TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT) REGULATIONS 2011

REGULATION 5 – REQUEST FOR A SCREENING OPINION

SCREENING REPORT

PROPOSED SOLAR PARK, MANOR FARM, FARLEIGH LANE, FARLEIGH WALLOP, , RG25 2HR

10 April 2014

Belectric Solar Ltd Thorney Weir House Thorney Mill Road Iver, Buckinghamshire SL0 9AQ

Tel: +44 (0)1895 452 640 Fax: +44 (0)1895 431 880 Email: www.Belectric.co.uk Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

Contents 1 INTRODUCTION...... 1 2 PROJECT BACKGROUND ...... 3 2.1 THE COMPANY...... 3 2.2 SITE DESCRIPTION...... 4 2.3 PLANNING DESIGNATIONS ...... 5 2.4 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 7 3 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... 12 3.1 OVERVIEW...... 12 3.2 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS...... 13 3.3 LAND USE...... 13 3.4 AGRICULTURAL LAND QUALITY ...... 13 3.5 LANDSCAPE ...... 13 3.6 HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT...... 15 3.7 NOISE...... 16 3.8 AIR EMISSIONS...... 16 3.9 WASTE ...... 16 3.10 FLOOD RISK / DRAINAGE...... 16 3.11 TRAFFIC...... 17 3.12 ARBORICULTURE ...... 17 3.13 SUMMARY ...... 17 4 CONCLUSION...... 20

APPENDIX 1 – Original Screening Request and Screening Opinion APPENDIX 2 – Constraints Plan Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 This Screening Report has been prepared by Belectric Solar Ltd (“BELECTRIC”) to formally request a Screening Opinion from and Deane Borough Council as to whether or not the development described in this Report is considered to be Environmental Impact Assessment (“EIA”) development, requiring the submission of an Environmental Statement (“ES”) with any planning application.

1.2 The solar Photovoltaic (“PV”) farm, with a site area of approximately 52ha, would generate up to 19MWp of renewable energy.

1.3 Regulation 5(2) of the EIA Regulations states that a request for a Screening Opinion should be accompanied by:

 A plan sufficient to identify land;

 A brief description of the nature and purpose of the development and its possible effects on the environment; and

 Such information or representations that the person making the request may wish to provide or make.

1.4 This Screening Report has been prepared to provide a sufficient level of information to enable Borough Council (the Local Planning Authority [“LPA”]) to issue a Screening Opinion. Regulation 5(5) of the EIA Regulations require that a Screening Opinion is issued within 3 weeks of the receipt by the LPA of the request for a Screening Opinion.

1.5 By way of background, part of the application site (i.e. 27ha) was the subject of a previous Screening Request (“Original Screening Request”) for a proposed 14MW solar farm (with the PV modules at maximum height of 2.5m), which was received and validated by the LPA on 8 May 2013 (LPA Ref. 13/00419/ENSC). A Screening Opinion (“Original Screening Opinion”) was subsequently issued by the LPA on 27 June 2013, which determined that an EIA was required:

“…given the characteristics of the site, its surrounding context and close relationship to country lanes, it is likely that there will be significant effect on the natural landscape character and visual amenity of the area, in addition to the cumulative effects when seen in the content of the consented anaerobic digestion plant (LPA Ref. BDB/75034). As such, it is considered the proposal would constitute EIA development”.

1.6 Copies of the Original Screening Request and Screening Opinion are contained at Appendix 1.

1.7 Given that this current revised Screening Request encompasses an extended site area of the Original Screening Request, the above is considered to be of relevance.

1 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

1.8 In considering whether the proposed solar Photovoltaic (“PV”) farm is EIA development, it is important to be aware of the following:

a) Solar PV farms do not represent Schedule 1 development where EIA is a mandatory requirement.

b) Solar PV farms are not specifically identified as Schedule 2 development within the EIA Regulations, although they could potentially be considered to fall under Category 3 Energy industry, (a) Industrial installations for the production of electricity, steam and hot water; where the area of development exceeds 0.5ha. However, Schedule 2 development will only require EIA if it is likely to have significant environmental effects by virtue of factors such as size, nature or location.

c) Solar PV farms do not usually result in significant environmental effects. During the operation of the development, the land can be used for biodiversity enhancement e.g. by accommodating beehives and wild flower planting (with native seed mixes) on the site to encourage bee re population and pollination in ‐ the area. Furthermore, at the end of the operational life of the installation, the ‐ land can be returned to agricultural use. The installation of the solar arrays does not involve significant ground works and the scale and height of the arrays is such that they can be screened from the surrounding area by existing hedgerows and landscape features. Solar PV farms are passive in operation, which distinguishes them from active and noise generating renewable energy developments such as wind turbines. Any limited environmental effects (e.g. traffic movements) are largely confined to the construction phase, which is typically for a short duration (circa 6-8 weeks).

d) The site has been selected on the basis that it is considered to be of relatively low environmental sensitivity and has the potential to be well screened from the surrounding area. BELECTRIC will undertake a thorough feasibility screening exercise in considering potential development sites in order to explore key environmental and technical considerations. We have therefore included in this request an initial assessment of potential environmental effects. We have also included a proposed approach to any future submission on which we would appreciate the view of the LPA.

2 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

2 PROJECT BACKGROUND

2.1 THE COMPANY

2.1.1 BELECTRIC is a major international solar energy company operating in a total of 18 offices throughout all five continents. Since the company was founded in 2001 (with its Headquarters in Germany), it has installed over 1.5GW of solar power across the globe. This makes it possible to supply over one million people with solar power.

*Aerial Photograph of a recently built BELECTRIC solar farm in Cantelupe, South Cambridgeshire

2.1.2 The company develops innovative technologies characterised by high energy yields, reliable operation, and low raw material consumption. Furthermore, BELECTRIC's ‐ position as market leader is due to the high degree of vertical integration in the development and manufacturing processes. The company employs over 2,000 people across the globe in areas such as research, plant construction and maintenance.

2.1.3 According to renowned market research companies such as iSuppli and IMS Research - since 2010, BELECTRIC is the global market leader in the development and construction of ground mounted solar power plants and roof mounted photovoltaic systems. It also became the first company to install more ‐ ‐ than 1GW of photovoltaic power in total.

3 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

2.1.4 All system components such as substructures, cabling systems and inverter stations are produced in house at BELECTRIC, enabling perfect tailoring of the individual components of the system design, which in turn results in reduced costs per ‐ generated kWh of electricity over the long term and highly efficient results. All work steps under one roof – this approach allows BELECTRIC to complete the construction of solar power plants worldwide within the agreed time limit.

2.1.5 A further reason for the success of the company is its financial independence. With a very good equity ratio and corresponding credit limit, BELECTRIC is viewed as one of the most reliable partners by investors and banks responsible for project financing. This is confirmed by independent ratings from Creditreform.

2.2 SITE DESCRIPTION

2.11 The site is situated approximately 240m south-east of Beggarwood and extends to an area of approximately 52 hectares (128 acres). A site location plan of the site is shown in Figure 2.1.

Figure 2.1 – Site Location Plan

2.12 It is understood that the site is currently used for low-grade agricultural purposes. An aerial photograph of the site (edged in red) is shown in Figure 2.2.

4 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

Figure 2.2 – Aerial Photograph of Site

2.13 The site is partly flat and partly north-facing and is surrounded by agricultural fields although the established urban areas of Beggarwood and are approximately 240m and 380m to the north-west respectively. The nearest residential property appears to be located approximately 40m south-east of the site.

2.3 PLANNING DESIGNATIONS

2.3.1 As shown in Figure 2.3, the Proposals Map of the saved Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan 1996-2011 (adopted 2006) confirms that the site does not have any planning or environmental designations apart from the fact that it is within ‘Groundwater Protection Zone 3’.

2.3.2 The closest planning designations are 3 no. of Conservation Areas located approximately 2km north-east, 2.2km south-west, and 2.1km south-east of the site; Grade II* Listed ‘Farleigh Wallop House’ approximately 630m to the south-east; and a Scheduled Ancient Monument (known as “Windmill mound at Farleigh House”) located approximately 140m to the south-east.

5 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

Figure 2.3 – Proposals Map of the Adopted Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan

6 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

2.3.3 It is notable that a revised Local Plan will eventually replace the saved version and is currently at a relatively early stage (i.e. pre-submission version). However, a revised Proposals Map is yet to be published, therefore, the version used in the saved Local Plan remains applicable for development management purposes.

2.4 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

2.4.1 Further work is required in the detailed design of the proposed solar PV farm.

2.4.2 In line with BELECTRIC’s market leading and high quality PV design standards, it will consist of a series of south facing rows of solar arrays (thin film PV modules with 20o ‐ ‐ module incline) arranged across the site on an east/west axis. These modules ensure optimal use of solar‐ irradiation and require signific‐antly fewer raw materials during production than traditional silicon based technologies. Furthermore, with cloudy skies, the efficiency of the thin film modules decreases by a smaller extent ‐ compared to more traditional silicon modules. Each solar array will comprise of a ‐ series of short narrow aluminium posts, supporting dark blue coloured PV modules.

2.4.3 The distance between each row of solar array is usually 6-10m, with approximately 25% of the total site area covered by the arrays. The panel structures will have a maximum height of 3m and will slope down to 0.85m. It will have a depth of 6m. The foundation depth of the arrays will be approximately 1m below ground. BELECTRIC uses a frameless design of solar modules as shown in Figure 2.4.

Figure 2.4 – Thin-film PV Modules

7 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

2.4.4 The arrays will be installed in one construction phase. Typically, the solar PV farm will also include the following components:

a) Approximately 7 no. of Power Conditioning Units (“PCU”) will likely be required. Each specifically developed PCU (Figure 2. 5 ) includes an intelligent inverter system and a small transformer station. The inverter is a power conversion device that changes Direct Current (“DC”) into grid compliant Alternating Current (“AC”). The solar arrays will be connected to inverters, which will be ‐ spaced across the site. Transformers are electrical devices that alter the ratio of current and voltage in power to meet the requirements of transmission grids and devices. The purpose built PCU is considerably smaller than more commonly used inverters and transformer stations and will be lower in height ‐ than the high solar arrays. Note that the PCU will cover an area of approximately 22.3m2 and will be 2.8m high. The length of the PCU will be 11.3m by 1.97m wide. These are centrally located within the solar PV farm’s fields, designed to be of a similar scale to the height of the array.

8 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

Figure 2.5 – Typical ‘Power Conditioning Unit’ (PCU)

[NB. Ground to be seeded with grass to ensure appropriate landscaping. Temporary wooden platforms will be removed when solar farm fully operational]

b) A transfer station (Figure 2.6). The transfer station monitors the grid access points and regulates the electrical current flow of the solar PV farm and adjusts the voltage using reactive power. Specially developed voltage sensors and software algorithms detect grid requirements and react automatically. The purpose built transfer station will have a footprint of approximately 16.2m2 and will be 2.35m high. The length of the transfer station will be 3m by 3m wide. The transfer station will be coloured dark green to blend in with the surrounding local environment.

Figure 2.6 – Typical ‘Transfer Station’

c) A collecting station (Figure 2.7) containing the electrical switchgear. The green coloured collecting station will typically measure 2.8m high by 5m wide by 3m in depth.

9 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

Figure 2.7 – Typical ‘Collecting Station’

d) Security measures include the installation of 2m high wire mesh perimeter fencing (usually coloured dark green to match the colour of the surrounding ‐ rural landscape). The fence will have gaps in its base designed to allow small animals to pass through the site (Figure 2.8).

Figure 2.8 – Typical Wire-mesh Perimeter Fencing (2m high)

10 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

e) The site will have no external artificial lighting. In addition, the installation of infra red security detection cameras pointing directly within the site at approximately 3.5m high. ‐ f) Underground electrical cabling connecting arrays with the PCUs and transfer station.

g) The solar PV farm will be connected to the Grid and the nearest point of connection.

h) There will be an 11m stand-off around the end of each array to allow for facility maintenance and Site access.

i) A temporary construction compound area (approximately 2ha) is proposed on the northern tip of the site and as shown in Figure 2.9 (area shaded in the colour purple). Once construction of the solar farm has been completed, the compound area will be reverted to its existing field condition.

Figure 2.9 – Area of Temporary Construction Compound

2.4.5 It is estimated that the solar PV farm will be able to generate up to 19MWp of electricity per annum. The output is equivalent to the electrical requirements of approximately 5,600 average homes.

11 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

3 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

3.1 OVERVIEW

3.1.1 Solar PV farms are not specifically identified within Schedule 2 of the EIA Regulations, although the proposed development could potentially be considered to fall under Category 3 Energy industry, (a) Industrial Installations for the production of electricity, steam and hot water, where the area of development exceeds 0.5 hectare. Schedule 2 development will only require EIA if it is likely to have significant effects upon the environment by virtue of factors such as its size, nature or location.

3.1.2 Schedule 3 identifies three broad criteria that should be considered in establishing whether EIA is required for Schedule 2 development. These include the characteristics of the development, the environmental sensitivity of the location and the characteristics of the potential impact.

3.1.3 The Secretary of State’s view is that, in general, EIA will only be needed for Schedule 2 development in three main types of cases: a) for major development that are of more than local importance; b) for developments that are proposed within a particularly environmentally sensitive or vulnerable locations; and c) for developments with unusually complex and potentially hazardous environmental effects.

3.1.4 Circular 02/99 provides guidance in relation to the need for EIA for Schedule 2 development. Paragraph 34 states:

“The number of cases of such development will be a very small proportion of the total number of Schedule 2 developments. It is emphasised that the basic test of the need for EIA in a particular case is the likelihood of significant effects on the environment”.

3.1.5 Paragraph 43 stresses the importance of the location of Schedule 2 development in determining whether significant effects on the environment are likely. It goes on to state that the question must be considered on a case by case basis.

3.1.6 Paragraph 44 of the Circular also cautions that Sched‐ ule‐ 2 developments that exceed the thresholds in the Regulations and Circular will not, in every case, require EIA. The fundamental test to be applied in each case is whether that particular type of development is likely, in that particular location, to result in significant effects on the environment.

3.1.7 An assessment as to whether the proposed development will require EIA is set out below.

12 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

3.2 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS

3.2.1 The site does not lie within any particular environmentally sensitive areas, for example, international or national designations such as AONBs, SSSIs etc and that this is recognised in the Original Screening Opinion.

3.2.2 It is considered that the site and the passive nature of the proposed development is of relatively low environmental sensitivity and that this element should not warrant an EIA. Indeed, the Original Scoping Opinion noted that the LPA’s Biodiversity Officer pointed out that there are no ‘sensitive sites’ (as described in the EIA Regulations) adjacent to or within close proximity of the solar farm and that the proposal does not merit an EIA based on its likelihood ‘to have significant effects on the environment by virtue of factors such as its size, nature or location’.

3.2.3 BELECTRIC acknowledge that the submission of a full planning application will include a comprehensive Phase 1 Habitat Survey as a minimum and that should it be deemed necessary, include any necessary follow-on Phase 2 Habitat and Species Survey and Ecological Impact Assessment.

3.3 LAND USE

3.3.1 The proposed solar PV farm represents a use of land that is reversible and during the operation of the solar installation. The site could be used for biodiversity/ecological enhancement through the establishment of species rich grassland.

3.4 AGRICULTURAL LAND QUALITY

3.4.1 The site has an Agricultural Land Classification (“ALC”) of grade 3 according to Natural England records (i.e. MAGIC mapping tool). Whilst further investigative works will be undertaken (as part of the preparation of the planning application submission) to ascertain whether it is grade 3a or 3b (whereby the former is classed ‘best and most versatile agricultural land’), the solar farm is considered to contribute to agricultural diversification in the wider area through the establishment of species-rich grassland and the installation of beehives that encourage bees to pollinate and increase crop yield in the wider area. A separately consideration will be the potential to accommodate sheep grazing (as has been successful on other sites we have developed) to integrate agricultural uses in conjunction the operation solar PV farm.

3.5 LANDSCAPE

3.5.1 The site is not subject to any nationally or locally important landscape designations and has a reasonable amount of existing vegetation screening the site. Additional screening around the site (e.g. via the use of native hedges) could be implemented to further decrease potential visual impacts to the surrounding area.

3.5.2 The solar arrays will not exceed 3.5m in height, which combined with the manufacturing finish of the individual panels will minimise any visual impact. The panels are designed specifically to absorb energy from the sun and not deflect/reflect its energy. In addition, as the solar PV panels are frameless (i.e. no

13 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

metallic edges on the front elevation and where visible from the side or back will be shaded by the panels), this and the back colour and matt finish to the frames significantly reduces potential glint from the sun. The Potential for glint and glare effects arising from the proposed development will be fully addressed in a Glint and Glare Assessment submitted in support of the planning application.

3.5.3 The buildings required to house the grid connection equipment and the PCUs will be small scale and of a similar scale to the arrays themselves.

3.5.4 The wire mesh security fencing (approx. 2m high) around the site will be painted green and will also be screened by a combination of existing planting and new ‐ indigenous shrubs and species. The standalone pole mounted infra red CCTV cameras will be well within the site and of a similar scale to the solar arrays at 3.5m. ‐ ‐ 3.5.5 The site will not be lit and therefore no light pollution will occur.

3.5.6 With reference to the Original Screening Opinion, it is noted that the LPA pointed out various landscaping issues that could potentially amount to ‘significant visual impacts’ and that it concluded an EIA will be required:

 The site will be clearly visible from the adjacent Basingstoke and Farleigh Wallop country lane, along the site’s north-east boundary and to a lesser extent from Farleigh, which lies to the south-west of the site.

 The site is elevated in land level from Basingstoke to Farleigh Wallop country lane and increases in height from north to south and it would be likely that the site would be readily visible from this public vantage point.

 The solar farm will have an effect of creating an industrial/commercial character in a non-urban countryside area, changing the environmental conditions of the land that is unusual and out of scale with the existing agricultural environment.

 A large-scale anaerobic digestion plant of 0.7ha in site area (LPA Ref. BDB/75034) is situated approximately 30m east of the site. Planning permission was granted on 30 September 2011 and it is understood construction of the plant has been completed. It is noted in the Original Screening Opinion that the LPA considers that the combination of the anaerobic plant and the proposed solar farm will give rise to potential cumulative impacts and that this should be assessed as part of the EIA for the solar farm.

3.5.7 BELECTRIC acknowledge that a full Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (“LVIA”) will need to be submitted as part of a full planning application and we have included in Appendix 2 an initial Constraints Plan produced by our appointed Landscape Consultant.

14 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

3.5.8 The LVIA (to incorporate a proposed planting plan) will fully address all such potential effects and will demonstrate how the proposed solar farm will be acceptable from a landscape perspective via the use of various landscape mitigation proposals.

3.5.9 In addition, it is noted in the Original Screening Opinion that the LPA considers that due to the proximity of the site to the local highway network and local flight paths, there is the potential for glare from the panels and as such the Applicant would be required to demonstrate that the proposed panels would not create a hazard by distraction and or glint and glare to users of the public highway network, including Public Right of Way and local flight paths. BELECTRIC recognises the LPA’s concerns and will include an assessment of the potential for Glint and Glare effects to be submitted with the planning application.

3.5.10 The LVIA will have a detailed section within it looking at cumulative effects of the proposed development on the character of the local landscape and the surrounding visual environment. The cumulative assessment will include:

 Potential effects in combination with a range of projects (not only PV) to be agreed with the LPA and will look in specific detail at the nearby proposed anaerobic digestion plant.

 the cumulative effects of any other Intra-project effects upon the environment identified by other assessments

 The potential for any sequential cumulative effects to receptors travelling along a route and who may receive similar effects from several visibly discrete developments during their journey.

3.6 HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT

3.6.1 The site is not identified as having any archaeological significance and does not contain any Listed Buildings or scheduled monuments.

3.6.2 The closest Listed Building (i.e. Farleigh Wallop House) is Grade II* and situated approximately 630m to the south-east and cannot be seen from the site. The nearest Scheduled Ancient Monument (Windmill mound at Farleigh Wallop) is considered of adequate separation distance away from the site (i.e. 140m to the south-east) and that such areas are also well screened by existing vegetation. Therefore, visual impact to the setting of the Scheduled Ancient Monument is likely to be minimal. The LVIA will assess the potential for any effects on the visual and landscape setting of historic assets that may be inter-visible with the proposed development

3.6.3 As confirmed above, the installation of the solar arrays will involve only limited ground works, with the arrays being secured either by means of ground screws, light piles or non ground penetrating foundations. It is not considered that there will be any impact upon archaeological assets. ‐

15 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

3.6.4 It is noted in the Original Screening Opinion, heritage issues is not considered a significant issue and that such issue can be dealt with by means of a standard Heritage Statement.

3.6.5 BELECTRIC acknowledges the need to submit a Desk-based Heritage Statement as well as a Desk-based Archaeological Assessment in support of the planning application.

3.7 NOISE

3.7.1 The proposed development will be passive in operation and therefore will not generate any operational noise, other than that associated with occasional visits to the site by maintenance/service vehicles. The noise associated with such activities will be negligible and less than that associated with farming activities in the area. There will be some limited noise associated with the construction phase. However, this will be for a limited duration and there are no sensitive receptors close to the site.

3.8 AIR EMISSIONS

3.8.1 The proposed development will be passive in operation and therefore will not generate any carbon emissions. Indeed, as a fully renewable generator, the site will offset carbon emissions from other sources. Any emissions associated with the construction phase will relate to construction vehicles and will not be of a level to cause harm to the environment.

3.9 WASTE

3.9.1 The passive nature of the development will mean that no waste will be generated during its operation. Due to the methods of standardised installation, limited waste will be generated during the construction phase. The appointed contractor would be required to produce and implement a Site Waste Management Plan. In addition, the solar modules are 95% recyclable and will have a pre invested recycling programme in place to ensure appropriate disposal at point of decommissioning. ‐

3.10 FLOOD RISK / DRAINAGE

3.10.1 The site is situated on ‘Flood Zone 1’, which is recognised as an area of least probability of flooding (i.e. land assessed as having a less than 1 in 1000 annual probability of river or sea flooding [<0.1%]).

3.10.2 It is not considered that the development will have any significant implications for flood risk or drainage that cannot be mitigated through surface water management design. The solar arrays and the limited number of ancillary buildings will only cover part of the site and will not significantly reduce the site’s permeability/drainage.

3.10.3 BELECTRIC acknowledge the need to submit a Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) alongside any future planning application.

16 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

3.11 TRAFFIC

3.11.1 Any traffic associated with the operational site will be limited to occasional service/maintenance vehicles. Although there will be some traffic generation during the construction phase, this will be for a limited period and that site access could be created on country lanes and private tracks.

3.11.2 In addition, due to the nature of solar PV installations and once it is operational, there will be minimal on site activity. It is anticipated that planned visits to the site will take place every 6 months for preventative maintenance activities and this will involve ‐ a standard vehicle such as a Transit Van.

3.11.3 It is recognised in the Original Screening Opinion that the LPA is of the view that the development proposal ‘would generate an unqualified degree of construction for servicing and maintenance once installed and as such would not result in significant traffic generation or impacts upon the highway network’.

3.11.4 BELECTRIC will submit a Transport Statement and a Construction Traffic Management Plan as part of the planning application to demonstrate that the development proposal will be acceptable from a highway and construction traffic perspective.

3.12 ARBORICULTURE

3.12.1 There are notable trees and hedges on the perimeter of the site. It is noted from the Original Screening Opinion that the LPA requires that all trees and important hedgerows will need to be retained with an adequate buffer to ensure that construction is kept away from their associated root protection areas. BELECTRIC recognises this and will submit a Pre-development Tree Survey to ensure the proposed development will not impact on the trees and hedges (including its Root Protection Areas).

3.12.2 It is also noted in the Original Screening Opinion that the LPA’s Tree Officer requires the submission of supporting documents confirming the position of any underground and overhead utility services to ensure that trees, hedgerows and woodlands can be safeguarded both within and off-site.

3.12.3 BELECTRIC will submit a Utility Assessment to identify all known utilities on the site to ensure minimal impact relating to arboriculture. A Tree Survey and Arboricultural Assessment will also be submitted as part of the planning application.

3.13 SUMMARY

3.13.1 In view of the characteristics of the development, the relatively low environmental sensitivity of the location and limited potential for any impacts, it is considered that the proposed solar PV farm will not result in significant environmental effects and that, as such, an EIA is not required.

3.13.2 The reasons previously given for positively screening the previous development proposal as identified at 1.5 above are all able to be addressed by a comprehensive

17 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

and detailed LVIA carried out in full accordance with the Landscape Institute’s Guidance on Landscape and Visual Impact assessment and the EIA regulations

3.13.3 To this end, our proposed approach to the submission would include the preparation of a full Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment to EIA Regulations, recognising the importance of this assessment in the determination of any planning application. This assessment would contain an assessment of cumulative issues associated with the adjacent anaerobic digestion plant as requested in the previous screening opinion. Any application would also be supported by the following key documentation, in line with the views of the Case Officer in the previous Screening Opinion:

 Planning Statement

 Design and Access Statement

 Statement of Community Involvement

 Extended Phase 1 Ecology Survey

 Flood Risk Assessment

 Archaeological Desk Based Assessment (to include assessment of impacts on locally listed buildings)

 Transport Statement

 Construction Traffic Management Plan

 Utilities Assessment

 Tree Survey and Arboricultural Assessment

 Glint and Glare Assessment

3.13.4 Should the Council remain of the view that an EIA is required, we respectively request to de-scope environmental themes to ensure the scope of the EIA focuses on those themes considered to have the greatest potential to generate significant adverse effects. At this stage in the project, we would see this scope to include the following topic chapters:

 Landscape and Visual Impact;

 Ecology and Nature Conservation;

 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage;

 Hydrology and Flood Risk;

 Land Use; and

18 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

 Transport.

3.13.5 We would request that in preparing the Screening Opinion, the LPA should consider the preferred approach to the submission above which has been proposed following consideration of the previous Screening Opinion and review the significant issues associated with the proposed development.

19 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

4 CONCLUSION

4.1 This section concludes the Screening Report with reference to the three key tests outlined by the Secretary of State, whereby in general, EIA will only be needed for Schedule 2 development in three main types of cases:

a) For major development that are of more than local importance;

b) For developments that are proposed within a particularly environmentally sensitive or vulnerable locations; and

c) For developments with unusually complex and potentially hazardous environmental effects.

4.2 In relation to the above criterion (a), local importance is not explicitly defined in the EIA Regulations. However, it indicates that some major developments will have wide ranging environmental effects that are likely to extend beyond the local area and ‐ would warrant an EIA. In this case, it is considered the proposed solar PV farm would have a minor local effect on the appearance and character of the area. Other potential effects (ecology and socio economic) would be predominantly local in nature and these are considered not to be significant in any case. The proposed development is unlikely to ‐result in significant effects that are more than local importance and is unlikely to give rise to any form of environmental pollution, by virtue of light, noise or emissions.

4.3 In relation to criterion (b), the site is not within an environmentally sensitive or vulnerable location. Additionally the siting, scale and design of the solar PV farm means that it would not detract from the character of the surrounding local area. The land identified for the development was specifically selected due to its well contained nature, topography and surrounding vegetation. It will have no external impact on the views of the site or the wider landscape. Overall, it is considered that the solar PV farm will be compatible with the local area and is unlikely to give rise to significant adverse environmental impacts that constitute EIA development.

4.4 Paragraph 41 and 42 of Circular 02/99 address criterion (c). Paragraph 41 states that industrial development involving emissions which are potentially hazardous to humans and nature may fall into this category. Criterion (c) is not applicable in this case, as the proposed development is not considered to be unusually complex and will not result in potentially hazardous environmental effects.

4.5 In summary, the solar PV farm will be passive in operation. It involves the use of land that is likely to be lower grade agricultural quality.

4.6 The development site is not located in a particularly sensitive environmental area and it will not result in significant environmental effects.

4.7 The development will make a positive contribution towards reducing carbon emissions and will contribute to supporting the local community and economy.

20 Screening Report Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane, Farleigh Wallop, Hampshire, RG25 2HR

4.8 We trust that the information contained in this Report will enable the LPA to issue a Screening Opinion within the relevant period.

21 Appendix 1

Original Screening Request and Screening Opinion

OST Energy Ltd Suite 1 – Floor 9 Tower Point 44 North Road Brighton BN1 1YR

Tel: 01273 819429

5th April 2013

Dear Sir/Madam

EIA Screening Opinion for Proposed Solar Park at Manor Farm, Farleigh Wallop, Basingstoke. Hampshire. RG25 2HR.

Introduction

We write on behalf of Portsmouth Estates to formally request a Screening Opinion to determine the requirement for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to accompany a planning application for a proposed solar park at Manor Farm, Farleigh Wallop, RG25 2HR. This request is made under Regulation 5 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England) Regulations 2011 (EIA Regulations).

As required under Regulation 5 of the EIA Regulations, we have provided below a brief description of the proposed project and its surrounding area, and a summary of the possible effects of the project on the environment. A site location plan identifying the site is also enclosed, along with a proposed layout for the development.

EIA Regulations

Under the EIA Regulations an environmental assessment is automatically required for 'Schedule 1' development. In relation to electricity and energy industry generation a Schedule 1 development is identified as:  Thermal power stations and other combustion installations with a heat output of 300 megawatts or more; and  Nuclear power stations and other nuclear reactors.

The proposed development is therefore not a Schedule 1 development.

The EIA Regulations also require an environmental assessment for a Schedule 2 development likely to have significant effects on the environment by virtue its nature, size and location. A project is classified as a Schedule 2 development if it falls within a category of development listed in Schedule 2 and meets one of the relevant criteria, exceeds one of the relevant thresholds, or is located in a sensitive area. In relation to the energy industry, a Schedule 2 development is

1

identified as Industrial installations for the production of electricity, steam and hot water, with a development area that exceeds 0.5 hectare. The proposed development is therefore considered to fall under the definition of Schedule 2 development. It is therefore appropriate to submit this request for Screening Opinion to Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council (the Local Authority) to determine whether there are significant effects likely to arise from the proposed development.

Site Location

The site of the proposed solar park is located 4 km south-west of Basingstoke centre, 250 m to the south of the M3, and lies within the Farleigh Wallop Estates Boundary; the location of the site is shown on the attached map. The site occupies 27 Ha of a largely regular shaped arable field under agricultural use, currently growing crops of rapeseed. The field is Grade 3 (likely 3b) agricultural land under the Agricultural Land Classification (England).

The immediate surroundings and boundaries of the site are as follows:  To the east – bordered by hedgerow, with a minor road that leads to B3046 running along the boundary; agricultural fields lie beyond.  To the south - bordered by hedgerow, with agricultural field lying beyond.  To the west – the Carousel Dairy Anaerobic Digestion (AD) Plant lies adjacent to the site with agricultural field lying beyond.  To the north - bordered by hedgerow, with woodland and fields lying between the site and the M3 motorway.

The site has a generally flat topography gently sloping from 185 m AOD (above ordnance datum) on the northern edge rising to 210 m AOD on the southern boundary.

There are no ‘sensitive sites’ as described within the EIA Regulations, such as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), National Parks, World Heritage Sites and scheduled monuments within or directly adjacent to the proposed development area.

The closest environmentally protected area is the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which is located more than 6 km to the north of the site. The nearest Schedule Monuments are Windmill mound at Farleigh House located 500 m southeast of the site, and camp W of Upper Common lying 2.5 km southeast of the site. The site is not visible from any of these sensitive sites. Figure 1 shows a 5 km radius around the site and the locations of any sensitive sites in the region.

The closest Listed Building is Farleigh Wallop House, located 1 km southeast of the site. There are three Registered Parks and Gardens which lie within 5 km of the site; Hackwood Park (Grade I) 4.5 km northeast, Park (Grade II) 4.5 km to the east, and manor (grade II) 4 km to the south. Dummer Conservation Area lies 2.3 km to the west, Conservation Area 2 km to the north east, and Ellisfield Conservation Area lies 2.5 km south east of the site. The site is not visible from any of these locations.

The nearest Public Right of Way (PRoW) is the footpath that lies 1 km to the west of the site.

The nearest residential dwellings are Farleigh Mortimer lying 200 m to the south-east and Kennel Farm situated 400 m north-west of the site. The existing hedgerows and trees already provide screening of the site, and additional planting is anticipated to further mitigate any potential sight lines to the site.

2

Figure 1: Location Map Showing ‘Sensitive Sites’

Outline Project Description

It is intended to submit a planning application for the development of a Photovoltaic (PV) solar park capable of generating approximately 14 Megawatts (MW) of electricity. This would be sufficient to provide the power needs of 3,800 average UK households and save in the region 5,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year that would otherwise be generated through the use of traditional fossil fuels.

The proposed Project development involves the installation PV panels arranged in rows covering a total site area of 27 Ha. Panels will be mounted on a steel framework supporting structure which will be driven directly into the ground, with no need for any concrete foundations. The structure will follow the terrain and as such will not rise above 2.3m above ground level. The solar panels will be inclined to 25 degrees from the horizontal and orientated due south. Each individual photovoltaic panel is approximately 1,000 mm x 1,600 mm and of a glass construction set in an outer metal framework. The PV panels are connected by cables, running through conduits along the rows of panels, and junction boxes. Figure 2 shows a typical arrangement for PV panels within a solar park.

3

In addition to the PV panels a solar farm comprises of the following:  Inverters - to convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the PV panels, into alternating current (AC) for the grid. Inverter cabinets are typically in the order of 10m long, 2.5m wide and 3m high. The proposed Project will require 9 inverters.  Transformers are required to connect the solar farm to the high voltage grid, which would sit alongside or inside the inverter cabinets.  A security system is required to prevent unauthorised access into the solar farm, which is an energy generation system, and to protect the solar farm. This will consist of an approximately 2m high deer fence installed within the sites demise and pole mounted security cameras installed around the fence perimeter. The security cameras will employ infra-red technology and no site lighting will be required.  The Distribution Network Operator will also install a switchgear cabinet, which connects the underground grid connection cable of the solar park to the distribution network. The size of this cabin will be determined by the DNO requirements, but it is likely to be a GRP enclosure no more than 4m long, 3m wide and 2.5m high.

The proposed project would be connected to the national electricity grid via buried cable with the point of connection at the Jays Close substation, located 3 km northeast of the site.

In order to avoid shading from the arrays on one another, the distance between rows of panels will be 7.5m; which will create wide avenues left open between the panels. The total site area is 266,000m2, of which 105,000m2 will be covered with panels, leaving 60% (161,000m2) as open green space, which is significantly greater than standard good environmental practice of less than 50% cover. Furthermore, the proposed development would not have significant foundation or infrastructure requirements and therefore would have a minimal impact on the existing ground conditions. The unoccupied ground between rows of panels and under the panels will be seeded to produce a wildflower meadow and grassland area, which can be grazed by sheep. Following the completion of a proposed development, farming activities such as the grazing of sheep, pheasants, beehives etc., can continue to co-exist with the erected solar arrays.

Once constructed, access to the solar farm will typically generate 10 - 20 visits per year by technicians for maintenance works in 4x4s or transit vans. Maintenance will include washing the panels with water approximately twice a year and mowing the grass 4-6 times per year (if sheep are not used). There will be no on site office or permanent staffing of the site.

4

Figure 2: Typical PV Solar Panel Arrangement

Source: Photo: OST Energy

Effects on the Environment

Once constructed, the solar park development will have very limited impacts on the environment. The panels are passive in nature, do not result in any emissions, will not generate any waste during operation (aside from any required replacement of components) and require very limited onsite activity, consisting of quarterly maintenance work. The solar park will not result in any hazardous impacts, and it does not involve any unusually complex technologies. The risk of any accidents is very low, and restricted to construction and maintenance activities, which will be covered by health and safety plans. Solar PV is one of the least technically complex and lowest impact energy generation methods available.

As the panels do not form a continuous hard surface, vegetation will continue to grow under and between the panels and there will be very little change to site run-off. Therefore there will be no impact directly on or loss of soils; in fact the use of the site for a solar farm will allow soils to rest and regenerate as fallow land.

As part of the planning application a Flood Risk Assessment will be undertaken. However, it is anticipated that the proposal will not be at risk of flood or result in an increased risk of flooding to other areas. The design of the installation is such that it does not decrease the capacity of the land to absorb rainfall and will not increase run off to other areas.

The most significant impact associated with solar parks is their potential to impact on the local landscape and the visible changes to the site. Part of the reason why this site was selected was due to the limited visual impact the proposed project would have on the local landscape. The immediate surrounding area is characterised by predominantly agricultural uses and is rural.

It is considered that the visual impact of low lying solar equipment will not result in a material change to the character of the area, particularly when considering the surrounding hedges and tree-scape that will be retained affording significant screening of the site. There will be an opportunity to implement additional screening along the boundaries to supplement existing hedgerows and create new ecological habitats using indigenous planting species. It is therefore

5

considered that any potential visual impacts beyond the immediate site would be low, or could be effectively managed through mitigation measures.

The land around and between the arrays can continue to be used for grazing allowing for agricultural diversification, and thus overall impact on land-use is considered to be minimal.

There are no moving mechanical parts with the panels and no significant noise generating equipment or machinery, minimising the potential for noise generation from the development. Consequently no noise impact on even the closest local residents is anticipated.

Often there is a perception that solar panels have the potential to create glint and glare impacts; however, photovoltaic panels are designed to absorb sunlight (rather than reflect it), minimising potential impacts of glint and glare.

Adequate vehicular access to the sites can be obtained from existing roads and field accesses with few modifications, if any. Once the solar array is operating, it is anticipated there will only be limited visits required to the site for routine maintenance. Thus any impact arising from increased traffic will be negligible.

The site will be developed and used for solar energy production for a period of 25 years. The site will then be decommissioned in its 26th year, the infrastructure removed and the land returned back to agricultural use.

Source: Photo: Gehrlicher Solar AG

EIA Screening

The Screening process should consider the development proposals against the criteria and thresholds which are included within the EIA Regulations and accompanying guidelines in Circular 02/99, in determining whether or not an EIA is required to accompany an application.

6

Schedule 3 of the EIA Regulations provides selection criteria for Screening Schedule 2 development, which includes the following three categories to consider:  the characteristics of the development (e.g. its size, use of natural resources, quantities of pollution and waste generated)  the environmental sensitivity of the location  the characteristics of the potential impacts (e.g. its magnitude and duration).

We consider that the proposed solar park does not fall within the above selection criteria, based on the following reasoning:

Characteristics of the Although the proposed solar park occupies 27 Ha of land, the development development will be close to the ground and coupled with the use of existing and proposed additional screening, will have very limited local impact. Throughout the operational life of the project there will be no resources consumed, no pollution emitted or wastes generated. Environmental sensitivity of There are no environmentally sensitive sites close to or within the the location proposed site area and therefore no impact on sensitive sites will occur due to the development of the proposed project. Characteristics of the The magnitude and complexity of any impacts are expected to be potential impacts limited, confined to the local area and are predictable. The duration and frequency of the potential impacts are not significant and (with the removal of the panels after 25 years) are reversible.

In addition to this, for Schedule 2 developments, paragraph 33 of Circular 02/99 states that generally EIA will be required in three main cases:  For major developments which are of more than local importance – the proposed solar park is not considered to be of more than local importance.  For developments which are proposed for particularly environmentally sensitive or vulnerable locations – the development is not sited in a particularly environmentally sensitive or vulnerable location.  For developments with unusually complex and potentially hazardous environmental effects – the proposed solar park is not considered to have any complex or hazardous environmental effects.

It is therefore considered that the proposed development does not have significant effects on the environment when considered against these factors and as such, it is not an EIA development and does not therefore require an Environmental Statement to be prepared.

Summary

Based on the criteria set out in the EIA Regulations and Circular 02/99, we consider that the proposed development does not require the preparation and submission of an Environmental Impact Assessment for the following reasons:  Due to the nature and scale of the proposed solar park any potential impact will only be limited to the immediate area surrounding the project and not be of more than local importance.  There are no sensitive sites, as defined under the EIA Regulations, within or close to the proposed Project.

7

 Due to the passive operational nature of the solar park it is considered that the development will not constitute a significant negative effect upon the environment.  The proposals are not unusually complex and do not pose potentially hazardous environmental effects.

Given the benign nature of the proposals coupled with the generally limited environmental value of the current site, it is considered that whilst there will be some effects upon the environment as a consequence of the scheme, none of these are considered to constitute 'significant effects' upon the environment, as set out in central Government guidance. Accordingly, it is considered that the proposals do not constitute EIA development and would not require an Environmental Statement to be submitted with a planning application for the scheme.

The site was selected due to it not being close to any sensitive sites, has a gentle topography, good screening and low visibility, agricultural land classification Grade 3, is not directly over- looked, and is in close proximity to a feasible grid connection.

In acknowledgement of the potential for the proposed development to create some effects on the environment, a number of supporting studies to assess the effects of development will be submitted as an accompaniment to any planning application. We propose that these studies are prepared and submitted to ensure that appropriate regard is given to environmental requirements throughout the development; these studies include:  Transport Statement  Ecological Survey and Assessment  Biodiversity Planting Action Plan  Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment  Agricultural Assessment (desk based))  Flood Risk Assessment  Heritage Assessment (desk based)

Solar parks such as this are recognised and acknowledged as having low levels of impact on their surroundings and settings, whilst supporting the requirements for renewable energy production and sustainable development. Solar Parks are at the leading edge of zero emission energy generation, and will play an increasingly important role in moving the UK towards a low carbon economy.

Furthermore, the proposed Project will be designed so as to have a net benefit on the local ecology through selective planting for biodiversity.

We trust that we have provided you with sufficient information for you to make a Screening Opinion for the proposed solar park. Should you have any queries or would like to arrange a further meeting to discuss our proposals, please do not hesitate to contact me.

We look forward to receiving the Council's Screening Opinion within the necessary timeframe specified by the EIA Regulations.

Kind Regards

Mark Grundy

8 Key

Proposed Site Location

Manor Farm, Farleighwallop

Site Location Plan

Drawn by: JT Checked by: MG

Date: 01.05.13

OST Energy / BioEnergy / Environment Ltd Suite 1 - Floor 9 Tower Point, 44 North Road, Brighton, BN1 1YR 0 2km +44 (0)1273 819 429 1 : 25,000 @ A4 [email protected] Drawing number: Farleigh-100 3 M Scale: (dimensions in metres) 1:4000@A3

Drawing title: proposed layout

Location:

DNO cabin and Metering point with access track

System size DC: 15.83MWp Shortwood's Copse System size AC: 14.04MVA L a n Leased area: 26.6ha e

to B 3 0 4 6 proposal Corridor for access to only panels and DC cable installation

Inverter Substation

PV Array 3 1 / A G 5 T B 0 J G M / 2 0

Security Fence 3 1 / A G leaving 5m access 4 G A 0 G S M for vehicles around / 8

site boundary 1 3 1 / A G 4 T - 0 J G M / 2 Existing buildings 0 : : : : : r r d e n t e e e o i a k w v s c i D a o e r r v h p e D p C R

N A

Reproduction is permissible only with prior consent. Scale from this drawing only if details of scale and page size are given. Check that this is the latest version of the drawing. The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 .

'SCREENING OPINION' (REG: 5 & 7)

Proposal: Request for screening opinion under the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations for proposed Solar Photovoltaic Park

IAddress: IManor Farm Farleigh Lane Farleigh Wallop Hampshire

IApplication No: /13/00419/EN SC IReceived : 113May2013

Is the development listed in Schedule 1? No

Is the development listed in Schedule 2? Yes

Is the development in a 'sensitive area'? No

Is the development above relevant Yes - The site area is greater than 0.5 Schedule 2 thresholds/criteria? hectares

Is.the development above Circular 02/99 Not directly applicable. 'indicative' thresholds?

In my view the proposed development is an EIA development under the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011.

Signed: Mike Townsend C;;-{\'

Planning Development Manager .~

SCREENING OPINION

BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL IN RESPECT OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING REGULATIONS AND ADVICE

•Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011

• DETR Circular 02/99 - Environmental Impact Assessment

Dear Sir/Madam

Proposed Development: Request for screening opinion under the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations for proposed Solar Photovoltaic Park

Location: Manor Farm Farleigh Lane Farleigh Wallop Hampshire

Details submitted:

In the opinion of the Local Planning Authority the proposed development:

Is not Schedule 1 development as defined by the Regulations

Is Schedule 2 development as defined by the Regulations

Having regard to the above conclusion the Local Planning Authority has given consideration as to whether an Environmental Statement should be submitted with the planning application and has concluded that in this particular case an Environmental Statement is required.

In arriving at this conclusion the Local Planning Authority has had regard to the above Regulations and advice and in particular the 'Selection Criteria' in Schedule 3 of the Regulations.

The reasons for the above conclusion are set out in the Statement of Reasons accompanying this Screening Opinion.

Signed: Mike Townsend c;,"1\.-- Planning Development Manager STATEMENT OF REASONS ACCOMPANYING SCREENING OPINION

BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL IN RESPECT OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING REGULATIONS AND ADVICE

Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)Regulations2011

DETR Circular 02/99 - Environmental Impact Assessment

Proposed Development: Request for screening opinion under the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations for proposed Solar Photovoltaic Park

Location: Manor Farm Farleigh Lane Farleigh Wallop Hampshire

Details submitted:

• Report giving a brief description of the nature and purpose of the development

• Plans to identify the land

• Images of existing sites showing potential scale and visual impact

In the opinion of.the Local Planning Authority, having regard to the above Regulations and advice, and particularly the 'Selection Criteria' in Schedule 3 of the Regulations, an Environmental Statement is required for the following reasons:

Assessment-

The proposed development is not Schedule 1 development as defined by the 2011 Regulations. The proposal is Schedule 2 development being an 'Energy Installation' and it exceeds 0.5 hectares (as set out in section 3 (a) Energy Installations of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2011). Therefore, the proposal must be screened in accordance with Schedule 3 of the regulations (the selection criteria for Schedule 2) considering the:

1 'Characteristics of Development' having regard in particular to a) the size of development, b) the cumulation with other development, c) the use of natural resources, d) the production of waste, e) pollution and nuisances and f) the risk of accidents.

2 'Location of Development' having regard to the environmental sensitivity of the geographical area in particular to: a) the existing land use b) the relative abundance, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources in the area; c) the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas - i. wetlands; ii. coastal zones; iii. mountain and forest areas; iv. nature reserves and parks; v. areas classified or protected under Member States' legislation; areas designated by Member States pursuant to Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora vi. areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded; vii. densely populated areas; viii. landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance

3 'Characteristics of Potential Impact' having regard to the potential significant effects of development considered in relation to criteria set out under paragraphs 1 and 2 above, and in particular relation to a) the extent of the impact (qeoqraphical area and size of the affected population); b) the transfrontier nature of the impact; c) the magnitude and complexity of the impact; d) the probability of the impact; e) the duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact.

Circular 02/99 'Environmental Impact Assessment' is also a material consideration to the determination of the Screening Opinion. Annex A of the Circular states that small power stations using novel forms of generation should be considered carefully in line with the guidance in PPG 22 (now deleted and replaced with the NPPF). The main considerations in determining whether an EIA is required or not, are likely to be the level of emissions to air, arrangements for the transportation of fuel and any visual impact. The Circular does not refer specifically to solar generation, but does give thresholds for wind generation at paragraph A15 (five or more turbines or more than 5 MW of new generating capacity).

Development Characteristics

The development would extend across a development site encompassing approximately 27 hectares in size and therefore is significantly above the 0.5h threshold within Schedule 2.

The solar panels are described as being mounted on a table of panels in rows extending up to 2.5m in height which would run east to west. Ancillary equipment in the form of inverters and transformers are also described as being required which could extend up to 3m in height. Associated mounted security equipment and fencing will also be required to safeguard the park. The fencing is listed as being deer proof fencing extending up to 2m in height. Although the pole mounted security camera height is not documented this is likely to be in excess of this based on the Council's experience in considering an existing solar farm at Ellisfield (under BDB/73861 & BDB/75822)

In reference to Circular 02199 'Environmental Impact Assessment' the applicant has stated the estimated energy output for the development to be 14MW. This is in excess of the, indicative threshold set out in Circular 02/99 of 5MW for energy installations.

Location of Impact

The site extends across an area of countryside that is undesignated in planning terms the site is currently a large agricultural cultivated field within the rural rolling landscape that sit aside significant natural features and public routes within the area.

There are no public footpaths in the immediate vicinity, but the north eastern side of the site is located adjacent to the 8asingstoke to Fairleigh Wallop country lane, while the south eastern corner of the site is located adjacent to Farleigh Lane which extends from the 83406. On the north eastern corner of the site is an area of Ancient Natural Woodland, approximately 64,200rn in size.

Magnitude of Impact

Landscape

The Landscape Officer has raised concern that whilst the site or its immediate surroundings is not covered by national designations, given the land form and the scale of the proposal there is the potential for significant visual impacts.

The site will be dearly visible from the adjacent Basingstoke to Fairleigh Wallop country lane, along its north eastern boundary and to a lesser extent from Fairleigh which lies to the south west of the site.

The site is also elevated in land level from Basingstoke to Fairleigh Wallop country lane and increases in height from north to south and it would be likely that the site would be readily visible from this public vantage point.

The proposal, when taking into account the fencing, volume of solar panels,'ancillary equipment housing, will have the effect of creating an industrial/commercial character in a non-urban countryside area, changing the environmental conditions of the land that is unusual and out of scale with the existing agricultural environment.

Given the proximity of the country lane and Fairleigh Lane, the likely visual impact of the proposed development, could be relatively extensive due to the relationship of the site on raised ground. It is therefore considered that although the impact on the landscape is not complex, there are a number of landscape issues that are potentially sensitive to development, coupled with the scale of the proposals, height of the solar panels and introduction of buildings and possibly fencinq, could therefore give rise to significant impacts, that would be visible from short and mid distance views. Thus it is considered that the proposal would constitute an EIA as part of its planning process.

Heritage

The nearest nationally designated heritage assets (listed buildings) to the application site are around 1km to the south-east, centred on Farleigh House and the historic village church (both 11*listed). These are located just the other side of the highest point of Farleigh Hill from the application site, and as such there is unlikely to be any noticeable impact.

The most significant impact from this proposed development is likely to be on Kennel Farm, a small historic farmstead which includes two locally listed buildings, and other undesignated historic buildings. The application site would occupy a rising slope south-east of the application site with an apparent gap in screening woodland clumps which may well expose the bulk of the solar panels to view from the farm. However, the Conservation Officer is satisfied that due to the local designation of this farmstead the normal application process would suffice to assess this impact by means of a Heritage Statement.

Arboricutlural There are boundary hedgerows around the perimeter with Sullenger's Copse, a mixed conifer woodland with broadleaf margin, located to the west. There are no tree preservation orders relating to the site and it is not located within a designated conservation area. Sullinger's copse has not been identified as a site of importance for nature conservation (SINC). Although Copse is and in the north eastern corner is an area of Ancient Natural Woodland.

All trees and important hedgerows will need to be retained with an adequate buffer to ensure that construction is kept away from their associated root protection areas. The submitted information states that surrounding hedges and tree-scape will be retained as a result of the development. Due to perimeter location of the trees the Tree Officers is satisfied that the Arboricultural implications of the development can be dealt with by the submission supporting documents confirming the position of any underground and overhead utility services (demonstrating that trees, hedgerows and woodlands can be safeguarded both within and off-site); access and construction in the vicinity of boundary vegetation; and buffers necessary to protect the long term future of trees, hedgerows and woodlands.

Ecology

The Biodiversity Officer has confirmed that there are no 'sensitive sites' (as described in the EIA Regulations) adjacent to or within close proximity of the proposed solar farm. Kempshott Copse Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) is approximately 400m to the west of the edge of the field in question. However, the proposal does not merit the requirement for EIA based on its likelihood "to have significant effects on the environment by virtue of factors such as its size, nature or location".

The LPA will expect any formal application for the photovoltaic farm to include a comprehensive Preliminary Ecological Assessment I Phase 1 extended habitat survey, with any necessary follow-on Phase 2 habitat and species surveys and an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA). The surveys should include anyrelevant data from the Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre (HBIC). Where ecological impacts are predicted the application should include.detalls of appropriate-mitigation / compensatlon and enhancement in biodiversity. However, the need for this information alone would not trigger the need for an EIA in biodiversity terms.

Flood Risk

The site measures over 1 ha and lies within Flood Zone 1. The Environment Agency has recommended that these constraints can be managed through the submission of a Flood Risk Assessment within the course of a planning application without the requirement of an Environmental Impact Assessment.

Highways

In highway safety terms, the sites would be accessed by country lanes and private tracks. The development would generate an un-quantified degree of construction for servicing and maintenance once installed and as such would not result in significant traffic generation or impacts upon the highway network. However, due to the proximity of the site to the local highway network and local flight paths, there is the potential for glare from the panels and as such the applicant would be required to demonstrate that the proposed panels would not create a hazard by distraction and or glint and glare to users of the public highway network, including' public rights of way and local flight paths, in a full assessment report. Although, the need for this information alone would not trigger the need for an EIA in highway or public nuisance terms, it is considered to be necessary in order to assess the extent of the landscape impacts. Other Matters

In making this determination it is has been borne in mind that the landscape effects of the development will not be irreversible, unless the ancient woodland is materially damaged as a result of the construction of the development. However, the effects are likely to be prolonged as the construction 1 occupation of the development is expected to be for a continuous period of 25 years.

To answer whether it would be difficult to avoid, or reduce or repair or compensate for the effects, it is considered that an EIA is needed to conclude on the evidence gathered and mitigation proposed. That is the purpose of the EIA as the screening opinion has resulted in the conclusion that there is likely to be a significant impact on the landscape (visual impact and character).

In accordance with paragraph 46 of Circular 02/99 and criteria 2 (b) of Schedule 3 of the Environmental Impact Regulations 2011, consideration should be given to any cumulative impact of the proposals. The only existing solar farm within the Borough is located within the Elllsfield area, to the south east of the site, and it is not considered that there would be any additional significant cumulative effects of this existing developments given the distance between the two sites. .

The application site is however located directly adjacent to a large scale anaerobic digestion plant (reference BOB/75034) that is of a combined scale and capacity to handle up to 40,000 tonnes of waste per annum. The plant is currently undergoing construction and the development would be viewed in the same context of the plant and will use the same road network pre and post construction. As the proposed development alone is considered to a have a landscape impact, the cumulative impact of the proposed development and the consented facility (currently undergoing construction) will need to be assessed as part of the EIA.

Recommendation

Taking the fundamental test of circular 02/99; will this development and its specific impacts, in this particular location, be likely to result in significant effects on the environment? Given the evaluation of the proposal in accordance with the guidance in Schedule 3 of the 2011 Regulations it is the opinion of the Local Planning Authority that the proposed development would have the effect of introducing an industrial 1 commercial use in the countryside.In this instance given the characteristics of the site, it surrounding context and close relationship to country lanes, it is likely that there will be significant effect on the natural landscape character and visual amenity of the area, in addition to the cumulative effects when seen in the content of the consented anaerobic digestion plant. As such, it is considered the proposal would constitute EIA development.

Signed: Mike Townsend

Planning Development Manager Appendix 2

Constraints Plan P

LEGEND

Application site AONB (2km to the north-west) P Potential viewpoint identi!ed in Desk Study (to be con!rmed on site visit)

Intervening topography

P Existing vegetation screening to site

Scheduled Monument

P P

P D 03/04/2014 JRD BO DB P P

P

P P P P Belectric Solar Ltd.

P

Proposed Solar Park, Manor Farm, Farleigh Lane

Constrains Plan Potential Viewpoints Plan and Environmental Constraints

NTS Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

235679 for information

D01 D N 0 500 1000m