Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm - Additional Information Report Section 6 – Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

Section 6 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Table 6.11: Other wind farms considered within CLVIA Table 6.12: Summary of Combined Cumulative Visual Effects by Viewpoint Location Contents

6.1 Introduction ...... 2 6.2 Assessment methodology ...... 4 Appendices 6.3 Landscape planning policies and designations ...... 7 Appendix 6.1: LVIA Methodology Assessment Criteria 6.4 Baseline landscape conditions ...... 9 Appendix 6.2: Information to be read in conjunction with visualisations 6.5 Baseline visual conditions ...... 12 Table 6.5b – Additional Wireframe and Photomontage Visualisations also now provided with the LVIA ...... 16 Appendix 6.3: Preliminary Analysis of Landscape Character Areas within 35km

6.6 Project description ...... 16 Appendix 6.4: Viewpoint Assessment 6.7 Assessment of Landscape Effects ...... 16 Appendix 6.5: Night-time Lighting Assessment 6.8 Assessment of Visual Effects ...... 31 Appendix 6.6: Residential Visual Amenity Study 6.9 Cumulative Landscape and Visual Effects ...... 43 6.10 Mitigation Measures ...... 51 Appendix 6.7: Effects upon Landscape Designations

6.11 Residual Effects...... 52 Appendix 6.8: Additional Supporting Wireframe Visualisations 6.12 Summary of Landscape and Visual Effects ...... 52 Appendix 6.9: Enlarged Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plans - Scaur Water Valley and Shinnel Water Valley 6.13 Conclusion ...... 53 Appendix 6.10: Wireframe Route Analysis – ‘Southern Upland Way - between Benbrack and Conrig shoulder’ and

‘Scaur Water Valley - minor road between Carlistane Bridge and Polskeoch’

Tables Appendix 6.11: Letter from Pegasus to the Energy Consents Unit, dated 31.03.20, concerning the consultation response of Dumfries and Galloway Council, dated 18.02.20 Table 6.1: Production of Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Maps Appendix 6.12 Additional Photomontage Visualisations from Scaur Water Valley and Shinnel Water Valley Table 6.2: Wireframe Visualisations (prepared using photography collected during pre-Covid restrictions) Table 6.3: Generation of Photomontages Appendix 6.13 360-degree Wireframe Visualisations from the summit of Blackcraig Hill Table 6.4: Character Types and Areas/Units Assessed

Table 6.5a: Assessment Viewpoints Supporting Volumes Table 6.5b: Additional Wireframe and Photomontage Visualisations also now provided with the LVIA Additional Information, June 2020 - LVIA Volume 2: Figures Table 6.6 Summary of Landscape Sensitivity Ratings attributed to each Character Type/Unit in this LVIA Additional Information, June 2020 - LVIA Volume 3: Viewpoint visualisations Table 6.7: Summary of Effects on above assessed Landscape Character Units/Types (Operational Phase)

Table 6.8: Landscape Character Assessment of other relevant Landscape Character Units/Types (Operational Phase)

Table 6.9: Summary of Viewpoint Sensitivity, Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect during Operational Phase

Table 6.10: Other Wind Farms within 35km of the Site

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Section 6: Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment • to identify, evaluate and describe the baseline visual context of the site and its surroundings with a focus on both specific views and the more general visual amenity experienced by people who have views of the site; 6.1 Introduction • to determine the nature of the visual receptor (i.e. the sensitivity of the viewpoint or person whose visual amenity is affected) through a consideration of the susceptibility of the viewpoint/person to the 6.1.1 This chapter presents a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) of the revised proposals for the type of development proposed and any values associated with either the viewpoint or visual amenity proposed Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm development. A full description of the revision to the proposals experienced; is provided in Chapter 2, however in summary this comprises the removal from the scheme of T11, T12, T13, • to identify and describe any impacts of the development in so far as they affect a viewpoint or views T14, T47 and T48 and an adjustment to the location of T10 (163m to the east). The chapter has been prepared experienced; by Landscape Architects from Pegasus Group who are Chartered Members of the Landscape Institute and who • to evaluate the nature of the visual effects (i.e. the magnitude, duration and reversibility of the effect); are experienced in the EIA of wind energy developments, including production of the original LVIA for the • to identify and describe mitigation measures that have been adopted to avoid, reduce and compensate proposals. The chapter replaces in full the previous Section 6 of the EIA Report and its accompanying, Figures, for visual effects; Visualisations and Appendices. This chapter includes the additional and updated figures and visualisations that • to evaluate the relative significance of residual visual effects; and have been requested by the local authorities following review of the original submission. This additional • information supplements the original information, which is also included in this chapter. to determine which visual effects, if any, are significant.

6.1.7 The LVIA also considers any cumulative landscape and visual effects which may arise as a result of constructing 6.1.2 The purpose of an LVIA when undertaken in the context of an EIA is to identify any likely significant landscape and visual effects arising as a result of the proposals. An LVIA must consider both: the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm in conjunction with other developments.

6.1.8 It is acknowledged that wind turbines give rise to a wide spectrum of opinions, ranging from strongly adverse • effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right (the landscape effects); and to strongly positive, with a wide range of opinions lying somewhere between these two positions. Some people • effects on specific views and visual amenity more generally (the visual effects). view wind turbines as incongruous or industrial structures whilst others view them as aesthetically pleasing, 6.1.3 Therefore, this LVIA considers the potential effects of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm upon: elegant structures and a positive response to climate change.

• individual landscape features and elements; 6.1.9 In considering the landscape and visual effects of the proposed Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm, a • landscape character; precautionary approach to the assessment has been adopted whereby it is assumed that the effects of the • specific views; and proposal would be adverse in nature even though it is acknowledged that, for some people, the impacts could • the visual amenity of people who view the landscape. be considered to be positive.

6.1.4 In this chapter, landscape and visual effects are assessed separately although the procedure for assessing each 6.1.10 All LVIA figures referenced in this chapter are bound within Volume 2 of this EIAR Additional Information, June of these is closely linked. 2020. The visualisations which accompany this report are presented in Volume 3 Additional Information, June 2020. Relevant appendices can be found at the end of this section. 6.1.5 The main objectives of the landscape assessment can be summarised as follows: Summary of Landscape and Visual Consultation Responses to Original Application scheme and Requests for • to identify, evaluate and describe the baseline landscape character of the site and its surroundings and Additional Information any notable individual landscape features within the site; • to determine the nature of the landscape receptor (i.e. the sensitivity of the landscape) through a LPA Response consideration of its susceptibility to the type of development proposed and any values associated with East Ayrshire Council it; An Audit of the previously Following detailed discussions with East Ayrshire Council and submitted Landscape and Visual representatives of Ironside Farrar Ltd the applicant agreed to remove • to identify and describe any impacts of the development in so far as they affect the landscape resource; Impact Assessment was prepared four turbines (T11-14) which were in East Ayrshire from the scheme. • to evaluate the nature of the landscape effects (i.e. the magnitude, duration and reversibility of the by Ironside Farrar Ltd on behalf of This has resulted in a notable and significant reduction in the level of effect); East Ayrshire Council, dated June visual and character effects from the revised proposals within East • to identify and describe mitigation measures that have been adopted to avoid, reduce and compensate 2019. The Audit agreed with the Ayrshire. In particular, there would no longer be any turbines visible for landscape effects; findings of the LVIA in relation to from The Craigs Farm Cottage (property 16 in the RVAS at Appendix • to evaluate the relative significance of residual landscape effects; and the likely effects on landscape 6.6) and therefore no longer any visual effect on this property. There • to determine which landscapes effects, if any, are significant. character and visual amenity within would also no longer be a significant effect on character or visual East Ayrshire, although it amenity of the valley floor in Glen Afton, as demonstrated by the 6.1.6 The main objectives of the visual assessment are similar and can be summarised as follows: highlighted in particular the revised visualisations for Viewpoint 14, where no turbines would now potential for ‘unacceptably be visible with no effect arising.

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overbearing visual effects at The A set of wireframe visualisations illustrating the view from the information proposed. It was also plans have been prepared and referenced in the assessment text Craigs Farm Cottage’ and also ‘a summit of Blackcraig Hill has now been prepared and is included in a suggested however, that the accordingly. significant and adverse change to new Appendix 6.13. This illustrates that existing turbines are already submission of further the character of parts of Glen visible in multiple directions from the Hill and the introduction of photomontage visualisations New Appendix 6.10: Wireframe Route Analysis – ‘Southern Upland Afton’. the Sanquhar II turbines would only serve to reinforce the existing should take place following the Way - between Benbrack and Conrig shoulder’ and ‘Scaur Water Following confirmation being visibility of these turbines which is already possible from the hill. lifting of the Covid-19 restrictions Valley - minor road between Carlistane Bridge and Polskeoch’ - New provided to East Ayrshire Council wireframes for locations along these routes have been prepared and that the applicant agreed to With the reduction of 4 turbines, the landscape affect has ‘to ensure the LVIA is fully referenced in the assessment text accordingly. remove four turbines (T11-14) significantly, and the updated Planning Summary sets out that this competent as a document for use by which were located in East Ayrshire reduction in effects shows that notably less landscape and visual the full range of public from the scheme. A request was harms are now taken forward into the planning balance, for only a stakeholders, other agencies, and Appendix 6.6: Residential Visual Amenity Study – The study area for made by the Council in an email relatively small reduction in the output of the scheme. This project decision makers.’ It is understood this assessment has been increased from 2km to 3km from the dated 04.05.20 in relation to the will deliver significant investment, jobs and long-term economic that it is a matter for the proposed turbines. (Due to the current situation with Covid-19, no content of the additional benefits to the host communities and Scotland, whilst allowing determining authority to decide residential properties were visited as part of this work and the information, which was being Scottish carbon targets to be reached. whether they or other stakeholders accompanying visualisations are wirelines only) prepared concerning the revised would require such further proposals, as follows: information. It is our view however, In addition, 3 properties - Dalgonar, Polgowan and Sheil – which are “In respect of the FEI and given that located within 2km of a proposed turbine, are now under the control effects on East Ayrshire are likely to as set out in the letter at Appendix of the applicant; with those no longer being residential properties be more focused on Blackcraig Hill, 6.11, that the additional we hoped that a viewpoint could be information included as part of this should the development be granted consented and remaining produced from that location to updated LVIA should provide a unoccupied during the period of consent. Similarly, it has been demonstrate the effects on the sufficient basis to enable the confirmed that the owners and residents of Glenmanna, Glengown, landmark hill?” application to be determined. Dalzean, Glengape and Birknowe are financially involved in the scheme. Hillend is financially involved in an adjacent Wind Farm scheme. Dumfries and Galloway Council Dumfries and Galloway Council A helpful telephone meeting was held between representatives of Removal of T47 and T48 provided a response to the ECU, the Energy Consents Unit (ECU), Dumfries and Galloway Council, Following the comments from Dumfries and Galloway Council, dated 18th February 2020, which Pegasus, and Community Windpower, on 23rd March 2020, to discuss Community Windpower also decided to remove two of the turbines was in turn accompanied by a the comments. Following this, Community Windpower agreed that a which were located within Dumfries and Galloway (T47 and T48). response from their Landscape significant level of further information to address the issues raised These turbines were within the edge of the Thornhill Uplands Architect. This included several would be submitted as part of the revised LVIA. These include the Regional Scenic Area (RSA). As such, no turbines in the scheme are requests for additional information, following elements: now located directly within the RSA and the prominence of turbines as well as comments on the design within the Scaur Water Valley would also be significantly reduced. of the proposals. Pegasus provided New Appendix 6.8: Additional Supporting Wireframe Visualisations – a detailed response to this A series of additional wireframe visualisations are provided for New Appendix 6.12 Additional Photomontage Visualisations from correspondence, dated 31.03.20, locations of interest to Dumfries and Galloway Council. With regard Scaur Water Valley and Shinnel Water Valley (prepared using which addressed each of the to the current situation with Covid-19 and the Government’s position photography collected during pre-Covid restrictions) matters raised in turn. This on not making unnecessary journeys, travelling to site to undertake Following receipt of the further feedback from Dumfries and response is included at a new new photography is considered inappropriate. For that reason, it is Galloway Council concerning their suggestion that photomontages Appendix 6.11. On receipt of this not possible for any of the new wireline visualisations (the production should be prepared following the lifting of the Covid-19 restrictions, response, the Dumfries and which are a solely desk-based exercise) to be presented as a further audit was undertaken of all of the photography which had Galloway Council Landscape Officer photomontage visualisations at the current time. However, it is our already been collected for the project during site work to date. This provided further feedback, dated understanding that these images, combined with the previous established that there were a small number of locations in the Scaur 17.04.20. This confirmed that they submitted material, will allow a balanced assessment to be made. Water Valley and Shinnel Water Valley where suitable photography would be able to undertake their was already available to prepare photomontages. As such, it was assessment of the revised New Appendix 6.9: Enlarged Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plans agreed with the applicant that it would be appropriate to prepare proposals based on the additional - Scaur Water Valley and Shinnel Water Valley – New enlarged ZTV photomontages for these locations, to again demonstrate that they

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are seeking to provide as such information as is reasonably • The Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment (2004) Institute for Environmental Management practicable in the circumstances. These images are set out in a new and Assessment; Appendix 6.12. This is notwithstanding that it remains our • Assessing the Cumulative Impact of Onshore Wind Energy Developments (March 2012) SNH; understanding that the additional information provided within the • Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland: Topic Paper 6: Techniques and new Appendices 6.8 to 6.10 should already provide a sufficient basis Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity, (2002) The Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural to enable the application to be determined. Heritage; • Visual Representation of Wind farms – Version 2.2 (February 2017), SNH; Scottish Natural Heritage • Siting and Design of Wind farms in the Landscape – Version 3 (February 2017) SNH. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Following detailed consideration of the consultee responses received provided their consultation from both East Ayrshire Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council, Types of Impact Considered in the LVIA response to the application, dated in addition to these comments made by SNH, Community Windpower 6.2.4 The LVIA assesses both the long-term effects relating to the operational lifetime of the Sanquhar II Community 31st May 2019. SNH did not object decided to remove a total of 6no. turbines from the scheme. As Wind Farm and the short-term effects associated with its construction. Where appropriate, the LVIA also to the scheme but they ‘consider identified above, it is considered that this would make a notable considers any residual effects once the wind farm has been decommissioned and removed. the proposal in its current form difference to the level of landscape and visual effect which would would give rise to significant and arise from the proposals, particularly in East Ayrshire. It is 6.2.5 The LVIA not only assesses the impacts associated with the turbines but also any related impacts resulting adverse effects on landscape nonetheless acknowledged in this updated LVIA that a number of from the meteorological mast, underground cabling, access tracks, borrow pits, substations and construction character and visual amenity, both significant landscape character and visual amenity effects would still and storage compounds and the energy storage facility. individually and in combination arise. These effects should be balanced against the benefits of the with other constructed, consented proposals as part of a wider planning balance exercise, which also 6.2.6 Consideration has been given to seasonal variations in the visibility of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm. or proposed wind farms, as includes other technical and environmental issues. This matter is 6.2.7 Cumulative impacts are also assessed, and best practice guidelines identify two principal types of cumulative appreciated from within Upper addressed separately in the Additional Information submission. visual impact: Nithsdale and the surrounding hills and from the Southern Upland Way • Combined visibility – where the observer is able to see two or more developments from one viewpoint; (SUW) and the striding arches area’. • Sequential visibility – where two or more sites are not visible at one location but would be seen as the observer moves along a linear route, for example, a road or public right of way.

6.2 Assessment methodology 6.2.8 The guidelines state that ‘combined visibility’ may either be ‘in combination’ (where two or more sites are visible from a fixed viewpoint in the same arc of view) or ‘in succession’ (where two or more sites are visible Published Guidance Documents from a fixed viewpoint, but the observer is required to turn to see the different sites). Both types are discussed in this LVIA. GLVIA3 also indicates a difference in emphasis between sequential effects that are frequent and 6.2.1 The primary source of best practice for LVIA in the UK is The Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact those which are occasional. Where relevant this is also acknowledged. Assessment, 3rd Edition (GLVIA3) (Landscape Institute and the Institute for Environmental Management and Assessment, 2013). The LVIA presented in this chapter has been undertaken in accordance with the principles 6.2.9 The LVIA also considers effects upon Residential Visual Amenity, incorporated as an appendix to the main LVIA. established in this document. It must however be acknowledged that GLVIA3 establishes guidelines not a In the case of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm proposal it was previously ascertained that there were specific methodology. The preface to GLVIA3 recognises that: up to 16 residential properties located within 2km of the proposed turbines, and as such a Residential Visual Amenity Study was provided at Appendix 6.6 of the EIA Report. This Appendix has been updated as part of this ‘This edition concentrates on principles and processes. It does not provide a detailed or formulaic ‘recipe’ that submission and a new replacement Appendix 6.6 has been prepared, with its study area now extended out to can be followed in every situation – it remains the responsibility of the professional to ensure that the approach a distance of 3km from the proposed turbines, as requested by Dumfries and Galloway Council. and methodology adopted are appropriate to the task in hand.’ Study Area 6.2.2 The methodology for this assessment has therefore been tailored specifically for this LVIA to ensure that it is ‘fit for purpose’. 6.2.10 The extent of the primary study area for the landscape and visual impact assessment has been taken to be a 35km radius from the site in all directions, following current Scottish Natural Heritage guidance. The extent of 6.2.3 Consideration has also been given to the following documents: this study area is illustrated in Figure 6.1. Initial site work informed by analysis of preliminary ZTVs however indicated that significant landscape and visual effects are likely to occur within a much narrower radius from • Guidelines for Landscape Character Assessment, (2002) Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural the site than this and therefore the level of assessment work in this LVIA incrementally decreases with distance Heritage (SNH); from the site with the greatest focus of assessment being within approximately 20km of the site. The intention is that the detail of the LVIA remains proportional to the likely significance of effects.

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6.2.11 Initial baseline studies and fieldwork established that effects on landscape character beyond 15km were and of the visibility of the site from a range of distances, elevations and during a variety of weather conditions unlikely to be significant. Specifically, in relation to the effects on landscape character, reference is therefore gained during multiple site visits. This initial review of landscape character types within 35km is presented in made to a wider study area and a detailed study area. The former refers to a 35km study area whilst the latter Appendix 6.3. refers to a 20km study area. 6.2.20 Through this exercise, a number of character types were filtered out of the assessment where there was no 6.2.12 Visual effects on receptors throughout the 35km study are discussed but again with a greater focus on effects theoretical visibility with the proposed turbines or where the extent of visibility was so minimal that significant within 20km. effects were not considered likely. Those where visibility was theoretically available to the extent that there was potential for effects to the landscape character were then reviewed. 6.2.13 In terms of cumulative effects, the intention has again been that assessment work is proportional to the likelihood of significant effects arising. The approach adopted in the cumulative LVIA has been to focus on 6.2.21 It was determined that due to the effects of distance and topography, whilst the turbines have the potential other wind farms which are either operational, under construction, consented or the subject of a full planning to be visible beyond 15km from the site it was highly unlikely that they would result in any effect on landscape application (as illustrated in Figure 6.2) and which have the potential to give rise to significant cumulative character that would be considered significant given that the site would lie in such close proximity to two effects when considered in combination with the proposed Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm. Rather than baseline windfarms (the consented Sanquhar scheme and the operational Whiteside Hill scheme). As such, simply considering every other wind farm within a set distance of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm, the whilst all landscape character areas within 35km of the site have been mapped and analysed, only those approach has been to focus the assessment on those sites which genuinely have the potential to give rise to identified in Appendix 6.3 are discussed in detail within the assessment. significant cumulative effects. Further details of this approach are set out in the cumulative impact assessment section of the LVIA. 6.2.22 The level of effect on landscape features and character is determined by considering in tandem the sensitivity of the feature or character with the magnitude of change. A professional judgement is then provided as to Landscape Assessment Methodology whether the effect is significant or not. The effects which are identified as significant are those which, in the opinion of the professional assessor are likely to be a material consideration in the decision-making process. 6.2.14 A baseline landscape assessment was carried out to determine the current features and character of the landscape within and surrounding the site. Visual Assessment Methodology

6.2.15 The baseline landscape assessment involved firstly a review of desk material including: 6.2.23 Potential visual receptors of the scheme were identified by interpretation of digitally generated Zones of Theoretical Visibility (ZTVs) (see Table 6.1 for an explanation of ZTVs and how they were produced). • Ordnance Survey maps at 1:250,000; 1:50,000; 1:25,000 and 1:10,000 scales; • Aerial photographs of the site and surrounding area; 6.2.24 Many of the viewpoints used within this assessment are in the same location as those that were previously • Topography; agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Dumfries and Galloway Council at the time of the EIA for the • Current & historical land use; now operational Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and the consented Sanquhar ‘Six’ Community Wind Farm. • Geology and soil maps; These viewpoints were chosen to represent a range of views and viewer types as discussed within the ‘Visual • Historic Parks and Designated Landscapes; Representation of Wind Farms’. They cover a variety of different character areas, are in different directions • Relevant planning policy; from the site and are at varying elevations. The viewpoints are located at a range of distances from the • Relevant landscape sensitivity/capacity studies; and development to illustrate the varying magnitude of visual impacts with distance from the site. • Relevant landscape character assessments. 6.2.25 Each viewpoint was photographed (see Table 6.3 for a description of how the photography was taken) and a baseline photograph presented. For each of the viewpoints, a wireframe model was generated to help identify 6.2.16 Field visits were conducted in a variety of weather conditions and surveys were undertaken between June and September 2018. the scale, arrangement and visibility of the proposed Sanquhar II turbines (see Table 6.2 for a description of how the wireframes were generated). The images were reviewed to assess how natural and built screening 6.2.17 The baseline assessment identified the existing landscape features on the site, and in the immediate vicinity, would affect visibility of the turbines. and how these elements combine to give the area a sense of landscape character. Plans and construction details of the proposed development were used to determine the impacts of the scheme on landscape 6.2.26 The wireframe models were then developed further into photomontages for each of the viewpoints to features and character. illustrate the predicted impacts (see Table 6.3 for a description of how the photomontages were generated).

6.2.27 The viewpoints were used as the starting point for considering the effects on visual receptors within the entire 6.2.18 The LVIA firstly assesses how the proposed development would impact directly on any landscape features and resources (e.g. removal of trees). It then considers impacts on landscape character with reference to regional study area. The visual assessment however does not rely solely on the viewpoint assessments to determine landscape character areas identified in the relevant landscape character assessments. the significance of effects on different visual receptor groups throughout the study area. It should be recognised that the viewpoints illustrated in the LVIA simply represent a series of snapshots from a small 6.2.19 Due to the fact that there are numerous character types within 35km of the proposed site, an initial filtering selection of the locations within the study area from where the development would be visible. Following the exercise was undertaken to determine which character types and areas should be considered in detail in the viewpoint assessment, the LVIA therefore considers the effect on visual amenity throughout the study area main LVIA. This review utilised ZTV mapping as well as a comprehensive understanding of the wider landscape with reference to different visual receptor groups at varying distances from the site.

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6.2.28 The level of effect on views and visual amenity is determined by considering in tandem the sensitivity of the Table 6.2: Wireframe Visualisations visual receptor with the magnitude of change. A professional judgement is then provided as to whether the effect is significant or not, as required by the EIA Regulations. A wireframe or wireline visualisation is a computer-generated 3D outline of a particular structure (in this Table 6.1: Production of Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Maps case a wind farm) placed on top of a 3D ground terrain model, which again is represented by a wireframe. No rendering is given to any of the surfaces. The actual dimensions of the proposed turbine were used to build a model of the structures and this was placed in position over a ground terrain model generated from

Ordnance Survey Landform Panorama height data. A Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) illustrates the extents from which a feature (in this case several wind

turbines) would theoretically be visible within a defined study area. The coordinates of the viewpoints were taken using a Global Positioning System (GPS) in the field. These

coordinates were used to set up viewpoints in the model from which to view the turbines. The wirelines It should be noted that the ZTVs have been generated assuming a ‘bare ground’ terrain model. This means were generated using Resoft Wind Farm (release 4.1). that it is generated from topographical data only and does not take any account of vegetation or the built

environment, which may screen views of the development. It is, as such, a ‘worst case’ Zone of Theoretical The wireline images are generated on a bare ground model and therefore do not take account of any Visibility and considerably over-emphasises the actual visibility of the scheme. In reality trees, hedges and vegetation or the built environment between the viewpoint and the development. As such, they represent buildings may restrict views of the development from many of the areas rendered as within the ZTV. a worst-case view. Each of the wirelines was checked on site to ascertain whether there was any screening

of the view caused by vegetation or buildings. A further assumption of the ZTVs is that climatic visibility is 100% (i.e. visibility is not impeded by moisture

or pollution in the air). In reality, such atmospheric conditions are relatively rare in this part of the country. The wirelines are presented to scale beneath a baseline photograph to illustrate the actual view from each Mist, fog, rain and snow are all common weather occurrences, which would regularly restrict visibility of the viewpoint. The wireline images only illustrate the anticipated scale and position of the turbines. Whilst development from some of the areas within the ZTV. Atmospheric pollution is not as significant as it is in every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the images, it must be appreciated that no wireline other parts of the country but is still present and would also restrict actual visibility on some occasions. image could ever claim to be 100% accurate as there are a number of technical limitations to the model. For Climatic conditions inevitably reduce visibility with increasing distance from the development. a detailed discussion regarding the limitations of wirelines, please refer to SNH guidance ‘Visual

Representation of Wind farms’ (Version 2.2, 2017). The ZTVs were generated using Resoft Wind Farm (release 4.1). The programme uses 3D height data (OS

Landform Panorama) to build a terrain model. The programme then renders the model using a square grid It should be noted that wirelines are just a ‘snapshot’ of the view from a single fixed location and the to illustrate whether the turbine would be visible in each 50m x 50m square on the grid for a specified wirelines presented in this EIAR represent only a small number of locations where the development will be distance in every direction from the site. visible from. In reality views will change as receptors move through the landscape. Therefore, the wirelines

are simply a tool to assist the Landscape Architect in his/her assessment of effects. The assessment of visual Digital ZTVs have been prepared to illustrate the theoretical visibility of the turbine for a radius of 35km effects in this chapter does not rely solely on the accuracy of the wireline images. Professional judgement around the site. Two sets of ZTVs have been produced, the first shows visibility of the turbine at hub height has been used to evaluate the significance of effects. and the second shows visibility of the turbine to blade tip when one blade is at its highest possible position. Enlargements of the ZTVs have also been produced.

The ZTVs illustrate visibility bands which differentiate between the visibility of different numbers of turbines and again this has been undertaken for both the hub height and tip height ZTVs.

Cumulative ZTVs have been produced to show locations where the ZTVs of two or more operational or proposed wind turbine sites overlap (in certain cases a number of windfarms which are at the same stage in development have been grouped together). In the cumulative ZTVs one colour has been used to illustrate the theoretical visibility of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm site and a second colour to illustrate the visibility of a second site. Where the ZTVs of the two sites overlap a third colour has been used to illustrate this potential cumulative visual influence.

It should be noted that there are several limitations to the use of ZTVs. For a discussion of these limitations please refer to SNH guidance ‘Visual Representation of Wind farms’ (Version 2.2, 2017). In particular, it should be noted that the ZTV plans simply illustrate theoretical visibility and do not imply or assign any level of significance to those areas identified as being within the ZTV. The ZTVs are a tool to assist the Landscape Architect to identify where the site would potentially be visible from. The assessment of landscape and visual effects in this chapter does not rely solely on the accuracy of the ZTVs. Professional judgement has been used to evaluate the significance of effects.

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Table 6.3: Generation of Photomontages Assessment Criteria

6.2.29 The purpose of an LVIA, when produced in the context of an EIA, is to identify any significant landscape and A photomontage is the superimposition of a rendered, photorealistic, computer generated model of a visual effects within the study area to assist the determining authority in deciding the acceptability of the structure (in this case a wind farm) on to a baseline photograph. scheme under consideration.

Baseline photographs were taken in favourable weather conditions and reasonably clear visibility, using a 6.2.30 In accordance with the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Guidelines, 3rd Edition (Landscape Institute digital SLR camera with a full-size sensor and using a high quality fixed focal length 50mm lens. All pictures were taken using a levelled tripod and using a high-quality resolution. Each of the viewpoints presented in and IEMA, 2013), the level (relative significance) of an effect is ascertained by considering in tandem the the EIAR is made up of a number of photographs which have been stitched together using Adobe Photoshop sensitivity of the baseline landscape or visual receptor and the magnitude of change as a result of the software to create cylindrical projection images (revised to planar projection images where required using development. Professional judgement is then employed to determine whether the effect is significant or not. Resoft Wind Farm -release 4.1) and cropped as necessary to provide the requisite horizontal angle of view. At the time the baseline photographs were taken, co-ordinates of the viewpoints were recorded using a GPS. 6.2.31 The detailed assessment criteria used to determine landscape and visual sensitivity, magnitude of change and Photographs were taken at approximately 1.5m above ground level (i.e. approximately eye level). level of effect are set out in Appendix 6.1.

Resoft Wind Farm (release 4.1) software was used to generate the 3D model of the turbines and associated structures. The model of the structures was rendered, and lighting was set appropriate to the date, time 6.3 Landscape planning policies and designations and orientation on which the photograph was taken. 6.3.1 A full and detailed consideration of national, regional and local planning policy is contained in the Planning A digital ground terrain model was generated in Resoft Wind Farm and the development was overlaid on Statement. However, this section provides an overview of the policies of particular relevance to the landscape top of it. Using world coordinates in the computer modelling programme the photographic viewpoints were replicated such that a view was set up looking at the structures from exactly the same location as where the and visual issues considered in this chapter. Landscape policies and designations with specific geographical baseline photograph was taken from. The view from the model was then superimposed over the original limits are illustrated on Figure 6.3. photograph and edited as necessary in Adobe Photoshop to give a final photomontage. European Landscape Convention Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the photomontages, it must be appreciated that no photomontage could ever claim to be 100% accurate as there are a number of technical limitations 6.3.2 The European Landscape Convention (ELC) is the first international convention to focus specifically on in the model relating to the accuracy of information available from Ordnance Survey and from the GPS. For landscape. The convention promotes landscape protection, management and planning, as well as European a detailed discussion regarding the limitations of photomontages, please refer to SNH guidance ‘Visual co-operation on landscape issues. Signed by the UK Government in February 2006, the ELC became binding Representation of Wind farms’ (Version 2.2, 2017). In particular, it should be recognised that baseline photographs on which photomontages are based can, at best, only ever be a ‘flattened’ 2D representation from March 2007. It applies to all landscapes, towns and villages, as well as open countryside; the coast and of what the eye sees in 3D on site. A photograph will never capture as much detail as the eye would see in inland areas; and ordinary or even degraded landscapes, as well as those that are afforded protection. the field, it therefore follows that a photomontage can never truly capture the sense of perspective and detail which would be possible in reality. In some of the photomontages, the visibility of the turbines has 6.3.3 The Government has stated that it considers the UK to be compliant with the ELC’s requirements and in effect been slightly digitally enhanced to ensure that they are visible when printed out. Taking account of the the principal requirements of the ELC are already enshrined in the existing suite of national policies and inherent technical limitations in producing and presenting photomontages, the photomontages have been guidance on the assessment of landscape and visual effects. produced according to current best practice.

6.3.4 The ELC defines landscape as: The photomontages are simply a tool to assist the Landscape Architect in their assessment of effects. The assessment of visual effects in this chapter does not rely solely on the accuracy of the photomontages. 6.3.5 ‘An area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or Professional judgement has been used to evaluate the significance of effects. Each of the photomontages should be viewed from the stated viewing distance to give an accurate representation of what the human factors’. (Council of Europe 2000) development will look like. 6.3.6 It is important to recognise that the ELC does not require the preservation of all landscapes although landscape protection is one of the core themes of the convention. Equally important though is the requirement to manage and plan future landscape change.

6.3.7 The ELC highlights the importance of developing landscape policies dedicated to the protection, management and planning of landscapes. In this regard, both East Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway Council have published landscape character assessments and wind farm landscape capacity studies which enables decisions to be made with due regard to landscape character as promoted by the ELC.

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National Policy and Advice 6.3.15 The nearest National Park is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park which is located approximately 80km from the site. The nearest National Scenic Area to the site is the Nith Estuary which is located 6.3.8 National Policy relevant to a consideration of the landscape and visual effects of the proposed development approximately 40km south east of the site. is set out in: Wild Land • National Planning Framework for Scotland 3 (NPF3) (June 2014); and 6.3.16 The nearest Wild Land Area is Merrick (ref: 01) which lies over 26km to the south west. • Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) (June 2014). 6.3.17 Whilst the ZTV illustrates theoretical visibility from elevated locations within the Wild Land Area, given the 6.3.9 A summary of this policy is contained within Chapter 4 of this EIAR and the accompanying Planning Statement. distance at which the Wild Land is located from the site, and taking into account the nature of the intervening landscape in which the existing Wether Hill, Windy Standard, and Blackcraig Hill wind farms are present and Local Policy visible, it is considered highly unlikely that the proposed turbines would give rise to any significant effects. As

6.3.10 Local Policy relevant to the consideration of the landscape and visual effects of the proposed development is such effects are not discussed further in this assessment. set out in the Dumfries and Galloway Local Development Plan 2 (2019) and East Ayrshire Local Development 6.3.18 A further area of Wild Land is located to the east, namely Talla – Hart Fell (ref: 02). The Wild Land is located Plan (2017), as well as: over 35km from the nearest turbine and as such significant effects upon the area are unlikely and again such • East Ayrshire’s Landscape Wind Capacity Study (EALWCS) (2018), effects are not discussed further in this assessment. • Dumfries and Galloway Local Development Plan Supplementary Guidance: Part 1 Wind Energy Development: Development Management Considerations (2017); Local Landscape Designations • Dumfries and Galloway Local Development Plan Supplementary Guidance: Part 1 Wind Energy Development: Development Management Considerations – Appendix ‘C’ Dumfries & Galloway Wind Dumfries and Galloway Regional Scenic Areas Farm Landscape Capacity Study (2017); 6.3.19 The southeasternmost part of the site is located within the Thornhill Uplands Regional Scenic Area (RSA), • East Ayrshire Council, Dark Sky Park Lighting, Supplementary Guidance (2017); however the two turbines which were located within the designated landscape in the submitted scheme (T47 • Dumfries and Galloway Council, Dark Skies Friendly Lighting, Supplementary Guidance (2020); and T48) have now been removed from the revised proposals, such that there would now be no turbines • Dumfries and Galloway Council, Regional Scenic Areas - Technical Paper (2018) located in the RSA. The extent of the RSA is shown on Figure 6.3. The RSA centres on Drumlanrig Castle within the Nithsdale Valley and includes a series of upland glens. 6.3.11 A list of relevant adopted policy in relation to landscape and visuals matters is set out below: Sensitive Landscape Areas (East Ayrshire) Dumfries and Galloway 6.3.20 The westernmost part of the site is located within the Southern Uplands Sensitive Landscape Area (SLA) within East Ayrshire. There were previously seven proposed turbines in the submitted scheme located within the SLA, • OP1: Development Considerations; however, four of these turbines have been deleted as part of the revised proposals. Due to the location of part • NE2: Regional Scenic Areas; of the proposed development lying within the SLA, an assessment of effects upon the designated landscape is • IN1: Renewable Energy; and provided within the assessment. • IN2: Wind Energy. Special Landscape Areas (South Lanarkshire) East Ayrshire 6.3.21 The nearest Special Landscape Area within South Lanarkshire relates to the Leadhills and Lowther Hills SLA, which lies at approximately 14km to the north east of the site. The ZTV illustrates a degree of theoretical • ENV7: Wild Land and Sensitive Landscape Areas; visibility from locations within this SLA, however this is largely limited to the westernmost hills within the • ENV8: Protecting and Enhancing the Landscape; designated landscape. The theoretical visibility is located over 15km from the proposed turbines, and as such • RE1: Renewable Energy Developments; it is considered there is no potential for significant effects on the SLA and it is not discussed further in this • RE3: Wind energy proposals over 50m in height assessment. 6.3.12 Whilst planning policy has been reviewed as part of the LVIA process, this section of the EIAR does not attempt Galloway Hills Dark Sky Park to analyse the policies contained within these documents. This matter is addressed in the accompanying 6.3.22 It is acknowledged that part of the site is located within the Transitional Zone for the Galloway Hills Dark Sky Planning Statement and a summary of this policy is contained within Chapter 4 of the EIAR. Park, as illustrated at Figure 6.3. An assessment of effects in relation to night-time lighting of turbines has been Planning Designations undertaken as part of this LVIA, set out at Appendix 6.5, and includes consideration of the Dark Sky Park. Conservation Areas 6.3.13 Landscape and other relevant designations are illustrated in Figure 6.3. 6.3.23 There are three Conservation Areas within 10km of the proposed wind farm, namely Sanquhar, Moniaive, and National Landscape Designations Tynron. However, Moniaive and Tynron are located outside of ZTV coverage and would have no visibility of 6.3.14 There are no national landscape designations which cover the site or are within the 35km study area. the proposals. A further ten Conservation Areas are located between 10km and 20km of the site boundary.

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6.3.24 Effects on Conservation Areas are discussed separately in the Cultural Heritage assessment which is Section 9 6.4.6 The site lies on a series of ridges above valleys created by the Kello Water to the north, Euchan Water to the in the original EIAR. Visual effects as experienced from locations within Sanquhar (including any views available north east, Afton Water to the north west, Scar Water to the south east and Shinnel Water to the south. All of from within the Conservation Area) are however discussed within this chapter. these watercourses flow into the River Nith.

Listed Buildings 6.4.7 A number of smaller burns relating to these watercourses lie in close proximity to the site, forming ‘fingers’ in 6.3.25 Within a 20km radius of the site there are a number of Listed Buildings which are discussed further in the the landform off the higher ridges into the lower valleys that surround the site. Cultural Heritage chapter (Section 9 of the original EIAR). There is one Grade A Listed Building which occurs within 10km of the site, the Tolbooth/Town House, High Street, Sanquhar. This tolbooth, dating from 1735, is Buildings and Infrastructure a baroque two storey building lying towards the centre of Sanquhar. It is contained on all sides by the built 6.4.8 The local landscape features numerous wind energy developments, which are discussed separately below. development of Sanquhar and does not share a visual relationship with the site of the proposed wind farm. 6.4.9 An overhead main power line (carrying 132KVA multiple cables), complete with numerous tall steel pylons , Scheduled Monuments which forms part of the extensive South West Scotland Connections Project, passes through the site to the 6.3.26 Within 20km of the site there are numerous Scheduled Monuments (SM’s), including Sanquhar Castle. The south of Blacklorg Hill. The route runs in an east to west direction, connecting the new Glenglass substation in potential for effects on these assets is discussed in the Cultural Heritage Chapter (Section 9 of the original the Euchan Valley to the Black Hill substation west of Glen Afton. A wide belt of plantation has been felled EIAR). along the route to allow for the power line. Designed Parks and Gardens 6.4.10 In terms of other built form, there is a water works (comprising two utilitarian structures) located 6.3.27 There are several Gardens and Designed Landscapes within the detailed study area, with just one located approximately 1km to the north of the site in the valley of Kello Water. within 10km of the site, namely Drumlanrig Castle. The potential for effects on this site is discussed in the Cultural Heritage Chapter (Section 9 of the original EIAR). 6.4.11 Bank Cottage and Glenglass lie approximately 2km to the south west of the nearest turbine and are set within a steep sided valley below the site, separated both by elevation and a substantial block of forestry woodland. 6.4 Baseline landscape conditions From Bank Cottage, a minor road serves a number of forest tracks to the various plantations located on the upper valley sides of Euchan Water. One of the tracks follows the contours between Mid Hill and Well Hill 6.4.1 This section provides an objective and factual description of the landscape features and character of the before crossing Poltallan Burn and on to Kello Water. landscape within and immediately surrounding the assessment boundary. The landscape context of the site is 6.4.12 A minor road, and route of the Southern Upland Way, passes through the site to the property Polskeoch illustrated in Figure 6.6. Polskeoch is located less than 2km to the south of the nearest turbine. The road also serves a number of other Site Location isolated farmsteads on its way to Polskeoch from Chanlockfoot and Auchenhessnane. These include Dalgonar, Shiel and Polgown (which are also now under the control of the applicant and will also remain unoccupied 6.4.2 The proposed Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm site is located within the administrative boundaries of East during the planning consent), located within 1.5km of the nearest turbines. These properties are all located Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway and is centred at approximately OS Grid Reference 270000 604000. The within a valley bottom, with coniferous plantation enclosing the outlook to the north from Polskeoch. site is located approximately 5km to the south west of the A76 and the nearest settlement of Sanquhar. 6.4.13 Hillend is a further property that lies approximately 2km to the north of the nearest turbine at the head of the Landform and Topography steep sided valley of the Kello Water.

6.4.3 The site lies within an extensive range of hills running roughly south east to north west from Dumfries to 6.4.14 All residential properties located within 3km of the proposed turbines are considered in detail within the Cumnock, to the west of the A76 and the valley of the River Nith. The range is marked on the western Residential Visual Amenity Study at Appendix 6.6. boundary by the A713 and to the west of this lies the Rhinns of Kells and the Galloway Forest Park. The highpoint in this range of hills is Cairnsmore of Carsphairn at 797m AOD, lying to the south-west of the site. Wind turbines The topography of the study area is illustrated in Figure 6.7. 6.4.15 The wider landscape in which the proposed turbines are located already hosts a number of wind energy 6.4.4 The site lies on a series of undulating ridges in the Southern Upland landscape, lying roughly in the area developments and there are a number of operational wind farm sites present within existing views. Full details between Blackcraig Hill (700m AOD) to north-west and Craigbuie Hill (461m AOD) to the south-east, of all wind energy developments relevant to the LVIA at the time of writing are illustrated in Figure 6.2 and in encompassing amongst other highpoints: Craigbraneuch Rig, Magheuchan Rig, Well Hill, Corse Hill, White Table 6.10. Knowe Birk Hill and Fingland Shoulder. 6.4.16 Notable amongst those operational wind farms close to the site include: Watercourses and Drainage • 9 operational wind turbines, 130m to blade tip, which form the Sanquhar Community Wind Farm 6.4.5 The main water course in the locality of the site is the River Nith which flows along the valley floor between located immediately adjacent to the northernmost section of the site; New Cumnock and Sanquhar, and in a southerly direction to Dumfries.

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• 10 operational turbines, 121.2m to blade tip, which form the Whiteside Hill Wind Farm, located north Sensory Experience of the central section of the site; • 27 operational turbines, up to 120m to blade tip, at Afton Wind Farm located approximately 1.75km 6.4.26 The site occupies a series of elevated ridges and as such has an open and exposed aspect. The land on which to the west of the site; the site is located is partly contained by forestry plantations, but this is primarily on the valley sides below the • 59 operational wind turbines at Hare Hill and its associated extension, varying between 63.5m, 70m highest ridges. The landscape has some sense of remoteness despite its intervisibility with parts of Sanquhar and 91m to blade tip, located approximately 3km to the north of the site; and its environs, and the existing wind farms at Sanquhar, Whiteside Hill, Afton, Hare Hill, Windy Standard and Wether Hill. It is not however a wild landscape as it is commonly understood. It is relatively close to a road • 36 operational turbines, varying between 92.5m, 100m and 120m to blade tip which form the Windy network and partially visible from it, there is partial inter-visibility with local settlement, and the locality is Standard Wind Farm, located approximately 3km to the south west of the site; and influenced by existing wind farms and commercial forestry. • 14 operational turbines, 91m to blade tip at Wether Hill, located approximately 6.8km to the south of the site. Baseline Landscape Character

Vegetation 6.4.27 In 2019, SNH published updated landscape character information for the whole of Scotland. This included mapping and descriptions which superseded a number of the earlier documents which were referenced in the 6.4.17 The vegetation on the site comprises rough moorland vegetation, with no tree or sub storey vegetation within previously prepared LVIA, specifically the following: the site boundary. • Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment (1998) SNH Review No 94, Land Use Consultants; 6.4.18 Forestry plantations are widespread within the local landscape, with large areas of forest located to the • immediate north and south of the site. The extensive plantation is an influencing feature on the character of Ayrshire Landscape Assessment (1998) SNH Review No 111, Land Use Consultants; and the landscape. The Euchanhead plantation is located between the northernmost part of the site and the • Glasgow and Clyde Valley Landscape Character Assessment (1999) SHN Review No 116, Land Use central part of the site at Rough Shoulder and is part of the National Forest Estate. It covers approximately Consultants. 670ha between Black Hill and Blacklorg Hill and forms part of a wider belt of forestry that extends in a south 6.4.28 The SNH Landscape Character Assessment 2019 has been published as an online resource which is available to south westerly direction across Polskeoch Rig and Troston Hill. on the SNH website (available at https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/landscape/landscape-

6.4.19 Beyond the Afton valley is another substantial block of forestry planting called the Carsphairn Forest which character-assessment/landscape-character-assessment-scotland). In introducing the updated information, rises to Milray Hill (526m AOD). SNH set out that since the studies undertaken in the 1990s, there have been digital technological advances; production of additional datasets; and changes in development patterns and pressures. It is also set out that Historical Landscape Interpretation ‘where current proposals or projects have analysis based on the 1990s LCT dataset, that should this be used’ and also that where there are ‘topic specific landscape capacity or sensitivity studies, they would take 6.4.20 Sanquhar, the Nith Valley and its environs, has a long and rich history. Sanquhar was created a Royal Burgh in precedence for informing that development type’. 1598 and the district was a centre for the wool trade. The landscape has been shaped since the Roman occupation by agriculture, especially sheep farming and the clearance of the uplands for grazing. 6.4.29 A review has therefore been undertaken of the following wind energy specific published landscape sensitivity/capacity studies which cover each of the four Local Authority Areas across the 35km study area: 6.4.21 The raising of sheep, the wool trade and cottage weaving and knitting enterprises have been the major influence until modern times on the local economy and landscape. The textile industry flourished until the • Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study (February 2020); late 18th century, but as it declined coal mining and brick making also left its mark on the local landscape. • East Ayrshire Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study (2018) Carol Anderson Landscape Associates; • South Lanarkshire Landscape Capacity Study for Wind Energy (2016) Ironside Farrar; and 6.4.22 There are the remains of Roman Fortifications at Sanquhar and the ruins of Sanquhar Castle, dating from the • South Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study (2018) Carol Anderson Landscape Associates. 15th century. 6.4.30 At this point, for clarity, it is necessary to distinguish between two terms that are used throughout this chapter. 6.4.23 The Buccleuch Terracotta brick works operated in Sanquhar until the 1960’s and the Gateside Colliery located They originate from the “Guidelines for Landscape Character Assessment” (Countryside Agency and SNH, 2km north west of the town also closed in the 1960’s. 2002): 6.4.24 By reviewing historic maps, it is possible to see how the landscape surrounding the site has evolved over time. • Landscape Character Types are defined as tracts of landscape, which have a generic unity of character Historical maps dating back to the 1880s provide evidence that the immediate site has undergone minimal due to the particular combinations of landform, land cover, pattern and elements. The same change in the past 130 years. landscape character type can occur at several different locations throughout a study area, and 6.4.25 Forestry in the Euchan Water is thought to have begun in around the 1970s. More recently, wind energy • Landscape Character Areas are defined as discrete geographical areas of a particular landscape development has become a feature of the local landscape, with schemes throughout southern Scotland character type and can only occur at a single location. becoming an increasingly familiar element of the upland landscape.

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6.4.31 In the case of the Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study (DGWLCS) the smallest scale 6.4.39 The part of the Site and its immediate surroundings which fall within East Ayrshire lies within the ‘Southern of landscape character area is referred to as a ‘Landscape Character Unit’ but with the same general meaning Uplands’ Character type. This area is described as being ‘characterised by steep, smooth slopes, rising to as a landscape character area defined above. rounded summits’ with landcover which is ‘typically coarse grassland, though the highest areas often comprise heather moorland’. 6.4.32 Landscape Character Types and Areas/Units as identified in the published landscape character assessments above are illustrated in Figure 6.4 (35km) and Figure 6.5 (20km). 6.4.40 The forces for change set out for the ‘Southern Uplands’ Character type include wind power, where it is noted that ‘it is likely that large parts of the Southern Uplands have potential for wind power development’. Amongst 6.4.33 As is evident in Figure 6.4 there are many discrete character types and areas within 35km of the site. An initial the management guidelines for the area it is set out that LPAs should ‘encourage any wind power filtering exercise was therefore undertaken to determine which character types and areas required detailed developments to locate away from key skylines and valleys’. consideration in this LVIA. This initial review (presented in Appendix 6.3) indicates that beyond approximately 20km of the proposed development site, the effects upon landscape character would in no case be significant. Summary of Landscape Capacity Matters As such these are not discussed further within this assessment and do not require detailed consideration in the LVIA. This is not to suggest that the proposed turbines will not be visible from certain locations beyond 6.4.41 Notwithstanding the findings of the Capacity Studies, from the review of the overarching characteristics of the 20km but an acknowledgement that at any given location in a landscape the physical features and perceptual landscape in the area around the site, it is considered that the landscape in which the proposed wind farm characteristics of the landscape in the immediate vicinity have a far greater impact on the sense of landscape would be located does have capacity to accommodate further wind energy development of the type proposed, character than distant features no matter how tall they may be. It is also a recognition that the Sanquhar II when this matter is considered as part of a wider planning balance exercise. Further details of this planning turbines would lie directly adjacent to the operational Sanquhar turbines and the Whiteside Hill turbines and balance are provided separately by the applicant. A detailed assessment of the potential for effects on that these other schemes will already have an effect on the baseline landscape character. landscape character, which help inform this planning balance, is set out subsequently within this LVIA.

Landscape Character Types and Areas Covering the Site Landscape Character Areas taken forward for detailed assessment

Dumfries and Galloway 6.4.42 Based on the filtering exercise presented in Appendix 6.3, it was determined that those character types/units set out in the table below should be considered in detail in the LVIA. 6.4.34 The part of the Site and its immediate surroundings which fall within Dumfries and Galloway lie within two landscape character types; the ’19: Southern Uplands landscape character type (‘Nithsdale’ area), and ‘19a: Table 6.4: Character Types and Areas/Units Assessed Southern Uplands with Forest’ landscape character type (‘Ken’ area). Local Authority Approximate Character Type Character Unit 6.4.35 The key characteristics of the LCT 19 Southern Uplands include ‘large, smooth dome/conical hills, Area distance predominately grass covered’; ‘open and exposed character’ and ‘the distinctive dark brown/purple colour of 4 – Narrow Wooded River Valley Ken 2km heather on some of the higher areas’. The key landscape issues identified for this character type include large Cairn and Old 5 – Intimate Pastoral Valley 10km scale forestry expansion and wind farm and radio mast development. Water 7 – Middle Dale (Valley) Lower Nithsdale 10km 6.4.36 The key characteristics of the LCT 19a Southern Uplands with Forest were identified in the landscape 9 – Upper Dale Upper Nithsdale 5km assessment to be its ‘large, smooth dome-shaped hills with large scale dark green plantations on slopes and 9 – Upper Dale Upper Glenkens 12km over lower summits’. It was also identified that the area was a ‘changing landscape with large scale felling, Shinnel 1km ploughing and replanting’. Scar 1km Castlefairn & 10 – Upland Glens 5km 6.4.37 The Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study (DGWLCS) forms Appendix C to the ‘Wind Dalwhat Energy Development: Development Management Considerations’ Supplementary Guidance Document Dumfries and Mennock 12km (February 2020). The study assesses the sensitivity of landscape character types, and more locally defined Galloway Dalveen 13km character areas, to different sizes of wind turbine development, including those greater than 150m to blade Ae Fringe 15km tip. 16 – Upland Fringe Dunscore 17km Cairn Fringe 16km 6.4.38 The DGWLCS also provides further description of the baseline landscape character within both the LCT 19 Nithsdale 7km Southern Uplands and the LCT 19a Southern Uplands with Forest, considering matters including Scale and Tynron 5km 18 - Foothills Openness, Landform, Landcover and Landmark Features, Settlement and Archaeology, Landscape Context, Keir 3.5km Perceptual Qualities, Visual Amenity and Landscape Values. Dalmacallan 10km Stroan 9km East Ayrshire 18a – Foothills with Forest Rhinns of Kells 14km Ae 16km

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NW Lowthers 7km Residential receptors Site located with Nithsdale 19 – Southern Uplands character unit Individual properties within 3km Lowthers 7km 6.5.4 There are only a small number of properties within 3km of the site due to its location in a relatively remote Carsphairn 3km landscape., as set out below: Site located with Ken 19a – Southern Uplands with Forest character unit 1 - Bank Cottage (uninhabited) Carsphairn 3.5km 2 – Glenglass (uninhabited) Rhinns of Kells 15km 3 – Euchanbank (uninhabited) 21 – Rugged Granite Uplands Merrick 27km 4 - Polskeoch 7c – East Ayrshire Lowlands - 16km 5 - Dalgonar* 9 – Lowland River Valley 16km 6 - Polgown* 7 - Shiel Cottage* 10 – Upland River Valley - 7km 8 – Glenmanna** & Glengowan** 14 – Upland Glen - 1km 9 – Dalzean** 15 – Upland Basin - 5km 10 - Appin Lodge 17a – Foothills with Forest & Opencast - 10km 11 - Shinnelhead Mining East Ayrshire 12 - Craig - an - Dhu 17b – Foothills with Forest west of Doon - 17km 13 - Lynn View Valley 14 - Craigbraneoch 18a – East Ayrshire Plateau Moorlands - 7km 15 - Corbiehill Site located in 16 - The Craigs Farm Cottage 20a – East Ayrshire Southern Uplands - character type 17 - Craigdarroch Farm 20c – Southern Uplands and Forestry - 6km 18 – Hillend 21 – Rugged Uplands, Lochs and Forest - 15km 19 - Euchan Filter Station (commercial premises) 17b – Foothills with Forest west of Doon 20 - Afton Filter Station (commercial premises) - 17km South Ayrshire Valley 21 – Chanlockhead (ruined) 21 - Rugged Uplands, Lochs and Forest - 19km 22 - Glenwhargen 23 - Lorg 24 – Glengape** 6.5 Baseline visual conditions 25 – Birknowe** 26 – Corserig 6.5.1 Due to the height of the proposed wind turbines and the topography of the surrounding area, there is potential 27 – Glenmaddie for the development to be visible at some considerable distance in several directions. However, at an early 28 – High Appin stage in the assessment, it was determined that there was little potential for the development to result in any 29 – High Auchenbrack notable visual effects at distances over 35km from the site. Furthermore, on analysis of the ZTVs, and *properties under the control of the applicant knowledge gained from site analysis, it was determined that generally, beyond 20km from the site, views of **property is financially involved in the scheme the turbines are unlikely to result in significant visual effects due to the presence of the turbines at Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill, the scale of the turbines at this distance and the proportion of the wider view in which 6.5.5 The above-named properties are considered in detail within the Residential Amenity Study at Appendix 6.6. they would feature. Whilst the study area for this LVIA extends out to 35km and the various figures which There are however a small number of properties that have not been considered in detail due to their accompany this report illustrate a 35km study area, discussion of sensitive visual receptors is focused primarily abandoned or derelict state. These are Bank Cottage, Glenglass, Euchanbank, and Chanlockhead. It should also on receptors within 20km of the site, which have the greatest potential to experience significant effects. be noted that three of these properties are under the control of the applicant: Dalgonar, Polgown and Shiel and five properties; Glenmanna, Glengowan, Dalzean, Glengape and Birknowe are financially involved in the 6.5.2 Interpretation of the ZTVs (Figures 6.9 – 6.22) indicates that potentially sensitive visual receptors are located scheme. within villages, at isolated properties, at the tops of mountains and along routes used for recreational purposes. Settlements and Properties within 5km 6.5.6 The settlement of Kirkconnel/Kelloholm is located within 5km of the proposed turbines. There are also further 6.5.3 The magnitude of change in the views of receptors will inevitably be affected by distance from the site. scattered residential properties located between 3km and 5km such as further dwellings located within the Therefore, residential visual receptors have been identified below in bands of distance from the nearest Scaur, Shinnel, Euchan and Ken Water valleys, and Glen Afton. turbine. It is however recognised that there would be views from individual properties and clusters of properties throughout the study area.

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6.5.7 An assessment of visual effects is provided to all those considered relevant to the assessment, where there Southern Upland Way would be the potential for a significant effect to arise. 6.5.13 The Southern Upland Way (SUW) was Britain’s first official coast to coast long distance footpath. It runs 340km from Portpatrick on the south-west coast of Scotland to Cockburnspath on the eastern coast. Settlements between 5km and 10km 6.5.8 The following settlements are located between 5km and 10km of the proposed turbines: 6.5.14 The section of the SUW which runs closest to the site is the section between St John’s Town of Dalry and Sanquhar. The SUW also passes through the site in the vicinity of Polskeoch Burn. • Sanquhar; • Crawick/Knockenstob; 6.5.15 Along this section of the route, theoretical visibility varies due to the nature of the terrain within the wider • New Cumnock; landscape. Between St. John’s Town of Dalry and Culmark Hill there is limited and patchy theoretical visibility • Pathhead/Mansfield/Connel Park; when travelling in a northerly direction, this being experienced at three primary points along the route where • Moniaive; and it passes over higher ground, namely Barlaes Hill, Butterbole Bridge and Culmark Hill. • Tynron. 6.5.16 North of Culmark Hill, ZTV coverage is limited to two areas of high ground over a section of at least 7km of the 6.5.9 The majority of the above listed settlements are located within the Nith Valley along the A76, to the north of route, namely Manquhill Hill and Benbrack. Travelling north of Benbrack, in closer proximity to the site, ZTV the site. There is no ZTV coverage at Moniaive and Tynron, located to the south east of the site, and so an coverage becomes more extensive with theoretical continuous visibility from Black Hill through to Conrig Hill, assessment of effects is not necessary. ZTV coverage across the majority of New Cumnock is also absent, but north east of Sanquhar. Through this section of the SUW, theoretical visibility varies with respect to the there is coverage to the north and north west of New Cumnock at Pathhead, Mansfield, and Connel Park. An number of proposed turbines visible. As the route passes within the Polskeoch/Scaur Water Valley there is assessment of visual effects is provided at all locations considered pertinent to the LVIA, where there would theoretical visibility of a number of the turbines, although the landform markedly restricts views beyond the be the potential for a significant effect to arise. valley. From higher ground, there is theoretical visibility of a greater number of turbines, such as from Black Hill and Cloud Hill. It should be noted that there is coniferous plantation present along this section of the route, Settlements beyond 10km to 35km which will curtail views while present in the landscape. 6.5.10 The following larger settlements are located between 10km and 35km of the proposed turbines: 6.5.17 Within, and beyond, Sanquhar ZTV coverage becomes more widespread along the route, with a greater • Cumnock; proportion of the turbines theoretically visible. The route then continues in a north easterly direction into the • Auchinleck; Lowther Hill range where theoretical visibility is primarily available from summit points. • Maybole; 6.5.18 A number of assessment viewpoints have been located on, or near to, the SUW to demonstrate likely visual • Tarbolton; impact and the route is considered in further detail in the assessment section of the report and in the new • Mauchline; Appendix 6.10. • Ayr; • Darvel; Core Paths • Muirkirk; 6.5.19 Within the 35km study area, there are numerous Core Paths present within the administrative boundaries of • Prestwick; and East Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway, South Ayrshire and South Lanarkshire. Core Paths in the immediate • Dumfries. vicinity of the site are described below. Core paths are illustrated where relevant on the Landscape Context Plan, Figure 6.6 and on the principal visual receptor plan, Figure 6.8. 6.5.11 The smaller settlement of Thornhill is also located within 15km of the proposed turbines. On analysis of ZTV coverage and considering the fact that the visual presence of the proposed turbines will decrease with 6.5.20 A concentration of paths run through Sanquhar and Kirkconnel to the north east and in the vicinity of increasing distance, and to ensure a proportionate assessment, of the above settlements, the visual effects Polskeoch to the south. Core Path 443 briefly passes through the site in the vicinity of Black Shoulder, but this from Cumnock, Auchinleck and Thornhill will be considered further. There is no ZTV coverage at Darvel or area is heavily forested. Muirkirk. ZTV coverage in Ayr and Prestwick is largely limited to the dense urban area from which views will be curtailed. Any views from the periphery of these areas will be seen at over 30km distance. 6.5.21 The Core Paths in close proximity to the site, and therefore are the most prevalent to the assessment, are as follows: Recreational Walking/Cycling Routes • Core Path 443; 6.5.12 Whilst it is acknowledged that the wider study area contains a number of recreational routes including the • Core Path 215 (Lorg Trail); River Ayr Way and The Romans and Reivers Route, the principal recreational route within the study area is the • Core Path 84; Southern Upland Way. • Core Path 111 (Sanquhar Castle Circular); • Core Path 51; and • Core Path 188.

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6.5.22 The Southern Upland Way is also referenced as Core Path 504 as it passes through Dumfries and Galloway. • A70 which links Ayr to the M74 via Cumnock and passes approximately 17km north west and north of the site; Other footpaths • A702 which links St John’s Town of Dalry to the M74 via Thornhill and passes approximately 8km south 6.5.23 The Ordnance survey plan highlights a footpath running between Glen Afton and Dunside via Quintin Knowe. of the site; and Whilst it is acknowledged that this is not defined as a Core Path it connects Core Paths C10 in East Ayrshire • A713 which links Castle Douglas and Ayr approximately 13km to the south west and west of the site. with Core Path 84 in Dumfries and Galloway. 6.5.30 There is very limited theoretical visibility along the A74(M) and A702, and therefore they are not discussed National Cycle Network (NCN) further. There is a degree of theoretical visibility from the A713 south of Carsphairn, but it was determined 6.5.24 There is one National Cycle Network route within the 35km study area namely NCN 74. This is a long-distance though site analysis that the proposed turbines would not form prominent features in the view due to the high cycle route between Gretna and Glasgow. The route runs primarily on B roads from Gretna, through Lockerbie level of vegetation present along this part of the route. As a consequence, the A713 is not further discussed. and continues north to Abington, when it continues to travel on the B7078 towards Douglas. At its closest, the NCN 74 lies 24km to the north east of the proposed site where it runs parallel to the A74 (M) through 6.5.31 A number of minor roads occur within the wider study area, particularly routes that run through enclosed South Lanarkshire. glens and valleys such as those associated with Afton Water, Euchan Water, Scar Water, Shinnel Water, Ken Water and Kello Water. All of these routes fall within ZTV coverage and are discussed further in the 6.5.25 Due to distance and the nature of the landscape in which the cycle routes pass through, and through analysis assessment, alongside any other minor roads that are considered pertinent as there may be the potential for of the ZTV, the proposed wind farm would not be a discernible feature in the view from this national cycle significant effects to arise. route, with no potential for significant effects, and it is therefore not discussed further. 6.5.32 The closest railway line to the site is the Nith Valley Line which runs broadly parallel to the A76 through the The National Byway Nithsdale Valley between Glasgow and Carlisle via Kilmarnock. At its closest point it is within 5.5km to the 6.5.26 The National Byway is a signed network of rural lanes and roads. The Byway runs for 194 miles (312 km) in north east of the site at Kirkconnel. Dumfries & Galloway, in places sharing with the National Cycle Network. In relation to the study area, the Byway passes 18km to the south east running between Dumfries and Newton Stewart via Moniaive and St 6.5.33 The West Coast Mainline from Carlisle to Glasgow runs to the east of the site, and at its closest point will be John's Town of Dalry. There is a limited degree of theoretical visibility from this route and where there is 27km to the north east of the site in the vicinity of Abington. There is barely any theoretical visibility along this theoretical visibility it is either at such a distance that the proposed turbines would not be prominent in route, and it is not therefore not discussed further. comparison to turbines at closer proximity to the route, or large areas of plantation would interrupt views towards the site. As a consequence, there would be no potential for significant effects on the route and the Recognised Vantage Points National Byway is not discussed further. 6.5.34 There are numerous vantage points in the wider study area of the proposed Sanquhar II Wind Farm, due to Regional Cycle Network the upland nature of much of the local landscape. A number of these vantage points have been used as 6.5.27 Other regional routes such as the Carrick Forest Cycle Route (19.5km to the south west), and the Kirkpatrick viewpoints within the visual assessment, including a number of what that are also located along the Southern Macmillan Trail (19.5km to the south east) exist within the wider landscape. The latter of these routes has Upland Way. taken its name from the inventor of the pedal bicycle, Kirkpatrick Macmillan (1813 – 78). There is limited 6.5.35 The only recognised vantage point (as marked on OS maps) within the study area is the summit of East Mount theoretical visibility from locations along both of these routes, and where there is theoretical visibility it is at Lowther (631m AOD), from where views are primarily available across the surrounding Lowther Hills. This such a distance that the proposed turbines would not be prominent, particularly as the routes pass through viewpoint looks across the Mennock Pass towards Wether Hill and White Dod. The vantage point is at a areas that are well vegetated, which would limit views towards the site. There would be no potential for distance of approx. 19km from the site. Assessment Viewpoint 3 represents the Southern Upland Way at significant effects on the routes and they are not therefore discussed further. nearby Lowther Hill and is considered to be representative of those views from this part of the Lowther Hills, Roads and Railways including East Mount Lowther.

6.5.28 The nearest primary road to the site is the A76 which is located approximately 4km to the north of the nearest Historic and Tourism Viewpoints proposed turbine at its closest point in Kirkconnel. It is recognised that this is described as a Tourist Route 6.5.36 The main historic viewpoints in the study area occur in relation to the remains of Sanquhar Castle, and within the adopted Dumfries and Galloway Council wind energy supplementary guidance. Theoretical visibility Drumlanrig Castle. Both are located within ZTV coverage and an assessment of visual effects is therefore is available along sections of this route, most notably between Kirkconnel and Mennock and between provided. Carronbridge and Closeburn. The effects on these sections of the A76 is therefore further assessed subsequently in this report. 6.5.37 A series of stone arches entitled ‘Striding Arches’ are located on the summits of Colt Hill, Bail Hill and Benbrack, all of which are located above Cairnhead. The art installation was designed by Andy Goldsworthy who is one 6.5.29 Other major roads in the 35km study area are as follows: of the world’s foremost artists working directly in the landscape. The arches stand at just under 4m in height • A74 (M)/M74 approximately 26km to the north east which represents the main trunk road through and are visibly linked by sightlines. The nearest of the arches to the site are located at Colt Hill which is the study area; represented by Assessment Viewpoint 7. All of the sculptures located on the hill summits fall within ZTV

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coverage and therefore have the potential for visual effects to be experienced by visitors to the arches. In Table 6.5a: Assessment Viewpoints addition, the arch at Benbrack falls on the SUW and as such the consideration of effects from this location is considered as part of the assessment of the long-distance route. Distance to nearest No Viewpoint Location OS Grid Reference turbine in the revised scheme 6.5.38 The installation ‘Crawick Multiverse’ lies to the north of Crawick approximately 10km to the north east of the 1 Cairn Table 272410, 624234 16,169m site. This project is one of Charles Jencks’s largest and most ambitious art commissions and features significant 2 A76 North East of Sanquhar 275655, 611504 5,271m landform installations on a 55-acre former opencast coal mine. As well as being a major art installation, it Southern Upland Way, Lowther 16,838m 3 provides outdoor space with a variety of activities for local people as well as being an educational resource. Hill 288498, 610947 The ZTV illustrates that Crawick Multiverse falls within ZTV coverage and thus effects on potential visual 4 A76 Mennock 279754, 608527 7,820m receptors are included within the LVIA and represented by Assessment Viewpoint 13. Southern Upland Way, Whing 2,939m 5 Head 275117, 605366 Assessment Viewpoints 6 Wauk Hill 284122, 590949 12,654m 7 Colt Hill, Striding Arch 2,217m 6.5.39 Assessment viewpoints aim to be representative of the range of views experienced around the site in the 269815, 598996 wider landscape. They are not intended to cover every single view but are representative of a range of 8 A713, Stroangassel 260315, 586888 17,455m distances from the site and receptor types (e.g. residents, walkers, road users). 9 Cairnsmore of Carsphairn 259456, 597985 8,519m 10 Lochside Hotel 260254, 614759 10,408m 6.5.40 The assessment viewpoints adopted for use within this LVIA were identified during desk studies, site visits and 11 B743, near Sorn 258720, 626945 22,107m interpretation of the ZTVs, alongside consultation with statutory consultees as part of the original Sanquhar 12 Corsencon Hill 267160, 614700 7,762m Community Wind Farm application (10/P/3/0182), the subsequent Sanquhar ‘Six’ Community Wind Farm 13 Crawick Multiverse 277649, 611768 6,990m application (ref: 15/P/3/0166) and subsequent correspondence following submission of the formal Scoping 14 Glen Afton 263271, 607510 2,640m Request in May 2018. 15 New Cumnock Rail Bridge 261933, 614171 9,209m 16 Merrick Wild Land (Trig Point) 242761, 585546 29,332m 6.5.41 Table 6.5a identifies the 25 Assessment Viewpoints and their locations are illustrated in Figure 6.21. They are 14,319m also show overlaid on the ZTV plans at Figures 6.9 and 6.10. 17 A76 south of Cumnock (B7083) 258176, 618087 18 A76 south of Closeburn 289840, 592007 16,868m 6.5.42 In Appendix 6.4 there is a baseline description of the view from each assessment viewpoint followed by a 19 Davie Gill Park, Thornhill 287467, 595951 13,259m detailed analysis and assessment of effects on the viewpoint. 20 A76 west of Kirkconnel (Layby) 270463, 612270 4,349m 21 St Connel's Church, Kirkconnel 272835, 612284 4,365m 6.5.43 In addition to the Assessment Viewpoints, a series of additional locations, which were requested by Dumfries 22 Auchentaggert Moor 280775, 609512 8,984m and Galloway Council, are also illustrated with wireline visualisations at Appendices 6.8 and 6.10. A Plan 23 Durisdeer Rig 289854, 603819 15,852m illustrating these wireframes locations is included in each of the two Appendices and their locations are also 24 Cairnkinna 278460, 601390 4,328m set out in Table 6.5b below. 25 West of Ochiltree 250140, 620901 21,386m

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Table 6.5b – Additional Wireframe and Photomontage Visualisations also now provided with the 6.6 Project description LVIA 6.6.1 A detailed updated description of the revised proposals for the project is set out in Chapter 2 of the Additional Visualisation Information. However, this section briefly summarises those details of the revised scheme that have particular ref Name OS Grid Reference Type relevance to the LVIA. Appendix 6.8 - Shinnel Water Valley A minor Road, near Birkhill 278597, 593969 wireframe 6.6.2 The proposed development site lies approx. 5km to the south west of Kelloholm /Kirkconnel and approx. 6km B minor road, near Craigencoon 277354, 595872 wireframe to the south east of New Cumnock. It will principally comprise of the following visible features which may have C minor road by Auchenbrack Farm 276648, 596543 wireframe an impact on landscape character or visual amenity: minor Road in Shinnel Water Valley, near wireframe D disused quarry 275575, 597295 • 42 three-bladed wind turbines up to 200m in height (to tip of blade) – previously 48; Core Path between Shinnelhead and wireframe • 2 three-bladed wind turbines up to 149m in height (to tip of blade); E Appin Lodge 274509, 598061 • Crane hardstand areas and interconnecting access tracks; F Core path, near Shinnelhead property 272613, 599177 wireframe • Up to seven borrow pits; Appendix 6.8 – Other locations • Energy storage facility; St Connel’s Church / Kirkland Heritage wireframe • Substation/control room buildings and compound; A 272357, 615023 Trail • Met mast; B Fingland road, Guffock Hill Cattlegrid 275192, 614642 wireframe • Temporary substation construction compound; and C Chanlockhead property (abandoned) 275371, 600220 wireframe • Further temporary construction and storage compounds to be removed post construction. Appendix 6.10 - Southern Upland Way (SUW) A Benbrack 268050, 597069 wireframe 6.6.3 The turbines are proposed to be located along a series of ridge lines between Blackcraig Hill (500m AOD), B Cairn Hill 268087, 598835 wireframe Fingland Shoulder (486m AOD), and White Knowe (463m AOD), Whiteside Hill (516m AOD) and Corse Hill C Black Hill 268851, 598905 wireframe (580m AOD), and Blacklorg Hill (660m AOD) and Blackcraig Hill (700m AOD) (East Ayrshire). D High Countam 268948, 600081 wireframe E Polskeoch 268668, 602314 wireframe 6.6.4 The key difference to the originally submitted schemes is the removal from the scheme of T11, T12, T13, T14, F minor road adjacent Dalgonar Craigs 270731, 603004 wireframe T47 and T48 and an adjustment to the location of T10 (moved 163m east). G minor road adjacent to Dalgonar property 270009, 603061 wireframe H ascent from Polgowan 271966, 603951 wireframe 6.6.5 The proposed development will share the same primary access route and site entrance as the existing, I below Smart’s Hass 273098, 604733 wireframe operational Sanquhar Community Wind Farm scheme and hence these features do not form part of the current J near Collar Knowe / Cloud Hill 273661, 604899 wireframe application. K Whing 275884, 606734 wireframe L Ulzieside 277419, 608748 wireframe 6.6.6 The site is partly located on the Sanquhar ‘Six’ Wind Farm , which was approved by Dumfries and Galloway m Blackaddie Bridge, Sanquhar 277479, 609679 wireframe Council in November 2017. N Cow’s Wynd 278755, 610316 wireframe 6.6.7 Access tracks would remain following the 40-year operational lifetime of the Wind Farm however other areas O Conrig Shoulder 281393, 611743 wireframe where ground works and construction activities has resulted in the need to remove surface vegetation and Appendix 6.10 - Scaur Water Valley A reveal in road ascent at Carlistane Bridge 277658, 601046 wireframe soils would be reinstated. B Hallscaur 277237, 601347 wireframe C Glenmanna road end 276902, 601948 wireframe 6.7 Assessment of Landscape Effects D Glenwhargen 276737, 602450 wireframe E minor road near Glenwhargen Craig 275893, 603021 wireframe 6.7.1 As previously detailed, the existing turbines of Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and Whiteside Hill Wind Farm F minor road near Shiel 274478, 603932 wireframe have been taken into consideration as part of the baseline conditions for the assessment of landscape effects. G minor road near Broad Knowe 273261, 604073 wireframe Appendix 6. 12 – Additional Photomontages (using previously collected photography) Effects on Existing Landscape Features A Appin Lodge 275389, 597413 Photomontage Construction Effects B Polskeoch 268683, 602335 Photomontage 6.7.2 The construction phase would result in the removal of existing ground level vegetation, primarily through the Appendix 6.13 – Blackcraig Hill construction of the access tracks, borrow pits, turbine foundations, hard standings and crane pads. Cable - Summit of Blackcraig Hill 264767, 606407 wireframe trenches will generally follow access track routes.

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6.7.3 As the site access is a direct extension of the existing access tracks associated with Sanquhar Community Wind 19 – Southern Uplands (Nithsdale area): ‘no scope for the Very Large typology (turbines 150m+) due to the Farm, effects on landscape features beyond the connection point are not considered. increased impact that could occur on more sensitive landscapes, such as the Upland Glens (10) of the Euchan and Scar Water and Shinnel valleys plus the Upper Dale (9) - Upper Nithsdale unit. The scope is also influenced 6.7.4 Vegetation removed through development will be rough grassland, upland pasture and moorland type by the significant cumulative effects that would be likely to occur with nearby operational, under construction vegetation which is prevalent across much of the Southern Uplands and Southern Uplands with Forest. The and consented wind farms which largely comprise turbines of <130m high’. area of moorland affected as a proportion of the total within these upland areas would be minor. No trees will require removal as a result of the proposed development and vegetation and soils stripped as part of these 19a – Southern Uplands with Forest (Ken area): ‘There is some scope for the Very Large typology (turbines works will be stored separately for use during reinstatement works. 150m+) to be accommodated in this character type but only in the Eskdalemuir unit, which is undeveloped, very extensive in scale and distant from more settled areas. Cumulative effects with other operational and 6.7.5 The internal access tracks will have a minimal effect on landscape features other than where it crosses consented wind farms and effects on adjacent glens and landmark hills are a key constraint to this typology in Poltallan Burn, and Polmullach Burn. Culverts would need to be implemented for small sections where the the Carsphairn, Ken and West Langholm units within this character type’. tracks cross the burns. This will not give rise to any significant effect on the water course as a landscape feature. 6.7.13 In terms of sensitivity to the Very Large turbines (150m+), the study identifies that these would be ‘High’ for LCT 19 Southern Uplands landscape (Nithsdale Unit), and ‘High-Medium’ for LCT 19a Southern Uplands with 6.7.6 Following the removal of T11-T14 there would no longer be the requirement for a crossing of Craig Burn, a Forest landscape (Ken unit). tributary to the Euchan Water, located to the east of Blacklorg Hill. 6.7.14 Based on the analysis above and further desk and field studies, the following observations can be made 6.7.7 It is considered that there would be no more than a minor adverse level effect on existing landscape features regarding landscape sensitivity within the Nithsdale Unit of Character Type 19 (Southern Uplands) and Ken during construction and this primarily relates to the loss of a relatively small amount of existing landcover and Unit of Character Type 19a (Southern Uplands with Forests). the culverting of Poltallan and Polmullach Burn. 6.7.15 The published DGWLCS identifies that sensitivities lie with more complex incised valleys within these areas Operational Effects where the scale of the landscape is much smaller. The Sanquhar II site occupies a series of ridges in close 6.7.8 The operational phase of the development will not result in any additional impacts upon landscape features. proximity to the steeply incised valleys of Euchan Water, Kello Water and Scar Water. However, it should be There will therefore be no effect on landscape features during this phase. recognised that the operational Sanquhar turbines and the Whiteside Hill wind farm are now readily visible Decommissioning Effects from these areas, the Euchan Water valley in particular. The operational Hare Hill Extension turbines are also visible in close proximity from the Kello Water valley. As a result, the higher sensitivity implied in the DGWLCS 6.7.9 There would be no additional effects on landscape features during the decommissioning phase, over and above those assessed during the Construction phase. in relation to the scale of the incised valleys within the Ken Unit is therefore diminished and this characteristic of the landscape is subsequently now less susceptible to wind energy development than it was prior to the Effects on Landscape Character construction of these schemes.

Sensitivity of Landscape Character 6.7.16 Overall, notwithstanding the existing visibility of turbines from the more sensitive parts of the landscape in 6.7.10 The first stage in determining the significance of effects on landscape character is to evaluate the sensitivity the vicinity of the site, it is determined that the sensitivity to be adopted for the LVIA for both the Dumfries of the receiving landscape. In accordance with GLVIA3, this is achieved through a consideration of its and Galloway character areas which cover the site, and those in the wider study area, should correspond with susceptibility to the type of development proposed (i.e. the construction of a wind farm) and any values that identified in the 2020 Landscape Capacity Study (which remain the same as the previous versions of the associated with it. The discussion below considers the sensitivity of the landscape with reference to published study which informed the original LVIA). wind farm capacity studies but is also informed by further desk and field study. East Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study (2018) Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study (2020) 6.7.17 The East Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study, 2018, prepared by Carol Anderson Landscape Associates, 6.7.11 The Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study (DGWLCS) adopts slightly different considers the sensitivity of 12 landscape character types within East Ayrshire to five development typologies terminology to that used in GLVIA3 but, in essence, the study considers both landscape susceptibility (which categorised on the basis of turbine height, with the tallest being greater than 130m. it refers to as landscape sensitivity) and also landscape value. The two components of landscape sensitivity as defined in GLVIA3 are therefore addressed in the study. It should be noted however that the evaluation 6.7.18 For the ‘Southern Uplands’ character type in which part of the site is located, the Capacity Study acknowledged presented in the DGWLCS contains judgements regarding not just landscape sensitivity but also visual that the landscape ‘is large scale and extensive where it merges with adjacent similarly scaled upland character sensitivity. types both in East Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway’. However, it identified a ‘High sensitivity to the very large typology (turbines >130m) as this size of turbine would be more likely to overwhelm the relief of the lower 6.7.12 With regard to the capacity of the Southern Uplands and Southern Uplands with Forest landscape in the western uplands and significantly affect the adjoining Upland Basin’. vicinity of the site to accommodate wind energy development greater than 150m to blade tip, the study notes the following: 6.7.19 It should be noted that the existing Afton Wind Farm is located within the character type, and existing turbines in neighbouring Dumfries and Galloway Southern Uplands landscape are also visible, reducing the overall

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susceptibility of the landscape. Nevertheless, the sensitivities identified within the EALWCS have been adopted 10 – Upland River Valley - High as part of this assessment, as they were with the original LVIA. 14 – Upland Glen - High 15 – Upland Basin - High Summary of Sensitivity ratings assigned to Landscape Character Types in this LVIA 17a – Foothills with Forest & Opencast Mining - High-Medium 6.7.20 Consideration has been given to each of the character types identified in Table 6.4 as being relevant to a 17b – Foothills with Forest west of Doon Valley - High detailed assessment of landscape character. The sensitivity ratings determined for each of the character types 18a – East Ayrshire Plateau Moorlands - High - Medium are set out in Table 6.6 below. 20a – East Ayrshire Southern Uplands - High 20c – Southern Uplands and Forestry - High 6.7.21 It is important to note that the landscape sensitivity to ‘very large’ typology turbines reported within the 21 – Rugged Uplands, Lochs and Forest - High DGWLCS and also in the East Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study (EALWCS) is a judgement concerning 17b – Foothills with Forest west of Doon Valley - High South Ayrshire how sensitive each character type is to wind energy development being deployed in that specific unit. This is 21 - Rugged Uplands, Lochs and Forest - High not necessarily the same as being of a particular sensitivity to wind farm development in an adjacent or distant NB: Bold and shading denotes site located within character type/unit. character unit which may result in indirect effects on landscape character. The sensitivity of the character unit to wind energy development in an adjoining or distant character unit is typically lower than reported here. Construction Effects 6.7.22 It is recognised that there would be some additional temporary effects during construction over and above Table 6.6: Summary of Landscape Sensitivity Ratings attributed to each Character Type/Unit in this LVIA those assessed as operational effects below. There would be direct effects on landscape character within the three character areas in which the scheme would be located: The Ken Unit of the Southern Uplands with Forest Local Authority Character Type Character Unit Sensitivity LCT; the Nithsdale Unit of the Southern Uplands LCT (relating principally to construction of the access tracks, Area turbine foundations, and temporary features such as borrow pits and storage/construction compounds) in 4 – Narrow Wooded River Valley Ken High addition to the erection of the turbines themselves); and the East Ayrshire ‘Southern Uplands’ (relating 5 – Intimate Pastoral Valley Cairn and Old Water High principally to construction of the access tracks and turbine hardstands, in addition to the erection of the 7 – Middle Dale (Valley) Lower Nithsdale High turbines). Effects on other character units and types would be indirect. 9 – Upper Dale Upper Nithsdale High 9 – Upper Dale Upper Glenkens High 6.7.23 The borrow pits used to provide stone for the development would have a temporary adverse effect on the Shinnel High immediate landscape character but will be generally visually contained by plantation and local variation in Scar High topography. It is likely that the borrow pits off Countam, off Fingland Shoulder, and west of Black Rig will be 10 – Upland Glens Castlefairn & Dalwhat High most likely to be visible from high ground to the north east and east, such as from Whing Head and Cairnkinna. Mennock High The remaining borrow pits are likely to be obscured by natural topography and/or plantation in the Dalveen High surrounding landscape. Ae Fringe High 16 – Upland Fringe Dunscore High 6.7.24 During the construction phase, there will be the temporary presence of cranes on the site and the movement Cairn Fringe High of other construction traffic consistent with the creation of access tracks, hardstands and turbine bases. These Dumfries and Nithsdale High movements of vehicles would generally not be perceptible from the wider landscape and the effect on Galloway Tynron High 18 - Foothills character would be largely localised and temporary. Keir High Dalmacallan High 6.7.25 Apart from in close proximity to very localised locations where intensive construction activity would be more Stroan High readily appreciated, the additional effects resulting from construction activities would be relatively incidental 18a – Foothills with Forest Rhinns of Kells High when viewed in the context of the turbines being erected. The overall effect on landscape character would Ae High therefore increase incrementally as construction progresses and as more turbines are put into place. NW Lowthers High Nithsdale High 6.7.26 Overall, it is considered that there would be no more than a slight and temporary additional effect on 19 – Southern Uplands Lowthers High landscape character of the Southern Uplands with Forest (Ken and Carsphairn Units), Southern Uplands Carsphairn High (Nithsdale Unit), East Ayrshire Southern Uplands and Southern Uplands with Forestry Landscape Character Ken High-Medium Types during the construction period. 19a – Southern Uplands with Forest Carsphairn High-Medium Rhinns of Kells High 6.7.27 From all other character units and types within the study area, there would be no appreciable additional 21 – Rugged Granite Uplands Merrick High effects on landscape character during construction. 7c – East Ayrshire Lowlands - High East Ayrshire 9 – Lowland River Valley High 6.7.28 Construction effects would be temporary, short term and non-permanent.

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Operational Effects intermittent visibility from the head of the Euchan Water valley to the immediate east, from within the Kello Water valley to the immediate north of the site, and from the head of the Scaur Water valley to the immediate General note west/south west. The proposed turbines would be seen in the context of existing turbines in the landscape, 6.7.29 The effects on landscape character are discussed below in relation to each character type/area as identified namely Hare Hill and Sanquhar Community Wind Farm from the Kello Water Valley, and Sanquhar Community in Table 6.4. The magnitude of impact on landscape character as a result of the development has been Wind Farm and Whiteside Hill from the Kello Water Valley. Within the Euchan Water Valley there is also a determined using professional judgement based on the following factors: relatively new overhead power line and substation, which have introduced further built infrastructure into the head of the valley, altering the character of the underlying landscape. • The percentage of the character area from where the site would theoretically and actually be visible; • The distance between the character area and the wind farm site; 6.7.37 The ground level components of the development (i.e. the access tracks and the crane hardstand areas) would • The likely prominence of the turbines from the character area taking account of existing locally be visible from the open moorland areas surrounding the site and would therefore affect character in the dominant characteristics in the character area; and locality of the site. The tracks would follow the topographical variation across the site and as such the tracks • The degree to which the physical and perceptual characteristics of the landscape would change as a are likely to be visible from the surrounding local landscape, particularly from within the Scaur Valley and from result of the turbines. higher ground surrounding the site. It should be noted however that some of the access tracks do follow natural ridgelines in the landscape, such as between T1 and T7, and T25 and T34, reducing the visibility of the 6.7.30 Beyond a short distance from the site, the ground level components of the development would not be tracks in the landscape. All of the ground level components of the development would be consistent with prominent. Therefore, impacts on the perceptual experience of landscape character as experienced in the similar components of the existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm, and that of Whiteside Hill; the immediate wider landscape arise principally in relation to the introduction of the turbines into the landscape. effect of these ground level features would extend across a much wider part of the character area. 6.7.31 Whilst a precautionary assumption has been made within this LVIA that effects resulting from the proposed 6.7.38 Overall landcover across the moor would continue to be dominated by vast swathes of rough grassland with turbines are adverse, it is important to note that the structural form of the proposed turbines is such that a a backdrop of coniferous plantation, which is being actively felled within the upper portions of the Kello Water high degree of visual permeability would be maintained and hence the sense of openness would not be greatly and Euchan Water valleys. When viewed from anywhere except directly adjacent to the turbine hardstands or altered by the introduction of the turbines. They are relatively slender structures which would not fully the access tracks, there would be no appreciable change to land cover in the landscape. obstruct long distance views when experienced from any direction. 6.7.39 It has already been established that there would be no significant effects on existing landscape features. 6.7.32 It is noted that in general, the magnitude of change in landscape character will incrementally decrease with Therefore, the effects on landscape character within the Ken Unit of Character Type 19a – Southern Upland distance as the turbines become gradually less prominent. Some of the character areas considered in this with Forest arise principally in relation to the introduction of the turbines as additional features on to the assessment extend from relatively close to the proposed development site out beyond 20km from the site. moor. Inevitably therefore the effect on landscape character in the tract of landscape nearest the site will be more affected than the landscape within the same character area but at a greater distance from the site. In the 6.7.40 There are already operational wind turbines in this character unit at Wether Hill in the south, and the discussion below, it has therefore been necessary to describe the effects on landscape character in each operational Sanquhar Community Wind Farm extends into this character unit from the adjacent Nithsdale unit character area with regard to approximate distances from the site. of the Southern Uplands. The consented Lorg Wind Farm is also located within the character type, to the west/south west of the site. The operational Whiteside Hill turbines also lie within the adjacent Nithsdale Unit 6.7.33 A summary of the effects on landscape character is presented in Table 6.7. of the Southern Uplands, directly adjoining LCT 19a, and are clearly visible from the northern parts of the Ken Unit of Character Type 19a (Southern Uplands with Forest) character type in particular. In addition, the operational wind farms at Windy Standard and Hare Hill are clearly 6.7.34 A number of the proposed turbines (20 no.) and some of the associated infrastructure of the development are visible from elevated and open parts of this character unit. As such wind turbines are already a contemporary located within the Ken unit of Character Type 19a (Southern Uplands with Forest) which extends southwards feature of landscape character in the Southern Uplands with Forest when experienced from the elevated open to Knowehead and the B729 and westwards to the border with East Ayrshire. At its most distant the character parts of the character unit. Coupled with the established presence of commercial scale wind turbines in the unit extends to approximately 13km from the nearest turbine. local landscape, the character unit also hosts a new overhead power line which passes through the plantation from the Glenglass substation towards Black Hill substation, west of Afton Reservoir. 6.7.35 Analysis of Figure 6.21 which shows the ZTV overlaid on top of the character units within 20km indicates that the proposed turbines would be visible across much of the character unit within approximately 5km of the 6.7.41 Therefore, the effects on landscape character in this character unit are considered against the baseline already proposed turbines, but with increasing distance, beyond 5km, ZTV coverage becomes intermittent with established by the presence of energy infrastructure, including commercial scale wind turbines within, or in visibility gained largely from elevated ridges and hill summits. Furthermore, a large proportion of the close proximity, to the character unit. theoretical visibility indicated by the ZTV falls across areas of commercial forestry which typifies this character 6.7.42 The turbines have been designed to lie largely at grade with existing ground levels across the site and access type, and as such actual visibility within the character type would be filtered and interrupted across the overall tracks designed to follow the existing contours, reducing the requirement for cut and fill. In this regard the character unit. wind farm would not directly affect the landform or topography of the surrounding landscape to any 6.7.36 Actual visibility within this character unit would be restricted to a degree by the surrounding undulating substantial degree. The overall profile of the landscape within the site would prevail. landform and the coniferous plantation located upon it. Nevertheless, it is acknowledged that there would be

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6.7.43 The overall structural form of the proposed turbines would be in keeping with the existing Sanquhar 6.7.50 The landscape of the uppermost part of the Scaur Valley is largely covered with coniferous plantation and the Community Wind Farm, and other existing wind farms in the locality, and as such a high degree of visual consented Lorg wind farm will be located in this part of the LCT, once constructed. The introduction of the permeability would be maintained across the landscape. Hence the sense of openness experienced within the Sanquhar II turbines to the head of the valley will again reinforce existing characteristics, with the turbines Southern Uplands would still be perceptible in the presence of the proposed turbines. located on a forested ridge above the valley. In the absence of the Lorg turbines being visually present in the landscape but taking into consideration the intermittent presence of Whiteside Hill wind farm, there would 6.7.44 The precedent for turbine movement in the landscape has already been established by the other operational be a medium magnitude of change upon the character of the head of the Scaur Valley, giving rise to a moderate and consented wind farms in the baseline and hence the additional kinetic nature of the proposed effect, which is considered significant. development would not be starkly out of character. 6.7.51 The Ken unit of LCT 19a extends south to the route of the B729 and Culmark Hill, which is at a distance of 6.7.45 Whilst the proposed turbines are undeniably tall features, the scale of the underlying landscape is large, as around 13km from the site. The effect upon the character of the landscape will therefore decrease with such defined by its simple landform profile and land cover. The Southern Uplands of Dumfries and Galloway is an distance. The interlocking hills with widespread plantation within the southern part of the character unit established location for wind energy development due to these characteristics. It is acknowledged that the interrupt long distance intervisibility, as illustrated at Figure 6.21 as ZTV coverage becomes patchy, and as such overall scale of the proposed Sanquhar II turbines is greater than those already present in the landscape, but the proposed Sanquhar II turbines will be much less perceivable from the southernmost parts of the character the underlying large-scale nature of the moorland with forest is considered to be an appropriate receiving unit. The existing Wether Hill wind farm is already much more perceptible in the landscape from the southern landscape for such development. parts of the character unit, and the consented Lorg turbines will also have greater influence on landscape character when perceived from the south. Overall, there would be a medium to low magnitude of change on 6.7.46 The operational Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and the Whiteside Hill wind farm are already visible from within the Euchan Water valley, and the Kello Water valley, on the skyline directly above the valley landscape. the southern section of the LCT, resulting in a moderate to moderate/minor effect which is not significant. The consented Sanquhar Six scheme would also be located directly north of the Kello Water, should it have Nithsdale Unit of Character Type 19 (Southern Uplands) been determined to build this scheme out. In this regard the proposed additional turbines located in the 6.7.52 Figure 6.21 demonstrates that visibility of the Sanquhar II turbines in this character unit is generally vicinity of the valleys will not introduce new characteristics into these valley landscapes. Likewise, from the widespread, with the greatest level of visibility found on the highest ground. Within the valleys of the Euchan head of the Scaur Water valley, the Whiteside Hill turbines are visible, which have an existing influence on the Water and Scaur Water the level of visibility is reduced to up to 11 of the proposed turbines, with an area of character of this part of the landscape within the character unit. no visibility recorded within a small part of the Scaur valley to the south west of Shiel Hill. 6.7.47 It is recognised that in the baseline scenario against which the proposed development is assessed, the 6.7.53 It is noted that the existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and the Whiteside Hill turbines are located within operational and consented wind farms already influence landscape character in the region. It is also recognised the north western part of this character unit. The Whiteside Hill turbines are visible to varying extents from that the character of the landscape to the south of the site, within the LCT, will be altered on the construction within the character unit; from within the Scaur valley they become apparent as one travels north of of the consented Lorg wind farm, which will further reinforce the presence turbines in the landscape. Nevertheless, the introduction of 20 further turbines within the character type, and a further 24 turbines in Glenmanna, whereas from upper hill slopes and summits they are much more perceptible, with the Sanquhar the directly adjacent landscape, alongside the associated ground level and ancillary development, would turbines seen on the ridgeline beyond. further alter the baseline landscape within the local proximity to the proposed development. The visualisation 6.7.54 The southern portion of the Nithsdale unit, in the vicinity of Countam, is less influenced by the presence of for Assessment Viewpoint 7, from Colt Hill, illustrates the likely nature of views across the Ken Unit of turbines, particularly within the lower lying landscape that weave through the interlocking hills. The character Character Type 19a. of the landscape is more open in nature than the northern parts of the character unit, with less plantation 6.7.48 Although the character of LCT 19a varies across its geographic area, it is recognised that the character of the present to interrupt intervisibility across the landscape. That said, the simple and large-scale nature of the receiving landscape of the site itself will be directly altered by the proposed development. There would be a open hills within the unit is considered an appropriate location for the type of development proposed in high magnitude of change upon the character of the site and its immediate environs. As the landscape is relation to other lower lying landscape within the region. considered to be of high-medium sensitivity within the DGWFLCS, the level of effect will be moderate to high 6.7.55 The DGWFLCS considers the Nithsdale unit to be of high sensitivity to wind energy development. The southern and therefore significant. portion of the character unit also falls within the Thornhill Uplands RSA, however the two turbines which were 6.7.49 From locations beyond the locality of the site, within the Ken unit of Character Type 19a, the level of effect previously proposed to be located within this area (T47 and T48) have now been deleted from the proposals. upon landscape character will vary. In locations from where existing commercial scale wind energy 6.7.56 The introduction of the proposed turbines to the Nithsdale unit would give rise to a high magnitude of change development is visible, alongside other energy infrastructure, and large areas of plantation, the additional upon the character of the site itself and its immediate environs, including parts of the Scaur valley towards its effect arising from the introduction of the Sanquhar II turbines would be no greater than low to medium head. The level of effect would be major and therefore significant. It should be noted however, that the magnitude. It is considered that the sensitivity to development within such locations is lessened to medium removal of turbines 47 and 48 from the proposals would serve to reduce the effect on the character of the due to the influence that existing infrastructure has on the landscape. There would be an overall Scaur valley when compared with the previously submitted proposals. Whilst a significant effect would still moderate/minor to moderate effect which is not significant. This is particularly the case for the heads of the arise, views from the valley would be of turbines clearly set well back into the upland landscape beyond the Kello water and the Euchan Water valleys. valley. This is demonstrated with reference to the wireline images at Appendices 6.8 and 6.10. There would

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also be a high to medium magnitude of change upon the landscape of Countam and its environs from which energy development is already a feature of LCT 20a, the introduction of a small number of the Sanquhar II existing turbines have less of an influence on baseline character. The level of effect would be major to turbines would only serve to reinforce this existing characteristic. moderate and significant. 6.7.64 Further north and north-west within the LCT, the effects will decrease with distance from the site. The existing 6.7.57 Further south-east within the character unit, ZTV coverage become less widespread and is limited to a smaller Hare Hill turbines would also have a greater influence on landscape character in the north of the LCT than the proportion of the proposed turbines. The overall magnitude of change will reduce with distance from the site proposed development. Beyond Hare Hill and The Knipe, ZTV coverage ceases due to the presence of these and beyond 4-5km from the proposed turbines the perceptible change in landscape character would be hill summits and thus there will be no effect upon landscape character in the vicinity of New Cumnock. Overall, medium to low, particularly when taking into consideration the presence of vegetation within the lower lying there would be a low magnitude of change within the lower lying sections of the LCT resulting in a valleys. The level of effect would be moderate from the upper slopes and hill summits and moderate/minor moderate/minor effect which is not significant. From the upper hill slopes and summits, the proposed turbines from within the valleys. Due to distance from the site, from which the proposed turbines would occupy a will be visible to a greater degree, seen in the context of the existing Hare Hill and Afton wind farms, and the smaller part of the landscape, the effect is not considered to be significant. Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill turbines within the adjacent character area, and the magnitude of change is considered to be medium. The level of effect in the immediate area around where the three turbines would 6.7.58 To the east of the Scaur valley, the landscape rises to Shiel Hill and Cairnkinna Hill, and to the north east it rises be located is assessed as moderate, which is considered to be significant due to the proximity to two nearby to Whing Head, from which the proposed turbines will be highly visible, particularly those located within the ‘landmark hills’ within the LCT. The level of effect on the part of the site in which the turbines would directly LCT. The visualisations in relation to Viewpoint 5 at Whing Head and Viewpoint 24 at Cairnkinna illustrate the impact would be major. likely views available. At distances up to 3km of the proposed turbines there would be a high to medium magnitude of change in landscape character, considering the presence of Whiteside Hill wind farm. The level Upper Nithsdale Unit of Character Type 9 (Upper Dale) of effect would be major to moderate and significant. Beyond the ridgeline created by these hill summits, ZTV 6.7.65 The Upper Nithsdale character unit is an elongated area of land that follows the A76 through the River Nith coverage is limited and the proposed turbines are likely to be barely perceptible. The magnitude of change in valley between New Cumnock and Thornhill. The ZTV at Figure 6.21 illustrates that theoretical visibility varies the character of the unit beyond 5km to the east of the site is considered to be low to very low resulting in a across the character unit with the greatest level of coverage found on the south west facing upper hill slopes. moderate/minor to minor effect which is not significant. Within the valley bottom, and particularly on north east facing hill slopes, ZTV coverage is limited to a small proportion of the proposed turbines, with no or very limited ZTV coverage within the valley bottom and west 6.7.59 Within the northern part of the character unit, the magnitude of change in character of the slopes of the facing lower slopes between Drumlanrig Castle and Mennock. The south eastern part of the character unit is Euchan Valley and southern slopes of the Kello Valley will be medium to low giving rise to a moderate to located within the Thornhill Uplands RSA, however this area lies over 10km from the site and visibility is limited moderate/minor effect which is not significant. from this part of the LCT. East Ayrshire Southern Uplands - Landscape Character Type 20a 6.7.66 Viewpoints 2, 4 , 13, 20 and 21 all demonstrate that throughout the Upper Nithsdale Unit of Character Type 9 6.7.60 The westernmost portion of the site is located within a tract of LCT 20a. Seven turbines were previously located (Upper Dale) the Sanquhar II turbines would largely lie beyond the existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm, in this area in the originally submitted scheme, on land to the east of Afton Reservoir, between Blackcraig Hill with just two proposed turbines (T49 and T50) located on slightly lower lying ground to the north of the and Blacklorg Hill. However, four of these turbines have now been removed (T11 – T14) making a notable existing turbines. A number of the proposed turbines would occupy the same part of the landscape in which reduction in the visibility of turbines from this tract of the LCT. Two further tracts of the LCT are also located the consented Sanquhar Six turbines would have been located. The proposed turbines would appear slightly within 10km of the site, within East Ayrshire. greater in proportion, but they would not appear overly prominent or dominant in the landscape in comparison to the existing turbines. 6.7.61 Figure 6.21 illustrates that there is relatively widespread theoretical visibility from the upper slopes and hill summits in these three tracts of LCT20a. 6.7.67 The proposed turbines would largely be seen beyond the ridgeline that forms the valley to the south of the A76 and River Nith. It is acknowledged that T49 and T50 would be located on the north facing slope of 6.7.62 The character of the LCT is already influenced by the presence of Hare Hill wind farm to the north and Afton wind farm to the south west. A number of the Afton turbines are clearly visible from the lower valley slopes, Nithsdale and as a consequence they would appear much closer, and slightly larger in scale than the remaining as are the Hare Hill turbines, and they would be visible in greater number from the upper hill slopes and turbines, and their presence in the near landscape would bring about greater effects upon landscape character summits within the three tracts of the LCT along with other wind farms in the wider landscape. Nevertheless, than those located beyond the valley. there would be a direct effect upon the character of that part of the LCT which lies within the site itself through 6.7.68 The proposed development would introduce further vertical features in the landscape, largely beyond the the introduction of the remaining 3 proposed turbines in East Ayrshire. The magnitude of change in the valley, but the simple nature of the southern valley slopes would accommodate the turbines without the character of this portion of the LCT would be high and thus the effect would be major and significant. creation of excessive development clutter. With increasing distance across the valley, where ZTV coverage is greatest, the proposed turbines would appear to decrease in scale, and from 9-10 km from the turbine 6.7.63 Whilst the Sanquhar II turbines would increase the total number of turbines in the local landscape, only a very small proportion of the overall scheme would be visible. It is noted that the removal of the 4 turbines from locations, the impact upon landscape character, over and above the presence of the exiting wind farms visible this area is such that turbines would be seen to a much-reduced degree in the context of Craigbraneoch Rig in the same landscape, would be low. and Blackcraig Hill, which are ‘landmark hills’ as stated within the EALWCS. In particular, the now deleted T14 6.7.69 Overall, the addition of the proposed turbines to the landscape beyond the character unit would give rise to a would no longer form a prominent feature beyond the Rig summit. It is also noted that as commercial wind medium magnitude of change up to 6-7km distance from the proposed turbines, brought about by the

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presence of T49 and T50 in the slightly lower lying valley landscape. There would be a moderate effect which 6.7.77 The ZTV at Figure 6.21 shows that theoretical visibility is limited to the northern portion of the character unit would be significant. Beyond distances of 6-7km the appearance of the turbines would begin to recede and (middle reaches of the valley). The lower valley reaches fall largely outside of ZTV coverage, with patchy there would be a medium to low magnitude of change, resulting in a moderate to moderate/minor effect. This theoretical visibility of small proportion of the turbines limited to the upper slopes and summits of west facing effect would not be significant. hills.

Shinnel Unit of Character Type 10 (Upland Glens) 6.7.78 Overall, from the lower reaches (beyond 5km from the proposed turbines) of the valley, the magnitude of 6.7.70 The Shinnel unit of LCT 10 is an elongated tract of land that follows the Shinnel Water and includes the hamlet change in landscape character would be low from where visibility does occur, due to distance from site. The of Tynron. ZTV coverage is variable within the valley, as shown at Figure 6.21, and actual visibility of the level of effect would be moderate/minor and not significant. From the northern and central portion of the proposed turbines will be greatly influenced by the presence of coniferous plantation which is widespread character unit, the magnitude of change will vary from high to medium relative to location in the valley (valley within the upper parts of the valley. In the lower lying valley, the landscape is enclosed by riparian vegetation floor to upper slopes), with the highest magnitude of change experienced from where existing turbines are and deciduous woodland which also limits the overall level of intervisibility across the landscape. not already visible. There would be a worst-case major effect upon landscape character, reducing to a moderate effect a very small number of the turbines are visible, or they are seen in the context of Whiteside 6.7.71 Overall, actual visibility of the proposed development would be limited to a small proportion of the overall Hill wind farm. Both of these effects are considered significant. It should be noted however that the removal number of turbines and they would be perceived as features of the wider landscape from the valley north of of T47 and T48 from the scheme would serve to notably reduce the prominence of turbines on those parts of the farm at Shinnelhead. Visibility from mid and upper slopes of the valley would be restricted by the presence the valley where a significant effect would arise, with the remaining visible turbines appearing much more set of coniferous plantation; much of the land in the Shinnel valley is managed by the Forestry Commission and back within the upland landscape above the valley sides. thus access is limited. East Ayrshire Upland Glen – Landscape Character Type 14 6.7.72 In the south of the character unit, ZTV coverage becomes patchy and there is barely any visibility recorded at 6.7.79 The Upland Glen LCT is located to the north and north west of the site and covers the eastern slopes of the Tynron, with no visibility recorded on the west facing slopes above the hamlet. Afton Water valley, known as Glen Afton, and the valley floor, between Glenafton Caravan Park and Craigdarroch Farm. 6.7.73 Overall, the greatest level of effect upon landscape character would occur at the head of the Shinnel valley, where coniferous plantation is absent to allow an appreciation along the valley head towards the 6.7.80 The ZTV at Figure 6.21 shows that theoretical visibility throughout the Glen is now greatly reduced following southernmost part of the site. The character of the landscape at the upper reaches of the valley is greatly the removal of turbines 11-14, with visibility generally limited to the upper slopes of the valley and not to the influenced by plantation, which is a detractor. However, notwithstanding this, the landscape sensitivity is lower slopes of the Glen in which the Glen Afton road runs. The revised visualisation in relation to Viewpoint considered to be high in the upper reaches, as well as within the lower and middle reaches of the valley, which 14 shows that from within the Glen there would now be none of the proposed turbines visible. Views towards fall within the RSA. Craigbraneoch Rig and Blackcraig Hill from this location would therefore no longer include any views of the proposed turbines. 6.7.74 The magnitude of change upon landscape character at the upper reaches of the valley is assessed as medium as turbines are not a current feature of the wider landscape. This gives rise to a moderate effect which is 6.7.81 When travelling south through the bottom of Glen Afton, Craigbraneoch Rig is a notable feature in the considered significant. Elsewhere in the valley, the presence of a small proportion of the proposed turbines landscape and forms the ‘head’ of the view. The removal of turbines 11-14 is such that the remainder of the will not be as perceptible due to factors such as distance, presence of vegetation and lack of wider proposed turbines would not alter the character of the head of the Glen, and there would now be no intervisibility due to visual interruption by hill slopes and summits. Beyond approximately 4km from the magnitude of change to the character of the head of the Glen, as perceived when travelling south towards proposed turbines, the magnitude of change would reduce to medium to low and thus the effect would be Craigdarroch Farm. The level of effect on the lower slopes of the valley would be none and therefore no longer moderate to moderate/minor and not significant. significant.

Scar Unit of Character Type 10 (Upland Glens) 6.7.82 From the upper parts of the LCT where the remaining turbines would still be visible, the turbines are unlikely 6.7.75 The Scar unit of LCT 10 relates to the middle and lower reaches of the Scaur Water valley. The character varies to prominent, in part due to the presence of other wind turbines including Afton and Hare Hill which already within the valley, from an intimate riparian wooded valley at the lower reaches, north west of Penpont, to an influences the character of this part of the landscape. In this context, there will be a worst-case medium open upland grassland valley with a backdrop of distinguishable hill formations covered with moorland as the magnitude of change giving rise to a moderate effect which is not significant. valley heads north west into the Southern Uplands. Ken Unit of Character Type 4 (Narrow Wooded River Valley) 6.7.76 The sensitivity of the character unit is considered to be high. The valley landscape has connections with artist 6.7.83 The Ken unit of LCT 4 covers the Water of Ken valley which heads north from the B729 towards the Head of Andy Goldsworthy, and this part of the valley is wholly located within the Thornhill Uplands RSA. There is Ken. The valley is influenced by the presence of large swathes of coniferous plantation, with the northern currently limited intervisibility with other commercial scale wind energy development within the valley. reaches of the valley being particularly forested. However, the existing Whiteside Hill turbines are noticeable in the landscape to the north as one passes Glenmanna, which is located towards the northern portion of the character unit. Elsewhere within the unit, 6.7.84 The ZTV at Figure 6.21 indicates that there is theoretical visibility of up to 12 of the proposed turbines such intervisibility is limited to the upper slopes and hill summits. throughout the valley, with a greater level of visibility experienced from the slopes of Marscalloch Hill. Marscalloch Hill forms part of the forested landscape which flanks the western side of the valley floor, with

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plantation also present on the eastern slopes from Strahanna Farm northwards. This vast plantation will heavily screen the presence of the proposed turbines in the landscape beyond the valley in a north easterly direction.

6.7.85 There are already wind turbines visible from the Ken valley, namely those at Windy Standard wind farm, but once constructed, the Lorg turbines would form a more notable feature at the head of the valley. Where there is intervisibility with the proposed turbines, they would be perceived beyond, and in the context of the Lorg turbines, and due to their distance beyond Lorg, would not appear greatly out of scale.

6.7.86 Overall, the magnitude of change in the character of the Ken unit of LCT 4 would be no greater than medium to low resulting in moderate/minor effect which is not significant.

East Ayrshire Upland Basin - Landscape Character Type 15 6.7.87 The Upland Basin LCT is located to the north west of the site, beyond approximately 5km from the proposed turbines, reaching up to a distance of approximately 13km. Figure 6.21 indicates that ZTV coverage is widespread across the LCT, but in reality, following the removal of turbines 11-14 from the scheme, visibility of the proposed turbines will be generally limited to glimpsed views of the upper parts of no more than four of the turbines. Furthermore, it should also be noted that there is no ZTV coverage within New Cumnock and that any views of the turbines will regularly be interrupted and screened within the surrounding built up areas of Mansfield, Pathhead and Connel Park. Intervisibility towards the site will also be interrupted, or filtered, by the layers of vegetation located within the LCT.

6.7.88 It is noted that the LCT covers a landscape that is heavily influenced by former opencast mining activities which are located within the floodplain of the River Nith. The regeneration of these areas includes the Knockshinnoch Lagoons which is heavily vegetated, and thus reduces intervisibility across the wider landscape from this recreational area.

6.7.89 The site is located beyond the ridgeline that forms the backdrop to the Upland Basin LCT in a south easterly direction. Existing wind turbines are perceptible in this direction, and the proposed turbines would be seen in the same context, and in the same part of the view as existing turbines. The visualisations in relation to Viewpoints 10 and 15 show that visibility will vary from the blade tips of only two turbines, to up to four turbines visible above the horizon at distances of beyond 8km. The scale of the proposed turbines also varies, from barely visible blade tips, to two hubs noticeable as vertical features above the horizon.

6.7.90 As the LCT is located at relative distance from the proposed turbines, with the greatest level of theoretical visibility located at distance of over 7km, the overall magnitude of change in landscape character is considered to be limited, particularly following the removal of T11-14. The proposed development does not introduce turbines into part of the landscape where turbines are currently absent, instead the turbines would be seen in the context of other existing wind farms. It is noted that the proposed turbines would be seen beyond the ‘landmark hill’ summits of Blackcraig Hill, but at such distance from the LCT, the prominence of this hill is somewhat diminished. Furthermore, following the removal of T11-14 turbines would longer be seen in proximity to Craigbraneoch Rig.

6.7.91 It is considered that there will now be a worst-case low magnitude of change in the character of LCT 15, reduced from the medium to low magnitude previously identified, resulting in a minor effect which is not significant, reduced from the previously identified moderate – minor effect.

Other relevant landscape character units/types

6.7.92 Table 6.8 below presents the assessment of effects upon all other relevant landscape character units/types.

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Table 6.7: Summary of Effects on above assessed Landscape Character Units/Types (Operational Phase)

Region Character Type Character Unit Sensitivity* Magnitude of Change Level of Effect Significant

4 – Narrow Wooded Ken High Medium - Low Moderate – Moderate/Minor No River Valley Medium (up to 7km from turbines) Moderate Yes 9 – Upper Dale (Valley) Upper Nithsdale High Medium – Low (Beyond 7km from turbines) Moderate – Moderate/Minor No

Medium (up to 4km from proposed turbines) Moderate Yes 10 – Upland Glens Shinnel High Medium to Low (Beyond 4km from turbines) Moderate to Moderate/Minor No

North and central upper slopes - High Major Yes

10 – Upland Glens Scar High North and central valleys (up to 5km from turbines)- Medium Moderate Yes

Lower valley reaches (Beyond 5km from turbines) - Low Moderate/Minor No

Dumfries and High (within the site) Major Yes Galloway Medium – Low (Kello and Euchan Valleys) Moderate to Moderate/Minor No High to Medium (Landscape surrounding Countam and Blackcraig Hill, Major – Moderate Yes Whing Head, Sheil Hill And Cairnkinna) 19 – Southern Uplands Nithsdale High High (Scaur valley) Major Yes Medium - Valley upper slopes (beyond 4-5km to the south and 5km to the Moderate No east) Valley floor - Medium to Low (beyond 4-5km to the south and 5km to the Moderate to Moderate/Minor No east) High Major to Moderate Yes

19a – Southern Medium Moderate Yes Ken High - Medium Uplands with Forest Low - Medium Moderate/Minor to Moderate No

Medium to Low Moderate to Moderate/Minor No

Head of Glen, valley bottom (within 4km) – None (previously High) No effect (previously Major) No (previously Yes) 14 – East Ayrshire - High Remainder of LCT (Beyond 4km from turbines and upper slopes) – Upland Glen Moderate No Medium 15 – East Ayrshire - High Low (previously Medium to Low) Minor (previously Moderate to Minor) No Upland Basin East Ayrshire Site itself – High Major Yes 20a – East Ayrshire - High Upper hill slopes of LCT (3km from turbines) -Medium Moderate Yes Southern Uplands Lower valley slopes –Low Moderate/Minor No *The sensitivity judgement presented in this table is an evaluation of the sensitivity of the character unit to the introduction of wind energy development within that particular unit itself. This is not the same as its sensitivity to wind energy in an adjoining or distant character unit. The sensitivity of the character unit to wind energy development in an adjoining or distant character unit is typically lower than reported here.

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Table 6.8: Landscape Character Assessment of other relevant Landscape Character Units/Types (Operational Phase)

The table below presents the assessment of effects upon all other relevant landscape character units/types

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Magnitude Region Character Type Character Unit Sensitivity* Analysis Level of Effect Significant? of Change Character unit located approx. 8.5km from nearest turbine but ZTV coverage falls beyond 10km and is patchy throughout the valley. Landscape is characterised by layers of vegetation within the valley which 5– Intimate Cairn and Old High will interrupt intervisibility across the landscape. Hills in which site is located do not form primary Low Moderate/Minor No Pastoral Valley Water backdrop to valley. Moving blades of turbines perceived at 10km to 22km distance will not alter primary characteristics of landscape. The valley covers Thornhill in the north to Holywood in the south. ZTV coverage is fairly widespread from 7 – Middle Dale 5km to 10km distance from the nearest turbines. At such distance, the turbines would form a relatively Lower Nithsdale High Low Moderate/Minor No (Valley) small part of a much wider landscape in which there are other existing turbines located at closer proximity. The overall change in landscape character would be low. The unit follows the Water of Ken valley from north of Carsphairn to St John’s Town of Dalry. ZTV coverage within the unit is patchy, limited to the route of the A713 and higher ground at Knowehead and Glenhoul. The landscape in which the A713 passes through is heavily forested and the opportunity to appreciate the wider landscape is limited. From higher ground at Knowehead, a small proportion of the overall turbine 9 – Upper Dale number would appear above the far horizon, with blades of others just visible. The turbines would appear Upper Glenkens High Low Moderate/Minor No (Valley) beyond the relatively simple horizon and would be seen in the context of existing turbines in the Southern Upland landscape. From hills such as Bardennoch and Dundeugh, the proposed turbines would appear as blade tips above the far horizon. The primary context of the character unit is the valley and the visual experience across it. The proposed wind farm is located at distance beyond the valley, in a clearly separate part of the landscape. The ultimate change in the landscape would be low. There is barely any ZTV coverage within this character unit. Where there is coverage, this is located on the 10 – Upland Castlefairn and upper valley slopes from which only a small proportion of the overall development would be visible, High Very low Minor No Glen Dalwhat largely as blade tips only, where vegetation in the intervening landscape is absent. The change in Dumfries and landscape character would be minimal. Galloway These two character units are very small in geographic size, located at the foot of the Lowther Hills, covering the Mennock and Dalveen Passes. ZTV coverage within the bottom of the valleys is largely absent with greatest visibility available from upper hill slopes. The proposed turbines would appear as a large 10 – Upland Mennock and High cluster beyond the opposing side of Nithsdale, seen in the same part of the view as other existing wind Low Moderate/Minor No Glen Dalveen farms. The proposed turbines would not appear prominent within the upland glen landscapes at such distance (over 12km to Mennock and over 14km to Dalveen). The primary characteristics of the Upland Glen would not be altered. ZTV coverage across the Ae Fringe unit is fairly widespread. The proposed turbines would be seen beyond the opposing side of Nithsdale as a large cluster, in the same part of the view as existing wind farms. 16 – Upland Intervisibility of the proposed turbines would be intermittent throughout the unit as vegetation and the Ae Fringe High Low Moderate/Minor No Fringe undulating landform interrupts views across the valley. The proposed turbines would not appear prominent in the wider landscape in comparison to closer existing schemes. The overall change in character would be low. ZTV coverage within this unit is low, limited to higher ground surrounding the settlement of Dunscore. The Southern Uplands form the distant backdrop to views across the landscape from such locations, but the 16 – Upland High proposed turbines would be located beyond the horizon, reducing overall intervisibility. The undulating Dunscore Low Moderate/Minor No Fringe landscape and vegetation within it would also limit the extent of overall intervisibility. Where visible, the turbines would be seen at distances over approx. 15km. The primary characteristics of the unit would not be altered. The Cairn Fringe is a narrow unit located to the west of the Cairn Water. ZTV coverage is minimal across 16 – Upland High the unit. The unit is well vegetated, which interrupts intervisibility with the wider landscape. The primary Cairn Fringe Very low Minor No Fringe orientation of visual experience is to the east across the Cairn Water valley and not towards the site. Overall, the proposed turbines would be barely visible from the unit.

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This unit covers the landscape to the west of Drumlanrig Castle which is very well vegetated. Such vegetation curtails the visual experience of the wider landscape. ZTV coverage is largely limited to upper 18 - Foothills High hill slopes which are typically covered with plantation. Where visible from the upper slopes, such visibility Nithsdale Low Moderate/Minor No will be limited to the nearest cluster of turbines at Blackcraig Hill/Countam and they would be seen beyond the horizon, which reduces the overall prominence of the turbines. Such opportunities for intervisibility are likely to low and the primary character of the unit will not be altered. ZTV coverage within the unit is very low, limited to the highest peaks only. The proposed turbines would appear as a cluster of turbines, most of which would be located beyond the horizon, thus reducing their 18 - Foothills High overall appearance in the landscape. The turbines would not appear prominent in comparison to the scale Tynron Low Moderate/Minor No of the wider landscape. The turbines would also be located away from the appreciation of notable hill formations to the south and south west. The underlying character of the landscape would not be altered overall. The Keir unit is located to the south west of the Shinnel Water and covers the upper slopes of the valley. The slopes are partly forested which reduces the overall level of intervisibility with the wider landscape. ZTV coverage is limited to patches of the landscape, with greatest coverage on the Kier Hills, which is located furthest from the site. At closer proximity, within 5km, ZTV coverage is found in areas of plantation. From such area, intervisibility would be very low and where views are available, the proposed 18 - Foothills High Keir turbines would be seen in the context of other existing wind farms. The proposed turbines would appear Low Moderate/Minor No beyond the near horizon, which would reduce the overall scale of the turbines, and they would appear in the context of a large scale and relatively simple horizon. At greater distance from the site, the prominence of the turbines would further reduce, and they would be seen at distance of over 10km, within a landscape that is typified by plantation. The overall character of the unit would not be greatly altered by the introduction of the proposed turbines. ZTV coverage is fairly widespread across the unit. However, the Dalmacallan landscape is forested and this 18 - Foothills High limits the extent of intervisibility across the wider area. From open areas of the moorland/upland Dalmacallan Very low Minor No grassland that also covers the unit, the proposed turbines would be seen as blade tips only beyond the horizon at distances over 10km. The character of the unit would not be changed. The Stroan unit is a large area of landscape in which existing wind farms are already present, namely Blackcraig and Wether Hill. The landscape unit features extensive plantation and upland 18a – Foothills grassland/moorland and is relatively simple in landform. ZTV coverage is patchy and largely falls across with High higher ground, where plantation is typical. The proposed turbines would be seen at varying distances from Stroan Low Moderate/Minor No Forest 9km up to 18km. Where visible, they would appear beyond the horizon as a cluster of turbines seen within the context of other existing wind farms which would be much closer and therefore more prominent in the landscape. The addition of the proposed turbines would not alter the underlying nature of the landscape unit. The Rhinns of Kells unit is located approx. 15km from the nearest turbine. It is a relatively large landscape unit and ZTV coverage is patchy and is largely limited to higher ground. The westernmost slopes of the 18a – Foothills landscape unit are covered with plantation and its presence limits intervisibility with the wider landscape. with High In the east of the unit the landscape comprises upland grassland/moorland from which there is an Rhinns of Kells Low Moderate/Minor No Forest appreciation of the wider landscape, particularly the Water of Ken valley to the east. The proposed development is located at distance to the unit, beyond the valley and the uplands that form the opposing valley side. Where visible, they would form an overall small element of a much wider panorama in which existing, and closer turbines are seen. There would be little change in underlying landscape character. The Forest of Ae is a large scale plantation from which intervisibility with the wider landscape is very 18a – Foothills limited. ZTV coverage across the unit is also limited to a small number of the highest hills at distances over Ae High Very low Minor No with Forest 20km from the nearest turbine. The proposed turbines would form a small element in a much wider landscape and would not alter the underlying character of the Forest of Ae.

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ZTV coverage within the NW Lowthers unit is most prevalent on the west facing slopes of the Nithsdale valley. The landscape is formed by irregular shaped plantation and upland grassland. Intervisibility across the Nithsdale valley is a characteristic of the unit and it is acknowledged that the proposed turbines would 19 – Southern Medium Moderate High occupy a relatively large proportion of the view to the south west when seen from Kirkland Hill and other NW Lowthers decreasing decreasing to No Uplands high ground at distances of 5-9km. The turbines would be seen in the context of existing wind energy to Low Moderate/Minor development, and their presence across the valley would not prevent an appreciation of the underlying landscape. Overall, there would be a medium decreasing to low magnitude of change in landscape character. The Lowthers unit covers a number of well-known summits within the Lowther Hills. The open nature of the summits allows for wide reaching intervisibility in all directions. The proposed turbines would be seen beyond the opposing side of the Nithsdale valley, at distances between 8km to 25km. At their closest, when seen from higher ground north west of Kirkconnel and Sanquhar, the proposed turbines would appear as a large cluster, seen above the horizon. They would appear in the same part of the view as Medium/ Moderate - 19 – Southern existing turbines, but they would occupy a greater proportion of the views across the valley. With High Low Moderate/Minor Lowthers increasing distance, the prominence of the turbines would also reduce and thus from summits such as No Uplands decreasing decreasing to Queensbury and Wee Queensbury, the proposed turbines would form a much smaller element in the to Low Moderate/Minor wider landscape. Overall, where the proposed turbines are visible at distances less than 11-12km there would be a medium/low magnitude of change upon the character of Lowthers unit. The visual connection to the opposing side of the valley is a characteristic of the unit and the proposed turbines would not prevent an appreciation of the valley as a whole. Beyond 11-12km distance, the magnitude of change in character would be no greater than low. This character unit is located within 5km of the nearest turbine, but overall ZTV coverage within the unit is limited to the highest ground only. Wind energy development is already a visible feature in the wider landscape from well-known hill summits such as Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. The proposed turbines would 19 – Southern increase the presence of turbines in the same part of the landscape as other existing schemes. They would Medium Moderate High Uplands Carsphairn appear directly beyond the existing Afton turbines, and the consented Lorg turbines once constructed. In decreasing decreasing to No this sense, wind energy is an established feature of the wider landscape, and there would not be a hugely to Low Moderate/Minor notable turbine scale difference in comparison to the existing schemes due to the greater distance between the unit and the site. Overall, within 5-7km of the proposed turbines there would be a medium magnitude of change decreasing to low with distance. This character unit is typified by plantation which limits the overall level of intervisibility with the wider landscape. ZTV coverage across the unit varies but it is largely limited to the highest hill summits. At its closest, the unit falls within 3km of the proposed turbines and thus the nearest turbine cluster will appear prominent in the landscape to the east. Nevertheless, they will appear directly beyond the existing Afton 19a – Southern Medium Moderate High - turbines, which would form the primary feature in the landscape to the immediate east. With increasing Uplands with Carsphairn decreasing decreasing to No Medium distance to the west and south west, the prominence of the turbines will decrease and from hill summits Forest to Low Moderate/Minor such as Benbrack and Waterhead Hill, the turbines would be seen in the context of the wider landscape and other existing turbines. Overall, the proposed wind farm would increase the cluster of turbines within the Southern Uplands, but it would not introduce turbines to part of the landscape where they are currently absent. The Rhinns of Kells unit is located at distances of 15km to 28km from the proposed turbines. ZTV coverage is patchy but relatively widespread across the unit. Actual visibility of the proposed development will be largely limited as the turbines would be located beyond the horizon with blade tips of a small proportion 21 – Rugged Rhinns of Kells High of the turbines visible overall, and only a very small number of turbine hubs visible. The presence of the Low Moderate/Minor No Granite Uplands proposed turbines in the wider landscape will not alter the appreciation of landscape character within the rugged uplands. The proposed turbines would be seen in the context of other existing wind farms within the Southern Uplands. There is virtually no ZTV coverage within the character unit. Coverage is limited to a small area of land 21 – Rugged around Loch Enoch and Lamachan Hill. This visibility is located at distances of 26km and 34km respectively. Low to Very Moderate/Minor Merrick High No Granite Uplands At such distance from the proposed turbines, their presence in the wider landscape will not alter the Low to Minor appreciation of landscape character within the rugged uplands.

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This character unit centres on the urban area of Auchinleck and the adjacent Airds Moss. ZTV coverage across the unit is widespread. Intervisibility with the wider landscape incorporates the Upland Basin and 7c – East Upland River Valley with the landscape in which the site is located forming the backdrop. The proposed Ayrshire - High turbines would largely be located beyond the horizon with just blade tips visible of the majority of the Low Moderate/Minor No Lowlands turbines. It is noted that there are a number of outlying turbines, but these would be seen in the context of other existing turbines. They would also be seen at a distance of over 16km. There would be minimal changes to the underlying lowland landscape. ZTV coverage within this unit is patchy and there are a number of urban areas within the valleys of the Lugan Water and the River Ayr which would interrupt intervisibility across Airds Moss and the Upland 9 – Lowland Basin towards the proposed turbines. The majority of the turbines would be located beyond the horizon, - High Low Moderate/Minor No River Valley seen as blade tips, with just a small number of outlying turbines seen it the context of other existing wind farms. Overall, the presence of the proposed turbines in the wider landscape at such distance would not give rise to any greater than a low magnitude of change upon landscape character. The Upland River Valley incorporates a small area of land to the east of Cumnock. ZTV coverage is limited to an area near Carbellow and the slopes above the Glenmuir Water, with smaller patches in the vicinity of 10 – Upland - High urban areas around Cumnock. The proposed turbines would be located beyond the horizon at distances Low Moderate/Minor No River Valley over 11km. They would be seen as blade tips in the same part of the landscape as other existing wind farms. The change in landscape character would be low. This character unit is typified by large scale plantation which limits overall intervisibility with other 17a – Foothills landscape units. ZTV coverage is relatively widespread across the highest ground within the unit, but with with Forest High - - the presence of plantation, views towards the proposed turbines would be interrupted. Where the Low Moderate/Minor No west of Doon Medium turbines would be visible, they would be seen at distances over 12km, in the context of other existing wind Valley energy development. The change in landscape character would be no greater than low. ZTV coverage within the unit is most prevalent across the hills of Glenmuirshaw and higher ground south East Ayrshire east of Cumnock. The landscape is formed by large areas of plantation and upland grassland/moorland. Intervisibility across the Nithsdale valley is a characteristic of the unit and it is acknowledged that the 18a – East proposed turbines would occupy a relatively large proportion of the view to the south when seen at Medium Moderate Ayrshire Plateau - High distances of 8-11km. With increasing distance, up to 16km, the prominence of the turbines would reduce. decreasing decreasing to No Moorlands The turbines would be seen in the context of existing wind energy development already present in the to Low Moderate/Minor wider landscape, and their presence across the valley would not prevent an appreciation of the underlying landscape. Overall, there would be a medium decreasing to low magnitude of change in landscape character. The character unit extends from 2.5km from the site to beyond 15km from the site. ZTV coverage across the unit is patchy and is largely limited to higher ground and hill summits. The presence of Blackcraig Hill screens views of the majority of the proposed turbines when seen at close proximity (within 2.5-3km). Moderate - 20c – Southern Nevertheless, those that are visible would be prominent, but they would be seen in the context of the Medium/Lo Moderate/Minor Uplands with - High existing Afton turbines, which already influence landscape character. With greater distance to the west, w decreasing No decreasing to Forest the proposed turbines would diminish in prominence and would occupy less of the overall landscape. The to Low Moderate/Minor turbines would not introduce new features into a landscape where wind energy development is currently absent and only a small proportion of the overall turbines would be seen from the unit. The overall change in landscape character would be medium-low increasing to low with distance. This unit is located over 13km to the west of the site and covers the landscape around Loch Doon. ZTV coverage is most prevalent to the west of the Loch at distances over 15km. The landscape is heavily 21 – Rugged forested which would restrict overall levels of visibility but it is acknowledged that the proposed turbines Uplands, Lochs - High would be seen against the sky where visible, but they would occupy a small part of the overall view, as Low Moderate/Minor No and Forest only part of the proposed scheme would be visible. The turbines would also be seen in the context of existing wind energy development within the Southern Upland landscape. Overall, there would be no greater than a low magnitude of change in landscape character.

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17b – Foothills ZTV coverage within this unit is patchy and limited to a small proportion of the overall turbine numbers. with Forest The unit is located over 18km from the site and at such distance the proposed scheme will not greatly alter - High Low Moderate/Minor No west of Doon the underlying landscape, particularly considering the presence of areas of plantation that flank the Valley foothills, limiting over intervisibility with other landscape units. This unit covers the landscape of Carrick Forest, a heavily forested landscape. Although ZTV coverage is South Ayrshire present across higher ground the presence of plantation will limit overall intervisibility with the wider 21 – Rugged landscape. The proposed turbines are located at distances over 19km from the character unit, extending Low to Very Moderate/Minor Uplands, Lochs - High No to distances beyond 35km. The presence of the proposed development in the wider landscape would not Low to Minor and Forest affect the appreciation of the underlying landscape. The effects upon landscape character would be minimal.

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Night time Lighting Character Effects 6.7.101 Overall, it is considered that there would be no greater than a low magnitude of change during the decommissioning phase. Therefore, the effect on landscape character would be no greater than 6.7.93 The assessment of landscape effects of visible aviation lighting at Appendix 6.5 considered the potential for moderate/minor. effects upon local landscape character based upon ZTV coverage as shown at Figure 1 of the Appendix. 6.7.102 Post decommissioning, and once the restoration of the landscape is complete, there would be a low residual 6.7.94 A review of the published character types within 10km of the site was undertaken and each character type magnitude of change on the landscape character of the site relative to the current baseline relating principally was considered in the field during low-light conditions, as well as during daylight. From this review it was to the retention of the access track which would represent a minor feature into the landscape. There would apparent that the only landscape which had baseline conditions during the low-light period where artificial therefore be no greater than a minor residual level of effect on landscape character which is not considered light was not a characteristic element was the upper sections of the Plateau Moorlands of East Ayrshire, which significant. extends to become the Southern Uplands landscape of Dumfries and Galloway. This is not to say that artificial light sources are not present within, and visible from, this landscape, rather that views of such lighting are Summary of Landscape Character Effects more infrequent and often towards sources at distance. 6.7.103 In summary, there would be significant effects upon the landscape character of six landscape character 6.7.95 During the period in which there will be sufficient daylight to clearly see the turbines, any effect on landscape types/units within 7km of the proposed turbines, a reduction from seven landscape character types/units character would be brought about primarily by the turbines themselves, rather than the associated lighting. before the proposals were revised. Such effects relate to the Upper Nithsdale Unit of 9 – Upper Dale Type, the However, as the daylight levels decrease, the visibility of the turbines decreases, and the turbine lighting would Shinnel and Scar Units of 10 – Upland Glens Type, the Nithsdale unit of 19 – Southern Uplands Type, the Ken become a more notable element. Eventually a point is reached at which it is the turbine lighting which brings unit of 19a – Southern Uplands with Forest, all of which fall within Dumfries and Galloway. Within East about the greater degree of visual effect and indeed later in the darkest light conditions, it is only the lighting Ayrshire, there would be significant character effects upon character type 20a - East Ayrshire Southern which brings about an effect as the turbine themselves are no longer visible. Uplands, but no longer on character type 14 - East Ayrshire Upland Glens.

6.7.96 It is accepted that within the wind farm site itself and its immediate landscape context within the Southern Uplands the presence of the visible aviation lighting would bring about a notable change during the low-light 6.8 Assessment of Visual Effects period. This being the change from a landscape which was primarily characterised by its absence of visible Assessment of Visual Effects at Representative Viewpoints artificial light, to a landscape where artificial light (i.e. the lit turbines) became a primary characteristic. However, within a relatively short distance from the turbines the overriding characteristics of the landscape Construction Effects would remain those of an expansive, generally open rural and unlit landscape, with the turbine lighting forming 6.8.1 Beyond the immediate vicinity of each of the sites, the construction activities at ground level would be largely a noticeable, but not a dominant feature. incidental. Therefore, from the vast majority of the assessment viewpoints, the only visual effects arising with regards to construction activities would be in relation to the appearance of the cranes erecting the turbines. 6.7.97 Overall, it has been identified that the visible lighting would be largely screened by landform and topography The cranes would be visible for a brief period and would be incidental to the turbines being erected. Therefore, from much of the surrounding 10km. However, it is acknowledged that there would be the potential for with the exception of the viewpoints discussed further below, there would be a very low magnitude of impact significant effects on the character of the landscape in the immediate vicinity of the site during low-light levels, during construction tending towards no impact at all. As a consequence, from the majority of the assessment namely Dumfries and Galloway LCT 19 and LCT 19a and East Ayrshire LCT 20a. It should be noted that beyond viewpoints, there would be no greater than a very short term, non-permanent slight effect tending towards a distance of approximately 3km from the site, the magnitude of effect would reduce as such that effects no effect during construction. This would not be significant. would not be significant, on the basis that at such distance the lighting would not be a defining characteristic of the overall experience of the landscape. 6.8.2 From Viewpoints 5, 7, and 24, which are all located within 5km of the proposed turbines, some groundwork activities would be visible. The cranes involved in erecting the turbines would be visible for a temporary period Decommissioning effects of time. The movement of construction vehicles would also be visible during the construction period, although 6.7.98 The effects of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm on landscape character would decrease incrementally the majority of these vehicular movements will not be prominent from the viewpoints due to the distance at as the turbines are removed from site and the land cover is reinstated. There would be a temporary increase which they would be seen. in activity on site during the decommissioning phase and effects on landscape character would be similar to those experienced during construction but in reverse. 6.8.3 The construction and site storage compounds would not be visible from these viewpoints, as these are discreetly located between areas of plantation, but the access tracks across the site would be seen, particularly 6.7.99 The decommissioning activities would be visible from within the immediate locality of each of the turbines, those passing across Countam and Fingland Shoulder. A number of the proposed borrow pits would also be but the effects of decommissioning activities would be relatively incidental when viewed in the context of the visible from viewpoints located on higher ground, within 5km of the proposed turbines, but other borrow pits, turbines being removed. by their location, would benefit from natural topographical screening and would be difficult to discern. The 6.7.100 The decommissioning effects would all be temporary, short term and non-permanent with the only permanent view of the cranes erecting the turbines would be negligible in the context of the turbines that they were feature being the main access track which would be retained in-situ as a private access track. erecting.

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6.8.4 At Viewpoints 5, 7, and 24 there would be no greater than a medium to low additional magnitude of change during the construction phase resulting in a Moderate to Moderate/minor level of effect which is not considered significant.

Operational Effects 6.8.5 A detailed updated assessment of the operational phase effects at each of the 25 representative viewpoints, now taking account of the revisions to the scheme, is presented in Appendix 6.4.

6.8.6 Table 6.9 provides a summary of the operational effects at each of the assessment viewpoints.

6.8.7 Beyond the local environs of the site, the ground level components of the development would not be clearly noticeable and therefore from the vast majority of the assessment viewpoints, the visual effects relate solely to the introduction of the proposed turbines into the view.

6.8.8 Only at Viewpoints 5, 7, 9, and 24 would the ground level components across the majority of the site be noticeable. From Viewpoints 13 and 22, the ground level components associated with T49 and T50 would also be likely to be visible, with partial visibility of such ancillary development appreciated from within the Nithsdale valley, at Viewpoints 2, 4, 20 and 21. From these locations, the access tracks between the turbines and the crane hardstands would be visible. In the context of the proposed turbines, the existing turbine infrastructure in the view and the wide panoramic views available across the landscape, these features would not result in any greater than a low magnitude of change on the view from this viewpoint.

6.8.9 The visual effects at each of the assessment viewpoints therefore arises principally from the introduction of the proposed turbines, now reduced from 50 to 44. The permanent met mast would appear as a slender structure in comparison to the proposed turbines and would not bring about significant visual effects in its own right.

6.8.10 Significant visual effects have been identified at 8 viewpoints, a reduction in two from the 10 viewpoints where significant effects were previously identified for the original proposals. All of these viewpoints are located within 10km of the proposed development.

6.8.11 Visual effects are considered significant due to the turbines being seen as a large cluster, visible against the sky, above the horizon that forms the backdrop to views within the local landscape. Significant visual effects would also be experienced by the presence of T49 and T50 within the lower valley landscape as seen from Nithsdale.

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Table 6.9: Summary of Viewpoint Sensitivity, Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect during Operational Phase

Reference Distance to Nearest Sensitivity of Magnitude of Viewpoint Location Level of Effect Significant? Number Turbine (m) visual receptor Change 16,169m Moderate to 1 Cairn Table High Medium to Low No Moderate/Minor 5,271m 2 A76 North East of Sanquhar Medium Medium Moderate Yes 16,838m 3 Southern Uplands Way, Lowther Hill High Medium Moderate No 7,820m 4 A76 Mennock Medium Medium Moderate Yes 2,939m 5 Southern Upland Way, Whing Head High High Major Yes 12,654m 6 Wauk Hill High Medium Moderate No 2,217m 7 Colt Hill, Striding Arch High High Major Yes

17,455m Moderate to 8 A713, Stroangassel Medium Medium to Low No Moderate/Minor 8,519m 9 Cairnsmore of Carsphairn High Medium to High Moderate to Major Yes

10,408m Low No 10 Lochside Hotel High Moderate/minor (previously Medium) (previously Yes) 22,107m Minor (previously 11 B743, near Sorn Medium Low No Moderate/Minor) 7,762m 12 Corsencon Hill High Medium to High Moderate to Major Yes 6,990m 13 Crawick Multiverse High Medium to High Moderate to Major Yes

2,640m None (previously No Effect (previously No 14 Glen Afton High High) Major) (previously Yes) 9,209m Very Low (previously Negligible (previously 15 New Cumnock Rail Bridge High No Low to Very Low) Minor) 29,332m 16 Merrick Wild Land (Trig Point) High Low Moderate/Minor No

14,319m Low to Very Low Minor (previously 17 A76 south of Cumnock (B7083) Medium No (previously Low) Moderate/Minor) 16,868m Moderate/Minor Low (previously 18 A76 south of Closeburn Medium (previously Moderate No Medium to Low) to Moderate/Minor) 13,259m 19 Davie Gill Park, Thornhill High Very Low Minor No 4,349m 20 A76 west of Kirkconnel (Layby) Medium Medium Moderate No 4,365m 21 St Connel's Church, Kirkconnel High Medium Moderate No

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8,984m 22 Auchentaggert Moor High Medium Moderate No 15,852m 23 Durisdeer Rig High Medium Moderate No 4,328m 24 Cairnkinna High High Major Yes

21,386m Very Low (previously Minor (previously 25 West of Ochiltree High No Low) Moderate/Minor)

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Effects on Visual Receptor Groups • Appin Lodge; 6.8.12 In this section, the effects of the proposed development on various different visual receptor groups are • Shinnelhead; considered. • Craigbraneoch; Construction Effects • Corbiehill; 6.8.13 Views of the construction activities would be limited to the immediate vicinity of the site which is • Hillend; acknowledged to be a large upland area. In terms of visual receptor groups, construction effects are limited to • Old Auchenbrack. walkers within the landscape immediately surrounding the site, particularly from higher ground where 6.8.21 It should be noted that three properties, which are all located within 2km of a proposed turbine, are now elevated views towards the construction activities would be afforded. under the control of the applicant (Dalgonar, Polgowan and Sheil), with those under control no longer being 6.8.14 For other visual receptors, the only visual effects over and above those addressed under the heading of residential properties and would be unoccupied during the planning consent. In addition, five further operational effects would arise in relation to views of the cranes erecting the turbines. The cranes would be properties in the vicinity of the site, but at over 2.5km: Glenmanna, Glengowan, Dalzean, Glengape and visible for a brief period and would be incidental to the turbines being erected. Therefore except for the Birknowe are also financially involved properties and therefore whilst three of these (Glenmanna, Glengowan receptors discussed further below, there would be a very low magnitude of additional impact during and Birknowe) may experience a significant visual effect, they are not included amongst the residential construction. There would be no greater than a short term, non-permanent slight effect during construction properties which would experience a significant effect in the list above, nor are they assessed in detail in the which would not be significant. RVAS.

6.8.15 Users of the Core Path network that pass through and within close proximity to the site would experience 6.8.22 It should also be noted that following the removal of turbines 11-14, 47 and 48, there would no longer be a views of the construction of the turbines and their associated ground level components. Views of the significant visual effect at three of the properties within 3km, where such an effect was identified for the construction of the access tracks would be immediate in the view where the Core Paths cross the site, as would original scheme: Dalzean, Craig an Dhu and Lynn View. other construction related activities including the construction of the turbine foundations and crane pads. 6.8.23 The above listed properties would however continue to have other views available that are not affected by 6.8.16 Views of the cranes erecting the turbines, although potentially notable due to the close proximity, would be the turbines, and when the effect upon these properties is considered in the round, it is not considered that negligible when considered in the context of the turbines that they were erecting and the very temporary their residents would experience such an overbearing or overwhelming effect on their visual amenity that nature of the views. Given the local landscape context which already includes turbines, associated ground level their properties would become unattractive places in which to live. The views from the property would remain infrastructure and commercial forestry activity, including active felling, construction operations would result attractive, open and rural in nature and the turbines would not prevent an appreciation or understanding of in a medium magnitude of change during construction resulting in a moderate level of effect which is not the underlying landscape. considered significant. Settlements and Properties located between 3km and 5km Operational Effects Kirkconnel/Kelloholm 6.8.17 From analysis of the assessment viewpoints it is possible to draw some conclusions about the level of effect 6.8.24 The settlement area of Kirkconnel and Kelloholm is located approximately 4.3km to the north east of the on views and visual amenity experienced by different receptor groups at different distances from the proposed closest turbine. The settlements have merged to form a developed area to the south of the A76. Kirkconnel development. is located to the north west of Kelloholm spanning the A76 and the River Nith and Kelloholm rises up the lower 6.8.18 Views of the ground level components of the development will be limited to a very short radius around the southern slopes of Nithsdale and has a northerly aspect. Properties generally lie in linear rows or along roads development site. Except where indicated, the discussion below therefore relates primarily to views of the that have broad sweeping arcs and like the settlement as a whole, have a broadly north facing aspect. turbines. 6.8.25 The ZTVs suggests that up to 22 turbines would be visible from parts of Kelloholm and Kirkconnel. Intermittent Visual Effects on Residential Receptors views are anticipated to be most notable from upper floor windows of properties within the two settlements, particularly those located to the south of the A76, where there are open aspect views in a southerly direction. Residential Properties within 3km of the Turbines Such properties include those located along Kingsway, Greystone Avenue, Drystone Road and Polmeur Road 6.8.19 All properties located within 3km of a proposed turbine have been assessed in detail within the Residential where properties are orientated towards the site. Visual Amenity Study (RVAS) at Appendix 6.6. The location of the properties is shown at Figure 6.23. 6.8.26 Viewpoint 20 is located on the A76 to the west of Kirkconnel, and whilst it is located at greater distance than 6.8.20 To summarise the assessment of effects, the following occupied properties would experience significant many of the residential receptors in the settlement, is broadly representative of views that are likely to be effects upon visual amenity from some part of their property or garden: experienced from Kirkconnel and Kelloholm.

• Polskeoch; 6.8.27 Where direct views towards the proposed turbines are gained from the residential receptors, they will be seen in the context of the existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm, largely set further back in the view, with many

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turbines visible as blade tips only. However, T49 and T50 would form prominent features in the near valley 6.8.35 The proposed development would be seen at a distance of over 3km from the dwellings in the middle reaches landscape. Therefore, the magnitude of change is assessed as medium resulting in a moderate level of effect of the valley, viewed beyond the surrounding coniferous plantation. The proposed turbines would form a that is considered significant due to the context in which the turbines would be seen within. Where views are vertical feature above the horizon, beyond the valley, but they would not have a dominating presence in views. not direct and are oblique, residential receptors will experience no greater than a moderate to There would a medium magnitude of change in views where the northerly to north westerly aspect is open moderate/minor level of effect. giving rise to a moderate effect which is significant on some properties due to the introduction of wind energy development into the view. However, many of the properties would experience filtered or interrupted views Properties in the Scaur Water Valley towards the site (such as Auchenbrack Farm, as demonstrated in Appendix 6.8 - wireframe Location C) and 6.8.28 The Scaur Water Valley is a long valley in which numerous farmsteads and dwellings are present. The minor thus the overall effect on visual amenity in this part of the valley would be limited to moderate/minor and not road to the valley leaves Penpont and heads north west for several kilometres, winding through the intimate significant. wooded valley before passing through the upland landscape. Properties in the Euchan Water Valley 6.8.29 The ZTVs suggest that the proposed turbines would not be visible from the lower reaches of the valley and 6.8.36 The Euchan Water Valley is located to the north east of the Site. The valley is heavily forested with a small thus there would be no views from the residential properties located between Penpont and those due south number of farmsteads and cottages located along the valley floor, many of which are found in the lower east of Chanlockfoot. Beyond Chanlockfoot, which is located approximately 5km from the nearest turbine, the reaches of the valley at distance from the site. The dwellings located within 3km of a proposed turbine are valley broadens allowing for an increase in theoretical visibility although coverage is generally limited to up to considered further in Appendix 6.6, where it is noted that some of those in closest proximity to the site are no more than 11 of the proposed turbines, as the dwellings are generally located within the valley bottom. assumed to have been abandoned as a result of other infrastructure schemes, most notably Whiteside Hill wind farm and the South West Scotland Connections Project which has introduced pylons and a substation to 6.8.30 It is acknowledged that the proposed development would introduce turbines into part of the landscape that is not currently developed for wind energy and the presence of the turbines in the view to the north west and the upper reaches of the valley. west would represent a high magnitude of change. However, there is only one residential property located 6.8.37 The dwellings beyond 3km of a proposed turbine most pertinent to the assessment are Euchan Cottage, Old within the middle reaches of the Scaur Water Valley, between 3km and 5km from the site, Hallscaur. A Barr and Barr. The ZTVs suggest that visibility will most likely be limited to up to 11 of the proposed turbines. wireframe visualisation from this property has been provided within the new Appendix 6.10, which provides In reality, the majority of the turbines would be set back from the valley, beyond the existing Whiteside Hill a linear analysis of wireframes along the Scaur Water Valley, as location B. The visual effect on the property and Sanquhar turbines, and would ultimately form a smaller part in the view than the existing wind energy would be significant. schemes seen from the valley.

6.8.31 As one travels further north west through the valley, the existing Whiteside Hill turbines become visible from 6.8.38 Further east in the valley, towards Barr, the dwellings are nestled within the valley floor, within a forested north of Glenmanna. This part of the landscape, which includes the financially involved properties Glenmanna landscape. The presence of the trees would limit the overall extent of views along the valley and towards the and Dalzean, is located within 3km of the proposed turbines and as such the visual effects are now discussed site. In the vicinity of Barr, the valley is more open in nature, but the farmsteads and cottages are generally in detail within the expanded Residential Visual Amenity Study at Appendix 6.6, where significant effects are surrounded by woodland, which limits the overall visual experience along the valley. identified for a small number of properties within the valley, as summarised above. 6.8.39 Views from properties located within the Euchan Water Valley would be generally limited by the nature of the Properties in the Shinnel Water Valley valley itself. The existing Whiteside Hill and Sanquhar turbines are only readily perceptible from the mid to 6.8.32 The Shinnel Water Valley is located to the south east of the site and is orientated north west to south east higher reaches of the valley and as the proposed Sanquhar II turbines would be located beyond or adjacent to between Tynron and the south eastern site boundary. There are a number of farmsteads and cottages located these existing turbines, the magnitude of change in the view would be limited. along the valley floor, but in comparison to the Scaur Water Valley, it is even more sparsely populated. 6.8.40 Overall, there would be no greater than a medium to low magnitude of change in the view from dwellings 6.8.33 The ZTVs suggest that there would be varying levels of visibility of the proposed turbines, from up to 11 beyond 3km of a proposed turbine in the Euchan Water Valley resulting in a moderate to moderate/minor turbines to up to 22 turbines. However, the Shinnel Water Valley is heavily wooded, with much of the visual effect which is not significant. experience curtailed to the immediate valley itself and as a consequence, the proposed development is unlikely to be perceptible from the lower reaches of the valley. Properties in Glen Afton 6.8.41 Glen Afton is located to the north west of the site. The long valley road is flanked by numerous farmsteads 6.8.34 The northernmost dwellings within the valley are located within 3km of the proposed turbines and thus now and cottages, the majority of which are located at the head of the valley and form part of the Residential Visual all form part of the expanded Residential Visual Amenity Study at Appendix 6.6, where significant visual effects Amenity Study at Appendix 6.6. on a small number of properties are identified, as summarised above. Within the middle reaches of the valley, there are a small number of properties, including Bennan, which sits with a small number of other farmsteads 6.8.42 Beyond 3km from the nearest proposed turbines, there are a small number of properties located along the and cottages in a relatively open part of the valley. However, shelterbelts and copses are present surrounding Afton Road, including the Glen Afton Caravan Park and its associated Bed and Breakfast, Pencloe, Lochbrowan, the dwellings which would serve to filter views towards the site. Wireframe visualisations of a number of the Lochingerroch, and Blackcraig Farm. All of the dwellings occupy a low lying position within the valley other properties in the Shinnel Water Valley have been provided within the new Appendix 6.8, including than the caravan park, which occupies a slightly elevated position in the valley. Auchenbrack Farm (wireframe Location C) and Craigencoon (Wireframe Location B).

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6.8.43 Following the removal of turbines 11-14, there would be a notable reduction in the visibility of the proposals within which these settlements are located is also the focus of most of the remaining residential development from the properties in Glen Afton. The ZTVs suggest that up to 11 of the proposed turbines would still be within 10km of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm site. visible from within parts of the valley. In reality however, the existing woodland within the valley would offer a degree of filtering of views towards the site. Furthermore, the cluster of the proposed turbines which would Sanquhar (including Crawick and Knockenstob) previously have been seen in views from dwellings orientated along the valley towards Craigbraneoch Rig have 6.8.51 The town of Sanquhar is located on the A76 approximately 38km to the north west of Dumfries. The town sits been fully removed. As such, proposed turbines would no longer be seen beyond the Rig that sits at the head within the Nithsdale valley, and the River Nith runs to the south west of the settlement. Sanquhar was of the valley, and those turbines which would remain visible would no longer form prominent features in the traditionally a ribbon development town with most of the residential properties located along the A76 route. landscape of the valley in comparison to the existing Hare hill turbines to the east which are smaller in vertical Several larger offshoot estates have been built on either side of the main road; however, the town remains scale. quite compact.

6.8.52 The settlement of Crawick, which is located to the north west of Sanquhar, consists of a number of dispersed 6.8.44 The Glenafton Caravan Park is enclosed by trees but there are a number of caravans on the southern boundary of the Park that afford open views in a southerly direction along the Glen. Although the Caravan Park is not a properties which sprawl along the edge of the Crawick Water as it passes under the railway and meanders up residential receptor per se, the caravans could be in long term use and thus they have been considered. The to the woodland called Moor Plantation. Knockenstob is located to the north east of Crawick and features a proposed turbines would only be visible to a minor degree when seen from the southern periphery of the small number of residential dwellings. caravan park. 6.8.53 The ZTVs suggests that the whole of Sanquhar, Crawick and Knockenstob lie within the ZTV with varying degrees of coverage, between 11 and 33 turbines, which would be theoretically visible across the whole of the 6.8.45 Overall, it is considered that there would be a medium to low magnitude of change in the view from properties located within the middle reaches of Glen Afton (previously medium to high before removal of T11-14). settlements at a distance of between 6.5 and 8km from the site. However, taking the intervening built features Existing turbines do already form a feature in the valley, and the proposed development would no longer of the town and associated vegetation within the wider landscape into consideration, it is evident that the introduce notably taller vertical elements into the landscape, seen beyond Craigbraneoch Rig, a notable hill extent of visibility would be highly variable and intermittent across the whole of the settlement area. formation at the head of the valley. The resulting visual effect would be moderate to minor (previously 6.8.54 Due to the varying orientation of properties within Sanquhar and the influence that built development would moderate to moderate/major) and would no longer be significant. have on views towards the site, it is anticipated that those properties located along the south western edge Properties in Ken Valley of the town, such as Bell Crescent, McCron Court and Deer Park Avenue, alongside Broomfield to the north west of the town centre, and selected upper floor views of more centralised properties, would experience the 6.8.46 The Ken Valley is located to the south west of the site. The narrow valley broadens as it heads south towards the B729 from the Head of Ken. The valley is typified by coniferous plantation which encloses the visual greatest level of views towards the site. experience over and above the valley slopes however, there are views of existing turbines from the upper 6.8.55 Viewpoint 2 is located on the A76 to the north east of Sanquhar where views of the turbines would be available reaches of the valley, which are already seen from the farmsteads and dwellings within the valley. and are most representative of general visibility. The viewpoint demonstrates that whilst the turbines would be visible to varying degrees from Sanquhar and would occupy much of the view to the west and south west, 6.8.47 The ZTVs suggest that up to 11 of the proposed turbines would be seen from the valley between Corlae and Lorg. Properties within the upper to mid reaches of the valley include Nether Holm of Dalquhairn, alongside they would generally be seen behind the existing turbines of Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and Whiteside Lorg and the cluster of dwellings at Corlae. Lorg is now included in the expanded Residential Visual Amenity Hill. It is acknowledged that proposed Turbine 49 and Turbine 50 would be seen at closer proximity in the view Study at Appendix 6.6, which confirms that there would be no view of the proposed development from the than the existing turbines, but they would not appear overly prominent in the landscape due to their reduced property due to intervening landform. tip height. The magnitude of change from residential properties in Sanquhar is considered to be medium to high resulting in a moderate to major level of effect which is considered significant. 6.8.48 The layers of coniferous plantation within and above the valley would also serve to curtail views of the proposed turbines from the remaining properties in the valley. The turbines would also be located beyond the 6.8.56 The views available from Crawick and Knockenstob would be filtered in nature and influenced by the existing land masses of Altry Hill and Ewe Hill, set far back from the valley within the upland landscape. The proposed turbines in the view, namely Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and Whiteside Hill Wind Farm. Viewpoint 13 at turbine blades and hub, if visible, are likely to form a relatively small element in views from the properties Crawick Multiverse represents views from higher, open ground to the west of the settlement. In such views within the Ken Valley. the proposed development would occupy much of the view to the west, but the turbines would be seen in the context of the existing turbines. When considering the level of vegetation in and around Crawick and 6.8.49 There would be no greater than a medium to low magnitude of change in the view giving rise to a moderate Knockenstob, and the orientation of views towards the site, there would be a medium magnitude of change to moderate/minor effect which is not significant. in the view resulting in a moderate level of effect which is significant.

Villages and Settlements within 10km New Cumnock (including Pathhead, Mansfield and Connel Park) 6.8.50 There are just two principal settlement areas within 10km of the Sanquhar II site, namely Sanquhar (including 6.8.57 The ZTV confirms that the majority of New Cumnock is located out with ZTV coverage. However, the far north Crawick, and Knockenstob) and New Cumnock (including Pathhead, Mansfield and Connel Park). All of the western part of the town, alongside the residential areas of Connel Park, Pathhead and Mansfield are located settlements are located along, or in the vicinity of, the A76 corridor within the Nithsdale valley. The corridor within the ZTV with theoretical views of up to 11 turbines.

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6.8.58 In reality, much of the built up areas in and around New Cumnock would experience interrupted views of the Thornhill proposed development, seen at distances of over 7km. However, it is acknowledged that there would be 6.8.66 Thornhill is located to the south east of the site at a distance of over 17km to the nearest turbines. The ZTVs relatively open views towards the site where the aspect is generally open, such as from Mansfield Road and suggest that theoretical visibility varies across the settlement from up to 11 turbines visible in the north west Mossmark. Properties on such roads would experience longer distance views across the lowland basin towards of the town to up to 22 turbines visible to the east. However, the level of actual visibility of the proposed the upland’s slopes on which the existing Hare Hill, Pencloe and Afton wind farm are already visible. turbines would be heavily influenced by the presence of vegetation and built form in the near landscape.

6.8.59 Viewpoint 10 at the Lochside Hotel provides a view from further north of Pathhead, but it provides a typical 6.8.67 The centre of Thornhill is visually enclosed by the linear built form of the town, and the western periphery of representation of the type of views available from the Cumnock/New Cumnock landscape. From here the the town is well vegetated which limits the extent of views out towards the Southern Uplands. The likelihood removal of turbines 11-14 from the proposals makes a notable difference to the scheme, with only two of experiencing views towards the proposed development from the western edge and central core of Thornhill turbines now being visible from this location to any noticeable degree. These proposed turbines would form is limited. Viewpoint 19 at Davie Gill Park illustrates the nature of the surrounding landscape of Thornhill. notable vertical features in the view, but they would occupy a very small part of the view, seen separate to, There are several layers of vegetation within the undulating local landscape that serve to curtail views. but alongside the existing Hare Hill turbines. Viewpoint 19 also demonstrates that although the ZTVs suggest widespread visibility within the town, the reality would be that only blade tips of the proposed turbines would be seen, if at all. 6.8.60 Overall, there would now be a be a low magnitude of change in views in a south easterly direction from residential receptors in and around Pathhead, Mansfield and Connel Park (reduced from medium to low 6.8.68 It is considered that at such a distance from the site, the presence of the proposed turbines in the wider magnitude), giving rise to a moderate/minor effect that is not significant. landscape would give rise to no greater than a very low magnitude of change (previously low), with many locations in the town experiencing a very low magnitude of change. There would be no greater than a minor Large Residential Areas beyond 10km visible effect (previously moderate/minor) which is not significant.

Cumnock Visual effects on recreational walking and cycling routes 6.8.61 There are a number of larger residential areas located beyond 10km of the proposed turbines. The largest concentration of residential development lies at Cumnock at approximately 14km to the north west of the 6.8.69 Across the 35km study area as a whole there are numerous Public Rights of Way (PROW), Core Paths and other site. The ZTV demonstrates that theoretical visibility of up to 22 of the proposed turbines extends over promoted paths. Users of the paths discussed below are all assessed as being of high sensitivity to change in residential areas in Cumnock as well as other more isolated residential properties in the vicinity of Cumnock. the view unless otherwise stated. However, in reality, vegetation and built form within the immediate proximity to residential receptors within and surrounding the town would serve to filter or curtail views towards the site. The Southern Upland Way 6.8.70 The Southern Upland Way passes through the study area and as illustrated at Figure 6.22 (ZTV overlaid on top 6.8.62 It is recognised that there would be properties on the southern side of Cumnock in particular that would afford of the visual receptor groups), there would be theoretical visibility of the proposed turbines along several parts relatively uninterrupted views across the lowland basin towards the site. Properties within the Netherthird of the route. The analysis below therefore divides the route into a series of sections, each of which are also area of Cumnock are likely to perceive the proposed development at distance of over 14km. Viewpoint 17 illustrated with wireframes in the new Appendix 6.10, which illustrates the route between Benbrack and represents views from the A76 to the south of Cumnock and this represents the likely typical view from the Conrig shoulder. southern side of Cumnock. The appearance of the proposed turbines would be filtered in the view by vegetation in the immediate landscape, they would occupy a very small part of the overall view available and Section of the SUW which passes through the site – between Polgown and Polskeoch would be seen in the context of other existing wind energy development in the same part of the landscape. 6.8.71 The Southern Upland Way passes through the site, and as illustrated at Figure 6.22 (ZTV overlaid on top of the 6.8.63 From Cumnock there would be no greater than a low to very low magnitude of change in the view (previously visual receptor groups), there would be theoretical visibility of up to 22 of the proposed turbines as the long low) resulting in a minor effect (previously moderate/minor) that is not significant. distance route passes between the properties of Polgown (wireframe H) and Polskeoch (wireframe E). The proposed turbines would form prominent features in the view to both sides of the walking route, seen upon Auchinleck the higher ground that flanks the Scaur Water Valley. Wind energy development is not visually absent from 6.8.64 Auchinleck is located beyond Cumnock at a distance of over 17km to the north west of the nearest turbines. this section of the route; the existing Whiteside Hill turbines are clearly visible beyond the near horizon to the The ZTVs suggest that up to 22 of the proposed turbines would be visible across the settlement. However, immediate north of Polgown. However, it is acknowledged that the proposed turbines would be seen as very again the turbines are likely to be filtered or screened in the long distance view by vegetation and built form prominent features in the landscape as users of the route pass through the valley (wireframes E- H). The access in the near landscape. tracks would also form very visible features in the valley, particularly as the access track crosses the SUW equidistant between Polgown and Dolganar. There would be a high magnitude of change in the view from this 6.8.65 It is considered that at such distance from the site, the presence of the proposed turbines in the wider view section of the SUW resulting in a major visual effect which is significant. would give rise to no greater than a very low magnitude of change (previously low). There would be no greater than a minor visible effect (previously moderate/minor) which is not significant. Section of the SUW to the east of the site – between Polgown and Conrig Hill

6.8.72 Beyond the site boundary, the visual experience from the SUW varies due to the influence of landform and coniferous plantations. To the east of the site the landscape is generally open from Polgown to Sanquhar with

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little plantation present. The openness of the landscape, coupled with the higher topography as the route 6.8.80 It is acknowledged that users of the SUW travelling in a north easterly direction between Benbrack and High passes Cloud Hill (wireframe J) and Whing Head, would allow for uninterrupted views towards the site. The Countam would experience a high magnitude of change in the view from the route, brought about by the ZTVs suggest that all of the proposed turbines would be visible from the Whing Head and Cloud Hill, with proximity of the turbines to the route, and their presence across a wide part of the view. The visual effects theoretical visibility of up 22 of the proposed turbines from the remainder of the route between Polgown and would be major and significant. Whing Head. 6.8.81 Beyond Benbrack, ZTV coverage along the route becomes intermittent. There is a section of coverage as the 6.8.73 The visualisation in relation to Viewpoint 5 at Whing Head, illustrates the likely view from the summit of the SUW passes over Manquhil Hill, but this part of the landscape is heavily forested, which would reduce the hill formation. The proposed development would appear evenly spaced in the large scale upland landscape, opportunity to see the turbines. Beyond Manquhil Hill, ZTV coverage is absent until Culmark Hill, over 14km seen in the context of the existing turbines at Whiteside Hill and Hare Hill. The turbines would only be seen distance from the proposed turbines. when travelling in a south westerly direction, the view towards the Lowther Hills to the north east and east would remain undeveloped. 6.8.82 It is considered that in locations along the Southern Upland Way beyond 10km where views towards the site are possible, there would be no greater than a medium to low magnitude of change in visual amenity resulting 6.8.74 The introduction of the proposed turbines is not considered to have the potential to notably alter the character in no greater than a moderate to moderate/minor level of effect which would not be significant. and context of the existing panoramic view from Whing Head, or other higher ground between 2km and 5km of the site. However, the proposed turbines would be prominent features in the near view. There would be a Core Path 443 medium magnitude of change resulting in a moderate level of effect which is considered significant. 6.8.83 Views are likely to be available along Core Path 443 where this runs along the Euchan Water within the narrow valley bottom, particularly as much of the plantation has been cleared to facilitate the construction of the 6.8.75 Beyond Whing Head, the ZTV shows that the proposed turbines would not be visible for much of the section South West Scotland Connection scheme. Views are likely to be intermittently available along approximately for up to 4km as the route passes between Whing Head and Ulzieside Plantation (with only minor visibility 4.5km of the forest track between its connection with the minor road at the head of the Euchan Water and near Whing – wireframe K). ZTV coverage then increases as the influence of the uplands hills reduces and where this core path dips into the commercial forestry south west of Polskeoch Rig. There is already a strong views towards the site become available from Ulzieside to Sanquhar and beyond towards Conrig Hill presence of turbines and their associated ancillary development within this valley, but the additional visibility (wireframe O), at a distance of approximately 5km to 12km from the site. of up to 22 of the proposed turbines in a different part of the landscape, to the west, south west and south, would give rise to a medium magnitude of change and thus a moderate and significant effect. 6.8.76 The proposed turbines would be visible within views to the south west that are already influenced by operational turbines at Sanquhar Community Wind Farm, Whiteside Hill, Hare Hill and Windy Standard. It is 6.8.84 The path runs through the site for a short distance between Black Shoulder and Polskeoch Rig, passing acknowledged that the turbines would be noticeable visual elements within the existing view, and they would between turbines 17 and 18. Views of the proposed turbines would be available at short distance from this be seen in conjunction with other wind turbines in the same part of the view at this distance, creating one short section of the route, with the turbines appearing very prominent features in the landscape. The ground larger wind farm cluster. There would be a medium magnitude of change in the view giving rise to a moderate level components of the proposed development would also be visible. However, there is already a presence effect which is significant. of turbines in the landscape as the path passes through the uplands with both Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill wind farms seen at relatively close proximity. There would be a medium to high magnitude of change in the 6.8.77 Beyond Conrig Hill, ZTV coverage becomes very patchy and intermittent and the route of the SUW largely view from the route resulting in a moderate to major effect which is significant. drops outside of coverage. The visual effects upon the route would be negligible from this point onwards. 6.8.85 It is considered that at any other point along Core Path 443 where views may be available, owing to the nature Section of the SUW to the south-west of the site – between Polskeoch and Culmark Hill of the visibility and in the context of other existing wind turbines at Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and/or Whiteside Hill, there would be a medium magnitude of change in visual amenity resulting in a moderate level 6.8.78 Turning to the route as it passes to the south west of the site, ZTV coverage is prevalent up to 5km distance from the proposed turbines, with up to 22 turbines theoretically visible from within the valley landscape, and of effect. As the turbines would be visible on the skyline above the visual receptor, effects are considered to up to 44 turbines visible from the upland hills of Black Hill (wireframe C) and Benbrack (wireframe A). However, be significant. the landscape to the south west of the site is heavily forested and the presence of the thick plantation would Core Path 84 curtail views from the SUW as is passes between the bothy south west of Polskeoch and the lower slopes of 6.8.86 The vast majority of Core Path 84 follows a route through commercial forestry from Kirkconnel which would High Countam (wireframe D) and Black Hill. restrict any view of the turbines even where the ZTVs imply theoretical visibility.

6.8.79 From Black Hill/High Countam to Benbrack, the upland landscape is open allowing for panoramic views. There 6.8.87 The path runs through the site for a short distance between Well Hill and Carcarse. Views of the proposed are existing wind energy schemes already present within the view, such as Whiteside Hill, Sanquhar, Afton, turbines, access tracks, substation, and control room would be available at short distance from this short Windy Standard, Wether Hill and the more distant Blackcraig Hill. These wind farms are visible from the section of Core Path 84, with the turbines being very prominent features in the landscape. There is already a Striding Arch at Benbrack. Whilst not located on the SUW itself, Viewpoint 7 at the Striding Arch at Colt Hill presence of turbines in the landscape as the path passes through the uplands with both Sanquhar and provides a representative view from the upland landscape to the south west of the site. The proposed Whiteside Hill wind farms seen at relatively close proximity. However, there would be a high magnitude of development would be clearly notable in the near view and would occupy a large part of the view to the north change in the immediate view from the route resulting in a major effect which is significant. west through to the east.

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6.8.88 At greater distance from the site, to the north and north east, the route largely runs within commercial 6.8.97 Although, the turbines would be seen in the context of other turbines in the wider landscape, these turbines plantation, which would be the primary focus of the view. The visual effect upon the path would be minimal. are located at a greater distance from the route and do not appear as prominent. The cluster of turbines Should the plantation be felled to allow for views of the proposed turbines, they would be seen in the context located on Fingland Shoulder would be highly visible beyond the plantation but would appear relatively evenly of the wider landscape which features numerous turbines already. There would be medium magnitude of spaced within the large scale upland landscape. change and thus a moderate visual effect which would be significant. However, in the presence of the existing plantation, the change in the view would be low resulting in a moderate/minor effect that is not significant. 6.8.98 There would be a high magnitude of change in the view from the summit of the route. The visual effect would be major and significant. 6.8.89 Views would be available from a section of the core path where it rises from the Valley of Kello Water towards Corserig Hill at approximately 2km distance. The ZTV illustrates that theoretical visibility varies but primarily Core Path 111 – Sanquhar Castle Circular up to 11 of the turbines would be visible. In reality, T49 and T50 would form prominent features in the near 6.8.99 The Sanquhar Castle Circular passes along the southern fringe of the town, and along the River Nith via landscape, with the remaining turbines seen at a greater distance from the route, set back beyond the near Sanquhar Castle. The ZTVs suggest that there would be theoretical visibility of up to 22 of the proposed horizon, seen in the context of the existing turbines in the landscape. It is considered that along this section of turbines from the majority of the route. Core Path 84 there would be a medium magnitude of change in visual amenity resulting in a moderate level 6.8.100 The landscape in which the route passes is flat due to its location within the valley bottom. The River Nith is of effect that is significant. flanked along the southern edge by mature trees which interrupt visibility towards the uplands during summer Core Path 215 – Lorg Trail months. The existing turbines beyond the near ridgeline are however visible, and the proposed development would also been seen from the route. 6.8.90 The Lorg Trail passes through the Ken Valley between the SUW at Polskeoch Rig and Core Path 188 near Craigythorn. The trail, linking with Path 188, forms a circular route with the SUW. 6.8.101 The majority of the turbines would be located set back from the near horizon and would be seen as moving

6.8.91 The ZTVs suggest that there would be views of up to 11 turbines as the route passes along the valley floor. In blade tips above the ridge. However, T49 and T50 would be located closer to the route, at approximately 7km reality, such views would comprise the blade tips of the turbines, seen beyond the plantation in the near view, distance, and thus would appear more prominent in the view. set back from the valley landscape. The proposed development would be seen in the context of other existing 6.8.102 As the route passes along the periphery of Sanquhar, the landform is slightly higher than the valley floor, and turbines in the wider landscape, such as Windy Standard. views are generally open. T49 and T50 would be clearly visible on the north facing slope that forms the backdrop to the valley whilst all of the other turbines would be located beyond, seen in the context of the 6.8.92 There would be a medium to low magnitude of change in the view from the Lorg Trail resulting in a moderate to moderate/minor effect that is not significant. existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm. There would be a medium magnitude of change in the view resulting in a moderate and significant effect due to the proximity of the two turbines to receptors on the Core Path 188 route. Nevertheless, the amenity value of the circular footpath would not be compromised overall. 6.8.93 Core Path 188 passes between the Lorg Trail and the SUW via an area of plantation. The ZTVs suggest that up to 11 of the turbines would be visible from the route, with no visibility of the proposed development as the Footpath between Glen Afton and Dunside via Quintin Knowe route approaches the SUW to the south of Cairn Hill. 6.8.103 The footpath lying within East Ayrshire linking Core Path 84 with Glen Afton falls within the ZTV along its route to the east of Quintin Knowe. Receptors using the footpath would theoretically see up to 11 turbines from 6.8.94 The route passes through an area of felled coniferous plantation, which allows for views towards the site. lower lying ground, and up to all 44 turbines as the path rises over higher ground. The turbines would be However, due to the nature of the topography, the turbine would be located beyond the near horizon and located to the south and south east when walking along the route. For parts of the route, it is anticipated that would be seen as moving blade tips and hubs beyond the ridge. The magnitude of change in the view would the commercial forestry plantation present on the north facing hillside south of Kello Water would reduce the be medium and the visual effect would be moderate and not significant. As there is no visibility from the open extent of the turbines visible. Effects therefore predominantly relate to views experienced from the open landscape near Cairn Hill, there would be negligible visual effects upon the route. landscape either side of the plantation.

Core Path 51 6.8.104 The turbines would be prominent in the view to the south and south east, seen in the oblique view from the 6.8.95 Core Path 51 passes between Benbuie, within the Dalwhat Valley, and Troston Hill. The ZTVs suggest that there route. Although they would form a visible and obvious extension to the existing operational Sanquhar would be no visibility of the proposed turbines from the Dalwhat Valley, with coverage only present as the Community Wind Farm and approved Sanquhar ‘Six’ Wind Farm, it is acknowledged that they would greatly route begins to pass over higher ground at Colt Hill and on to Troston Hill, from where there would be views extend the baseline array of turbines and they would be seen from the full length of the path. It is also of all of the proposed turbines. acknowledged that the existing Hare Hill Wind Farm is located directly north of the route and thus turbines would be seen on both sides of the path when travelling between Glen Afton and Quinton Knowe. 6.8.96 Colt Hill and Troston Hill are covered in a patchwork of plantation. This plantation would screen or filter views of the proposed development when in close proximity to it. It is however acknowledged that here would be 6.8.105 It is considered therefore that there would be a medium to high magnitude of change in the visual amenity breaks in the plantation that would allow for views beyond Troston Hill, towards the turbines. The turbines along the footpath resulting in a moderate to major effect. Effects are considered significant due to the nature would be seen at a distance of approximately 1km from Troston Hill and 2km from Colt Hill and thus they of the view being from an open landscape where the turbines would be clearly seen on the adjacent hillside would appear very prominent in the near landscape. at relatively close proximity.

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Visual effects on the road and railway network magnitude of change in the view from the minor road in the Euchan Water Valley resulting in a moderate/minor effect which is not significant. A76 through the Nithsdale Valley 6.8.106 Views from or near to the A76 are illustrated in Viewpoints 2, 4, 20, and 21. The assessment of effects upon Minor Road along the Scaur Water Valley these viewpoints concludes there would be significant effects experienced at two of these four viewpoint 6.8.115 The Scaur Water Valley is a long valley with the minor road extending for many kilometres between Penpont locations (Vps 2 and 4). This is largely due to the presence of T49 and T50 in the near landscape, seen on the and its head at Polskeoch. The ZTVs suggest that the proposed turbines would not be visible from the lower valley slopes rather than the remaining turbines beyond the valley. reaches of the valley and thus there would be no views of note from the road between Penpont and the vicinity of Chanlockfoot. Beyond Chanlockfoot, which is located approximately 5km from the nearest turbine, the 6.8.107 The ZTVs suggest that theoretical visibility is variable, with up to 22 turbines visible at Sanquhar and beyond valley broadens allowing for an increase in theoretical visibility although coverage is generally limited to up to to Kirkconnel, and up to 11 turbines visible west of Kirkconnel and east of Sanquhar. It should be noted that no more than 11 of the proposed turbines, as the road passes within the valley bottom. A new Appendix 6.10 there is no ZTV coverage along the route between Eliock Wood and Drumlanrig Park, and between Marchburn has been prepared which provides a linear analysis of wireframes along the minor road in the Scaur Water (farmstead) and New Cumnock. Valley between Carlistane Bridge and Polskeoch. These wireframes illustrate that visibility of the turbines from the road would in many cases be limited, particularly following the removal of T47 and T48 from the scheme. 6.8.108 The most noteworthy effects from the A76 relate to the section between Sanquhar and Kirkconnel where Indeed, for some locations, such as near Glenwhargen Craig (wireframe E), there would be no view of the intervening buildings and vegetation do not preclude views. The proposed turbines would be seen as a large proposed turbines at all. array on and beyond the hillside to the south of the road. T49 and T50 would be the most prominent turbines due to their location on slightly lower ground, closer to the road, with all of the other turbines located beyond 6.8.116 As one travels further north west through the valley, the existing Whiteside Hill turbines also become visible the near horizon thus reducing their prominence. The proposed turbines would be seen in the context of the from north of Glenmanna. However, notwithstanding this, it is noted that there would be a high magnitude of existing Whiteside Hill and Sanquhar Wind Farms and would increase the clustering of turbines in the view to change to short sections of the road, mostly towards the head of the valley as the road reaches Broad Knowe, the south. Views would however be transient and oblique to the direction of travel. where the visual effect would be significant.

6.8.109 It is assessed therefore that there would be a medium magnitude of change in the transient oblique views to Minor Road along the Shinnel Valley the south from the A76 resulting in a moderate level of effect which would be significant. 6.8.117 The Shinnel Water Valley is located to the south east of the site and is orientated north west to south east between Tynron and the south eastern site boundary. The ZTVs suggest that there would be varying levels of Minor Road along the Kello Valley visibility of the proposed turbines, from up to 11 turbines to up to 22 turbines. However, the Shinnel Water 6.8.110 When travelling along the minor road from Sanquhar into the Kello Valley, the ZTVs suggest that there would Valley is heavily wooded, with much of the visual experience from the road curtailed to the immediate valley be theoretical visibility of up to 11 turbines seen for the majority of the route. itself and as a consequence, the proposed development is unlikely to be perceptible from the lower reaches 6.8.111 The route travels through a narrow valley which is heavily planted to either side as it travels further into the of the valley. Wireframe visualisations from a number of the properties along the minor road of in the Shinnel valley. Visibility from the road is greatly restricted for much of the route, with views only opening up as one Water Valley have been provided within the new Appendix 6.8. Within the middle reaches of the valley, travels deeper into the valley, towards the property at Hillend. The road forms a primary access to the beyond 3km from a proposed turbine, the development would not have a dominating presence in views and commercial plantation in the local landscape and as such is well used by HGVs. there would no more than a medium magnitude of change in views from the road which would not be significant. Within 3km of the site, there would be the potential for the turbines to be a more notable element 6.8.112 The existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm forms a prominent feature in the view from the road as one on the view and therefore at the very head of the valley towards Appin Lodge, there would be the potential travels past Corserig Hill. A small number of the proposed turbines would be seen in the context of these for a short section of significant effect. existing turbine, set back from the valley, and thus reducing their perceived scale in the landscape. The nature of the valley is very much utilitarian, and a relatively small increased presence of commercial wind energy Minor Road along the Ken Valley within the valley would not greatly affect the baseline nature of the view. 6.8.118 The Ken Valley is located to the south west of the site. The narrow valley broadens as it heads south towards the B729 from the Head of Ken. The valley is typified by coniferous plantation which encloses the visual 6.8.113 There would be a medium to low magnitude of change in the view giving rise to a moderate to experience over and above the valley slopes however, there are views of existing turbines from the upper moderate/minor effect that is not significant. reaches of the valley, which are already seen from the minor road. The ZTVs suggest that up to 11 of the proposed turbines would be seen from the valley between Corlae and Lorg. However, in reality intervening Minor Road along the Euchan Valley landform and coniferous plantation would severely restrict potential views of the turbines from the road and 6.8.114 The minor road in the Euchan Water Valley is located to the north east of the site and extends between there would be no greater than a minor effect. Sanquhar, around 6km from the nearest proposed turbine, to the head of the valley at Glenglass. The valley is heavily forested and the ZTVs suggest that visibility will most likely be limited to up to 11 of the proposed Minor Road along Glen Afton turbines. In reality, the majority of the turbines would be set back from the valley, beyond the existing 6.8.119 The minor road which runs along Glen Afton to its head at the Afton reservoir is located to the north west of Whiteside Hill and Sanquhar turbines, and would ultimately form a smaller part in the view than the existing the site. Following the removal of turbines 11-14, there would be a notable reduction in the visibility of the wind energy schemes seen from the valley. Overall, there would be no greater than a medium to low proposals from the minor road. The ZTVs suggest that up to 11 of the proposed turbines would still be visible

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from within parts of the valley. In reality however, the cluster of the proposed turbines which would previously Crawick Artland have been seen in views from the route along the valley towards Craigbraneoch Rig when travelling towards 6.8.126 The highest landform mounds and viewing platforms have been constructed on the northern side of Crawick the reservoir, have been fully removed. As such, proposed turbines would no longer be seen beyond the Rig Artland. From these viewing platforms, and from the northern side of the Artland, the proposed development that sits at the head of the valley, and those turbines which would remain visible would no longer form would be visible, seen largely beyond the Sanquhar turbines, and in the context of those at Whiteside Hill. prominent features in the landscape of the valley in comparison to the existing Hare hill turbines to the east However, T49 and T50 would appear closer in the view than the existing turbines, and the overall development which are smaller in vertical scale. Overall, it is considered that there would now be no more than a minor would increase the array of turbines across the valley. Viewpoint 13 shows the likely view experienced from effect on the view from the minor road Glen Afton, which would no longer be significant. the Artland and the assessment of effects in relation to Viewpoint 13, at Appendix 6.4, provides further detail.

Nith Valley Railway Line 6.8.127 There would be a medium magnitude of change to existing views which would result in a moderate level of 6.8.120 The closest railway line to the site runs broadly parallel to the A76 through the Nithsdale valley. At its closest effect which is considered significant. point it is within 4km to the north east of the site at Kirkconnel. Whilst it is acknowledged that this is predominantly a commuter railway line, the route features within the “Iron Roads” series of books on scenic 6.8.128 However, it should be noted that the enjoyment of the sculptural forms which constitute the Artland project railway journeys written by Michael Pearson and travels through the Nith Valley. As such receptors are would not be compromised. deemed to be of medium sensitivity. Striding Arches 6.8.129 The views available from three of the four Striding Arches are expansive and panoramic owing to their location 6.8.121 The ZTV suggests that views of up to 33 of the proposed turbines would be available along the route between Kirkconnel and Sanquhar, with decreasing levels of visibility beyond these settlements. Any views of the on hill summits (Colt Hill, Bail Hill and Benbrack). The ZTVs suggest that all of the proposed turbines would be turbines would generally be transient and oblique to the direction of travel and it is acknowledged that for the visible from the three hill summits on which the Arches stand. The proposed development would not be seen majority of this section views are likely to be obscured by built form and vegetation lining the route. Any views from the lowing lying Striding Arch at Cairnhead in the Dalwhat Valley. of the turbines would also be seen in the context of the existing Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and 6.8.130 Viewpoint 7 illustrates the view from the Arch at Colt Hill, which is located immediately behind where the Whiteside Hill turbines. However, it is noted that T49 and T50 would appear closer and thus more prominent photograph was taken. The turbines would form a prominent feature in the view from Colt Hill but importantly in the view, with the remaining turbines seen beyond the near horizon, extending the array of turbines along they would be seen in the opposite direction to the key part of the view from the Arch, which extend from the the horizon. As such the proposed turbines would constitute a medium change to the overall view from the south west through the south east, towards the other Arches. route, particular between Sanquhar and Kirkconnel. 6.8.131 The other two Striding Arches, on Bail Hill and Benbrack, are located at greater distance from the site, at 4.5km 6.8.122 It is assessed that there would be a medium magnitude of change in the transient views towards the site from and 5km respectively, and as such the proposed turbines would appear slightly less prominent in the view to trains passing between Kirkconnel and Sanquhar in particular resulting in moderate level of effect which would the north and north west. The proposed development would also be seen in the context of existing turbines be significant. in the wider landscape. The turbines would not appear in the direct line of sight between the Aches on the hill Visual effects on historic and tourism attractions summits and the Arch within the valley, rather they would be located in the landscape beyond the Dalwhat Valley. Sanquhar Castle 6.8.132 Overall, whilst the proposed development would be clearly visible from three of the Striding Arches, giving 6.8.123 Views from Sanquhar Castle are likely to be comparable with those described for Viewpoint 4. The focus of rise to a significant visual effect, the proposed turbines would be located away from the key lines of sight views in the grounds lies principally with the ruin itself although it is acknowledged that from certain locations between the Arches on the hill, and the Arch in the valley. The presence of the turbines in the wider landscape around the ruins, the hills of the Southern Uplands form an important backdrop. would not compromise the understanding and enjoyment of the Striding Arches as a sculptural piece. 6.8.124 The ZTVs suggest that up to 22 of the proposed turbines would be visible. Whilst it is noted that views will be available, the turbines would be largely seen beyond the existing turbines at Sanquhar Community Wind Farm Effects upon landscape designations and in the context of those at Whiteside Hill and Hare Hill, with just T49 and T50 appearing closer in the view. Thornhill Uplands Regional Scenic Area and East Ayrshire Sensitive Landscape Area As such the majority of the turbines would appear less prominent in the landscape, with many of which seen 6.8.133 The effects upon relevant landscape designations has been considered in detail within Appendix 6.7. This as blade tips only, and would contribute to a low change to the baseline view. primarily relates to the Thornhill Uplands RSA and the East Ayrshire SLA. In both cases the revised proposals have deleted turbines from these areas, such that there would no longer be turbines sited directly within the 6.8.125 However, with the presence of T49 and T50 in the near view, and as the proposed development would increase the overall size of the turbine array to the south, creating a large cluster of turbines within the uplands beyond Thornhill Uplands RSA (previously there were two) and there would now be four fewer proposed turbines the valley, the overall magnitude of change would be medium resulting in a moderate level of effect which is located within the East Ayrshire SLA (previously seven, now three). considered significant. 6.8.134 In summary, whilst it is acknowledged there will be some significant effects upon landscape character and visual amenity experienced from relatively small parts of the RSA and SLA, and in views towards the RSA and SLA from the landscape beyond their boundaries, there will not be significant effects upon the ability to

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appreciate the underlying Thornhill Uplands RSA or East Ayrshire SLA landscapes. The landscapes as a whole experienced where there are relatively open aspect views across the Nith Valley towards the site, particularly would remain attractive and legible. from receptors located on the southern periphery of the settlements.

Night time Lighting Visual Effects 6.8.144 It is recognised that there are a number of valley landscapes surrounding the site and these valleys are settled. There would be significant visual effects experienced by receptors located within the Scaur Valley and Shinnel 6.8.135 The assessment of landscape and visual effects of visible aviation lighting at Appendix 6.5 has identified that Valley, however the visibility of turbines in the Scaur Valley is now reduced following the removal of T47 and the visible lighting would be screened by landform and topography from much of the surrounding 10km, in T48. There is also no longer a significant visual effect in Glen Afton following the removal of T11-14. particular from large sections of the A76 to the east of New Cumnock. Many views would be seen in areas where night time lighting is a familiar element of the landscape. Following the removal of turbines 11-14 there 6.8.145 In relation to public rights of way within the study area, it is acknowledged that there would be significant would also no longer be the potential for significant effects upon visual receptors using the southernmost visual effects experienced from the Southern Upland Way, particularly within 5km of the proposed turbines. section of Afton Road. There would also be significant visual effects experienced from short sections of Core Paths 443, 84, 51, 111, and the footpath that runs between Glen Afton and Dunside. From other transport routes, there would be Decommissioning Effects significant visual effects experienced by receptors on the A76 as it passes between Sanquhar and Kirkconnel, 6.8.136 As during the construction phase, beyond the immediate vicinity of the site, the decommissioning activities at and similarly the trail line that passes through Nithsdale, between the same two settlements. ground level would not be visible. Effects on views would generally decrease incrementally as the turbines are removed. 6.8.146 In terms of local tourist attractions, there would be significant visual effects experienced at Sanquhar Castle, Crawick Artland and the Striding Arches located on the hill summits. However, the visitor experience at these 6.8.137 The decommissioning activities would not be widely visible except for locations within the immediate locality attractions would not be diminished by the presence of the proposed development in the wider landscape. of the site where the effects of decommissioning activities would be relatively incidental when viewed in the context of the turbines being removed. 6.8.147 Overall, the proposed development would bring about some inevitable significant visual effects, all of which would be experienced within a relatively small part of the landscape that surrounds the Sanquhar II site. These 6.8.138 Whilst views of cranes dismantling the turbines may be visible from a number of the representative effects have in turn been further reduced following the removal of 6 of the more prominent turbines from the viewpoints, this would be incidental to the turbines being dismantled where effects would be very temporary. scheme. Of the representative viewpoints, there would be clear visibility of ground level works during decommissioning from Viewpoint 5, 7, and 24. 6.9 Cumulative Landscape and Visual Effects 6.8.139 The decommissioning effects would all be temporary, short term and non-permanent with the only permanent feature being the main access track which would be retained in situ as a private access track. 6.9.1 All other wind energy developments that are operational, under construction, consented or subject to a valid full planning application within 35km of Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm were identified and reviewed as 6.8.140 Overall, it is considered that there would be no greater than a low magnitude of change during the de- part of the cumulative baseline. It is acknowledged that this list is constantly changing and therefore the 1st commissioning phase and this would progressively reduce. Therefore, there would only be a slight additional September 2018 was originally used as an effective ‘cut off’ date after which no further research was effect on landscape character during the decommissioning phase. undertaken on the evolving status of wind energy development in the study area in the original LVIA, and the CLVIA reflected the status of each wind farm at the time of that date. As this replacement LVIA has been 6.8.141 Post decommissioning, and once restoration of the landscape is complete, there would be a low residual prepared in March 2020, the opportunity has been taken to provide an updated assessment based on a ‘cut magnitude of change on views from locations to the north and west where the access track would be visible. off’ date of 13th March 2020. This would result in no greater than a moderate/minor residual level of effect on landscape character which is not considered significant. 6.9.2 In order that the assessment remains focussed on those other schemes which have the greatest potential to give rise to significant cumulative effects, it was again deemed appropriate to scope out turbines under 50m, Summary of Visual Effects or under 80m and over 10km from the site. The exception being for that part of the study area which lies within East Ayrshire where a request had been received during the EIA Scoping process for all turbines up to 6.8.142 In summary, there would be significant visual effects experienced at 8 of the 25 assessment viewpoint a distance of 5km from the site to be considered in the cumulative assessment (albeit that no such additional locations, all of which are located within 10km of the proposed turbines (a reduction in two viewpoints with schemes were present). Schemes that are at scoping or at the pre-planning stage have again not been significant effects following the removal of 6 turbines from the scheme). There would also be significant effects considered due to the uncertainty that these schemes will come forward and the lack of adequate information upon the visual amenity of 3 residential properties located within 2km and an additional 4 within 3km of the about project details. This is in accordance with the approach advocated in GLVIA3. proposed turbines (this excludes the three properties which are now under the control of the applicant which are to be taken out of residential use, and those which are financially involved in the scheme ). 6.9.3 The sites identified further in the cumulative impact assessment are shown in Table 6.10 below, and those that are considered further within the CLVIA are set out at Table 6.11. All sites are illustrated in Figure 6.2. 6.8.143 In terms of other residential settlements, there would be significant effects experienced intermittently from parts of Kirkconnel/Kelloholm and Sanquhar, including Crawick and Knockenstob. Such effects would be 6.9.4 At the time of preparing this updated LVIA, there are 69 other wind farms or wind turbine schemes within 35km of the site which are either operational, under construction or in the planning system. As a breakdown

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of these by status: 28 are operational, 32 are consented or under construction and 9 are subject to a valid Blade tip height of Site Number of turbines planning application (including those at appeal or have been refused and may be appealed at a later date). turbines Douglas West 149.9 13 6.9.5 It should be noted that the consented Sanquhar Six scheme has been included within the visualisations to Glenmuckloch 133.5 8 illustrate the likely views should it be brought forward in a similar manner to any of the other consented JJ’s Farm 102m 1 schemes. However, it has been confirmed by the applicant that should Sanquhar II scheme proposals be Lethans 136m/149.9/152m/ 22 consented, the consented Sanquhar Six scheme would not be progressed. It should also be noted that the 176m proposed Ulzieside Wind Farm has not been considered within this assessment as it has been formally Lion Hill 126.5 4 withdrawn from the planning system. Lorg 130m – 150m 9 Kennoxhead 145m 19 Table 6.10: Other Wind Farms within 35km of the Site Knockman Hill 81m 5 Knockshinnoch 126.5 2 Blade tip height of Site Number of turbines turbines Kype Muir Extension 132m/152m 18 Operational M74 Eco Park 99.5m 2 Afton 120m/100m 27 Middle Muir 136m/152m 15 Andershaw 125m 14 Minnygap 125m 10 Auchrobert 132m 12 Mochrum Fell 126.5m 8 Bankend Rig 76m 11 Penbreck 125m 9 Birkhill 99.5m 1 Poniel 100m 3 Blackcraig Hill 110m 23 Sandy Knowe* 125m 30 Calder Water 147m 14 Sanquhar Six** 130m 6 Clyde 125m 152 South Kyle 149.5m 50 Clyde Extension 125.5m 54 Torrs Hill 100m 2 Dalswinton / Pennyland Moor 121m 15 Windy Rig 125m 12 Dungavel 101m/121m 14 Enoch Hill 130m 19 Hadyard Hill 100m/110m 52 Twentyshilling Hill 140m 9 Dersalloch 115m/125m 23 Over Hill 149.9m 11 Galawhistle 110m/121m 22 Pencloe 125m 21 Hagshaw Hill 55.5m 26 Polquhairn 100m 9 Hagshaw Hill Extension 80m 20 Glenshimmeroch 149.9m 10 Hare Hill 63.5m 20 Hagshaw Hill Repowering 200m 14 Hare Hill Extension 70m/91m 39 In Planning Harestanes / Forest of Ae 125m 68 Broken Cross 126.5m 7 High Park Farm 74m 1 Windy Standard III 120m – 177.5m 20 Kype Muir 132m 26 Kiers Hill 149m 17 North Lowther Energy Initiative Nutberry 125m 6 149m 30 (NLEI) – also known as Lowther Hills Sanquhar 130m 9 Margree 120m 17 Sunnyside 62m 2 Shepherds Rig 149.9m x 15 Wether Hill 91m 14 17 125m x 2 Whiteside Hill 121m 11 Troston Loch 149.9m 14 Windy Standard I 92.5m 36 Fell 7 x 200m 9 Windy Standard II 100m-120m 30 2 x 180m Consented/Under Construction Douglas West Extension 200m 13 Benbrack 130m 18 * Note application to increase generation output of turbines but application fundamentally the same. Bank End Rig II 126.5 3 ** Note consented Sanquhar Six will be superseded by Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm Crookedstane Farm 126.5m 4 Dalquhandy 140m 15

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6.9.6 In order to present a proportionate assessment, consideration has been made to which of the above listed Blade tip height Change since original LVIA Site Number of turbines schemes would bring about significant cumulative effects when experienced in combination, or in sequence, of turbines cumulative assessment with Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm based on experience of the landscape in the field and professional Twentyshilling Hill 140m 9 Previously at application stage judgement. Table 6.11 sets out all wind farms that form the basis of the cumulative assessment, noting where Over Hill 149.9 11 Previously at application stage updates have occurred to the projects originally considered in this list in the originally submitted LVIA. Pencloe 125m 21 Previously at application stage Polquhairn 100m 9 Previously at application stage Table 6.11: Wind Farms Considered within CLVIA Glenshimmeroch 149.9m 10 Previously at application stage Blade tip height Change since original LVIA In Planning Site Number of turbines of turbines cumulative assessment Longburn 134m 10 Application refused/withdrawn Wether Hill Extension Application refused/withdrawn Operational 100m 11 Windy Standard I 92.5m 36 - Windy Standard III 120m - 177.5m 20 - Windy Standard II 100 - 120m 30 - Margree 120m 17 - Wether Hill 91m 14 - Enoch Hill 130m 19 Now consented – see above Blackcraig Hill 110m 23 - Harryburn 149.9m 17 Application refused/withdrawn Dersalloch 115/125m 23 - NLEI 149m 30 - Hare Hill 63.5m 20 - Twentyshilling Hill 140m 9 Now consented – see above Hare Hill Extension 70/91m 39 - Over Hill 149.9 11 Now consented – see above Whiteside Hill 121m 10 - Pencloe Now consented – see above High Park Farm 74m 1 - 125m 21 Polquhairn 100m 9 Now consented – see above Afton 120m 27 - High Park Farm Application refused/withdrawn Sunnyside 62m 2 - 74m 2 Extension Sanquhar 130m 9 - Cornharrow 149.9m 11 Application refused/withdrawn Consented Glenshimmeroch 149.9m 10 Now consented – see above Lorg Also, now an application submitted Shepherds Rig 149.9m x 15 Submitted to planning since 130m x 6 to revise the proposals to: 17 9 125m x 2 previous LVIA was prepared 149.9m x 3 9 turbines at 149.9m, each with a Troston Loch Submitted to planning since rotor diameter of 133m) 149.9m 14 previous LVIA was prepared South Kyle 149.5m 50 - Fell 7 x 200m Submitted to planning since Windy Rig 125m 12 - 9 2 x 180m previous LVIA was prepared Knockman Hill 81m 5 - North Kyle Submitted to planning since 149.9m 54 Benbrack 130m 18 - previous LVIA was prepared Torrs Hill 100m 2 - Glenmuckloch 133.5m 8 - Kennoxhead 145m 19 - 6.9.7 It is important to note that since the cut-off date on the 13th March 2020 for the LVIA assessment, the Lethans Also, now an application submitted application to increase the tip height of turbines at Lethans Wind Farm was granted consent on the 18th June 22 - 5 at 176m, 1 at 152m, to revise the proposals to: 2020. The new consented scheme consists of 7 turbines at 176m to tip height, 10 turbines at 200m to tip 136m to 176m 9 at 149.9m and 7 at 7 turbines at 176m; height and 5 turbines at 220m to tip height. This indicates that the landscape of this part of southern Scotland 136m 10 turbines at 200m; can accommodate a larger size of turbines and that the 200m to tip height turbines proposed at Sanquhar II 5 turbines at 220m Community Wind Farm would not be out of scale with turbines which have already been approved within the Penbreck 125m 9 - landscape. Sandy Knowe 30 (note application to - 125m increase generation 6.9.8 For the avoidance of doubt and to reiterate the methodology adopted in the main LVIA, the baseline against output of turbines) which the solus effects of the proposed Sanquhar II development has been assessed, includes all operational Sanquhar Six 6 (note scheme to be - wind farms but also the consented (but as yet unbuilt) Lorg Wind Farm as there is a high degree of certainty 130m superseded by Sanquhar that this scheme will be constructed either before or at the same time as the proposed development. An II application) Enoch Hill 130m 19 Previously at application stage

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assessment of the Sanquhar II wind farm in combination with other operational wind farms (plus Lorg Wind • Sanquhar II and Margree, Shepherds Rig, Troston Loch and Fell Wind Farms (Figure 6.33). Farm) has already therefore been presented in the main section of this LVIA. 6.9.14 In addition to the CZTVs, a number of 360 degree cumulative wireframes have been produced in relation to 6.9.9 The purpose of the cumulative impact assessment is therefore to consider the additional effects that might hill summits within 10km. These are set out at Figures 6.34 to 6.39. arise as a result of the Sanquhar II scheme if the other consented and in planning (awaiting determination) schemes were also operational. 6.9.15 Table 6.12 provides a summary of cumulative visibility at each of the 25 assessment viewpoints.

6.9.10 The baseline in the cumulative impact assessment is therefore extended to consider other schemes that are not yet present in the landscape but are at various stages in the planning process. Two scenarios are considered which reflect the different degrees of certainty that these schemes will be constructed: scenario 1 assumes that other consented (but as yet unbuilt) wind farms are operational; scenario 2 extends this further to assume that all schemes in planning are also operational. In reality, based on current trends, it is highly unlikely that all other schemes that are in planning will be approved and constructed but the latter scenario assumes all planning schemes are operational as this presents the ‘worst case’ scenario.

Cumulative ZTVs and Wireframes

6.9.11 Cumulative ZTVs (CZTVs) have been produced to illustrate the theoretical visibility of various other wind farms and combinations of wind farms with the proposed Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm.

6.9.12 It should be reiterated that ZTVs imply a much greater geographical extent of influence on the landscape and views of it than would actually be the case. It therefore follows that the cumulative ZTVs also exaggerate the actual impacts of the turbines on landscape character and visual amenity as they do not take account of vegetation or buildings in the landscape, which may restrict the nature and extent of views.

6.9.13 Cumulative ZTVs have been produced for the following combinations of existing and consented wind farm sites and other sites in planning:

CZTVs with Operational Wind Farms:

• Sanquhar II and Sanquhar Community Wind Farm, Whiteside Hill Wind Farm, Wether Hill Wind Farm and Sunnyside turbine cluster (Figure 6.24); • Sanquhar II and Afton Wind Farm, Hare Hill Wind Farm and Extension, Windy Standard I and II Wind Farms, and High Park Farm Turbine (Figure 6.25); • Sanquhar II and Blackcraig Wind Farm, and Dersalloch Wind Farm (Figure 6.26);

CZTVs with Consented Wind Farms:

• Sanquhar II and Sanquhar Six Community Wind Farm, Windy Rig Wind Farm, Lorg Wind Farm, Sandy Knowe Wind Farm, Pencloe Wind Farm and Twentyshilling Hill Wind Farm (Figure 6.27); • Sanquhar II and South Kyle Wind Farm, Benbrack Wind Farm, Torrs Hill turbines, Knockman Hill Wind Farm, Enoch Hill Wind Farm, Polquhairn Wind Farm, Over Hill Wind Farm and Glenshimmeroch Wind Farm (Figure 6.28); • Sanquhar II and Glenmuckloch Wind Farm, Lethans Wind Farm, Penbreck Wind Farm, and Kennoxhead Wind Farm (Figure 6.29).

CZTVs with Other Wind Farm Schemes in Planning:

• Sanquhar II and NLEI Wind Farm (Figure 6.31); • Sanquhar II and Windy Standard III and North Kyle Wind Farms, (Figure 6.32);

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Table 6.12: Summary of Combined Cumulative Visual Effects by Viewpoint Location

Visibility of Wind Farms at Each Viewpoint Location Key: X = In Combination, O = In Succession (N.B. The table is based on the theoretical visibility of sites rather than the actual visibility)

Existing Existing Existing Consented South Consented Consented Proposed Proposed Windy Proposed Sanquhar Afton, Hare Blackcraig Kyle, Benbrack, Lorg, Windy Glenmuckloch, NLEI Wind Standard III and Margree, Community, Hill and and Torrs Hill, Rig, Sandy Lethans, Farm North Kyle Wind Shepherds Whiteside extension, Dersalloch Knockman Hill, Knowe, Penbreck, Farms Rig, Troston Hill, Wether Windy Wind Farm Enoch Hill, Pencloe and Kennoxhead Loch and Hill and Standard I Polquhairn, Over Twentyshilling Wind Farms Fell Wind Sunnyside and II wind Hill and Hill Wind Farms Wind Farms farms, and Glenshimmeroch Farms High Park Wind Farms. Farm turbine Viewpoint location 1 Cairn Table X X O X X X O X

2 A76 North East of Sanquhar X X X

3 Southern Uplands Way, Lowther Hill X X X X X X X X X

4 A76 Mennock X X X O O

5 Southern Upland Way, Whing Head X X X O O

6 Wauk Hill X X O X X X

7 Colt Hill, Striding Arch X X O X X X X X X

8 A713, Stroangassel X O X X

9 Cairnsmore of Carsphairn X X O O X X X O O

10 Lochside Hotel X X O X O O

11 B743, near Sorn X X X X X X

12 Corsencon Hill X X X O O X

13 Crawick Multiverse X X X O O

14 Glen Afton O

15 New Cumnock Rail Bridge X X O X O O

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Visibility of Wind Farms at Each Viewpoint Location Key: X = In Combination, O = In Succession (N.B. The table is based on the theoretical visibility of sites rather than the actual visibility)

Existing Existing Existing Consented South Consented Consented Proposed Proposed Windy Proposed Sanquhar Afton, Hare Blackcraig Kyle, Benbrack, Lorg, Windy Glenmuckloch, NLEI Wind Standard III and Margree, Community, Hill and and Torrs Hill, Rig, Sandy Lethans, Farm North Kyle Wind Shepherds Whiteside extension, Dersalloch Knockman Hill, Knowe, Penbreck, Farms Rig, Troston Hill, Wether Windy Wind Farm Enoch Hill, Pencloe and Kennoxhead Loch and Hill and Standard I Polquhairn, Over Twentyshilling Wind Farms Fell Wind Sunnyside and II wind Hill and Hill Wind Farms Wind Farms farms, and Glenshimmeroch Farms High Park Wind Farms. Farm turbine Viewpoint location 16 Merrick Wild Land (Trig Point) X X X X X X X X X

17 A76 south of Cumnock (B7083) X X X X X

18 A76 south of Closeburn X X X

19 A76 north of Thornhill X X X

20 A76 west of Kirkconnel (Layby) X O X O O

21 St Connel's Church, Kirkconnel X X X O O

22 Auchentaggert Moor X X X O O

23 Durisdeer Rig X X X X O X

24 Cairnkinna X X X X O

25 West of Ochiltree X X X X X X

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Cumulative Effects on Landscape Character westwards from the site, would be further characterised by the presence of wind energy. In this context, whilst the overall impact on landscape character from the introduction of the Sanquhar II turbines would be greater, 6.9.16 It is acknowledged that wherever more than one wind farm is visible at any given location in the landscape, the additional impact of the introduction of the Sanquhar II turbines would actually be reduced when there will be a greater overall or cumulative effect on landscape character than if just one wind farm was compared with that set out in the main assessment for a number of character areas. This is because these visible in the landscape. Likewise, it is acknowledged that the more wind turbines that are constructed in any areas would, in this scenario, already host wind energy schemes directly within them which would become given landscape, the greater will be the magnitude of overall (or combined) change to the landscape character key components of their character. This would reduce the potential for the Sanquhar II turbines to bring about that prevailed prior to the introduction of the first turbines. any further change to their character as a consequence. The character areas where this would apply would include ‘9 Upper Nithsdale’ which would, in this scenario, already include the Twentyshilling Hill and Sandy 6.9.17 However, it is also noted that in any given landscape where turbines are already present, the additional effect Knowe turbines, reducing the potential for impacts in the tracts of landscape in immediate proximity to these on landscape character of introducing further turbines may not be as significant as the initial introduction of schemes. Parts of the ‘19a Ken’ landscape would also have a reduced effect, by virtue of the Lorg scheme turbines. Furthermore, in general, the greater the number of turbines in the baseline landscape the less already being present. significant the addition of further turbines may be in landscape character terms as the landscape will be more heavily characterised by turbines in the baseline situation. 6.9.22 The character areas where there would be the potential for additional cumulative effects to arise due to turbines now being added to a notable different angle of the view which would not currently be characterised 6.9.18 It has been assessed in the main LVIA that there would be some significant effects on landscape character as by wind energy would be as follows: That part of the ’19 Nithsdale’ landscape which, in this scenario, would a result of the Sanquhar II development. This is notwithstanding the fact that the baseline against which the have views of the Twentyshilling turbines in one direction and would now have the Sanquhar II turbines in the Sanquhar II development is assessed recognises that the site would be in close proximity to the operational opposite direction. This would result in a slight additional effect above that which is set out in the main Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and the Whiteside Hill, Hare Hill, Hare Hill Extension, Afton and Windy assessment for this area. Similarly, that part of the ‘19a Ken’ landscape which lies between the Lorg and Standard I and II wind farms. These other baseline wind farms broadly surround the northern and western Sanquhar II turbines in opposite directions, where there would be a moderate additional effect. In both cases sections of the site at a distance between 1km and 6km. The purpose of this section of the cumulative however these areas are already identified to have a significant effect as a result of the Sanquhar II turbines assessment is therefore to identify whether there would be any change to the assessments of significance set and therefore there would be no change to the number of character areas where a significant effect would out in the main LVIA once the other wind turbines which are not already operational are considered to form arise. part of the baseline landscape. Generally speaking, such additional cumulative effects will arise where a tract of landscape would now lie between a cumulative wind farm in one direction and the proposed development Cumulative Scenario 2 – consented and in-planning schemes are considered to also be operational in a different direction, such that the visibility of turbines as a result of the addition of the proposed development would become notable in multiple, usually directly opposite, directions. 6.9.23 In the second cumulative scenario considered (where other schemes in planning are also considered to be consented and operational) the additional schemes to be considered would also broadly lie in three separate 6.9.19 The assessment is considered in two parts, firstly in relation to the scenario where the consented schemes are clusters, as follows: also considered to be operational and then secondly the scenario where the consented and in-planning schemes are considered to also be operational. • The first set of schemes would lie to the west/north-west of the site and would comprise of Windy Standard III, and North Kyle, both of which are proposed within areas already in close proximity to Cumulative Scenario 1 – consented schemes are considered to also be operational operational or consented wind farms (Figure 6.32); • 6.9.20 In the first cumulative scenario considered (where other consented wind farms are also considered to be A second group would lie to the south and would include the Margree, Shepherds Rig, Troston Loch operational), the additional wind farms to be considered would lie broadly within three groups, in separate and Fell schemes, all beyond 10km from the Sanquhar II site (Figure 6.33). parts of the landscape, as follows: • The third area would lie across the Nith valley and following the refusal of the Harryburn scheme would comprise just the North Lowther Energy Initiative scheme, also beyond 10km from the • Windy Rig, Lorg, Sandy Knowe, Pencloe and Twentyshilling Hill Wind Farms would all lie within 8km of Sanquhar II site (Figure 6.31). the Sanquhar II site and would collectively serve to encircle the site with further wind energy

development to the west, north and east (Figure 6.27); 6.9.24 When the first grouping is considered to form part of the baseline, there would be no more than a negligible change to the impact on landscape character as the two sites would already lie within and around other • South Kyle, Benbrack, Torrs Hill, Knockman Hill, Enoch Hill, Polquhairn, Over Hill and Glenshimmeroch operational or consented wind energy development. Wind Farms would all lie between approximately 8km and 20km of the Sanquhar II site to the north- west, west and south, further consolidating the presence of wind energy in this part of the landscape 6.9.25 The second grouping of in-planning schemes all lie within the same direction and broad tract of the landscape (Figure 6.28); and as the existing Wether Hill wind farm and the now consented Glenshimmeroch scheme. As such, wind energy • Glenmuckloch, Lethans, Penbreck and Kennoxhead Wind Farms would all lie between approximately is already considered as a characteristic of this part of the landscape within the main assessment. There would 8km and 20km of the Sanquhar II site to the north, on the opposite side of the Nith Valley (Figure 6.29) therefore be no change to the effects on landscape character in this part of the landscape, as set out in the main assessment, as the addition of these in-planning schemes into the baseline would not give rise to a new 6.9.21 The addition of these schemes would serve to further reinforce the existing influence of wind energy in the scenario whereby the Sanquhar II turbines would be seen in the opposite direction of the view to other wind landscape of this part of south-west Scotland. In particular, the Southern Uplands landscape, which extends energy development.

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6.9.26 The addition of the third grouping, across the Nith valley, to the baseline (now comprised of just the North 6.9.32 If the consented Twentyshilling Hill and Sandy Knowe wind farms were constructed, these would have more Lowther Energy Initiative scheme), would create a scenario whereby there were sections of the ‘9 Upper potential to bring about a change to the main assessment. In particular, Sandy Knowe would lie in the Nithsdale’ landscape where turbines would be visible in opposite directions across the Valley. However, as foreground of the view in Viewpoint 20 A76 West of Kirkconnel in front of where the Sanquhar II turbines there are already existing turbines at Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and Whiteside Hill which would be would be seen. This would serve to reduce the effect of the addition of the Sanquhar II turbines when located on the same side of the valley as the Sanquhar II turbines, any additional cumulative effect that may compared with that set out in the main assessment, as turbines would already form a notable feature in the come about, would occur irrespective of whether or not the Sanquhar II turbines were also added into the same angle of view. Similarly, for Viewpoints 12 Corsencon Hill and 21 St Connel’s Church, the Sandy Knowe landscape. As such, whilst there may be some additional effect on the ‘9 Upper Nithsdale’ landscape, this turbines would also be visible in the baseline of the view, closer to the viewer, and in a similar angle to the would be brought about in any case and there would be no change to the number of character areas where a proposed Sanquhar II turbines, such that again, there would be a slight reduction to the effect identified in the significant effect would arise as identified in the main assessment. main assessment. Due to its proximity to the other operational wind farms at Sanquhar Community Wind Farm, Hare Hill and Hare Hill Extension, there would be no potential for additional significant cumulative visual Cumulative Effects on Views and Visual Amenity effects with the Sandy Knowe scheme beyond those already identified in the main assessment.

6.9.27 As with cumulative landscape character effects, it is acknowledged that wherever more than one wind farm is 6.9.33 In the case of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme, which lies in a tract of the landscape separate from other wind visible in any given view, there will be a greater overall or cumulative effect on the view or visual amenity than energy development, there is the potential for additional effects to occur. For Viewpoint 24 Cairnkinna the if just one wind farm was visible in the landscape and that the more wind turbines that are constructed, the addition of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme to the baseline landscape to the north would be such that the greater the magnitude of overall (or combined) change to the view or visual amenity that prevailed prior to proposed Sanquhar II turbines would now serve to increase the extent of the angle of the middle distance of the introduction of the first turbines. the view which was occupied by turbines to a further direction where they would not currently be present (the south-west). This would result in a slight additional impact of the visual amenity of this viewpoint beyond 6.9.28 However, it is also noted that in any given view where turbines are already present, the additional effect on that which was already identified in the main assessment. However, as a significant effect has already been visual amenity of introducing further turbines may not be as significant as the initial introduction of turbines. identified for this viewpoint, this additional effect would not increase the overall extent of significant effects Furthermore, in general the greater the number of turbines in the baseline view, the less significant the that would arise. Similarly, for Viewpoint 5 Whing Head the addition of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme to the addition of further turbines may be. It is also recognised however that a slight additional effect on top of an baseline would result in the Sanquhar II turbines now serving to further increase the extent of the overall angle existing effect which at present is not quite significant could in theory tip the balance such that the overall of the view which was occupied by turbines to an additional direction where they would not currently be effect is deemed to be significant. Again, generally speaking, such additional cumulative effects will arise present (the south). This would result in a slight additional impact of the visual amenity of this viewpoint where a visual receptor would now lie between a cumulative wind farm in one direction and the proposed beyond that which was already identified in the main assessment, however again the effect is already development in a different direction, such that the visibility of turbines as a result of the addition of the identified to be significant from this viewpoint and so there would be no increase in the overall extent of proposed development would become notable in multiple, usually directly opposite, directions. significant effects that would arise. Cumulative ‘in combination’ visual effects 6.9.34 The second cumulative scenario (where other schemes in planning are also considered to be consented and 6.9.29 As has been set out within the main part of the assessment, many of the views available towards the proposed operational) is again considered with reference to the three clusters in which these sites would be located. For Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm are already influenced by the presence of operational turbines at Sanquhar the first group which lies to the west/north-west of the site (Windy Standard III and North Kyle) any change to Community Wind Farm and Whiteside Hill, along with the turbines at Hare Hill and its extension and Afton. In the assessment previously set out would occur only in the area of the landscape in the vicinity of these sites. many views the proposed turbines would appear alongside these turbines and be from locations where views are already influenced by other wind farm developments. 6.9.35 For the second group which lies to the south (Margree, Shepherds Rig, Troston Loch and Fell) again all these sites lie within close proximity to the existing Wether Hill Wind Farm and the now consented Glenshimmeroch 6.9.30 In the first cumulative scenario considered, (where other consented wind farms are also considered to be scheme. As such, wind energy is already considered as a characteristic of this part of the landscape within the operational), the following schemes have been considered: Windy Rig, Lorg, Sandy Knowe, Pencloe, main assessment. There would therefore be no change to the effects as set out in the main assessment as the Twentyshilling Hill Wind Farms, South Kyle, Benbrack, Torrs Hill, Knockman Hill, Enoch Hill, Polquhairn, Over addition of these in-planning schemes into the baseline would not give rise to a new scenario whereby the Hill, Glenshimmeroch, Glenmuckloch, Lethans, Penbreck and Kennoxhead. Sanquhar II turbines would be seen in the opposite direction of the view to other wind energy development. 6.9.31 The addition of the wind farms at Lorg, Windy Rig, South Kyle, Pencloe and Enoch Hill to the baseline landscape 6.9.36 The third group lies across the Nith valley (now comprising just North Lowther Energy Initiative). Again, as to the north, west south and west of the site would serve to further consolidate the influence of wind energy there are already existing turbines at Sanquhar Community Wind Farm and Whiteside Hill which would be in this part of the landscape, which is already brought about by the Afton and Windy Standard (I and II) located on the same side of the valley as the Sanquhar II turbines, any additional cumulative effect that may schemes. As such it is not expected that the inclusion of these schemes would result in any more than a limited come about once this third group was considered in the baseline, would occur irrespective of whether or not change to the main assessment of visual effects already set out. However, it is noted that for assessment the Sanquhar II turbines were also added into the landscape. As such, whilst there may be some additional Viewpoint 7 Colt Hill (Striding Arch) the effect of the proposed Sanquhar II turbines would be reduced by a effect on visual amenity in the Nith valley, this would be brought about in any case and there would be no slight degree as the Lorg turbines would already form a notable feature in the foreground of views from Colt change to the receptors where a significant effect would arise as identified in the main assessment. Hill in broadly the same direction.

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Cumulative ‘sequential’ effects all of the consented schemes be constructed, the addition of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm would reinforce the existing baseline nature of landscape character and views. Similarly, should all of the schemes in Users of the A76 and adjacent railway line planning come forward and be constructed, the addition of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm would 6.9.37 As has been detailed within the main part of the assessment, there would be a significant visual effect on users again reinforce the nature of existing landscape character and views within and towards the Southern Uplands. of some sections of the A76 as it passes through the study area as a result of the Sanquhar II turbines. In the first cumulative scenario (where other consented wind farms are also considered to be operational), if the 6.9.43 It is acknowledged that there would be slight additional effect upon the 19 Nithsdale landscape unit as a result consented Twentyshilling Hill and Sandy Knowe wind farms were constructed they would bring about a greater of the presence of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme alongside Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm in the same existing visual effect of turbines on the road before the Sanquhar II turbines were considered. In this context landscape unit, and similarly there would be an additional effect upon the ‘19a Ken’ landscape unit as a result the addition of the Sanquhar II turbines would not extend the visibility of turbines along the route any further of the Lorg and Sanquhar II turbines being located in opposite directions to each other within the landscape and would in fact result in a reduced impact when compared with the main assessment, as views of turbines unit. There would also be some slight additional effects in these two landscape units on the introduction of would already have become a more noticeable feature from this section of the route. The Lethans and the in planning schemes in combination with Sanquhar II. However, in all cases, these areas are already Glenmuckloch Wind Farms would lie on the opposite side of the road to the Sanquhar II turbines, but again, identified to have a significant effect as a result of the Sanquhar II turbines and therefore there would be no given the proximity of the Sanquhar II turbines to existing operational schemes, there would be no further change to the number of character areas where a significant effect would arise. increase in sequential visual effects, the turbines would only be consolidating the effect on an existing section of the A76 where turbines are already a familiar feature. 6.9.44 In terms of cumulative effects upon views, there would be a slight additional impact upon both Viewpoint 24 Cairnkinna and Viewpoint 5 Whing Head with the addition of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme to the baseline 6.9.38 In the second cumulative scenario (where other schemes in planning are also considered to be consented and landscape to the north alongside proposed Sanquhar II turbines. However, the effect is already identified operational) there may also be views from the A76 of the North Lowther Energy Initiative. These views would within the main assessment to be significant from the two viewpoints and so there would be no increase in not however extend the overall length of the A76 where turbines were visible and there would be no change the overall extent of significant effects that would arise. to the main assessment previously set out. 6.9.45 Turning to the Nith Valley, whilst there may be some additional effect on visual amenity in the Nith valley, Users of the Southern Upland Way brought about by the introduction of the Sanquhar II turbines alongside Twentyshilling Hill and NLEI schemes, 6.9.39 As has been detailed within the main part of the assessment, visibility of the Sanquhar II turbines is variable such effects would be brought about in the absence of Sanquhar II, and there would be no change to the along the Southern Upland Way, with significant visual effects arising for some sections. In the first scenario, receptors where a significant effect would already arise as identified in the main assessment. there are a number of additional schemes which would now be already visible in the baseline of views from the route. Travelling south-westwards along the route from Sanquhar these would include Twentyshilling Hill 6.10 Mitigation Measures and Sandy Knowe on opposite sides prior to reaching the Sanquhar II site. Having travelled beyond the site the route would then pass immediately adjacent to the Lorg site, with turbines to the west of the path, and then 6.10.1 As discussed in best practice guidance for EIA, mitigation measures may include: have views of the Windy Rig scheme shortly after before the Glenshimmeroch scheme comes into view. In this context whilst the overall combined effect may be greater, the additional effect of the Sanquhar II turbines • avoidance of impacts; would be reduced, as wind energy would already have become a much more notable characteristic of the • reduction in magnitude of impacts; and baseline experience of travelling this section of the route. • compensation for impacts (sometimes referred to as remediation).

6.9.40 In the second scenario, which includes the in-planning schemes, the existing influence of wind energy on the 6.10.2 The principal landscape and visual mitigation measures adopted in relation to the Sanquhar II Community baseline experience of travelling along the Southern Upland Way would be further increased by the Wind Farm are embedded within the design of the scheme and relate to the consideration that was given to Shepherd’s Rig scheme, and also to a lesser extent the nearby Fell and Troston Lock schemes. Again, whilst minimising landscape and visual effects at the site selection stage and during the evolution of the turbine the overall combined effect may be greater, the additional effect of the Sanquhar II turbines would be reduced, layout. This includes the decision now taken to delete six of the turbines from the proposals (T11-14, 47 and as the existing character of the route would already be further characterised by views of wind energy. 48) following discussions with East Ayrshire Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Summary of Cumulative Effects 6.10.3 The location of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm has been guided by the identified potential for wind farms in this location, and the presence of other constructed or consented wind farms in this landscape. It 6.9.41 It should be noted that in any given landscape where turbines are already present, the additional effect on was considered that the development of Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm in this location, and its landscape character of introducing further turbines may not be as significant as the initial introduction of relationship with a number of other wind farms in the locality, would provide an opportunity to concentrate turbines. Furthermore, in general, the greater the number of turbines in the baseline landscape the less wind farms in a landscape that had already accommodated wind turbines and had the capacity to significant the addition of further turbines may be in landscape character terms, and upon visual amenity, as accommodate further development. the landscape will be more heavily characterised by turbines in the baseline situation. 6.10.4 An iterative design approach was adopted for the arrangements of the structures on the site, and for example, 6.9.42 Overall, there would be no further significant cumulative effects as a result of the introduction of the proposed the design has sought to cause the least disturbance to the watercourses through the siting of the turbines development to a landscape that already features numerous commercial wind energy developments. Should and the internal layout of the access tracks.

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6.10.5 The turbines themselves would be painted an off-white colour with a low reflectivity semi-matt finish (or Unit of 9 – Upper Dale Type, the Shinnel and Scar Units of 10 – Upland Glens Type, the Nithsdale unit of 19 – similar as agreed with the local planning authority). Such a finish is widely regarded to be the least intrusive in Southern Uplands Type, the Ken unit of 19a – Southern Uplands with Forest, all of which fall within Dumfries the landscape when seen against the sky in a host of weather conditions typically experienced in the UK. and Galloway, situated around the local area of the site. Within East Ayrshire, there would be significant character effects upon only character type 20a - East Ayrshire Southern Uplands, 6.10.6 The proposed location of the borrow pits has sought to utilise local changes in topography to screen potential views and substantially minimise visual effects that may otherwise occur. 6.12.5 Turning to visual effects, there would be significant visual effects experienced at 8 of the 25 assessment viewpoint locations, less than a third of them, and all of which are located less than 8.6km of the proposed 6.10.7 In the long term, when the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm is decommissioned the turbines would be turbines (a reduction in two viewpoints with significant effects following the removal of 6 turbines from the removed and areas of hardstandings would be restored to a vegetated character consistent with the scheme). There would also be significant effects upon the visual amenity of 3 residential properties within 2km surrounding vegetation character. and an additional 4 within 3km of the proposed turbines However none are considered overbearing or unacceptable. 6.11 Residual Effects 6.12.6 In terms of other residential settlements within 10km, there would be significant effects experienced 6.11.1 Best practice for EIA in general terms requires that the significance of potential effects be assessed, mitigation intermittently from parts of Kirkconnel/Kelloholm and Sanquhar, including Crawick and Knockenstob. Such proposals identified and the residual effect (with mitigation in place) then re-assessed to demonstrate the effects would be experienced where there are relatively open aspect views across the Nith Valley towards the effectiveness of the mitigation proposed. site, particularly from receptors located on the southern periphery of the settlements. There are no significant effects from settlements greater than 10km from the site. 6.11.2 In the case of LVIA for wind farms this presents two interrelated problems: 6.12.7 It is recognised that there are a number of valley landscapes surrounding the site and these valleys are settled. • Potential effects cannot be meaningfully assessed in the absence of an assumed layout; and There would be significant visual effects experienced by receptors located within the Scaur Valley and Shinnel • Landscape and visual mitigation principally focus on refinement of the site layout. Valley, however the visibility of turbines in the Scaur Valley is now reduced following the removal of T47 and T48. There is also no longer a significant visual effect in Glen Afton following the removal of T11-14. 6.11.3 The approach taken in this assessment has therefore been to build the landscape and visual mitigation which took place as part of the development of the now updated layout of 44 turbines into the main assessment in 6.12.8 In relation to public rights of way within the study area, it is acknowledged that there would be significant this chapter. As such there is no difference between the updated assessment of effects reported in the main visual effects experienced from the Southern Upland Way, particularly within 5km of the proposed turbines. body of this chapter and the residual effects. There would also be significant visual effects experienced from short sections of Core Paths 443, 84, 51, 111, and the footpath that runs between Glen Afton and Dunside. From other transport routes, there would be 6.12 Summary of Landscape and Visual Effects intermittent significant visual effects experienced by receptors on the A76 as it passes between Sanquhar and Kirkconnel, and similarly the train line that passes through Nithsdale, between the same two settlements. 6.12.1 The proposed Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm site is located within the administrative boundaries of However, these would be seen as glimpses along the routes. Dumfries and Galloway and East Ayrshire and is located approximately 5km to the south west of Sanquhar and 6.12.9 In terms of local tourist attractions, there would be significant visual effects experienced at Sanquhar Castle, 5km to the south of Kirkconnel. Crawick Artland and the Striding Arches located on the hill summits. However, the visitor experience at all 6.12.2 The site is not located within any nationally or regionally designated landscapes. The site does partly fall within these three attractions would not be diminished by the presence of the proposed development in the wider a locally designated landscapes, namely the East Ayrshire SLA, however following the removal of four turbines landscape. from this area (T11-14), there are now only three proposed turbines in this SLA. Furthermore, there are no 6.12.10 The assessment of landscape and visual effects of visible aviation lighting has identified that the visible lighting longer any proposed turbines located within the Thornhill Uplands RSA, following the removal of the two would be screened by landform and topography from much of the surrounding 10km, in particular from large turbines which were previously located in the RSA (T47 and 48). Whilst it is acknowledged there will be some sections of the A76 to the east of New Cumnock. Many views would be seen in areas where night time lighting significant effects upon landscape character and visual amenity experienced from relatively small parts of the is a familiar element of the landscape. There would be the potential for significant effects on the character of RSA and SLA, and in views towards the RSA and SLA from the landscape beyond its boundaries, there will not the landscape in the immediate vicinity of the site during low-light levels. Such an effect would however only be significant effects upon the ability to appreciate the underlying Thornhill Uplands RSA or East Ayrshire SLA be likely to be experienced by a small number of receptors, as it is a sparsely populated area, with few landscapes. The landscapes as a whole would remain attractive and legible. receptors being likely to take in the view in the dark conditions. Following the removal of turbines 11-14 there 6.12.3 The assessment concludes that there would be no significant effects on any existing landscape features. would also no longer be the potential for night-time significant effects upon visual receptors using the southernmost section of Afton Road. 6.12.4 In terms of effects upon landscape character, there would be significant effects upon the landscape character of six landscape character types/units within 7km of the proposed turbines, a reduction from seven landscape 6.12.11 With regard to the Galloway Hills Dark Sky Park, it is noted that the Dark Sky Park Observatory itself lies outside character types/units before the proposals were revised. These effects are inevitable as a result of large scale the ZTV of the proposals and there would be no visibility of the visible aviation lighting included with the commercial wind energy development, but relate to the local landscape characters of the Upper Nithsdale scheme from this location. For the remainder of the ‘Core Zone’, which lies 22km from the site at its closest

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point, the aviation lighting may be noticeable, but to no more than a minor degree, within the broad panorama 6.13 Conclusion of the view. Notwithstanding the very high sensitivity of receptors seeking to take in the dark sky views, the effect would not be significant. 6.13.1 In considering the effects of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm, a precautionary approach to the assessment has been adopted in assuming that the effects of the proposal would be adverse in nature. 6.12.12 Overall, it is important, that these limited effects should be taken forward and considered within the wider However, it is important to acknowledge that the identified effects on landscape character and visual amenity planning balance when considering the overall acceptability of the proposals. should be balanced against the wider benefits of the proposed wind farm, as further discussed within the Introduction and in the following points; and it should be acknowledged that, for some people, the impacts of 6.12.13 Overall, the proposed development would bring about some inevitable significant visual effects, all of which the wind farm would be positive. would be experienced within a relatively small part of the local landscape that surrounds the Sanquhar II site. These effects have in turn been further reduced following the removal of 6 of the more prominent turbines 6.13.2 It is noted, and accepted, that locally significant effects on landscape character and visual amenity are from the scheme. inevitable as a result of any commercial wind energy development sited anywhere in Scotland. These effects, however, are reduced by the context of both existing and consented Wind Farms in the vicinity of the proposed 6.12.14 Turning to cumulative effects, it should be noted that in any given landscape where turbines are already scheme. present, the additional effect on landscape character of introducing further turbines may not be as significant as the initial introduction of turbines. Furthermore, in general, the greater the number of turbines in the 6.13.3 However, the level of effect Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm has on the surrounding landscape and visual baseline landscape the less significant the addition of further turbines may be in landscape character terms, amenity is low and has been significantly reduced further since the original submission; the removal of 6 and upon visual amenity, as the landscape will be more heavily characterised by turbines in the baseline turbines, coupled with the control by the applicant of properties in close proximity to the site, has made a situation. notable and materially significant difference to the level of landscape and visual effects identified in the LVIA as a whole. 6.12.15 Overall, there would be no further significant cumulative effects as a result of the introduction of the proposed development to a landscape that already features numerous commercial wind energy developments. Should 6.13.4 Whilst the updated LVIA for Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm identifies some significant local landscape and all of the consented schemes be constructed, the addition of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm would visual effects, it is considered that overall, the landscape has the capacity to accommodate the effects reinforce the existing baseline nature of landscape character and views. Similarly, should all of the schemes in identified. planning come forward and be constructed, the addition of the Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm would again reinforce the nature of existing landscape character and views within and towards the Southern Uplands.

6.12.16 It is acknowledged that there would be slight additional effect upon the 19 Nithsdale landscape unit as a result of the presence of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme alongside Sanquhar II Community Wind Farm in the same landscape unit, and similarly there would be an additional effect upon the ‘19a Ken’ landscape unit as a result of the Lorg and Sanquhar II turbines being located in opposite directions to each other within the landscape unit. There would also be some slight additional effects in these two landscape units on the introduction of the in-planning schemes in combination with Sanquhar II. However, in all cases, these areas are already identified to have a significant effect as a result of the Sanquhar II turbines and therefore there would be no change to the number of character areas where a significant effect would arise.

6.12.17 In terms of cumulative effects upon views, there would be a slight additional impact upon both Viewpoint 24 Cairnkinna and Viewpoint 5 Whing Head with the addition of the Twentyshilling Hill scheme to the baseline landscape to the north alongside the proposed Sanquhar II turbines. However, the effect is already identified within the main assessment to be significant from the two viewpoints and so there would be no increase in the overall extent of significant effects that would arise.

6.12.18 Turning to the Nith Valley, whilst there may be some additional effect on visual amenity in the Nith valley, brought about by the introduction of the Sanquhar II turbines alongside Twentyshilling Hill and NLEI schemes, such effects would be brought about in the absence of Sanquhar II, and there would be no change to the receptors where a significant effect would already arise as identified in the main assessment.

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