes would represent only a negligible magnitude of visual change and hence a slight level of visual effect that would be not significant. Swept Path Analysis Unclassified Road The limited carriage way widening works on the Only residents in the northern most of this line of between the A489 Kerry Road and the verge on the southern side of Vastre Route would be properties would be likely to have clear views of the A483 opposite an estimated seven residential properties more extensive changes to the verge and possibly the (Road widening to between 4.5m and plus the Dolfor Inn. These properties are mainly hedgerow bank required to accommodate the swept 5m from 4900m to 5300m; allowance modern bungalows with small east-facing front vehicle path at the final bend before Vastre Route for swept path; passing places at two gardens laid to lawn. enters Dolfor. Residents in the remaining properties curves; relocation of estimated four would only potentially have views of the minor telegraph poles and three lighting carriageway widening works opposite their properties. columns) The widened carriageway including a passing place (sTMP Figures 6-4s and 6-4t) would represent only low magnitudes of visual change for these residential visual receptors with a consequent moderate level of visual effect that would be not significant.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Heol Treowen Option and Mochre Industrial Estate Option – See Figure 3-2 and Figure 3-3
Table 5.9 – Landscape Assessment of Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options (Arup study) Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
See Table 5.7 above. Swept Path Analysis Kerry Road A483/A489 (Figure 3.2 A483/A489 Newtown Detail A). (sTMP Figure 6-4b) Mixed woodland with understory and grass Direct effects from the localised loss of a section of woodland Heol Treowen (Figure 3.2 Detail B) verge. Ornamental mature trees and low shrubs and grass verge. The sensitivity of the landscape receptor is also present. assessed as low to medium, as this is on the fringes of an urban area. The magnitude of change is deemed to be slight adverse and the resulting significance of the impact will be not significant. Improved grassland with species poor hedgerow. Direct effects from the localised loss of a section of semi A483 Junction with Middle Dolfor Timber fence. Isolated young tree and grass improved grassland and hedgerow of medium sensitivity. The Road verge. magnitude of change is deemed to be negligible and the (Figure 3.2 Detail C) resulting significance of the impact will be not significant. Semi-improved grassland and ground cover Direct effects from the localised loss of the oak tree and a short A483 Black Hall vegetation. Embankment with species poor section of hedgerow. Sensitivity is deemed to be medium and (Figure 3.2 Detail D) hedgerow and mature oak tree. impact magnitude of change slight adverse (due to the requirement to re-profile the bank), resulting in an impact that will be not significant. Semi-improved grassland and post and wire Localised loss of a section of semi-improved grassland. A483 Glascoed Hall fence. Sensitivity of the receptor is low to medium. Magnitude of (Figure 3.2 Detail E) change will be negligible and therefore the significance of the impact not significant. Semi-improved grassland and hedgerow. Localised loss of a section of semi-improved grassland and A483 Dolfor hedgerow. Sensitivity of the receptor is low to medium. (Figure 3.2 Detail F) Magnitude of change will be negligible and therefore the significance of the impact not significant. Rough grass verge. Localised loss of section of rough grass verge. Sensitivity is A483 near Cwmyrhiwdre wood medium and the magnitude of change will be negligible resulting (Figure 3.2 Detail G) in an impact that is not significant.
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Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Semi-improved grassland with, maintained and Direct effects from the loss of a large area of semi improved Mochdre Industrial Estate (Figure overgrown, species poor hedgerows. Grass grassland, hedgerows, shelterbelts and woodland. The landscape 3.3) verge, various shelter belts and areas of mixed can be assessed as medium sensitivity and the magnitude of woodland. Post and wire fence. change is deemed to be moderate adverse. Therefore the resulting significance of the impact will be signiifcant.
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Table 5.10 Visual Assessment of Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation See Table 5.8 above. Swept Path Analysis Kerry Road A483/A489 (Figure 3.2 A483/A489 Newtown Detail A). (sTMP Figure 6-4b) Property to the south of the Vastre Industrial Direct views of a small section of the Access Proposals are likely Heol Treowen (Figure 3.2 Detail B) Estate. from the property itself, although there is screening present in the form of buildings and vegetation. The sensitivity of this visual receptor is medium. The magnitude of the impact will be negligible at most, resulting in an impact that would be not significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At worst, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact can be assessed as not significant. Group of properties on the outskirts of Newtown Residents of these properties will have direct views of the Access A483 Junction with Middle Dolfor approximately 200m from the Access Proposals. Proposals, and the sensitivity of these receptors will be medium. Road The Access Proposals would be perceived in the context of the (Figure 3.2 Detail C) existing road and therefore the magnitude of change would be negligible and the resulting impact not significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At most, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact can be assessed as not significant. Black Hall to the north of the Access Proposals, Residents of both properties will have oblique long distance views A483 Black Hall on a slightly lower elevation. of the Access Proposals. The sensitivity of the receptors would be (Figure 3.2 Detail D) Ffrydd Vaughan to the west of the Access medium. The magnitude of change will be slight adverse due to Proposals on a higher elevation. the loss of vegetation, but only a small portion of the view would be affected. Therefore the impact will be not significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At worst, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact will be not significant. Glascoed house located approximately 150m to Residents of the property will have oblique views of the Access A483 Glascoed Hall the west of the Access Proposals. Public right of Proposals. The sensitivity of the receptor is low and the (Figure 3.2 Detail E) way passes along the road immediately to the magnitude of change will be negligible resulting in an impact that west of the Access Proposals. is not significant. Impacts on the public right of way, of medium sensitivity will be negligible, resulting in an impact that is not significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At worst, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact can be assessed as not significant. One residential property located (The Smithy) Residents of the Smithy will have direct of the Access Proposals. A483 Dolfor immediately north of the Access Proposals. St Paul’s church will be largely screened by vegetation. Dolfor (Figure 3.2 Detail F) Dolfor Free Church located immediately south of free church will have direct view, and Dolfor Primary School the Access Proposals. Dolfor Primary School and oblique and more distant views of the Access Proposals. These St Paul’s Church further from the Access receptors are considered medium sensitivity, and the magnitude Proposals. of change will be slight, due to the limited land take and proposals for use of grasscrete and hedgerow restoration. Impacts therefore will be not significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At worst, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact can be assessed as not significant. No residential receptors are present. Potential Potential direct view from public right of way, which is medium A483 near Cwmyrhiwdre wood public right of way passes through the Access sensitivity. The magnitude of the impact of change will be (Figure 3.2 Detail G) Proposals although there is limited evidence of negligible, subject to the refinement of designs (restoration using its existence and use. grasscrete or similar) and therefore impacts will be not significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At worst, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of
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Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Assessment Including Potential for Mitigation the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact can be assessed as not significant. Group of properties on the outskirts of Newtown Residents at Garth Owen properties will have direct views of the Mochdre Industrial Estate (Figure (Garth Owen) immediately to the north of the Access Proposals, and the sensitivity of these receptors will be 3.3) Access Proposals. medium. The Access Proposals would cause a noticeable change to the view affecting the appreciation of the landscape, therefore the magnitude of change would be moderate adverse and the resulting impact moderately significant. Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially experience a change in the views along this section. This change will be of moderate adverse magnitude due to the scale of the proposed works and the noticeable change to the view. Therefore the resulting impact can be assessed as moderately significant.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
Table 5.11 Landscape Assessment of Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Site Entrance 1 – Plan 01589D2430- Broad rough grass verge (3m approx.) along In order to provide the required visibility splay an area of the 03 A483 bend. 2.5m bank with species poor bank will be re-profiled and moved to the south with direct hedgerow (medium-height and poor condition) impact on the grass verge and hedgerow to the southern edge as and post and wire fence along southbound of shown on plan 01589D2430-03. This area will be levelled and this section. Hedgerow and fence placed along resurfaced with grasscrete. Although the grass verge is broad the top of embankment forming the boundary to a introduction of the new western access and grasscrete for over semi-improved grassland field. Some scattered run will have direct impacts on the existing verge and hedgerow. trees (mainly hawthorn) from overgrown Even though the new access road can be perceived within the hedgerow. context of the existing A483, it may detract from the Rough grass verge becomes wider (5m) closer to predominant landscape character on a highly localised scale. the location of proposed western access along The predominantly landscape character comprising of rolling with species poor hedgerow and post and wire farmland, field patterns and interspersed plantations result in a fence. Hedgerow is of poor quality with breaks well-defined sense of place and medium sensitivity as a and dead sections. A semi-improved grassland landscape receptor. The proposed new access will change the field gently rises to the northwest. There is a landform and predominant character introducing a new conifer plantation in the distance. ‘intrusive’ element (proposed new access) with non-natural materials surfacing (grasscrete and tarmac). The magnitude of change will be moderately adverse and the resulting significance of the impact moderately significant on a highly localised scale. Grasscrete will be allowed to re-vegetate over short to medium term helping its reintegration into local landscape.
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Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Site Entrance 2– Plan 01589D2430- Rough grass verge (1.5m approx.), semi- Direct effects from the localised loss of a section of grass verge. 03 improved grassland, post and wire fence to both No other loss of vegetation. Introduction of grasscrete apron for sides of unclassified road. A low embankment over run. New access is likely to be fenced in similar style to the (0.5m) is featured to the east of the one removed. unclassified road at this section where the The sensitivity of the landscape receptor is assessed as medium. ground gently slopes upwards on the same The magnitude of change will be slight adverse as the new direction. access is localised and does not extend in length, though it still affects the character of this landscape receptor. The resulting significance of the impact will be not significant. Potential scope for mitigation: fencing replacement, grasscrete will be allowed to re-vegetate over short to medium term helping its reintegration into local landscape. Site Entrance 3– Plan 01589D2430- Rough grass verge (1.5m approx.), semi- Direct impacts on localised section of grass verge and post and 03 improved grassland, post and wire fence to both wire fence. No other loss of vegetation. Introduction of sides of unclassified road. Ground sloping grasscrete apron for over run. New access is likely to be fenced upwards above embankment (0.5m) and along in similar style to the one removed. eastbound of unclassified road. On this section the sensitivity of the landscape receptor assessed as low to medium due to the lack of distinctive features south of Kerry Hills. The scale and length of the proposed works and the minor changes on adjacent landform will cause a perceptible but localised change of the landscape character. However, this change will be perceived within the context of an existing road and therefore the resulting magnitude of change will be slight adverse hence a not significant impact. Potential scope for mitigation: fencing replacement, grasscrete will be allowed to re-vegetate over short to medium term helping its reintegration into local landscape.
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Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Detail A-01589D2423-05 The access road is diverted in two. One access Direct effects from the localised loss of an area of the conifer will serve the residential dwelling at Hafod- plantation south of Hafod-fach as a result of the proposed works fach. A separate access runs adjacent to an for the access to Hafod-fach residential dwelling. The main route agricultural building to join an existing track on runs through a short open section of the conifer plantation, some a northwest direction as the main route into minor loss of trees may occur. This tree plantation is not an Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm. abundant landscape element and it functions as a shelterbelt for Existing track to be upgraded. Semi improved the adjacent fields as well as screening views south of Hafod- grassland to both sides of track on leveled fach. Both landscape elements will have a direct impact through surface. Conifer plantation south of Hafod-fach. the localised loss of trees and pasture. There will be some direct Possible post and wire fence. impacts on semi-improve grassland verge as a result of track widening to form upgraded crossings and access road. The post and wire fence will not be affected. The magnitude of change will be moderate adverse resulting in a moderately significant impact on a highly localised scale. The upgrading of the existing track will result on the localised loss of an area of semi-improved grassland along the track’s length. This existing track occupies the majority of this section of proposed works where the magnitude of change will be negligible resulting on a not significant impact. Potential scope for mitigation introducing new hedgerows, fencing and tree planting. Grasscrete will be allowed to re- vegetate over short to medium term helping its reintegration into local landscape.
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Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Detail B-01589D2423-05 Semi-improved grassland. Conifer plantation at Direct effects from the loss of an area of semi-improve grassland new crossing required. Hedgerows on field and a short section of hedgerow. There will be direct effects at a boundaries. local scale through the change in the landscape character resulting from the new road cutting through existing farm fields and boundaries in a curvilinear alignment. The length and alignment of the proposed new road implies that this proposal will not fit with the scale, pattern or character of the predominant landscape features. The medium sensitivity of the landscape combined with the moderate adverse landscape magnitude will result in a significant impact, although this will only be perceived at local level considering the relatively small study area in which this assessment is based. There is scope for mitigation by introducing new planting, although the road alignment will in any case disturb the defined sense of place and character of this landscape receptor. Detail A-01589D2431-04 Broad verge, semi-improved grassland, post and Based on sections shown in drawing number 01589D2431-04 sheet wire fence. The ground slopes down on east- 4, direct impacts are anticipated on the semi-improved grassland west direction. verge as a result of the widening of the existing road to the west (up to 3 meters in some parts). The post and wire fence will be affected along most of this section. The sensitivity of the landscape receptor has been assessed as low to medium. The proposed works comprise an upgrade of the existing road and will be perceived in the context of the existing road. The length of the intervention is considerable creating a perceptible deterioration in the scale and landform resulting in a slight adverse landscape impact. The combination of sensitivity and magnitude will result in the landscape impact being not significant. Potential scope for mitigation by introducing new hedgerow and reinstating the existing post and wire fence.
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Site Name/Reference Landscape Features Present Landscape assessment Including Potential for Mitigation
Detail B-01589D2431-04 Broad verge, semi-improved grassland, post and Based on sections shown in drawing number 01589D2431-04 sheet wire fence. The ground slopes down on east- 4, direct impacts are anticipated on the semi-improved grassland west direction. verge as a result of the widening the existing road to the west (up to 3 meters in some parts). The post and wire fence will be affected along most of this section. The sensitivity of the landscape receptor has been assessed as low to medium. The proposed works comprise an upgrade of the existing road and will be perceived in the context of the existing road. The length of the intervention is considerable creating a perceptible deterioration in the scale and landform resulting in a slight adverse landscape impact. The combination of sensitivity and magnitude will result in the landscape impact being not significant. Potential scope for mitigation by introducing new hedgerow and reinstating the existing post and wire fence.
Table 5.12. Visual Assessment of Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Implications for Access Proposals
Site Entrance 1 – Plan 01589D2430- Upper Crochran features a group of agricultural Occasional glimpsed views would be possible for low sensitivity 03 buildings and cottage located to the southwest vehicular visual receptors using this section of A483. Changes of this section at approximately 250 meters would represent a high magnitude of visual change and from the proposed site entrance 1 access. At consequently would result on a moderately significant impact. lower elevation but in favourable orientation Residents at Upper Crochran would only have filtered views with mature vegetation potentially screening through the woodland immediately in front of the dwelling. the view to the north of the dwelling. These views will result on a low magnitude of visual change hence the visual effect will be not significant.
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Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Implications for Access Proposals
Site Entrance 2– Plan 01589D2430- Potential recreational receptors on PRoW Views are likely from the properties which are deemed to be 03 footpath running along adjacent field boundary sensitive visual receptors. Occasional glimpsed views would be and across Gwenlas valley towards Glyndwr Way possible for low sensitivity vehicular visual receptors using this with direct views into site entrance 2. section of the secondary road. Changes would represent a high magnitude of visual change and consequently would result on a moderately significant impact. The nearby PRoW is a medium sensitive visual receptor with potential users going to or coming from Glyndwr Way Long Distance Route. The low embankment to the west of the access will hide most of the proposed works from this receptor, therefore changes to the view are considered to be of low magnitude resulting in a not significant impact. Site Entrance 3–Plan 01589D2430-03 Potentially recreational receptors along PRoW Vehicular visual receptors using the road itself would potentially crossing Gwenlas valley and joining Glyndwr experience a change in the glimpsed views along this section. At Way. Direct views into site entrance 3. worst, this change will be of low magnitude due to the scale of Potential recreational receptors along the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to Glyndwr’s Way Long Distance Route on the and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the south face of Bryn Mawr hill, approximately resulting impact can be assessed as not significant. 1km to the southeast of site access 3. The recreational receptors along PRoW and Glyndwr’s Way are of medium to high sensitivity with potential direct views into the proposed works at this access. The change in view will be of low magnitude due to the long distance from the receptor, the scale of the proposed works and its perception as an upgrade adjacent to and within the context of the existing road. Therefore the resulting impact again can be assessed as not significant.
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Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Implications for Access Proposals
Detail A-01589D2423-05 Hafod-fach is an obvious residential receptor Residents at Hafod-fach will have direct views of the new track with the proposed new track serving the as well as to the changes to upgrade the existing crossing and existing cottage. track. The sensitivity of this residential receptor can be assessed Changes could potentially be visible to residents as medium with windows fronting the proposed new access road at Eisgairdraenllwyn located half a kilometre to and upgraded crossing. The magnitude of change in this case will the northwest. be high due to the proximity of the receptor and the scale and Potential recreational receptors along size of the changes directly affecting the view, resulting in a unclassified bridleway running from Pen-I-Thon significant impact although this will only be perceived at local Baptist Chapel to Garn Cottage. level considering the relatively small study area in which this assessment is based. Residents at Eisgairdraenllwyn would have direct views from living room and bedroom windows on two floors. The shelterbelt and hedgerow opens up in front of this residential property allowing long distance views into Hafod-fach and a section of the proposed new track and upgraded crossing. The sensitivity of this receptor can be assessed as medium due to the moderate value and interest of the visual environment. The considerable distance from the receptor to the proposed works reduces the magnitude of change to low. The proposed works will cause a perceptible change to the view but only a small part of it will be affected. The resulting impact will not be significant. The low sensitivity of the receptors along the unclassified bridleway is because of the unlikely recreational value of this route, although some residents may use it for farm related activities. These users will have glimpses of the upgraded track along its northern section. There is a point where this route crosses the upgraded track where the magnitude of change to the view could be considered medium depending on the materials used and the final width of the track. In any case, due to the low sensitivity of this receptor and the upgrading nature of the works the resulting impact is expected to be not significant. Other visual receptors with potential views of changes along this section would be road users. Potential scope for mitigation would include the use of materials that can relate to the rural character of the area.
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Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Implications for Access Proposals
Detail B-01589D2423-05 Recreational receptors along bridleway running The low sensitivity of the receptors along the unclassified from Pen-I-Thon Baptist Chapel to Garn Cottage bridleway is due to the unlikely recreational value of this route, and farm buildings. Proposed upgrading works although some residents may use for farm related activities. include a section of this route. Users will have direct views into the proposed new track which Potential recreational receptors along various crosses various grazing fields and hedgerows. In this case the PRoWs within Banc Gorddwr Common Land magnitude of change of the view is medium as some important Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural features of the landscape will be lost creating a perceptible Beauty (AONB) is located 6km to the east of this change to the view and the landscape character. The resulting access, outside this assessment’s study area. impact is expected to not significant. Radnor Forest Special Landscape Area (SLA) is Potential recreational receptors within the Banc Gorddwr located at approximately 12 kms to the Common Land could be of medium sensitivity due to the southeast of this access, outside this particular interest in the visual environment and prolonged assessment’s study area. viewing opportunities. Although more than 1 kilometre away, direct views will be possible at various points along PRoW on the southern face of Banc Gorddwr hill. The proposed new track would be perceived as an intrusive element diminishing the appreciation of the landscape character with a curvilinear alignment that crosses numerous fields and some hedgerows. A predominantly rolling topography and the numerous interspersed conifer plantations will help to mitigate the impact on these views which magnitude of change is assessed as medium resulting on a moderately significant impact, although this will only be perceived at local level considering the relatively small study area in which this assessment is based. Various factors such as distance, topography and the intervening presence of conifer plantations and copses of mature trees make any direct impact upon receptors at Shropshire Hills AONB or Radnor Forest SLA, unlikely. Other visual receptors with potential views of changes along this section would be road users. There is scope for mitigation by introducing new planting, although the new road alignment will break important elements of the landscape character such us the combination of rolling topography and field patterns.
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Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Implications for Access Proposals
Detail A-01589D2431-04 A number of farm buildings and dwellings are Residents at Blaen-nant-du are unlikely to sustain any visual featured within Blaen-nant-du, located 150m to effects from within and immediately adjacent to their property the southwest of site entrance 2. A mature tree due to its orientation and the proximity of associated plantation is shown immediately north and a agricultural outbuildings and shelterbelt. The coniferous shelterbelt of mature trees stretches along a shelterbelt that runs adjacent to the south-eastern boundary of field boundary to the southeast of this the property would screen and strongly restrict potential views. property. Recreational users along the PRoW and Glyndwr Way are unlikely Potential recreational receptors along PRoW to have any views of the proposed works. The widening of the crossing Gwenlas valley and into Glyndwr Way road is only proposed along the northern edge of this unclassified with direct views towards the proposed works in road. The existing topography will hide the proposed works from this section. potential views along these receptors. Shropshire Hills AONB is located 6km to the east Due to the small scale of the proposed works, distance and the of this access, outside this assessment’s study intervening topography and wooded areas, it is unlikely that area. Radnor Forest Special Landscape Area is there will be impacts upon these receptors. located at approximately 12 kms to the southeast of this access, outside this assessment’s study area.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
Site Name/Reference Residential Properties Visual Implications for Access Proposals
Detail B-01589D2431-04 Blaen-nant-du is located 200m to the southeast Residents at Blaen-nant-du are unlikely to sustain any visual of site entrance 3. effects from within and immediately adjacent to their property Garn Cottage and associated agricultural due to its orientation and the proximity of agricultural buildings are located 800 meters to the west of outbuildings and a shelterbelt. The coniferous shelterbelt that this section. The Cottage is arranged around a runs adjacent to the south-eastern boundary of the property courtyard adjacent to the unclassified road would screen any potential views and also strongly restricts the leading to Blaen-nant-du. A shelterbelt of potential views. mature trees is featured immediately east of Residents at Garn Cottage are unlikely to sustain any visual Garn Cottage. A well-established hedgerow runs effects from within and immediately adjacent to their property. along the westbound of this road and in front of The only possible views will be from the second floor windows, this property. at an oblique angle and screened by the adjacent shelterbelt. An unclassified dwelling along the unclassified Residents at the unclassified dwelling will only have oblique road between Garn Cottage and Blaen-nant-du views of the widening of the existing unclassified road at this is located 750 m to the west of site entrance 3 section. These views will only be possible from the eastern on an elevated location with direct long windows and front garden as the mature shelterbelt in front of distance views across Cwm nant du valley and the property would screen any potential views from other parts into the area of proposed works of the house. Once the construction is completed the magnitude Potential recreational receptors along PRoW of visual change will be low considering the proposed works will crossing Gwenlas valley and into Glyndwr Way be difficult to perceive only affecting a small part of the view. with direct views towards proposed works in The changes are likely to be perceived in the context of the this section. existing road and although the sensitivity of the receptor is Potential recreational receptors along medium the resulting impact would be not significant. Glyndwr’s Way Long Distance Route on the Recreational users along the PRoW and Glyndwr Way are unlikely south face of Bryn Mawr hill at approximately to have any views of the proposed works. The widening of the 1km to the southeast of site entrance 3. road is proposed only along the northern edge of this unclassified Shropshire Hills AONB is located 6km to the east road. The existing topography will screen the proposed works of this access, outside this assessment’s study from potential views along this receptor. area. Radnor Forest Special Landscape Area is Due to the small scale of the proposed works, distance, located at approximately 12 kms to the topography and the intervening wooded areas, it is unlikely that southeast of this access, outside this there will be any impacts on these receptors. assessment’s study area. Other visual receptors with potential views of changes along this section would be road users.
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5.7 Cumulative Impacts
5.7.1 Cumulative landscape effects, which take into consideration all of the assessed works (rather than any unrelated works), are likely to be no greater than minor. This is as a result of the separation distances between those locations likely to experience landscape effects along the routes and the minor nature of those individual effects.
5.7.2 Residents would be likely to experience no cumulative visual effects when all of the assessed works are considered (rather than any unrelated works). This is because of the separation distances between those locations where works occur. However, road users may experience the works in a sequential manner as they move along the routes. In this scenario the cumulative visual effects are unlikely to be greater than minor due to the separation distances between the individual works, the minor visual change as a result of the individual works, the temporary nature of any construction period and the context of any changes within an existing road infrastructure.
5.7.3 The strategic route has been identified for the movement of turbine components to SSAs B and C in Mid Wales. Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would address the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures. Therefore the management of cumulative impacts has been considered in the design of the Access Proposals.
5.8 Mitigation and Enhancement
5.8.1 Mitigation measures are those set out in tables 5.7-5.10 and embedded into the design of the Strategic Route and Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route.
5.8.2 Further design mitigation would be employed during the detailed design of the Mochre Industrial Estate Option to minimise loss of landscape features such as hedgerows and woodland where possible during the detailed design stage.
5.9 Conclusions
5.9.1 Direct impacts are predicted on landscape features, mostly verges and hedgerows and a section of conifer tree plantation along the Strategic Route, Heol Treowen Option, Mochdre Industrial Estate and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route. These are extensive landscape features, of which mainly small sections will be affected. Within the context of the local area and road and track network these changes are likely to be minor or not significant in most sections with the exceptions of the proposed works shown on Figures Site Entrance 1 01589D2430-03 and 01589D2423-05 (Appendix 2) and at the Mochre Industrial Estate. In these cases some of the predicted impacts are assessed as to moderately significant, mainly due to the nature and scale of the proposed works which directly change the character of the landscape receptors, although this will only be perceived at local level considering the relatively small study area in which this assessment is based.
5.9.2 The replacement of grass verges with cellular grassed reinforced paving is likely to enable the hardened verges to re-vegetate, reducing landscape impacts in the medium and long term. Where removal of sections of hedgerows and trees would be unavoidable, mitigation measures including the replacement of planting of hedgerows and trees and their subsequent establishment and management should reduce impacts on the medium to long term. In most cases landscape character effects as a result of the proposed works are likely to be localised and minor both at the individual locations and cumulatively along the proposed routes and would again reduce with time as mitigation planting establishes. Most of the Access Proposals including all of the Strategic Route, Heol Treowen Option, and Mochdre Industrial Estate are likely to be experienced in context of the adjoining highway and its associated infrastructure.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route Environmental Statement
5.9.3 There are several properties and recreational receptors that are located within the study area some at close distance of the Access Proposals (nominally less than 100 m). The main residential receptor for which visual amenity will be affected is the dwelling at Hafod- fach due to the close proximity and scale of the proposed works. Similarly other recreational receptors along Pen-I-Thon Baptist Chapel to Garn Cottage bridleway and at various PRoWs within Banc Gorddwr Common Land, are likely to be affected with changes to their visual amenity. This effect is considered to be moderately significant locally. However as it affects a single property and a short length of public right of way, within the wider context and scale of the local landscape it is considered not significant in terms of the EIA. Residents at Garth Owen on the outskirts of Newtown could experience moderately signficant effects from the construction of the Mochre Industrial Estate Option, subject to minimisation of effects during detailed design.
5.9.4 During the construction phase, vehicles, machines, material stockpiles and supporting elements such as fencing and facilities may be visible in some views available to the residents of these properties. However, the construction phase at each location is considered likely to be short enough for the effects on upon resident’s views to be limited and as such these short-lived visual effects would be of the type that could reasonably be expected to take place occasionally along any adopted road. As such these would be not not significant. During operational phase the wind turbine delivery convoy’s use of the passing places is likely to be infrequent and short-lived and therefore visual impacts associated with the operation of the convoy itself are considered to be minimal.
5.9.5 Where residents’ views would not be screened by retained vegetation the construction works themselves will be brief and of a scale and appearance redolent of the sort of occasional road maintenance works that can reasonably be expected to take place. Most of the works close to properties will consist of verge hardening that will likely re-vegetate within the medium term and until this is complete the hardened verges would be likely to be perceived appearing as minor and insignificant changes. There are no locations where the requisite hedgerow removal would be likely to provide any of the limited number of local residents with a clear view of the road where they did not previously have any such views.
5.10 References
The Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2002) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Second Edition.
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6. ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
6.1 Introduction
6.1.1 Ecology has been considered in the design of the Strategic Route, in consultation with the relevant stakeholders as set out in Section 3 Description of Development. An assessment of this route was undertaken by Amec. Information from this report has been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA. 6.1.2 An ecological assessment of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access from the Strategic Route to the proposed wind farm was undertaken by Ecology Matters as part of an EIA for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008). Information from this assessment has also been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA.
6.2 Scope of Assessment
6.2.1 The study area comprises of land within 1km of the Access Proposals identified in Section 3 of this ES. 6.2.2 Locations have been included in this assessment where there are prima facie (at first view) grounds for a potential effect, based on the information provided in the sTMP, such as ground disturbance, the removal of trees, etc. No effects are predicted for those locations not included in the assessment, such as minor works comprising alterations within the existing highway, movement of signage, maintenance type operations (e.g. hedge trimming) etc. 6.2.3 The results of the data collection and site visits have been summarised within Table 6.1 and from section 6.11. The passing place and swept path analysis locations have also been cross-referenced within the tables to the corresponding sTMP figure which are presented in Appendix 1. 6.2.4 The detailed design of the passing places and other highway works will be agreed with the relevant Highways Authorities. For example, it could be agreed that the use of a cellular concrete grassed paving for the passing places would be a more appropriate solution than the use of bound surface; however each location will be reviewed individually. Recommendations are made for each topic within this assessment for further survey work and/or mitigation that may be appropriate in light of detailed design.
6.3 Assessment Methodology
6.3.1 The Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) for the Access Proposals follows the published guidance by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM). The assessment has involved the following key stages: • Scoping and consultation; • Identification of the likely zone of influence of the Access Proposals (study area); • Identification and evaluation of ecological resources and features likely to be affected (the baseline environment); • Identification of the biophysical changes likely to affect valued ecological resources and features and an assessment of whether these biophysical changes are likely to give rise to a significant ecological effect; • Refinement of the Access Proposals to incorporate ecological mitigation and enhancement measures to avoid, reduce or compensate for any significant adverse effects; and • Assessment of the predicted residual effects taking mitigation and enhancement measures into account and evaluation of the significance of the consequent residual effects. 6.3.2 The likely zones of influence identified comprise:
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• An immediate zone of influence within the site; and • A wider zone of influence extending to all areas/receptors that could be affected by the Access Proposals. 6.3.3 Establishment of the baseline environment has involved a combination of desk based study, data collation and site survey. Scoping and consultation has been undertaken in relation to the sTMP and Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES on which this assessment is based.
6.4 Assumptions and limitations
6.4.1 A hedgerow assessment under the Hedgerows Regulations (1997) will be undertaken if required to determine if hedges qualify under the Regulations. Qualifying hedges require consent from the LPA prior to removal. 6.4.2 Surveys were undertaken subject to available access.
6.5 Identification and Characterisation of Potential Effects
6.5.1 The elements of the Access Proposals that are most relevant to the assessment of effects on the ecology and nature conservation resource are: • Construction activities, including their duration and the nature of disturbing and polluting activities; • Impact associated with the movement of oversized vehicles; and • The footprint of the access track.
6.6 Assessment of Significance
6.6.1 The EcIA for the Access Proposals follows published guidance by CIEEM. Firstly, the value of ecological resources potentially affected by the Access Proposals is assessed. The ecological resources and features present on the site are assigned values using a geographical scale of reference, according principally to their biodiversity value, plus any social, community or economic value that can be attributed to them, and their legal protection status. 6.6.2 The geograpgical frame of reference used for evaluation of ecological resources in this assessment is as follows: • International; • UK; • National (Wales); • Regional (Mid Wales); • County (Powys); • District (Montgomeryshire); • Local; and • Within immediate zone of influence.
6.6.3 Evaluation is based upon both the baseline data established by survey, consultation, and the context of the records against the established criteria, appropriate policies and guidance. 6.6.4 Professional judgement is also used, based upon available information on that resource or feature, such as local distribution and status, wider population trends and expert advice. Reference has also been made to UK and local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) as appropriate.
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6.7 Ecological Significance
6.7.1 An ecologically significant impact is defined as an impact (negative or positive) on the integrity of a defined site or ecosystem and/or the conservation status of habitats or species within a given geographical area. The ecological significance of an impact is not dependent on the value of the feature in question; rather the value of the feature is used to determine the geographic scale at which the impact is significant. For example, an ecologically significant impact on a feature assessed as being of value at the District level is regarded as a significant impact at a District level.
6.8 Significance of Impacts
6.8.1 Detailed assessment of impacts has been limited to ecological receptors considered to be of value at the ‘local’ level or above, other than where receptors of lesser value are subject to some form of legal protection or they act in combination to lead to a cumulative impact. 6.8.2 The potential impacts on those resources are then identified and characterised with consideration to the following: • Beneficial or adverse impact; • Magnitude – quantification where possible, of impact, e.g., area of habitat loss, partial loss of habitat; • Extent – area over which the impact occurs (when considering habitat loss the magnitude and the extent are the same); • Duration – given with consideration to the functioning of the ecosystem or species, e.g., five generations of dragonflies; • Reversibility – an impact is reversible if spontaneous recovery is possible or if mitigation is possible and an enforceable commitment has been made; and • Timing and frequency – timing of the works in relation to critical life-stages or seasons, and how often an impact will occur. 6.8.3 A level of confidence is also ascribed to the assessment based on the level of certainty in the evaluation of the ecological resource and the prediction of the potential impacts. The confidence level is considered to be high within this EcIA unless otherwise stated.
6.9 Policy Context and Guidance
6.9.1 A framework of international, european, national and local legislation and planning policy guidance exists to protect and conserve wildlife and habitats. The following legislation exists to protect habitats and species of nature conservation importance. 6.9.2 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (the ‘Habitat Regulations’) which transposes Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (‘the Habitats Directive’) into UK law; • Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981 (as amended); • Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006; • National Parks and Access to Countryside Act 1949; • The Hedgerow Regulations 1997; and • The Badgers Act, 1992. 6.9.3 These pieces of legislation include a number of offences relating to protected species and requirements for licences to allow construction works to proceed. In addition the Habitats Regulations set out the requirement for the consideration of the potential effects of a project on European Designated Sites (EDS). 6.9.4 Particular attention has been made to the planning policy and strategy documents listed below that are applicable to assessing the impacts to the ecological resources:
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• EN-1 Overarching Energy National Policy Statement (DECC, 2011a); • EN-3 Renewable Energy Infrastructure NPS (DECC, 2011b); • Planning Policy Wales (PPW) Edition 5 (WG, 2012); • Technical Advice Note (TAN) 5 Nature Conservation (WAG, 2010); • Technical Advice Note (TAN) 8 Renewable Energy (WAG, 2005); • List of Species and Habitats of Principal Importance for the Conservation of Biological Diversity in Wales (WAG, 2007); and • UK Biodiversity Action Plan (1994).
6.10 Data Sources
Strategic Access Route, Heol Treowen Option and Mochdre Industrial Estate
6.10.1 The assessment is primarily based on the Strategic Traffic Management Plan Environmental Assessment of Mid Wales Wind Farms Transport Route prepared by AMEC. This entailed data collection from Powys Biodiversity Information Centre, desktop study and site visits. The assessment includes the consideration of potential environmental effects upon the following: • Statutory and Non-Statutory ecological designations; • Statutorily protected species, including habitats; and • Species/habitats of note and/or of conservation concern (e.g. BAP/LBAP) obtained from the Biodiversity Information Service for Powys. 6.10.2 The Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate options have been assessed by Arup based on a desk based study using the above sources.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route
6.10.3 An ecological walk-over/scoping survey was undertaken for the proposed access route in February 2009. A subsequent updated survey was also undertaken in June 2010. 6.10.4 The access route follows an existing track for approximately 1600m of the overall 3,400m length of track. Consequently the survey focused on habitats directly on and contiguous to the route. A Phase 1 Habitat survey, incorporating a protected species scoping survey for otter Lutra lutra, water vole Arvicola terrestris, badger Meles meles and great-crested newt Triturus cristatus, habitats was undertaken. This entailed an assessment of habitat suitability for key species and recording evidence if present. In addition, any other sensitive ecological receptors were also recorded. 6.10.5 Specialist surveys for water vole were undertaken on all watercourses, ditches and waterbodies within the survey area in accordance with the methodology described in Strachan &. Moorhouse (2006). 6.10.6 The otter survey method used incorporated aspects of the standard methodology for a full survey, as summarised by RSPB, NRA & RSNC (1994) in the New Rivers and Wildlife Handbook. Streams and ditches were searched for evidence of otters; this included signs of spraint, holts, lie-ups, couches, footprints, worn paths, slides and food remains. 6.10.7 Surveys were initially undertaken in February 2009 which can be a sub-optimal period for many species/habitats; consequently further supplementary surveys were undertaken in June 2010. 6.10.8 The Phase 1 Habitat Survey followed standard guidance within the Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – A Standard Methodology by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2007) and involved identifying and mapping areas of homogenous vegetation.
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6.11 Baseline
Strategic Access Route, Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options
6.11.1 The Strategic Route outlined in the sTMP will run along the unclassified road i.e. the minor road referred to as the Vastre. This section of road will be widened by approximately 1m to a width of 5m for 90% of the road with the addition of some pinch points of 4.5m and localised additional widening to 6m to allow for vehicles to pass. There will be drainage provided along the road and there will be some re profiling of the carriageway and re profiling of the earth banks. In addition, seven locations that will require localised widening works on the A483 are considered as part of the Heol Treowen option. These are shown as details A to G in Figure 3.2. On the Mochdre Industrial Estate option, works will comprise widening the route to incorporate areas of existing arable and semi-improved pasture into the route option. These details are shown in Figure 3.3.
Designations
6.11.2 There are no international or national statutory designations, such as SAC, SPA or SSSI within 1km of the Access Proposals. In addition, no locally designated sites were identified within the 1km search radius of the route. However a number of areas of ancient semi- natural woodland and ancient replanted woodland, were recorded within the 1km search area of the Access Proposals.
Habitats and vegetation
6.11.3 The habitats recorded beside the route primarily included species poor semi-improved grassland verges associated with species poor hedges. Occasional areas of grassland appeared to support a more diverse flora; however this was limited to three sections of the route (Table 6.1). 6.11.4 No standing water bodies, i.e. ponds or lakes were recorded within 250m of the route.
Fauna
6.11.5 The verges and associated hedges/scrub were deemed likely to support breeding birds and reptiles. It was also noted that in areas of contiguous woodland there were general opportunities for badgers, although during the surveys no evidence was recorded. Specifically no setts were recorded within 30m of the Access Proposals (subject to available access). The various hedgerow trees along the route were considered to be of limited value for bats. However trees at Bron-y-Vastre and Black Hall were deemed to be suitable for bats. A number of fauna records for protected and priority species were obtained from the Powys Biodiversity Information Centre within the 1km search area. These included Otter, Common Pipistrelle, Brown Long-eared Bat, Badger, Brown Hare, Polecat, Hedgehog and Curlew. In addition, a single record of Dormouse was provided from Penarron Wood, approximately 1.2km east of the route. 6.11.6 At Mochdre Industrial Estate a large tree is present at the western end of the area which may require a bat survey pre construction works to determine any evidence of bats.
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Table 6.1 Baseline and Assessment of Access Proposals on Strategic Route
Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations 1 km Within 1 km
Swept Path Analysis None 1 area of ancient Common Pipistrelle, unidentified bat, Species poor semi- Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Otter and Swallow. improved grassland verge utilise the between the A489 woodland and two with species-poor hedge. hedgerows and Kerry Road and the areas of ancient scrub. No ponds or lakes within A483 replanted woodland. 250m. Reptiles could be (sTMP Figure 6-4c) present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 2 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, unidentified bat, Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Otter, Swallow and Bog Orchid. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and three hedgerow. hedgerows. Kerry Road and the areas of ancient Small area on steep bank Reptiles could be A483 replanted woodland. with wild strawberry present within the (sTMP Figure 6-4d) Fragaria vesca, and dog’s grassland and mercury Mercurialis hedgerow bases. perennis. No ponds or lakes within 250m.
Swept Path Analysis None 3 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Swallow and Bog Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Orchid. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and three hedgerow. hedgerows. Kerry Road and the areas of ancient No ponds or lakes within Reptiles could be A483 replanted woodland. 250m. present within the (sTMP Figure 6-4e) grassland and hedgerow bases.
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations 1 km Within 1 km
Swept Path Analysis None 3 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Bog Orchid and Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Hedgehog. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and two hedgerow and occasional hedgerows. Kerry Road and the areas of ancient hedgerow trees of Reptiles could be A483 replanted woodland. limited potential for bats present within the etc. (sTMP Figure 6-4f) grassland and Steep banks maintain hedgerow bases. open sward with primrose Primula vulgaris. No ponds or lakes within 250m.
Swept Path Analysis None 2 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Bog Orchid and Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Hedgehog. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and two hedgerow and occasional hedgerows. Kerry Road and the areas of ancient hedgerow trees (holly, Reptiles could be A483 replanted woodland. Ilex aquifolium) of present within the limited potential for bats (sTMP Figure 6-4g) grassland and . hedgerow bases. No ponds or lakes within 250m.
Swept Path Analysis None 2 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Bog Orchid and Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Hedgehog. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and one hedgerow and occasional hedgerows. Kerry Road and the area of ancient hedgerow trees of Reptiles could be A483 replanted woodland. limited potential for bats present within the etc. (sTMP Figure 6-4h) grassland and No ponds or lakes within hedgerow bases.
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations 1 km Within 1 km 250m.
Swept Path Analysis None 4 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Bog Orchid and Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Hedgehog. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and one hedgerow and occasional hedgerows and Kerry Road and the area of ancient hedgerow trees of woodland and bats A483 replanted woodland. limited potential for bats the woodland/ etc. mature tree. (sTMP Figure 6-4i) Woodland to the north of Potential for Bron-y-vastre of limited Badgers to have value but one tree setts within the overhanging road with woodland, although bat potential. no signs were recorded. No ponds or lakes within 250m. Reptiles could be present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 6 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Bog Orchid and Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Hedgehog. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and one hedgerow. hedgerows. Kerry Road and the area of ancient No ponds or lakes within Reptiles could be A483 replanted woodland. 250m. present within the (sTMP Figure 6-4j) grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 6 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Bog Orchid and Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Hedgehog. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland and one hedgerow. hedgerows. Kerry Road and the area of ancient No ponds or lakes within Reptiles could be
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations 1 km Within 1 km A483 replanted woodland. 250m. present within the grassland and (sTMP Figure 6-4k) hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 6 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Beetle species of Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural conservation concern (Aphodius with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. zenkeri), Herb Paris. Dormouse hedgerow and coniferous hedgerows and Kerry Road and the record within 1.4km of route. plantation. coniferous A483 plantation. No ponds or lakes within (sTMP Figure 6-4l) 250m. Badgers may have setts within the coniferous woodland, although no signs were recorded Reptiles could be present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 6 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Polecat, Beetle Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural species of conservation concern with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. (Aphodius zenkeri), Curlew, Bluebell, hedgerow and coniferous hedgerows and Kerry Road and the Herb Paris. Dormouse record within plantation. coniferous A483 1.2km of route. plantation.. No ponds or lakes within (sTMP Figure 6-4m) 250m. Badgers may have setts within the coniferous woodland, although no signs were recorded
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations 1 km Within 1 km Reptiles could be present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 6 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, unidentified bat, Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Polecat, Beetle species of with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. conservation concern (Aphodius hedgerow. hedgerows and Kerry Road and the zenkeri), Curlew, Bluebell, Herb coniferous No ponds or lakes within A483 Paris. Dormouse record within 1.2km plantation. 250m. of route. (sTMP Figure 6-4n) Reptiles could be present within the Incorporating grassland and Passing Place hedgerow bases. Pantgwyn, Figure 6- 3d)
Swept Path Analysis None 5 areas of ancient Common Pipistrelle, Brown Long- Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural eared Bat, unidentified bat, Polecat, with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. Beetle species of conservation hedgerow. hedgerows and Kerry Road and the concern (Aphodius zenkeri), Curlew, coniferous No ponds or lakes within A483 Bluebell, Herb Paris. Dormouse record plantation.. 250m. within 1.4km of route. (sTMP Figure 6-4o/ Reptiles could be 6-4p) present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 6 areas of ancient Brown Long-eared Bat, unidentified Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural bat, Polecat, Brown Hare, Beetle with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. species of conservation concern hedgerow. hedgerows and Kerry Road and the (Aphodius zenkeri), Curlew, Bluebell, coniferous No ponds or lakes within A483 Pink Waxcap. plantation.
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations 1 km Within 1 km (sTMP Figure 6-4q/ 250m. Reptiles could be 6.4r) present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
Swept Path Analysis None 3 areas of ancient Brown Long-eared Bat, unidentified Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural bat, Polecat, Brown Hare, Curlew, with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. Bluebell, Pink Waxcap. hedgerow and occasional hedgerows. Kerry Road and the hedgerow trees of Reptiles could be A483 limited potential for present within the bats. (sTMP Figure 6-4s) grassland and Steep banks maintain hedgerow bases. open sward with lesser celandine Ranunculus ficaria, wild strawberry, violet Viola spp. No ponds or lakes within 250m.
Swept Path Analysis None 3 areas of ancient Brown Long-eared Bat, Polecat, Semi-improved grassland Breeding birds may Unclassified Road semi-natural Brown Hare, Pink Waxcap. with species poor utilise the between the A489 woodland. hedgerow. hedgerows and Kerry Road and the coniferous No ponds or lakes within A483 plantation. 250m. (sTMP Figure 6-4t) Reptiles could be present within the grassland and hedgerow bases.
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Table 6.2 Baseline and Assessment of Access Proposals on Heol Treowen Option and Mochdre Industrial Estate
Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations Within 1 km Within 1 km
Kerry Road None 1 area of ancient Otter, Common Pipstrelle, Brown Long- Mostly hard-surfaced sales area, Limited potential A483/A489 semi-natural eared Bat, unidentified bat, Great with strip of species-poor, mown for nesting birds in (Figure 3.2 woodland. Crested Newt, Polecat, Hedgehog, Slow amenity grassland with planted hedge and trees. Detail A). Worm, Common Frog, Palmate Newt, daffodils. Low trimmed hedge of Smooth Newt, Black Poplar, Bluebell, non-native species and a few Green Woodpecker, Tawny Owl, ornamental standard trees. Nuthatch, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Red Kite, Red-backed Shrike, Marsh Tit, Tree Sparrow, House Sparrow, Yellow Wagtail, Black Redstart, Buzzard, Goldfinch, Brambling, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Swift, Swallow, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Herring Gull, Black- headed Gull, Starling, Dunnock, Marbled Pug, Comma butterfly, Swordgrass moth, Banded Demoiselle.
Heol Treowen None 1 area of ancient Otter, Common Pipstrelle, unidentified Species-poor, mown amenity Limited potential (Figure 3.2 semi-natural bat, Polecat, Badger, Hedgehog, Black grassland with scattered young for nesting birds in Detail B) woodland and Poplar, Bluebell, Bog Orchid, Green broad-leaved standard trees. trees. one area of Woodpecker, Tawny Owl, Nuthatch, ancient replanted Yellowhammer, Red Kite, Red-backed woodland. Shrike, Marsh Tit, Tree Sparrow, House Sparrow, Yellow Wagtail, Black Redstart, Buzzard, Goldfinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Swift, Swallow, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Starling, Dunnock, Marbled Pug.
A483 Junction None 2 areas of Common Pipstrelle, unidentified bat, Low, heavily -trimmed hedgerow Breeding birds with Middle ancient semi- beside arable/ re-seeded could use the
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations Within 1 km Within 1 km Dolfor Road natural Hedgehog, Bluebell. pasture. Small partly culverted hedge. woodland. stream with Japanese Knotweed. (Figure 3.2 NB search area did not include the Otters could use Young, multi-stemmed standard Detail C) whole 1km radius around this point. the stream from tree. time to time. No ponds or lakes within 250m.
A483 Black Hall None 7 areas of Common Pipstrelle, Bluebell. Trimmed hedge with mature Breeding birds ancient semi- standard Oak tree and could use the (Figure 3.2 NB search area did not include the natural moderately diverse flora on hedge. Detail D) whole 1km radius around this point. woodland. bank, with grazed pasture in Limited Potential adjacent field. for reptiles in bank. No ponds or lakes within 250m. Potential for bats to use the tree. Badger activity noted, so potential for a sett nearby.
A483 Glascoed Mochdre 4 areas of No desk based records were available at Species-poor semi-improved Limited potential Hall dingles SSSI ancient semi- this location. pasture, with two short sections for breeding birds (1km west). natural of heavily trimmed, species-poor in the hedge. (Figure 3.2 woodland. hedge. Detail E)
A483 Dolfor None 3 areas of Brown Long-eared Bat, Polecat, Brown Species-poor semi-improved Limited potential ancient semi- Hare, Pink Waxcap. grassland and vegetable plot, for breeding birds (Figure 3.2 natural with heavily trimmed species in the hedge. Detail F) woodland. poor hedgerow. No ponds or lakes within 250m.
A483 near None 1 area of ancient Red Kite, Badger, Polecat, Small Pearl- Species poor semi-improved The bank and base
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations Within 1 km Within 1 km Cwmyrhiwdre semi-natural bordered Fritillary, Skylark, Western grassland within verge. Adjacent of slope are likely wood woodland. Gorse. steep bank supports mosaic of to support reptiles. acid grassland, rock outcrops, (Figure 3.2 Scrub habitats are heath and scrub. Detail G) likely to support No ponds or lakes within 250m. nesting birds. A badger has been reported walking on the side of the road within 30m of proposed works and a sett may be present nearby.
Mochdre None 2 areas of Common Pipistrelle, unidentified bat, Most of the affected area Breeding birds are Industrial ancient semi- Hedgehog, Bluebell. supports arable/ re-seeded likely to nest in the Estate Option natural pasture and heavily-grazed semi- hedges, scrub and NB search area did not include the Figure 3.3 woodland. improved pasture with scattered stream-side trees. whole 1km radius around this area. scrub. This route would Otters are likely to potentially affect several field use the stream, at boundaries: a heavily trimmed least occasionally. roadside hedge, and untrimmed field hedge and a small stream Reptiles may be fringed by trees. It would also present at the affect two areas of dense broad- hedge and scrub leaved trees. This route would margins. involve culverting the stream The large field tree with tree-lined banks and may have potential crossing another stream which for roosting bats. has already been partially culverted. Japanese Knotweed is present in at least one location. There is a large, mature field-
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Site Name/ National Other Ecological Protected/Notable Species Within Habitats Present Potential for Reference Ecological Designations 1 km (Summary) Protected Species Designations Within 1 km Within 1 km tree near the western end of the route which may have potential to support roosting bats. No ponds or lakes within 250m. NB This preliminary assessment is based on views from the site perimeter rather than walk-over survey. The grazed pasture appears to have potential for a moderately diverse grassland flora and may be suitable for grassland fungi such as waxcaps. If this route option is pursued it would require further survey.
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Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route
6.11.7 Figure 2.1 and accompanying Target Notes (TN), which are presented in Appendix 4, denote habitats and features of interest between the Strategic Route and the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm.
Designations
6.11.8 The River Ithon and Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSIs are located to the west of the A483. They are designated for unimproved acid grassland and riparian/freshwater receptors. They would not be directly affected by the proposed access works, but the closest point of the proposed works would be approximately 30m from the SSSI boundary. The Ithon SSSI forms part of the River Wye SAC. SAC qualifying features of particular importance in the Ithon SSSI are salmon, otter, and floating vegetation dominated by water-crowfoot. Other SAC qualifying features present in the Ithon include River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Bullhead and White-clawed Crayfish.
Habitats & Vegetation
6.11.9 The proposed route mainly supports intensively grazed improved agricultural grassland, largely dominated by rye-grass and clover. There are also three areas of marshy grassland, some of which adjoin acid flush vegetation further from the route. The proposed route would result in up to five sections of hedge being removed, including a small section of species poor hedge to the north of the quarry at SO10508197. 6.11.10 All of the hedges on the route were species poor, predominantly hawthorn, and estimated to have been laid approximately 15 years ago. They are double-fenced, and some beating up has been done to fill gaps within the last 10 years. However the hedges are tightly flailed and have limited capacity to produce flowers or berries. 6.11.11 A plant species list from June 1010 is provided in Appendix 4. The June survey largely confirmed the findings of the February 2008 habitat survey and concluded that the findings from that assessment were still valid.
Otter
6.11.12 Otter spraints were found in two areas. The presence of fresh and old spraints indicates regular use of these locations. The largest number of spraints were found along the stream which runs under the existing track at SO0927382194 (TN14). This stream leads from the pond at SO094824 and runs through a fenced streamside corridor with marshy grassland cover. This stream is clearly well used by otters and any disturbance to it should be kept to a minimum. A recent spraint was also found on a mole hill at SO0981182020 (TN20), beside a damp conifer plantation. The plantation includes streams and ditches and is likely to provide good foraging and cover for otters. No obvious holts or resting sites were found near to the access proposals.
Water Vole
6.11.13 No evidence of water vole was found. The site was considered largely unfavourable for water vole because the streams and ditches are generally too fast-flowing with gravelly banks or no banks at all. The marshy grassland areas have potential as habitat for water vole, but no evidence of them was found during the surveys. February and June are suboptimal months for water vole surveys, but having assessed the features of the site and the complete absence of any signs, the area is considered unlikely to support water voles. 6.11.14 This is in line with the findings presented in the ES for the Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm submitted to the Department of Energy and Climate Change by Nuon Renewables Ltd (now Vattenfall). Consequently water voles are considered to be absent, and are not considered further within this ES.
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Great Crested Newt
6.11.15 The surveys carried out during February 2009 and June 2010 did not involve specific amphibian surveys, but a general assessment was made on the potential habitat suitability for great crested newts. Great crested newts have been recorded during ecological assessment work for this development site and the nearest known great crested newt pond is approximately 500m from the proposed route. There is a potential terrestrial resting site along the proposed route, but poor connectivity between this and the nearest occupied pond. 6.11.16 In general great crested newts tend to stay within 250m of their breeding pond, though they can move up to 1000m (Langton et al, 2001). Sporadic areas of suitable terrestrial habitat were recorded along the route, notably hedges. However these are more than 250m from the pond. The probability of great crested newts being affected by the proposed access works is considered to be low. Consequently, no mitigation is required above the best practice measures outlined within this assessment.
Badger
6.11.17 Evidence of badgers was found during the surveys in February 2009 and June 2010. The signs were dispersed at a low density throughout the study area and comprised latrines, tracks and snuffle holes. However, no setts were found on or adjacent to the access proposals. It is therefore considered that there is a low probability of badgers being affected by the access proposals.
6.12 Nature Conservation Evaluation
6.12.1 An evaluation of the habitats and species confirmed, or having potential to occur within the vicinity of the proposed route is presented in Table 6.3 and Table 6.4. The Strategic Access and Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access are considered separately. Unless otherwise stated, confidence levels are ‘certain’ or ‘near certain’.
Table 6.3 - Evaluation of Ecological Receptors on the Strategic Access Route, Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options
Habitat Geographic Value Justification
Ancient semi- District Relatively widespread within 1km radius of the natural woodland route, mostly comprising small linear woodlands / Ancient following stream corridors. replanted
woodland
Habitats
Hedgerows, Local or limited to the Scale of value is variable, ranging from some including immediate zone of habitats/species that are important to the local hedgerow trees influence of the Access ecological integrity; to species-poor and/or Proposals. fragmented/remnant or highly modified hedges.
Woodland and Local or limited to the Scale ranges from some habitats/species that are immediate zone of important to the local ecological integrity; to woodland edge influence of the Access species-poor and/or fragmented woodland remnants. (Bron-y-vastre) Proposals.
Semi-improved Local or limited to the Mostly species-poor semi-improved grassland and tall
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Habitat Geographic Value Justification grassland (species immediate zone of herbs on verges, with verge grassland with poor) influence of the Access occasional pockets of more diverse vegetation Proposals. associated with hedgerows.
Coniferous Local or limited to the A man-made habitat, but with value to some plantation immediate zone of habitats/species that are important to the local influence of the Access ecological integrity. Proposals.
Fauna
Breeding birds Local and or within the Hedgerows and any connected woodlands are likely immediate zone of to support an assemblage of common breeding birds. influence/site of the Access Proposals only.
Reptiles Local Reptiles are considered likely to occur within roadside verges.
Bats Local No bat roosts identified. Only two trees was considered potentially suitable as roost sites. Foraging habitat in the vicinity of the route is likely to be of good quality, but similar and better habitats are abundant in the wider area, especially woodland edge habitats.
Badger Local No evidence of activity but nearby woodlands may support setts.
Dormouse Local Dormice are present in woodland 1.2km from the route. They may also occur nearer to the route, although most of the roadside hedges would constitute sub-optimal habitat.
Great Crested Local The only Great Crested Newt records within 1km of Newt the route are on the north side of Newtown. No ponds or lake recorded within 250m of the route.
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Table 6.4 Intrinsic evaluation of ecological receptors for Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route
Habitat Geographic Value Justification
River Ithon and International Statutory designated site (SAC/ SSSI) supporting Esgairdraenllwyn an important populations of Otter, Salmon, Pastures SSSIs / Part of River Lamprey, Brook lamprey, Bullhead, River Wye SAC. White-clawed Crayfish, and habitats including water-crowfoot beds and unimproved acid grassland.
Habitats
Hedgerows Local and / or within Generally species poor and heavily trimmed, the immediate zone of with some that are very fragmented. influence/site of the Access Proposals only.
Improved Local and or within the Mostly species-poor improved, damp pasture grassland immediate zone of with limited value for biodiversity. influence/site of the Access Proposals only.
Marshy grassland District Damp areas used by waders and Otter, locally dominated by Purple Moor-grass, rushes and sedges. Acid flush is likely to be present further from the route and is a Priority Habitat in (Section 42 of the NERC Act) and component of UK Biodiversity Action Plan ‘upland flushes, fens and swamps.’
Fauna
Otter Local Otters regularly pass through the site, mostly following watercourses and marshy areas.
Great crested newt Local Populations exist in the wider area, but nearest breeding site is more than 500m from the proposed route.
Badgers Local No evidence of setts but foraging activity recorded along the proposed route.
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6.13 Predicted Impacts
6.13.1 The following assessment evaluates the impacts on ecological receptors as they would be in the absence of mitigation. Impacts are only assessed in detail where features are of sufficient value for impacts arising from the proposed access works to be significant in EIA terms or having the potential to affect a protected site or species. Unless otherwise stated, confidence levels are ‘certain’ or ‘near certain.’ 6.13.2 The principal impacts likely to arise relate to construction activities. The main ones being clearance of soil, hedges and other vegetation by machinery. As there are unlikely to be any signficant impacts during the operational period the following therefore provides an assessment during the construction period only.
Strategic Route, Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options
6.13.3 The following outlines the anticipated impacts of the Access Proposals on sensitive ecological receptors along the Strategic Route and Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options. Woodland 6.13.4 Ancient semi-natural woodland and ancient replanted woodland is present close to several parts of the route, but will remain unaffected by the works. The works would be small scale and localised and would only entail encroachment into the roadside verge, so there would be no direct impact on any ancient woodland. Consequently the impact on ancient woodland is considered not significant at a district level. 6.13.5 Woodland edge including coniferous plantation, would also remain unaffected by the proposed works. The small-scale works would only involve loss of the adjacent roadside verge. The impact on woodland edge is deemed to be not significant at a local level.
Hedgerows
6.13.6 A substantial length of hedgerow will be lost due to highway improvement works along the unclassified road between the A489 Kerry Road and the A483. However, the hedgerows potentially affected are mostly of limited intrinsic value due to: • their closely-flailed profile, with limited structural diversity; • the paucity of hedgerow trees; • the species-poor nature of the hedgerows; and • the general lack of a field layer and/or other associated habitats/species that add to ecological value. 6.13.7 The hedgerow losses would entail a loss of habitat and potential corridors for movement. The severity of the impact on habitat connectivity would be reduced where the widening would only affect one side of the route. Even so, in the absence of mitigation the loss of hedgerows would be significant at the local level. Grasslands 6.13.8 The loss of roadside verge would generally only affect small strips of species poor grassland and tall herbs, and species that would readily re-establish after the construction is completed. This impact is deemed to be not significant at the local level.
Breeding Birds
6.13.9 The loss of hedgerows would have an adverse impact on common breeding birds, due to loss of nest sites and foraging resources. Additionally there may be indirect construction phase impacts such as disturbance, which may also inhibit bird breeding nearby. In the absence of mitigation, impacts on breeding birds would be significant at the local level.
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Reptiles 6.13.10 The loss of grassland verge and associated scrub and hedgerow margin has the potential to cause impacts on reptiles by direct mortality and loss of habitat. Consequently impacts relating to reptiles, in the absence of mitigation, are deemed to be potentially significant at the local level.
Bats
6.13.11 All of the hedgerow trees along the route were considered to be of limited value for bats, with the exception of two trees at Bron-y-Vastre and Black Hall which were deemed potentially suitable for roosting bats. The extent of the possible impacts on these trees is currently not known. However if the trees do one require surgery or removal the impact would not be significant because there are numerous alternative trees available in the wider landscape. The impact on bat foraging habitat within is assessed as not significant at the local level as there is an abundance of alternative and higher quality resources available locally.
Badgers
6.13.12 No badger setts were identified within 30m of the works, so impacts relating to badgers are deemed to be not significant at the local level. However the species is known to be transient and may occupy the site in the future. In the unlikely event that a sett is found it would have to addressed in accordance with relevant leglislation, but the impact on the local badger population would still be considered not significant.
Dormice
6.13.13 Dormice are known to occur in woodland 1.2km from the route and there is potential for them to occur nearer to the route. However, most of the roadside hedges would constitute sub-optimal habitat because of their limited structural and species diversity and their relative isolation from the larger woodland areas. The localised loss of hedgerows could potentially result in loss of habitat connectivity for Dormice. In the absence of mitigation the impact on dormice is assessed as significant at a local level, although in the absence of any survey data this assessment is regarded as ‘possible’ rather than ‘certain’.
Great Crested Newts
6.13.14 There are no waterbodies within 250m of the proposed route . The only records of Great Crested Newts within 1km are on the north side of Newtown; separated from the Access Proposals by over 900m of roads and buildings in the urban area. In addition the works are small scale, localised and where necessary only entail minor encroachment into the roadside verge. There are therefore unlikely to be any impacts on newts during construction. For the purpose of this assessment impacts relating to great crested newts are deemed to be not significant at the local level.
Table 6.5 - Impacts on Ecological Receptors for Strategic Route
Level Impact
Local Loss of hedgerows.
Local Disturbance and loss of nesting and feeding habitat for breeding birds.
Local Direct mortality and loss of habitat for reptiles.
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Local Loss of hedgerow habitat and ecological connectivity for dormice.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
6.13.15 The following outlines the anticipated impacts of the proposed access route on sensitive ecological receptors along the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route.
River Ithon and Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSIs/ River Wye SAC
6.13.16 The only potential means that the proposed access track could have an effect on the River Ithon and Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSIs would be through hydrological pathways. These effects are considered and fully assessed in Section 8 (Hydrology, hydrogeology and geology), and have been found to be of negligible to minor significance. They are therefore unlikely to affect the ecological integrity of the SSSI, or the wider River Wye SAC, and the impact on designated sites is considered not significant at the national level.
Hedgerows
6.13.17 The access proposals will result in up to five small sections of hedgerow being removed. All of these hedges are species-poor with a poor quality structure. Because the hedgerows are already gappy, the loss of these sections would not result in a change to their ecological integrity. Consequently loss of hedgerow is deemed to be not significant.
Improved Grassland
6.13.18 The majority of the route traverses agriculturally improved grassland which are of minimal conservation interest and widespread in the area. Consequently the loss of improved grassland would have no affect on the ecological integrity of the area and the impact is considered to be not significant.
Marshy Grassland/ Acid Upland Flush
6.13.19 There route will pass through two areas of relatively species poor marshy grassland. However these wet grassland areas provide a buffer to priority BAP habitat acid flush. They are likely to be an important component in maintaining the ecological integrity of the flushes. This habitat could be impacted by direct habitat loss and drainage during construction. Therefore, in the absence of mitigation the loss of marshy grassland/ acid flushes is deemed to be a significant impact at the District level.
Otter
6.13.20 No otter holts or resting places were identified near to the proposed route and no direct impacts on them are anticipated. However because the species is known to pass through the area a precautionary approach will be adopted prior to construction so that all legal requirements afforded to otters are met. For the purpose of this assessment impacts relating to otter are deemed to be not significant.
Great Crested Newt
6.13.21 The closest known Great crested newt ponds are more than 500m from the proposed route, and habitat connectivity is poor between these and the possible refugia identified near to the proposed works. The probability of affecting great crested newts is therefore considered very low and the impact would be judged not significant at a local level. Even so, because Great Crested Newts are protected and known to occur in the wider area, a precautionary approach to construction would be taken so that all legal requirements are met.
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Badgers
6.13.22 No setts were identified within 30m of the proposed route, so impacts relating to badgers are deemed to be not significant. The species has been confirmed in the area and may occupy the site in the future, although this is very unlikely given the nature of the terrain the route would pass through. In the event that a sett is found it would be dealt with in accordance with relevant leglislation, but the impact on the local Badger population would still be assessed as insignificant.
Table 6.6 - Impacts on Ecological Receptors for Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
Level Impact
District Loss of marshy grassland habitat, with associated adverse impacts on upland acid flushes, through construction and drainage.
6.14 Cumulative Impacts
6.14.1 Due to the localise nature of effects it is considered that the principle mechanism for cumulative effects would be through the implemetation of similar Access Proposals to facilitate wind farm access along the same route. The Strategic Route has been identified for the movement of turbine components to SSAs B and C in Mid Wales. Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would address the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures. Therefore the management of cumulative impacts has been considered in the design of the Access Proposals. 6.14.2 RES have worked with other wind farm developers wishing to transport abnormal loads to SSA C and have agreed the specification of widening works on the routes. Consequently it is not anticipated that there would be any cumulative impacts of widening works as the agreed routes would serve multiple projects. 6.14.3 Cumulative impacts with other types of development are considered unlikely to give rise to the potential for significant efffects, due to the highly localised nature impacts arising from the Access Proposals.
6.15 Mitigation and Enhancement
6.15.1 All sections of the Access Proposals will be subject to the following mitigation measures. 6.15.2 A Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP) would be produced, setting out detailed working methods for minimising impacts on biodiversity during construction, and ensuring that all relevant environmental and wildlife legislation is adhered to, following current best practice guidelines. The CEMP would be followed through the whole construction phase, and would include provision for monitoring the effectiveness of the mitigation. Measures to be included in the CEMP include: • Preconstruction checks would be carried out for protected species, including bats, badgers, otters, dormice and reptiles, in all areas of potentially suitable habitat. This is would ensure that appropriate mitigation can be provided if animals have moved in to the construction zone between the 2010 surveys and the start of construction. • In the event that protected species are confirmed on site then an appropriate method statement would be included within the CEMP, and all necessary measures would be taken to ensure that the construction can proceed in full compliance with legislation, obtiaining licences if required. • Site clearance, particularly hedgerow removal, would be undertaken outside the bird breeding season, which is typically march to August inclusive. This would avoid interference with bird nesting habitat. If complete avoidance of the nesting season is
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not possible, any potentially suitable nesting habitat would might be affected by construction would be inspected by a suitably experienced ecologist. If a nest is present, works in that area will be postponed until the nest is no longer in use. • Where practical, construction works will maintain minimum working distances from sensitive habitats and species. The CEMP would include specific measures for working near watercourses to minimise potential for chemical and silt pollution. • Control and suppression of dust during construction would involve standard best practice measures as outlined in the proposed wind farm ES. This would involve use of a waterless wheel wash facility on the wind farm construction site, and road sweeping as required. • A method statement to minimise construction related noise would be prepared prior to construction. As outlined in the proposed wind farm ES (2008) this would follow guidance outlined in BS 5228 1997 ‘Noise control on construction and open sites’. • Procedures for the careful storage and handling of materials that are hazardous to the environment are outlined in the proposed wind farm ES. All potentially hazardous substances would be managed in line with legislation, using protective bunding around storage areas to ensure complete containment of any spillages.
Strategic Route, Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options
Habitat Mitigation
6.15.3 Loss of hedgerow and grassland verge would be mitigated by replanting hedgerows. The replacement planting will include a wide range of regionally appropriate native species and hedgerow trees. All hedgerows corridors will be supplemented or buffered by the addition of contiguous strips of habitat, e.g. rough species-rich grassland margins parallel to the hedge. Re-seeding of ground flora will utilise appropriate wildflower seed. Where the removal of sections of hedgerows is unavoidable a the Hedgerows Regulations 1997 assessment would be undertaken if required by the LPA. Hedges which qualify as important under the Regulations generally require consent from the LPA before they can be removed. 6.15.4 Hedgerow translocation would, in the shorter term, maintain an effective movement corridor, although it is anticipated that translocation may be hampered by the nature of the underlying topography of the road and adjacent fields. It is therefore recommended that new hedgerows are planted behind the existing hedgerows in advance of construction works to establish these prior to construction. The use of a more diverse mix of appropriate native species, including hedgerow trees, would in the longer term provide a feature of increased biodiversity value to those lost as a result of the access proposals. The width of new hedgerows will be maximised to inhibit edge effects such as disturbance and increased predation. Wider hedges would also support more species and function more effectively as habitat corridors. In addition the creation of scalloped edges and/or allowing a degree of sinuosity into the design will increase habitat variation, thus maximising habitat potential in the form of aspect, micro-habitat etc. 6.15.5 Any planting would be subject to a short and long term management regime in accordance with the Habitat Management Plan, Appendix SEI 4 of the Supplementary Environmental Information document of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm 2013.
Species Mitigation
6.15.6 Bat roost checks would be undertaken of any potentially suitable mature trees likely to be affected by the works. 6.15.7 Following on from the preconstruction protected species surveys outlined above; appropriate mitigation strategies (and any licencing requirements) will be formulated as necessary . This may include undertaking advance works to manage or clear vegetation; for example, clearing vegetation during the winter to displace reptiles from the construction zone.
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6.15.8 A number of sites where construction works are proposed are considered to be potentially suitable for use by great crested newts, although there are no waterbodies within 250m of the route and the probability of encountering any newts is considered very low. The works are generally of a small-scale nature and unlikely to result in any significant habitat loss for amphibians, but where potential for newts or reptiles is identified by the project ecologists a precautionary approach would be adopted, using a combination of habitat management, fingertip searches and watching briefs to avoid impacts on protected species. These measures will be detailed within the CEMP.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route
Habitat Mitigation
6.15.9 Hedgerow mitigation by replanting and enhancement will follow the same approach as for the Strategic Route outlined above. In addition it is proposed, subject to the agreement of landowners, that defunct and gappy hedgerows adjacent to the proposed route, are enhanced with native species to increase local biodiversity and improve habitat connectivity. 6.15.10 Potential hydrological impacts on marshy grassland/ acid flush habitats would be mitigated by crossing marshy and wet areas by constructing sections of ‘floating track’ by low- pressure vehicles, as shown in Figure 4.4, Appendix 3.
Species Mitigation
6.15.11 The section of track that crosses the stream at SO 09273 82194 is currently in good condition and it is therefore intended to carry out only minor works at this location. This would minimise potential disturbance effects on otters that use this stream, as well as reducing potential tempoary impacts on the channel downstream. Speed restriction signs would be erected to warn drivers during the construction period that otter may be in that area; this would reduce potential for collisions. 6.15.12 It is feasible that protected species may be present in some areas without leaving signs. All personnel will be made aware of the potential for protected species as part of their site induction, and instructed to seek further advice immediately if evidence of protected species is found or suspected.
6.16 Residual Effects
Strategic Route, Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Option
6.16.1 All of the likely impacts resulting from the access route would be effectively addressed by the formulation of the CEMP the implementation of the proposed mitigation. The residual effect from construction and use of the proposed access track is therefore assessed as not signficant. In the longer term, the replanted and enhanced hedgerows have the potential to provide biodiversity benefits at a local level, but in the context of the wider landscape this is unlikely to be significant in EIA terms.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
6.16.2 The access route would not cross any areas of particular conservation value, and the only potentially significant impact would be on the marshy grassland and associated acid flushes. The potential hydrological effects on the nearby flush habitat would be addressed by the provision of floating track and possible minor route realignments, so that any impact would be negligible. 6.16.3 Implementation of the measures outlined in the CEMP would fully mitigate the potential effects on protected species. Therefore the residual effects from construction and use of the access proposals on ecology is assessed as not signficant in EIA terms.
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6.17 Assessment Summary Matrix
6.17.1 The matrix in Table 6.6 summarises the significant ecological effects identified in this assessment before and after mitigation.
Table 6.6 - Ecology and Nature Conservation Assessment Summary Matrix
Residual Significance before Description of effect Mitigation effect after mitigation mitigation
Localised loss of hedgerows, Minor adverse impact, Provision of replacement Not significant (affecting breeding birds and significant at Local hedgerow and adjoining potentially reptiles and Level grassland interface, to dormice.) be wider and more
diverse than existing hedges.
Loss of and disturbance of Minor adverse impact, Provision of enhanced Not Significant bird nesting habitat significant at Local replacement hedgerow. Level Timing of site clearance outside nesting season and pre-clearance checks will ensure that there is no direct loss of bird nests.
Loss and disturbance of Minor adverse impact, CEMP method Not Significant reptile habitat. Potential significant at Local statements for reptile mortality. Level preconstruction survey and vegetation management will limit potential for reptile mortality. Enhanced grass strips beside hedges will improve reptile habitat in long term.
Loss and disturbance of Minor adverse impact, Enhanced replacement Not Significant hedgerow connectivity, significant at Local hedgerows would potentially affecting Dormice. Level mitigate loss of habitat connectivity. Pre clearance surveys and timing of site clearance would ensure that there is no direct impact on Dormice.
Loss or damage to upland acid Moderate adverse Loss of species-poor Not significant flush / marshy grassland. impact, significant at marshy grassland would District Level. be minimised, and hydrological integrity of adjacent flush habitats would be maintained, so that the integrity of the
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Residual Significance before Description of effect Mitigation effect after mitigation mitigation district value habitat would be maintained.
6.18 References
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK; Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) (2007) Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey. A technique for environmental audit. Revised re-print 2003, reprinted 2007. JNCC: Peterborough Langton, T.E.S., Beckett, C.L., and Foster, J.P. (2001), Great Crested Newt Conservation Handbook, Froglife, Halesworth. Strachan & Moorhouse (2006) Water Vole Conservation Handbook, second edition Wildlife Conservation Research Unit: Oxford. 7
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7. CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT
7.1 Introduction
7.1.1 Cultural Heritage has been considered in the design of the Strategic Route, in consultation with the relevant stakeholders as set out in Section 3 Description of Development. An assessment of this route was undertaken by Amec. Information from this report has been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA. 7.1.2 A cultural heritage assessment of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access from the Strategic Route to the proposed wind farm was undertaken by Cambria Archaeology for RES UK & Ireland Ltd, as part of an EIA for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of the Transport Route (2010) submitted to PCC. Information from these assessments has been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA.
7.2 Scope of Assessment
7.2.1 The assessment is based on desktop data collection exercise supplemented by site visits. The assessment includes for the consideration of the potential for environmental effects upon the following: • Statutory heritage designations1 -direct and indirect (setting) effects; and • Sites recorded on the Historic Environment Records (HER), maintained by Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust (CPAT) and Shropshire County Council (SCC). 7.2.2 The study area comprised of land within 1km of the proposed Access Proposals. 7.2.3 Locations have been included in this assessment where there are prima facie (at first view) grounds for a potential effect, based on the information provided in the sTMP, such as ground disturbance, the removal of trees, etc. No effects are predicted for those locations not included in the assessment, such as minor works comprising alterations within the existing highway, movement of signage, etc. 7.2.4 The results of the data collection and site visits for the Strategic Route have been summarised within Table 7.1. The passing place and swept path analysis locations have been cross-referenced within the tables below to the corresponding sTMP figure (Appendix 1).
7.3 Policy Context and Guidance
Guidance
7.3.1 The following sources were referred to in undertaking the cultural heritage assessment: • Guide to Good Practice on Using the Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest in Wales in the Planning and Development Process (Cadw, 2003); • The Setting of Cultural Heritage Features, The Journal of Planning and Environment Law. (Collcutt, 1999); • Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Vol 11 section 3 part 2 (Department of Environment, Transport and Regions, 1993); • 'Wind Energy and the Historic Environment' (English Heritage, 2005); • Environmental Impact Assessment of Windfarms: Cultural Heritage and the Problem of ‘setting’ (Headland Archaeology, 2006);
1 Datasets from English Heritage, 11/02/2013; Cadw, January 2013.
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• Spon, E & FN 2002. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (2nd edn.), The Landscape Institute with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment; • Welsh Office Circular 60/96, Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology (NAW, 2002); and • Planning Policy Wales (WG, 2012).
7.4 Data Sources
7.4.1 Standard sources for such cultural heritage assessments were consulted during the desk study undertaken for the EIA for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of the Transport Route (2010). 7.4.2 These included cartographic and documentary resources held at the Regional Historic Environment Record (HER), formerly the Sites and Monuments Record, held at the Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust (CPAT) offices; The National Monuments Record (NMR), including aerial photographs, held at the Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments in Wales (RCAHMW); The National Library of Wales (NLW) and the Montgomeryshire Records Office at Llandrindod Wells. These records have also been reviewed in a desk based study of the Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate option. 7.4.3 Field visits along the Strategic Route were undertaken in 2013 by Amec. 7.4.4 Field visits were also undertaken in June 2006 along the Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route to evaluate the condition and vulnerability of known features, to identify new ones and to assess issues of intervisibility and setting.
7.5 Assessment Methodology
7.5.1 Direct physical effects are those that will have a direct physical effect upon heritage assets. These effects will primarily occur during the groundworks associated with construction of the Access Proposals. 7.5.2 The Access Proposals may also have indirect effects on heritage assets, known as effects on ‘setting’. For the purposes of this assessment the primary concern is with the effect of the Access Proposals on the ‘setting’ of cultural heritage assets and historic buildings. 7.5.3 There is no specific guidance published with regard to assessing the impact of development on heritage assets. Professional judgement was exercised in the assessment of setting impacts, with reference to the sources listed in 7.3.1. Section 1 sets outs the general methdology applied in terms of EIA.
Cumulative Effects
7.5.4 Cumulative effects are those that result from the combined effects of existing and future development upon heritage assets. Cumulative effects may be both physical and visual.
Residual Effects
7.5.5 Residual effects are those effects remaining once mitigation measures have been considered together with the Cultural Heritage impact assessment. Residual effects apply to the operational, and post-operational landscape re-instatement phases of the development.
7.6 Assumptions and Limitations
7.6.1 This section has been based on the information in the EIA for the proposed wind farm ES and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of the Transport Route (2010). No additional desk based or field research has been undertaken. No GIS data were available for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route; therefore the assessment is based on
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professional judgment of the impacts that are considered likely to occur as a result of this type of development. Due to the limited nature of the information available and the fact that no site visits have been undertaken it has not been possible to re-assess impacts upon setting according to the most recent English Heritage Guidance ‘The Setting of Heritage Assets’. However it is considered that the conclusions of the previous EIAs with regard to setting impacts are correct despite having been underken prior to the publication of this guidance.
7.7 Baseline
Strategic Access Route
7.7.1 Table 7.1 below outlines the baseline for hertiage assets and implications for the Access Proposals along the Strategic Route.
Table 7.1 Heritage Assessment Baseline along the Strategic Route
Site National Heritage HER Records Within Heritage Implications for Name/Reference Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Access Proposals 1 km (Summary)
Swept Path Analysis Newtown centre lies No HER records in the No direct effect on A483/A489 within the 1 km immediate vicinity of designated assets. Newtown study area applied, proposed works. HER No detrimental effects on therefore a larger records in the area (sTMP Figure 6-4b) the setting of designated number of listed predominantly relate to heritage assets are buildings (almost all built heritage assets, or anticipated owing to a at Grade II) fall their former locations. lack of intervisibility and within this. the existing road Newtown Hall infrastructure: The Castle Mound and setting of nearby buildings Newtown Old will experience a Church are negligible change. scheduled monuments. No specific potential to impact on archaeological Listed buildings in remains identified. The closest proximity to potential for the proposed works archaeological remains to are the Grade II be encountered by works listed Rectory, in this location is low. associated stable block and former servants’ wing, which lie some 40 m to the south on the opposite side of the A489.
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Site National Heritage HER Records Within Heritage Implications for Name/Reference Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Access Proposals 1 km (Summary)
Swept Path Analysis The only designated The only HER record in No direct or indirect A489 and Vastre heritage asset the vicinity of the effect on designated Route within 1 km is the proposed works is an heritage assets. There is Grade II* listed area of ridge and furrow, no potential for (sTMP Figure 6-4c) Dolforgan Hall and c. 250 m to the west. intervisibility with two associated Dolforgan Hall, owing to An Iron Age enclosure is Grade II listed intervening woodland. recorded some 550 m to buildings which lie the SW. No specific potential to nearly 1 km to the impact on archaeological SE. remains identified and no remains of ridge and furrow cultivation noted in the vicinity. Some general potential for unrecorded archaeological remains to be present.
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Site National Heritage HER Records Within Heritage Implications for Name/Reference Designations Within 1 km (Summary) Access Proposals 1 km (Summary)
Swept Path Analysis The Grade II listed There are very few No direct effect on Unclassified road Church of St Paul, entries no the HER within designated assets. between the A489 Dolfor, lies c. 20 m the 1 km study area, No detrimental effects on Kerry Road and the from the southern despite the length of the the setting of designated A483 end of the route, route. The only records heritage assets are where works are within close proximity of (sTMP Figures 6.4c anticipated: works in the proposed. the route are the area of to 6.4t inclusive) vicinity of the Church of St ridge and furrow at the Other than this the Paul are minor and a northern end of the only other negligible effect would route (above), the HER designated heritage result. entry for the Church of assets within the St Paul and a general No specific potential to 1 km study area entry for the settlement impact on archaeological used are Dolforgan of Dolfor. remains identified. Hall, as above, the However, this is an area Grade II listed Cwm Other HER entries lie at where no previous Weeg farmstead, least 240 m from the archaeological nearly 500 m to the indicated route and do investigation is known south of the route. not relate to remains (and is unlikely to have which would be likely to been undertaken) and extend as far as works outside the existing proposed works. A highway and in areas cropmark indicative of a which have not previously round barrow lies some been disturbed by 400 m east of the landscaping will always southern end of the have some general route –this is the only potential to encounter record indicating pre- archaeological remains. medieval activity. Given the comparatively extensive nature of works along this route, the potential for these to encounter archaeological remains is moderate, although the spatial extent of disturbance is still at a level that investigative works could most appropriately be undertaken during construction and therefore could be achieved during construction. It is considered that the area of disturbance, given the lack of recorded features of interest, is insufficient to warrant field evaluation prior to construction.
Heol Treowen Option
7.7.2 There are very few entries no the HER within the 1 km study area, despite the length of the route. The only records within close proximity of the route are, the HER entry for the
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Church of St Paul and a general entry for the settlement of Dolfor, which have been assessed above. 7.7.3 No detrimental effects on the setting of designated heritage assets are anticipated owing to a lack of intervisibility and the existing road infrastructure. The setting of nearby buildings will experience a negligible change. 7.7.4 No specific potential to impact on archaeological remains identified. The potential for archaeological remains to be encountered by works in this location is low.
Mochdre Industrial Estate
7.7.5 Similarly no specific potential to impact archeological remains are anticipated with the Mochdre Industrial Estate Option, due to its location wtihin an urban setting.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
7.7.6 As described in the EIA for the proposed wind farm, the western part of the current proposed access track from Hafod Fach follows the route of an existing agricultural access track. The proposed route then crosses an area of enclosed and improved pasture before joining existing roads between Blaen-nant-du and Rhiw Porthnant. 7.7.7 Much of this area appears to have been un-enclosed upland rough pasture until relatively recently. There are no known sites recorded in the regional HER that will be physically effected by the Access Proposals, although the route passes close to the disused Blaen Nant Du Quarry (PRN 22768) at NGR SO1051181951. The route also passes close to Hafod Fach PRN 67029 at NGR SO0864781631. This is recorded as a building, but its current condition is unknown. The building, if it still exists is unlikely to be effected by the proposal. Blaen Nant Du farmstead (PRN 40561) at NGR SO10778193 is a listed building (LB 82989). 7.7.8 There are no Scheduled Monuments within the immediate vicinity of the Access Proposals. However, the eastern part of the proposed route ends within a few hundred meters of a group of Scheduled Bronze Age burial mounds at Rhiw Porthnant. While there is an increased possibility that there may be archaeologically significant features in the vicinity of the burial mounds, there is no evidence to suggest that such features exist or extend to the end of the proposed track. 7.7.9 No heritage assets are known within the footprint of the site entrances shown on Plan 01589D2430-03 (Appendix 4); however it is possible that buried archaeological deposits are present and if this is that case they would experience direct impacts as are result of the proposed works.
7.8 Predicted Impacts
Strategic Route and Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options
7.8.1 No direct effects on known heritage assets have been identified. 7.8.2 Along most sections of the route little or no previous archaeological investigation is known to have been undertaken. Works outside the existing highway and in areas which have not previously been disturbed by landscaping will always have some general potential to encounter archaeological remains. The potential for effects on buried archaeological remains is generally substantially reduced by the existing situation and ground conditions of the sites identified, where these mostly incorporate land on or incorporating existing road infrastructure, or areas which have been landscaped as a result of road infrastructure. 7.8.3 Elsewhere mitigation measures incorporated into the construction methodology may be appropriate where less extensive ground disturbance or landscaping is entailed in proposals, depending on the proposed method of construction. It is envisaged that in these instances archaeological mitigation may take the form of a watching brief on initial ground disturbance as part of construction.
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7.8.4 There is some potential, in a number of proposed passing place locations, for the structural remains of Roman roads, underlying the current road surface and/or roadside, to be encountered by ground works, although no known remains have been identified which will be affected. The archaeological watching brief outlined above would provide the opportunity to test the postulated routes of the Roman roads. 7.8.5 Given the nature and location of the Access Proposals, the existing setting and landscape context of the adjoining highway, the Access Proposals will present no more than a low magnitude of change and are likely to be not significant in EIA terms. 7.8.6 The Access Proposals include cut and fill landscaping works to a route which has historically required cut and fill operations and with the replacement and maturation of hedgerows. This will have a low level of effect on the historic landscape, which is considered not significant in EIA terms.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Route
7.8.7 The Access Proposals would result in direct impacts upon buried archaeological remains, if these are present within the footprint of the proposed works. It is considred likely that these remains would be of local importance and that the adverse effect upon them would be slight adverse. This is considered not significant in EIA terms. 7.8.8 In terms of setting impacts upon scheduled monuments, listed buildings and other visible heritage assets, it is considered that the Access Proposals would result in an access track similar in form and appearance to existing roads and agricultural tracks that are already present in the landscape. Therefore the effect of the proposed access route and site entrance on the setting of heritage assets is considered to be neutral. This is considered not significant in EIA terms.
7.9 Cumulative Impacts
7.9.1 The strategic route has been identified for the movement of turbine components to SSAs B and C in Mid Wales. Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would address the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures. Therefore the management of cumulative impacts has been considered in the design of the Access Proposals.
7.10 Mitigation and Enhancement
Strategic Route
7.10.1 It is considered that while the majority of the proposed works will have been within areas already impacted by existing infrastructure, it is possible that where excavation is required there is a low chance of impacting buried archaeological deposits. An archaeological watching brief should be implemented on these works. 7.10.2 Elsewhere mitigation measures incorporated into the construction methodology may be appropriate where less extensive ground disturbance or landscaping is entailed in proposals, depending on the proposed method of construction. It is envisaged that in these instances archaeological mitigation may take the form of a watching brief on initial ground disturbance as part of construction.
Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Route
7.10.3 It is considered that the access route should be subject to an archaeological watching brief. In particular the recommended methdology is Strip-Map-Sample, in which the topsoil strip is undertaken under archaeological control, and where archaeological remains are encountered these are then subject to archaeological excavation and recording.
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7.11 Residual effects
7.11.1 The residual effect of the Access Proposals are considered to be slight adverse due to potential impacts upon buried archaeological remains. This is considered not significant in EIA terms.
7.12 References
Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust Historic Environment Record digital modern and historic mapping and monument records Cadw (2003) Guide to Good Practice on Using the Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest in Wales in the Planning and Development Process, Cardiff, Cadw Spon, E & FN (2002) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (2nd edn.), The Landscape Institute with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment
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8. HYDROLOGY, HYRDOGEOLOGY AND GEOLOGY
8.1 Introduction
8.1.1 This section assesses the potential hydrology, hyrdogeology and geology effects of the Access Proposals set out in Section 3 Project Description.
8.2 Scope of Assessment
8.2.1 A hydrology assessment of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Proposals was undertaken for RES UK & Ireland Ltd. as part of an EIA for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of the Transport Route (2010) submitted to PCC. Information from this assessment has been reviewed and updated where appropriate to inform this EIA.
8.2.2 This assessment provides baseline information and identifies potential impacts. It provides an assessment of the significance of these impacts based on the predicted magnitude of the impact and the sensitivity of receptors. It then discusses mitigation, management and monitoring measures and lists the residual effects relevant to hydrology, hyrdogeology and geology.
8.2.3 The great majority of potential hydrological effects from wind farms, or more specifically in this case, Access Proposals, arise from construction activities. Hydrological and hydrogeological effects may create secondary effects on ecology, and therefore reference should be made to Section 6 Ecological Assessment.
8.2.4 The study area for this assessment is larger than the footprint of the Access Proposals as it is extended to incorporate those water catchments considered to be potentially affected by the Access Proposals.
8.2.5 The Strategic Route as set out in the sTMP (Appendix 1) does cross a number of water courses but the Access Proposals do not directly affect any watercourses and are not within any areas considered to be at risk of flood as identified on the Environment Agency flood risk map. The highway upgrades required to facilitate the Strategic Route, are unlikely to give rise to significant environmental impacts, and therefore are not subject to assessment within this EIA for the Access Proposals.
8.2.6 Along the Heol Treowen access route detail C will involve the extension of the exisiting culvert and re-profiling will be required at this location, but hydrological flow will be maintained. This is adjacent to, but not within an area known to have been flooded in the past (Zone B, TAN15 flood map). The remainder of the Access Proposals along this section of the route are not within areas considered to be at risk of flooding. Therefore no signficant effects are anticipated along the Heol Treowen option and no further assessment has been undertaken for the purposes of EIA.
8.2.7 The Mochdre Industrial Estate area is not within areas considered to be at risk of flooding. Therefore no signficant effects are anticipated along the Mochdre Industrial Estate option and no further assessment has been undertaken for the purposes of EIA.
8.3 Policy Context and Guidance
Legislation
8.3.1 In regard to hydrology, management of water-borne pollution and protection of natural heritage areas, NRW has statutory obligations in terms of the management and control of pollution into water resources, including water dependent Natura 2000 Protected Areas. Accordingly, it would be reasonable to assume that the adoption of the Environment Agency Pollution Prevention Best Practice Guidelines will prevent pollution to acceptable standards and make any ‘significant’ impacts unlikely.
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8.3.2 The Water Framework Directive (WFD) was transposed into English and Welsh law in December 2003 through the Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) (England and Wales) Regulations 2003, which came into effect on 2 January 2004. In terms of implementation in Wales, the Government is not proposing to introduce new regulations where there are already suitable regulations in place that would provide a basis for measures required to achieve the environmental objectives of the Directive. Existing regulations will therefore be revised to allow integration of the WFD into the Welsh regulatory system.
8.3.3 The Access Proposals will need to conform to existing water legislation in Wales, and with any relevant changes regarding the abstraction of water, discharges to water and any engineering works or impoundments. These include the following requirements:
• Consent for the erection of any mill dam, weir or other like obstruction to the flow of an ordinary watercourse or to raise or otherwise alter such an obstruction (NRW); • Consent for the erection of any culvert that would be likely to affect the flow of any watercourse or alter any culvert in a manner that would be likely to affect any such flow (NRW and LPA); • An Impounding Licence for the impounding of any watercourse, ditch or stream (NRW); • An Abstraction Licence for the abstraction of water from any inland water or underground strata (NRW); • Any works in, under or over a watercourse will require a land drainage consent (NRW); • Any access tracks requiring a bridge crossing will require individual land drainage consent for each structure (NRW); • Any bridge widening will require consent for the permanent works and possibly consent for the temporary works (NRW); and • Assurance that riparian owners common law rights to receive water is undiminished in quantity or quality.
Guidelines
8.3.4 The Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPGs), published by the EA and the Construction Industry Research & Information Association (CIRIA), include the documents referred to below, which are the principal documents used for guidance on preventing contamination of surface water from construction activities. Those relevant to the Access Proposals include: • Control of water pollution from constructions sites. Guidance for consultants and contractors C532 (CIRIA 2001); • Report 168: Culvert Design Guide (CIRIA); • PPG1: General guide to the prevention of pollution (EA); • PPG2: Above ground oil storage tanks (EA); • PPG4: Disposal of sewage where no mains drainage is available (EA); • PPG5: Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses (EA); • PPG6: Working at construction and demolition sites(EA); • PPG8: Storage and disposal of used oils (EA); • PPG21: Pollution incident response planning (EA); and • PPG26: Storage and handling of drums & intermediate bulk containers (EA). 8.3.5 There is a range of environmental legislation that any development must adhere to throughout the development life cycle. Key legislative drivers relating to the water environment which have been considered within this assessment are listed below:
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• Groundwater Regulations 1998; • Environmental good practice on site C650 (CIRIA); • UK Water Quality (Water Supply) Regulations 2000; • EC Fisheries Directive (78/659/EEC); • Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC; • The Environment Act 1995; and • Land Drainage Act 1991. 8.3.6 Other relevant guidance includes: • Guidance on Road Construction and Maintenance (Forestry Commission, 2003); • DEFRA Good Practice Guide for Handling Soils (MAFF 2000); and • Technical Advice Note 15: Development and Flood Risk (Welsh Assembly Government, 2003).
Development Plan
8.3.7 The Powys County Council Draft Unitary Development (UDP) provides the following policies which relate to this Section: • SP3: Natural, Historic and Built Heritage; • ENV 4: Internationally Important Sites; • ENV 6: Sites of Regional & Local Importance; • MW18: Geomorphology, Archaeology and History; • DC13: Surface Water Drainage; and • DC14: Flood Prevention. 8.3.8 Until such a time as the UDP is finalised, the Powys County Council Structure Plan (Replacement) (1996) should be adhered to and policies EC14, EC15 and EC16 are relevant to this Section.
8.4 Data Sources
8.4.1 The assessment has been undertaken primarily using a qualitative assessment using existing available data based on professional judgement and statutory and general guidance. It incorporates: • a review of the relevant legislation, guidelines and policy; • consultation with private water supply users for the the Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed wind farm ES (2008) and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of of Transport Route (2010); • a desk study to identify existing information gathered for the Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed wind farm ES and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of of Transport Route (2010); • site visit to determine baseline conditions undertaken by Ecology Matters who undertook the Ecological survey on 27th February 2009; • the prediction of likely effects on hydrology, hydrogeology and hydro-ecology from the proposed access works; and • the assessment of the likely significance of those effects having regard to the predicted magnitudes of effects and the sensitivities of receiving environments.
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8.4.2 The desk study involved collating and assessing the relevant information from the following sources: • Ordnance Survey (OS) Landranger Maps at 1:50,000 scale: No.125 Bala and Lake Vyrnwy and No.136 Newtown and Llanidloes; • OS Explorer Map at 1:25,000 scale: No. 214 Newtown; • British Geological Survey (BGS), 1994, Montgomery, England and Wales Sheet 165, Solid and Drift Edition, 1:50,000; and • BGS, 1995, West Shropshire, England and Wales Sheet 21, Groundwater Vulnerability, 1:100,000 series. 8.4.3 EA (now NRW) was able to provide data on groundwater abstractions and discharges, surface water quality and fisheries information (17th November 2006).
8.5 Assessment Methodology
8.5.1 The assessment criteria used to determine the significance of any impacts of the Access Proposals is as set out below. 8.5.2 The significance of any impacts of the Access Proposals on baseline conditions is assessed as part of the impact assessment. The combination of the magnitude of potential impact and the sensitivity of the receptor combine to determine the significance of that impact. 8.5.3 The magnitude, sensitivity and significance criteria described in this section were considered appropriate for the conditions and environments prevailing to the Access Proposals. Magnitude criteria are presented in Table 8.3.
Table 8.3 - Impact Magnitude Criteria
Magnitude of Definition potential impacts High Fundamental change to hydrological conditions (including deterioration in water quality) resulting in temporary or permanent consequential changes. Medium Detectable change to the hydrological conditions resulting in non-fundamental temporary or permanent consequential changes. Some deterioration in water quality likely to temporarily effect most senstive receptor. Low Detectable but minor change to hydrological conditions. Drinking water or enviornmental water quality standards are not exceeded and level of change is unlikely to affect the most sensitive receptor. Negligible Unquantifiable or unquantifiable change in hydrological conditions (including water quality). 8.5.4 Sensitivity criteria can be based both on the vulnerability of a receptor to a particular pressure (degree of environmental response to any particular impact), as well as the ‘value’ of the receptor (e.g. an area of international importance should be considered more sensitive to impact than an area of little or no conservation value). The sensitivity criteria used for this site include ecological habitats and are presented in Table 8.4.
Table 8.4. Sensitivity Criteria
Sensitivity of Definition Environment Environment is generally highly sensitive to change and responds in a major way High to effects.
Sites containing viable areas of threatened habitats listed in a Regional Biodiversity Action Plan.
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Sensitivity of Definition Environment Nationally designated sites such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), or non-designated sites meeting SSSI selection criteria, National Nature Reserves (NNRs), Marine Nature Reserves, Nature Conservation Review Grade 1 sites (Ratcliffe 1977).
Internationally designated or proposed sites, such as Ramsar Sites, Special Protection Areas, Biosphere Reserves, Special Areas of Conservation, or otherwise meeting criteria for international designation. Sites supporting populations of internationally important species. Private water supplies for human or stock consumption. Environment clearly responds to effect(s) in quantifiable and/or qualifiable Medium manner.
Sites containing viable areas of threatened habitats listed in a Regional Biodiversity Action Plan and/or habitats covered within a Natural Heritage Zone or SSSI Area of Search used by Scottish Natural Heritage, comfortably exceeding Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) criteria, but not meeting SSSI selection criteria (Regional value). Environment responds in minimal way to effect such that only minor change(s) Low are detectable.
Designated SINC or undesignated sites of varied quality containing habitat types of local interest, including amenity and educational functions (Local value). Environment is insensitive to impact, no discernable changes Negligible Low grade and widespread habitats. 8.5.5 The combination of magnitude and sensitivity logically combine to provide a matrix categorisation of significance as set out in Table 8.5.
Table 8.5 - Significance Matrix
Magnitude of Potential Effect Sensitivity
Negligible Low Medium High
High Negligible Moderate Moderate/Major Major
Medium Negligible Minor/ Moderate Moderate/Major Moderate
Low Negligible Minor Minor Minor/ Moderate
Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible
8.5.6 The assessment of likely effects of the Access Proposals is initially based on significance before mitigation. Levels of significance which are Minor/Moderate or above are considered significant for the purpose of the EIA regulations and will require mitigation or management to reduce the level of significance of effect.
8.6 Assumptions and Limitations
8.6.1 This assessment is based on information prepared Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Access Proposals was undertaken for RES UK & Ireland Ltd. as part of an Environmental Impact
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Assessment for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008) and the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of of Transport Route (2010) submitted to PCC. 8.6.2 It is assumed that normal good working practice will be undertaken during construction to control potential pollution incidents caused by accidental leaks and spills of fuels and oils stored on site for construction plant and machinery. 8.6.3 Notwithstanding the limitations, it is considered that the assessment of hydrology, hydrogeology and geology is sufficiently robust for the purposes of this ES.
8.7 Baseline
8.7.1 This section describes the existing hydrological and hydrogeological baseline conditions for the Access Proposals.
Topography
8.7.2 The proposed access route from the A483 in the west runs alongside a small watercourse rising up to 380mAOD before turning east and rising up a hillside to a plateau at nearly 470mAOD. The route then drops down to 450mAOD at the eastern end, see Drawing 01589D2431-04.
Land Cover and Land Use
8.7.3 The predominant land use surounding the access route is grazing for sheep and cattle. From the A483, the western section of the access route is currently a gravel track. Other sections of the route follow existing unsurface tracks through fields and short sections of gravel track.
Geology
8.7.4 The solid geology is a series of sedimentary beds dipping to the east as part of a syncline formation. The formations outcrop as north south bands with the western extreme underlain by the Silurian Ludow Bailey Hill Formation, which consists of couplets of finegrained sandstone and homogenous argillaceous siltstone that is locally slumped and destratified. The majority of the site appears to be minimal drift deposits in the vicinity of the Access Proposals and it is likely underlain by shallow soils and weathered bedrock, although there may be small deposits of till, alluvials and other drift deposits present. 8.7.5 The Access Proposals overlie a “Secondary B” aquifer- predominantly lower permeability layers which may store and yield limited amounts of groundwater due to localised features such as fissures, thin permeable horizons and weathering. These are generally the water- bearing parts of the former non-aquifers. 8.7.6 There may be areas of alluvial or morainic deposits which are classed as secondary aquifers (i.e. variable permeability). These aquifers will seldom produce large quantities of water for abstraction but can be important for both local supplies and for supplying base flow to rivers.
Groundwater: Vulnerability to Pollution
8.7.7 Generally the groundwater beneath the Access Proposals has a low vulnerability to pollution due to the impermeable nature of the underlying strata.
Hydrology
8.7.8 The Access Proposals lie within the catchment of the River Ithon which flows in a southerly direction at its closest approximately 80m west of the route. All of the watercourses along the route are tributaries of the River Ithon. Those along the western and central area of the route flow in a northerly to westerly direction into unnamed watercourses, discharging to
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the River Ithon at Camnant Bridge and Hafod. Those along the eastern area of the site flow in a southerly direction into the Cwm Nant-ddu which flows into the Gwenlas Brook.
Water Quality
8.7.9 Classification of surface water quality is taken from a six-point scale (A to F) where Grade A is the highest quality (Very Good) and Grade F the lowest (Bad). Classification is separated into chemical and biological quality. The selection of class is based on surveys carried out by the NRW. Water quality information in relation to nutrients (nitrate and phosphate) is also taken on a six-point scale (1 to 6) where Grade 1 is very low levels of nutrients and Grade 6 very high levels. 8.7.10 A stretch of the River Ithon in 2007, downstream of the Access Proposals, was assigned an A for Chemistry, B for Biology and 2 and 1 for nitrates and phosphates respectively. The Gwenlas Brook in 2007 was assigned an A for Chemistry, B for Biology and 2 and 1 for nitrates and phosphates respectively. These levels represent good water quality.
Private Water Supplies (PWS)
PWS 1 Hafod
8.7.11 This property receives water from springs which supply both the property and livestock. The livestock PWS is a pool (3096 2816) that is fed by upgradient drains. Water collected in a well at (3089 2814) is fed through pipes to the property. There are no storage facilities for the water and it does not undergo any treatment. This water is used for drinking and as the house supply. A yearly maintenance/inspection routine is undertaken. The supply has a seasonal variation but has never dried up. A new well at (3093 2815) is proposed to be constructed in 2010/2011 as a backup supply. This will be piped down to the property.
PWS 2 Garn and Garn Cottage
8.7.12 These two properties are supplied by a well (3105 2826) and a borehole (3101 2818). These are fed through pipes to the properties by an electric pump. The water undergoes no treatment and provides a constant supply of water throughout the year. Water is used for drinking, household supply and livestock.
PWS 3 Springfield House
8.7.13 This property is supplied by a spring-fed well 5 metres deep by 1 metre diameter at (3105 2819). Water from here is piped to both the property and a storage tank at (3105 2819) with an electric pump. There is no treatment of the water and the supply has not been known to dry up or show variation in flow. Water is used for drinking, household supply and livestock. Maintenance is undertaken when required. The storage tank is adjacent to the Access Proposals and the well is approximately 60m downgradient of the Access Proposals and down gradient of the eastern borrow pit.
PWS 4 Blaen nant ddu
8.7.14 This property is supplied by a spring-fed well 1 metre deep by 1 metre diameter at (3108 2822). Water is fed through pipes to a storage tank at (3108 2820) and then onto the property. There is no treatment of the water and the supply has not been known to dry up or show variation in flow. Water is used for drinking, household supply and livestock. Maintenance is undertaken when required. The well is approximately 70m downgradient of the Access Proposals.
PWS 5 Butterwell House
8.7.15 This property is supplied by a spring-fed well at (3110 2823). Water is fed through pipes to the property. None of the proposed route is directly upgradient of the well. It is therefore unlikely that the supply would be affected.
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Fisheries
8.7.16 Review of Annex II species identifies that River and Brook Lamprey, Atlantic Salmon and Bullhead are all common throughout the River Wye Special Area of Conservation (SAC). This indicates that these species may be present within the River Ithon and Gwenlas Brook.
Water Dependent Habitats
8.7.17 Areas of marshy grassland and flush exist along the proposed route. Further information is provided in Section 6 Ecological Assessment.
Flooding
8.7.18 The EA website presents the results of flood mapping which has been completed for both 1:100 year and 1:1000 year potential inundation events. The resultant flood map shows the potential for flooding along the River Ithon and at the confluence of the unnamed tributary with the River Ithon at Hafod just to the west of the Access Proposals for both 1:100 year and 1:1000 year events.
Designated Sites
8.7.19 The River Ithon is designated as a SSSI and part of the River Wye SAC. The lower section of the Gwenlas Brook is also included within this designation. This SSSI is designated primarily for its plain to montane watercourse typology and associated flora and fauna. It is a tributary of the River Wye. 8.7.20 The Gweunydd Esgairdraenllwyn or Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSI are part of the River Wye SAC and are located in the headwaters of the River Ithon at its closest 30m west of the western end of the route.
Site Sensitivities
8.7.21 Sensitive hydrological receptors identified for the route are: • The River Ithon; • Unnamed tributaries of the River Ithon; • The Cwm Nant-ddu; • The Gwenlas Brook; • Gweunydd Esgairdraenllwyn SSSI; and • Springs used as private water supplies. 8.7.22 Based on the assessment criteria a summary of site sensitivities is shown below in Table 2.1.
Hydrologically Sensitive Receptors Sensitivity Rationale / Designations
Gweunydd High Adjacent to the Esgairdraenllwyn proposed route. Designated a SSSI and or Esgairdraenllwyn part of the River Wye Pastures Terrestrial SAC
Shallow groundwater High Provides domestic supply for Springfield House and Blaen nant water Ground ddu.
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Hydrologically Sensitive Receptors Sensitivity Rationale / Designations
River Ithon High Unnamed tributaries along route flow into the river. Designated a SSSI and is part of River Wye SAC. May be important for fisheries.
Unnamed tributaries of Medium Flow along the proposed route and will therefore River Ithon receive runoff. Tributaries of the River Ithon which is a SSSI, part of an SAC and may be important for fisheries.
Cwm Nant-ddu Medium Flows along the eastern end of the proposed
Watercourses route and will therefore receive runoff. Flows into Gwenlas Brook which is a SSSI associated with the River Ithon & is a tributary of the River Wye SAC.
Gwenlas Brook Medium Cwm Nant-ddu flows into it. Is a SSSI and tributary of the River Wye SAC. May be important for fisheries.
8.8 Predicted Impacts
8.8.1 This section describes the potential effects of the proposed works upon an assessment of the activities which will occur during the construction, operational and decommissioning, where relevant.
Construction Phase
Erosion/Sedimentation
8.8.2 The construction of tracks and excavation of borrow pits will cause disturbance to soils and a consequent rise in the sediment loads observed in rivers and streams. Construction of tracks involves stripping and stockpiling materials to expose underlying soils or bedrock, potentially increasing runoff and the potential for transportation of sediment. New or upgraded water course crossings could also increase the potential for increased runoff of silt and debris. 8.8.3 The impact assessment considers that standard erosion control techniques and sediment control structures are used during the construction period, as described in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES.
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8.8.4 The track is generally located over 20m from watercourses except at crossings. Areas where the track is closer are to the east by the headwaters to the Cwm Nant-ddu and along an existing track at the western end of the route. Widths of buffer zone as set out in the Forestry Commission guidance are: • For a headwater stream with a channel 1-2m wide, a buffer at least 5m wide on either side; • For a stream with a channel 1-2m wide, a buffer about 10m wide on either side; and • For a stream with a channel over 2m wide, a buffer about 20m wide on either side. 8.8.5 The sensitivity of watercourses along the Access Proposals are Medium, with a High sensitivity watercourse downstream. The magnitude of potential effects due to sedimentation of the watercourses along the route is Medium, which will be reduced to Low downstream due to sedimentation and dilution. Thus the overall significance will be Moderate at most. 8.8.6 Gweunydd Esgairdraenllwyn or Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSI is at its closest 30m west from the track route. The sensitivity of the SSSI is High and the magnitude of potential effects due to sedimentation is Medium to Low. Thus the overall significance will be Moderate. 8.8.7 The track routes passes within close proximity of the spring PWS for Springfield House and Blaen nant ddu. The storage tank for Springfield House (PWS 3) is adjacent to the track and the spring source is approximately 60m downgradient of the track. The spring source for Blaen nant ddu (PWS 4) is approximately 70m downgradient of the track. The sensitivity of all PWS is High. The magnitude of potential effects due to sedimentation for PWS 4 and PWS 3 is Medium to Low thus the overall significance will be Moderate.
Pollution
8.8.8 Fuel and oil spillages are potential sources of contaminants from vehicles passing along the track. Vehicle movements could generate low levels of contaminants via fuel and/or oil leakages. The potential effect of a fuel or oil spillage on a watercourse is Low which will be reduced to Negligible downstream due to dilution. The sensitivity of watercourses along the route are Medium, with a High sensitivity watercourse downstream. Thus the overall significance will be Minor at most. 8.8.9 Gweunydd Esgairdraenllwyn or Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSI is at its closest 30m west from the track route. The sensitivity of the SSSI is High and the magnitude of potential effects due to fuel or oil spillage is Medium to Low. Thus the overall significance will be Moderate. 8.8.10 The potential magnitude of effect of a fuel or oil spillage on the springs used for the Springfield House and Blaen nant ddu PWS is assessed as Medium to Low and the sensitivity of the springs is High thus the overall significance will be Moderate.
Alteration to Natural Drainage Patterns/Runoff Volumes and Rates
8.8.11 The development of tracks has the potential to alter natural drainage by the development of preferential flow pathways. If constructed against the topographic gradient, roads could act as barriers to run-off resulting in the ponding of water. If constructed in line with the gradient, the development of preferential flow down the roadway could occur. 8.8.12 The effect of the tracks will be no greater than normal forestry tracks. Tracks will be designed to minimise run-off by allowing water to permeate through the surface. Drainage channels will also be formed along the track edges to route excess runoff into soakaways. Thus there should be little net effect on the total quantity of water flowing off the Access Proposals. 8.8.13 The magnitude of potential effects for alteration to natural drainage and runoff volumes and rates by tracks and the borrow pits on watercourses is assessed as Low which will be reduced to Negligible downstream due to the input of runoff and drainage from other
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sources. Only small catchment areas are likely to be impacted. The sensitivity of watercourses along the Access Proposals are Medium with a High sensitivity watercourse downstream. Thus the overall significance will be Minor at most. 8.8.14 The sensitivity of Gweunydd Esgairdraenllwyn or Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSI is High. The magnitude of potential effects for alteration to natural drainage and runoff volumes is Low due to the input of runoff and drainage from other sources downstream, thus the overall significance will be Minor/Moderate. 8.8.15 The potential magnitude of effect for alteration to natural drainage and runoff volumes and rates on springs used as PWS is assessed as Medium to Low. The sensitivity of the PWS is High thus the overall significance will be Moderate. 8.8.16 A number of watercourse crossings will have to be upgraded or constructed. These are detailed in Appendix 4. 8.8.17 As well as construction, these watercourse crossings may require ongoing maintenance to ensure they do not become blocked and pose a flood risk. New or upgraded crossings have the potential to alter the natural drainage on the site by interfering with flow. Any works which have the potential to affect watercourses must have prior authorisation from NRW. Consents will not be approved if there is likely to be a significant environmental effect. On the basis that all crossings are to be on small watercourses and will require authorisation from NRW, the magnitude of potential effects of watercourse crossing design in impeding flows are assessed as Low. As the watercourses along the Access Proposals are of Medium sensitivity this gives an overall significance of Minor. Private Water Supplies (PWS) PWS 1 Hafod 8.8.18 The existing and proposed PWS for this property are located upgradient of the Access Proposals. It is therefore unlikely that the supply would be affected. PWS 2 Garn and Garn Cottage 8.8.19 None of the proposed track is directly upgradient of the borehole or well. It is therefore unlikely that the supply would be affected however, the supply pipe from the well to the property passes across the Access Proposals and a strategy for dealing with this during construction and ensuring that it is fit for purpose during operation will be necessary. PWS 3 Springfield House 8.8.20 As construction works will take place in the upgradient catchment of this supply there is likely to be an impact on flow or water quality. PWS 4 Blaen nant ddu 8.8.21 As construction works will take place in the upgradient catchment of this supply there is likely to be an impact on flow or water quality. PWS 5 Butterwell House 8.8.22 Based on the available information it appears that PWS 3 and PWS 4 along with the supply pipe for PWS 2 could potentially be affected by the Access Proposals. Operational Phase 8.8.23 During the operation and maintenance of the Access Proposals the water environment will be subject to less potential adverse effects than during the construction phase. Access tracks will be complete and no regular substantial works on the site will be expected other than scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. 8.8.24 The potential for any additional sedimentation is low, therefore the magnitude of potential effects from erosion and sediment transport is considered to be Negligible on all receptors. 8.8.25 This gives an overall significance of Negligible for all receptors.
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Decommissioning Phase 8.8.26 The potential effects that the decommissioning phase would have on the receptors identified above will be very similar, although of a lesser magnitude, to those detailed above for site construction. This is due to similar procedures, as outlined for site construction phase, being adopted for the decommissioning phase. If new guidelines to legislation are published prior to decommissioning, where appropriate, these will be incorporated into the decommissioning procedures.
8.9 Cumulative Impacts
8.9.1 The strategic route has been identified for the movement of turbine components to SSAs B and C in Mid Wales. Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would address the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures. Therefore the management of cumulative impacts has been considered in the design of the Access Proposals.
8.10 Mitigation and Enhancement
Primary Mitigation during Construction
8.10.1 There are a variety of best practices and recognised measures to mitigate and eliminate all of the afore mentioned potential construction impacts providing appropriate provisions are made in the design, construction planning and methodology. This includes minimising risks through micro-siting to removal or relocation of features, this is termed ‘primary mitigation’ as it mitigates the likelihood of significant effects from the outset. Those elements of the Proposal in which design of the layout was optimised to avoid hydrological/hydrogeological features are described in sections 8.7.3 to 8.7.8 of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES. 8.10.2 In addition to those primary mitigation measures, a detailed survey would be undertaken prior to construction of the private water supplies around Springfield House and Blaen nant ddu which are going to be within close proximity to the proposed track route, and for the pipeline for the Garn property which crosses the Access Proposals. This will enable appropriate drainage to be incorporated into the track design to protect these from potential sediment and pollution laden runoff or impact on flows.
Secondary Mitigation during Construction
8.10.3 Mitigation undertaken at the construction stage is critical and involves both management and monitoring. Given the conservation significance of a number of nearby hydrological resources and the presence of private water supplies, mitigation measures which at least meet those required within current Best Practice Guidelines will be applied as described in sections 8.7.10 to 8.7.47 of the Garreg Lwyd Hill ES. 8.10.4 In addition to those secondary mitigation measures, the PWS at Springfield House and Blaen nant ddu have the potential to be negatively affected by sediment and pollution laden runoff. Therefore the wind farm incident response plan will include details of the steps to be taken in the event that a sediment or pollution laden spill is noted on site or identified through monitoring. This will include details on the immediate notification of the PWS owner and provision of an alternative water supply. 8.10.5 In addition the pipeline conveying water to the Garn properties cuts straight across the Access Proposals and an appropriate plan for managing the disconnection and reinstallation of this system will be detailed in the CEMP.
Secondary Mitigation through Monitoring
8.10.6 Monitoring would be undertaken as described in sections 8.7.48 to 8.7.53 of the Garreg Lwyd Hill ES. In addition to that monitoring described, the Springfield House and Blaen nant ddu PWS will be reviewed prior to construction so as to understand the nature of the
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supply. This will be done in consultation with the landowner. A round of baseline monitoring of these supplies will be undertaken. 8.10.7 Where the access track cross areas of marshy ground and are liable to intercept groundwater seepages, appropriate drains would be installed, such that the continuity of groundwater flow paths is maintained with little modification. Typical access track designs are shown in Appendix 3. The use of the principles of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) would further ensure maintenance of current groundwater path flows.
8.11 Residual Effects
8.11.1 The assessment identified areas of activity, particularly during the construction operations that have the potential to impact upon the hydrological/hydrogeological resources of the proposed access track route. Particular attention was paid to the risk of affecting private water supplies and potential impacts on the River Ithon and Gweunydd Esgairdraenllwyn or Esgairdraenllwyn Pastures SSSIs. 8.11.2 The magnitude and significance of potential impacts was assessed, covering sedimentation/erosion, pollution and alteration to natural drainage patterns. Prior to mitigation, there was the potential for impacts of Minor to Moderate significance to occur in regard to water quality and Minor to Moderate significance for water quantity. 8.11.3 It is noted that the management of erosion, sedimentation and pollution during construction is now standard practice. Accordingly, all potential impacts are able to be mitigated and eliminated providing appropriate provisions are made in the design, construction planning and methodology. Following planning permission, and following more detailed site investigations and drainage design, detailed plans for the proposed access track considered here will be prepared as part of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm CEMP in consultation with NRW, and submitted and agreed to in writing by the relevant authorities prior to commencement of construction. 8.11.4 In addition, the design of all new or upgraded water crossings will be subject to appropriate consents or licences obtained before construction. 8.11.5 With the proposed mitigation and monitoring in place, the significance of the residual impacts of the Proposal on the hydrology, hydrogeology and geology of the Site would be Negligible to Minor.
8.12 References
NCC (2003). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey technique for environmental audit. Nature Conservancy Council. RSPB, NRA & RSNC (1994). The New Rivers and Wildlife Handbook. RSPB, Sandy, Bedfordshire. Strachan, R. & Moorhouse, T. (2006). Water vole conservation handbook (2nd Ed.). Wildlife Conservation. Environment Agency (2001) General Guide to the Prevention of Pollution: PPG1
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9. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT
9.1 Introduction
9.1.1 This Section considers the predicted adverse and beneficial socio-economic effects of the Access Proposals during construction and operation of the Access Proposals as outlined in Section 3: Description of Development.
9.2 Scope of Assessment
9.2.1 The assessment considers the potential negative and positive economic effects of widening works, the potential negative effects of wind farm traffic, and amenity effects for nearby residents. 9.2.2 A desk based study was carried out to gather baseline data and to assess the socio- economic effects of the Access Proposals. This section provides a summary of the report provided by Sparks Fly Up as reported in the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm Environmental Assessment of Transport Route (2010), and relies upon its content.
9.3 Policy Context and Guidance
9.3.1 The policy context for the Access Proposals is outlined in Section 2: Planning Policy.
9.4 Assessment Methodology
9.4.1 An assessment of the potential economic effects of wind farm transport works and traffic can be undertaken using a variety of quantitative and qualitative data gathered from comparable previous studies and original research. For the assessment undertaken by Sparks Fly Up, a desk-based review of comparable studies has been carried out, with broad consideration given to the different potential effects, their likelihood of occurring, and mitigation measures.
9.5 Assumptions and Limitations
9.5.1 The assessment has been undertaken via a desk study, therefore assumptions have been made to the level of numbers of road users and vistiors to the area. This ES section relies upon the information provided by Sparks Fly Up.
9.6 Baseline
9.6.1 An overview of the proposed access route is shown in Figure 01589D2407-06 presented in Appendix 4 . The Access Proposals consist of works required to facilitate access between Newtown to the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm to facilitate deliveries of AILs, which includes an unclassfied road which is known as the Vastre. The Vastre currently has low useage from traffic and is considered not to be frequently used by tourists. The Access Proposals along A489 and the Vastre form part of the Strategic Transport Management Plan (sTMP), referred to as the Strategic Route. The main receptors of the Strategic Route are road users, tourists and local residents. The alternative route via Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate has similar characteristics to the Strategic Route, and the Heol Treowen option includes works within the village of Dolfor. 9.6.2 The final 3.4km of the access track required to connect the Strategic Route with the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm, leaves the Strategic Route at Cwm Y Berllwyd, and crosses the proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm to access the proposed Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm, as detailed below. 9.6.3 The area surrounding Garreg Lwyd Hill has a low density of visitor attractions and tourist accommodation relative to other areas of Wales. Therefore traffic will be mostly local road users.
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9.7 Predicted Impacts
Potential Negative Economic Effects of the Access Proposals
9.7.1 The areas of widening works are described in Section 3 of this report. All the proposed works are adjacent to the existing highway except those required to cross the proposed Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm site which will require a new access track. 9.7.2 As part of this assessment, each section of the Access Proposals have been firstly assessed for their impacts on the local economy in turn. The overall effects for both sections have then been assessed on amenity, traffic delays and character of the area.
Strategic Route Works in Newtown
9.7.3 The location of the widening works of the A438/A489 Junction is shown as sTMP drawing 6-4 b P5, Appendix 1. 9.7.4 The proposed works will allow the abnormal load vehicles bringing turbines parts to the Garreg Lwyd Hill site to turn left off the A483 and onto the A489 without passing through the traffic lights. This will significantly reduce potential disruption to other road users. 9.7.5 There are a high number of potential receptors at this location, as it is situated adjacent to a busy road in central Newtown. Receptors would be road users and residents.
Character Effects
9.7.6 The character of the junction would be altered in that the sheds currently occupying the sales yard would be removed for the delivery period at least. The works would result in the junction having a more open appearance, but not greatly different to that at present.
Delay Effects
9.7.7 The construction of the hardstand area would not cause delays to other road users as all works could be carried out from the private land side, with no significant works required in the existing road way. 9.7.8 Given that the existing junction is quite busy and that works would not disrupt traffic it is not considered that the works would have a significant effect on tourism or people’s ability to go about their business, and therefore no significant socio-economic effects are predicted during construction or operation of the Access Proposals. Strategic Route works Newtown to Dolfor including Heol Treowen and Mochdre Industrial Estate Options 9.7.9 The Strategic Route works consist of widening on the inside of the junction of the A489 and the Vastre which will allow the blade vehicles to turn right, and then widening on some of the bends along the Vastre and within the highway verge. These works are shown as sTMP drawing 6-4 c P8 and STMP 6-4 c P8 to 6-4 s P8 (overview sTMP figure 6-4 a P4) in Appendix 1. 9.7.10 The alternative options consist of highway modifications to the eastern and western junctions of Heol Treowen in Newtown, and two bends between Heol Treowen and Dolfor on the A483. These works are shown on Figure 3-2. In addition a further option is to access the A483 to the south of Newtown via the Mochdre Industrial Estate. The route follows the Strategic Route to Newtown on A483 before continuing on the A489 (Llandiloes Road) and turning left onto the Heol Ashley into Mochdre Industrial Estate. The route is shown on Figure 3-3.
Delay Effects
9.7.11 This road has very low usage and it is not considered to be a road frequently used by tourists. There are some small laybys where cars occasionally stop and look down to Newtown.
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9.7.12 There would be no alternative access route for many of the residents and farms located along the Vastre, therefore any potential road closures would have a significant effect. For this reason it is proposed to not close the road but to hold oncoming traffic at pre- determined locations to allow abnormal load convoys to pass as described in the sTMP. The sTMP sets out a strategy for delievery times to avoid peak periods. Accordingly it is considered that the effects arising from the wind farm traffic is not significant. As it would not result in economic detriment to the local residents and businesses using this road. 9.7.13 Where widening works require 3rd party land, construction work would be carried out from the private land side, thereby reducing the potential disruption to traffic. The other areas of works within the highway verge would be narrow in extent and would therefore be completed quickly and the road would not need to be closed for construction of these areas of widening. Character Effects 9.7.14 Just outside Dolfor to the north of the village, sTMP figures 108526-Fig 6-4q, r and s detail some widening works, including the removal of up to four large sycamore trees and works to signage and telegraph poles. 9.7.15 As this area of works is just outside Dolfor, there are more local receptors, some of whom may be visitors to local guesthouses. However, this section of the road does not have a footpath and is very narrow, and it is therefore considered that the key receptors would be local people or visitors passing in their cars, and the occupants of the house at Labour-In – Vain. 9.7.16 The widening works proposed are not considered likely to change the character of this road, there will be some widening but it will not change this narrow road into something different. There will be some removal of hedges (the ecological effects of which are addressed in Section 6 of this report) but they will be replanted at the edge of the new road alignment, there will therefore not be any significant change in sense of enclosure or vegetation character. It is therefore considered that the effects would not be significant as it is unlikely that there would be any change in revenue from tourism on account of change of character of this section of road. 9.7.17 The widening of the road and removal of the trees would increase visibility and alter the character of this location to a degree. Once the works are completed the resulting character will not be out of place with the rest of the area and it is considered that visitors to the area would not be discouraged from visiting. The occupants of Labour-in- Vain will experience a significant change in the character of this location. 9.7.18 The construction works involved in this area of widening will be short term and will be possible without closing the road. Therefore, any negative impact on the local economy will be minimal. Structural Effects 9.7.19 During the consultation period for the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm application there have been a number of concerns raised with regard to the structural integrity of buildings adjacent to the access route. 9.7.20 The abnormal loads associated with the project would all have axle weights that are within the permitted UK road limit of 19 tonnes per axle. 9.7.21 Some concern had been raised with regard to the presence of cellars in Montgomery that could be affected by heavy loads; such effects shall be precluded as RES do not propose to bring abnormal loads via Montgomery. 9.7.22 The owner of Tollgate house, at the southern end of Dolfor, has raised concerns that the house would be potentially at risk of structural damage from wind farm traffic going south on the B4355 owing to the poor structure of the road and undetermined foundation strength of the building itself. The owner is specifically concerned that the house supports the B4355 to a degree, and that vibrations from the vehicles could affect the house. 9.7.23 The current abnormal load transport route does not include the B4355 and instead the vehicles would pass the house on the A483.
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9.7.24 The A483 is slightly lower than, or level with, the house and therefore it is unlikely that vehicles travelling on the A483 will exert any pressure on the house. 9.7.25 Owing to the alignment of the A483 at this location abnormal loads would be required to travel past quite slowly; it is considered that there would not be any significant level of vibration accordingly. 9.7.26 HGVs passing would be no different in size or weight than those currently passing and so it is not considered likely that there would be any significant increase in vibration effects on the house. In addition, the HGVs would travel quite slowly past the house as it is within a 30mph speed limit zone and immediately after a bend for which a notice advises a maximum 20mph and therefore it is considered unlikely that there would be significant vibration effects on Tollgate house from wind farm traffic. 9.7.27 As a precautionary measure RES would be willing to facilitate an independent pre- construction survey of the property to determine its state, and a post-construction survey to determine if any significant effects may have occurred that could be attributed to the wind farm traffic. 9.7.28 No other buildings or structures on the access route have been identified as particularly sensitive to large vehicles passing by. 9.7.29 Given the temporary nature of these works and the low number of road users the local socio-economic effect assocated with construction and operation of the Access Proposals is expected to be not significant.
Overall Amenity Effects of the Access Proposals
9.7.30 Road widening works always have potential to disturb the amenity of nearby residents. 9.7.31 However, in this case the only works that would be undertaken in proximity to dwellings are those in Newtown as described above; opposite Yewtree Cottage on the Vastre, opposite Cefn-y-feastre on the Vastre; opposite Labour-in- Vain on the approach to Dolfor, On western edge of the A483 within Dolfor, and at Hafod at the entry to the Llanbadarn Fynydd Wind Farm site. It is considered that the number of residents that would be directly affected by the road widening works is low. Given that the construction and operation of the Access Proposals works would be limited in duration it is not considered that the would have a significant effect on residential amenity. Overall Delay Effects of the Access Proposals 9.7.32 Owing to the number of other road users on trunk roads, delays owing to wind farm traffic on the trunk roads are considered to have the greatest potential to affect the local economy. The sTMP has been designed to minimise potential for significant delays to other road users, and hence it is not considered that the wind farm traffic is likely to result in significant effects on the local economy.
Overall Effects on Character of the Access Proposals
9.7.33 There is a potential for the wind farm traffic to change the character of the area and hence affect tourism. However, as stated at paragraph 10.6.10 of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm ES (2008), the anticipated traffic would be less than 5% of the current AADF (Annual Average Daily Flow) and hence would not be significant according to the Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic. 9.7.34 The peak traffic periods would be during foundation pouring, when there might be up to 50 concrete deliveries in one day; that would be 100 vehicle movements as round trips. However, these peak days would only occur up to 23 times (one for each turbine). For a project that has a lifetime of 25 years, it is considered that 23 days of peak traffic is reasonable. As stated at paragraph 10.6.7 of the 2008 proposed wind farm ES, working hours would be 6am to 8pm; therefore if concrete deliveries were to be scheduled uniformly through that period there would be one HGV passing every 8 minutes: even if deliveries were concentrated in an eight hour period they would be about 5 minutes apart. Therefore it is considered that the effects would be of low magnitude and not significant.
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9.7.35 The potential effects of abnormal load deliveries on the perceived character of the area are difficult to quantify as they would be largely determined by people’s own subjective views of wind farms.
Potential Beneficial Economic Effects of the Access Proposals
9.7.36 At all locations of widening works it is expected that other road users will benefit from increased visibility. This is considered to be particularly beneficial to tourists who may be uncertain of the road layout. 9.7.37 Farm businesses will benefit from widening works as their large vehicles will be able to pass oncoming traffic more easily. Unlike the majority of the negative impacts cited above, which are short term, these benefits are long term and may result in increased productivity for local businesses. 9.7.38 The construction and of the new and upgraded track of the Garreg Lwyd Hill Access Proposals would facilitate improved access for local farm businesses. 9.7.39 RES tries to ensure that wherever possible local contractors and employees are used in all aspects of wind farm development. The major opportunity lies during the construction phase when suitably qualified local firms are identified and invited to bid for a significant portion of the construction work, on roads, foundations and buildings. Construction materials are normally sourced locally and local transport and plant hire companies used wherever possible. At Garreg Lwyd Hill Wind Farm a temporary workforce of up to 40 would be created during the 12 month construction stage. It is anticipated that 80% of these construction jobs would be sourced locally. This includes employment assessement with the proposed wind farm and Access Proposals. 9.7.40 Although each project differs in detail, an indicative capital-cost for a typical 46MW UK wind farm project such as at Garreg Lwyd Hill is approximately £45 million. Of this the civil engineering element (roads, foundations etc) accounts for approximately 10% and the grid connection a further 3-5%. The greater part of this work is likely to be sourced from local suppliers, subject to the availability of the appropriate skills and resources. It is considered that this will benefit the local economy.
9.8 Cumulative Impacts
9.8.1 The strategic route has been identified for the movement of turbine components to SSAs B and C in Mid Wales. Renewable UK Cymru commissioned the preparation of a sTMP that would address the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments in Mid Wales and propose appropriate mitigation measures. Therefore the management of cumulative impacts has been considered in the design of the Access Proposals.
9.9 Mitigation and Enhancement
9.9.1 The primary mitigation for transport and access of the proposed wind farm has been in the form of route choice. RES has worked closely with PCC and the Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency to find a preferred route to minimise negative environmental effects and the preferred route, and factors affecting it, has ‘evolved’ over the years. 9.9.2 At the request of Powys Highways, RES does not propose to bring abnormal loads through the Heol Treowen Estate owing to the sensitive receptors present, nor through Montgomery.
Widening Works
9.9.3 Widening work would only be carried out on one side of the road at a time, allowing traffic to pass. Some traffic management may be required and would be designed in agreement with Powys Highways.
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RES, Garreg Lwyd Wind Farm Access Proposals Volume II Environmental Statement
Traffic
9.9.4 While it is anticipated that there would be negative economic effects owing to traffic delays during the construction and delivery phase of the wind farm, once the construction period ends the road improvement works may reduce the likelihood of traffic delays resulting from normal traffic in future. 9.9.5 RES shall continue to work with the highways authorities and police and other wind farm developers to find ways to further reduce potential negative environmental effects of the wind farm construction traffic.
9.10 Residual Effects
9.10.1 The residual negative effects on receptors during construction will be negligible once the mitigation measures discussed above are put in place. 9.10.2 During the operation of the access route it is considered that the residual effects of wind farm traffic will be negligible as RES will work with the highways authorities to ensure any potential negative environmental effects are minimised.
9.11 Summary
9.11.1 The Access Proposals and related traffic have the potential to have some negative socio- economic impacts at a local scale. It is evident that any negative socio-economic impacts will be temporary, with any longer term impacts likely to be negligible, especially when the planned mitigating factors are taken into consideration. 9.11.2 There will, however, also be positive impacts from the work, such as increased local spend from workers associated with the Access Proposals and, in the longer term, improved traffic flow. Of potential greater significance is the fact that the nature of the Access Proposals equates to capital investment in infrastructure and, as such, can be expected to bring long term benefits in terms of productivity. 9.11.3 Overall, it is anticiptaed that the socio-economic impact of the Access Proposals would be not significant at a local and regional scale.
9.12 References
Institute of Environmental Assessment (2003) Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic, Institute of Environmental Assessment, Lincoln
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