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7 Landscape and Visual Introduction and Overview Strategic Landscape Planning Guidance 7.1 The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) for wind farms forms one of the key components of the EIA process required by the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) 7.6 The site area is located within ‘Zone 1’ of Scottish Natural Heritage’s Strategic Guidance for Onshore () Regulations 2011 (hereinafter referred to as the ‘EIA Regulations’). The results of the Wind Farms as it contains no national or local landscape designations and is not within the search area assessment allow consideration of the proposed development against the relevant local planning for wild land. The area is close to the Drone Hill Wind Farm which is currently under construction policies which seek to protect the landscape resource and visual amenity. This section has been and within close proximity of the Coastline AGLV. The assessment will be required to produced by Chartered Landscape Architects at AMEC Environment and Infrastructure Limited. examine potential landscape and visual effects in respect of this receptor. Zone 1 is defined as follows: 7.2 The objective of this assessment has been to determine the landscape and visual effects of the proposed development on the existing landscape resource and visual amenity. The following 7.7 ‘Lowest natural heritage sensitivity identifies areas at the broad scale with least sensitivity to wind landscape and visual receptors have been assessed: farms with the greatest opportunity for development, within which overall a large number of developments could be acceptable in natural heritage terms, so long as they are undertaken • landscape character, key characteristics, and elements; sensitively and with due regard to cumulative impact.’ • designated landscapes; and • views and visual amenity experienced by residents, tourists, visitors, recreational and road users. Supplementary Planning Guidance 7.3 The assessment process has encompassed the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of 7.8 Specific guidance on wind energy development in the is set out in the Supplementary the proposed wind farm and has included design iteration and re-assessment of the residual effects. Planning Guidance on Wind Energy (Scottish Borders Council, 2011). The SPG recognises that for most The design and assessment process has sought to achieve an acceptable compromise between wind farm proposals: maximising energy capture and achieving an acceptable design in terms of landscape and visual 7.9 ‘Landscape and visual impacts are usually significant and most wind farm proposals are likely to raise effects. cumulative landscape and visual impacts to some degree.’ 7.4 The assessment has also included cumulative assessment and considers the additional cumulative 7.10 The SPG goes on to identify areas of constraint for wind energy development. The Spatial Strategy for effect that would be generated by the proposed wind farm in combination with other existing, the Scottish Borders is ranked as follows: consented and proposed wind farms. The Drone Hill Wind Farm (consented and currently under • Area of Significant Protection; construction) has been assessed as though it is already existing and is illustrated as such in the • Moderate Constraints (Higher); visualisations and photomontages, where the Drone Hill Wind Farm has been photomontaged into the • Moderate Constraints (Lower); existing view. • Area of Search with Minor Constraints; and 7.5 The Chapter is structured as follows: • Area of Search. • Strategic Landscape Planning Guidance 7.11 The strategy indicates that the proposed wind farm is located within an area that is predominantly • Methodology ranked as Moderate Constraints (Higher), although turbines 14 and 15 are within Areas of Significant • Consultation and Scope of Assessment Protection and turbine 1 is within Area of Search with Minor Constraints (see figure 4.1 for turbine • Baseline Description numbers). The Areas of Significant Protection which overlap the peripheral parts of the site are likely • Mitigation Inherent in the Proposed Scheme to be those areas with theoretical visibility from the A1 and A1107, which are identified as visual • Viewpoint (VP) and ZTV Analysis receptors in the SPG report. • Residual Landscape Effects 7.12 The SPG also lists the Berwickshire Coastal Path from Dowlaw to Pease Bay (Core Path 2) as a receptor • Residual Visual Effects of significant strategic importance in this area. • Summary of and Evaluation of Residual Landscape and Visual Effects 7.13 This variation in potential landscape capacity and constraints for wind farm development is noted and • Conclusions the design process has taken due account of the landscape and visual receptors identified in the SPG • References as well as many others within the study area (Chapter 3: Design Evolution and Alternatives and paragraphs 7.71 to 7.97) .

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Methodology • Cumulative landscape effects: where the addition of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would lead to an additional or cumulative landscape effect, in combination with one or more wind 7.14 The methodology for the LVIA has been undertaken in accordance with the methodology set out in farms. Appendix 7.1 . It conforms to the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Second 7.19 Visual effects are concerned wholly with the effect of development on views, and the general visual Edition (GLVIA, 2002). Additional guidance has been taken from the following publications: amenity. The visual effects are identified for different receptors (people) who would experience the • Siting and Design of Wind farms in the Landscape, Version 1 (Scottish Natural Heritage, 2009); view at their places of residence, during recreational activities, at work, or when travelling through • Visual Assessment of Wind Farms: Best Practice (University of Newcastle and Scottish Natural the area. The visual effects may include the following: Heritage, 2002); and • Visual effect: a change to an existing static view, sequential views, or wider visual amenity as a • Guidance for the Assessment of Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impacts Arising from Wind farm result of development. Developments – Version 2 (SNH Advisory Services, 2005). • Cumulative visual effects: the cumulative visibility of development change and in particular the • The SNH document Visual Representation of Wind Farms: Good Practice Guidance provides cumulative visibility of more than one wind farm, which may combine to have a cumulative visual guidance on the production of graphics, including Zones of Theoretical Visibility and effect. photomontages, for wind farm assessments. 7.20 Essentially the level of landscape and visual effect (and whether this is significant) is determined 7.15 In addition, the LVIA has made reference to a number of relevant planning documents including the through consideration of the ‘sensitivity’ of the landscape or visual receptor to the proposed Scottish Government’s web based Planning Advice Note (PAN) on Onshore Wind Turbines, previously development and the ‘magnitude of change’ caused by the proposed development, in this case the PAN 45 Renewable Energy Technologies, Scottish Planning Policy (SPP), and Scottish Borders Council construction of a wind farm and associated infrastructure; the operation of the wind farm for a period (SBC) Development Plan Policy, in particular Structure Plan policy D4 Renewable Energy Development of 25 years; and subsequent decommissioning. and Supplementary Planning Guidance on Wind Energy. 7.21 The process involves iterative design and re-assessment of any remaining, residual effects that could Defining the Study Area not otherwise be mitigated or ‘designed out’. Landscape or visual sensitivity specific to this development is ranked from high, medium, low to negligible (with negligible as the lowest or least 7.16 The SNH guidance advises that the Study Area for wind turbines of this height should be based on an sensitive) and the magnitude of change is ranked from high, medium, low, negligible to zero as area 30 km distance from each of the proposed turbine locations. The Study Area is illustrated in indicated in Table 7.1. The type of effect is also considered and may be direct or indirect, temporary Figure 7.1 and in order to achieve the SNH guidelines, covers a circular area of 30.925 km radius from (reversible) or permanent, cumulative, and positive, neutral, or negative. Where relevant, mostly in the site centre (minimum 30 km distance from each of the proposed turbine locations). relation to cumulative effects, the probability of an effect is also stated. 7.17 It is important to note that the boundary of the Study Area is not the limit of potential visibility in 7.22 The landscape and visual assessment unavoidably involves a combination of both quantitative and clear weather conditions. Rather it is an area defined by SNH, on the basis of research to determine a qualitative assessment and wherever possible has sought to gain a consensus of professional opinion suitable Study Area for the assessment of wind farms, which would contain all potential significant through consultation, peer review, and the adoption of a systematic, impartial, and professional landscape and visual effects. assessment approach. Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 7.23 In accordance with the EIA Regulations, it is important to determine whether the predicted effects 7.18 Landscape effects are defined by the Landscape Institute as “Change in the elements, characteristics, are likely to be ‘significant’. Significant landscape and visual effects resulting from the proposed character, and qualities of the landscape as a result of development. These effects can be positive or development would, in the assessor’s opinion, be all those effects that result in a ‘substantial’ or a negative.” Development may have a direct (physical) effect on the landscape as well as an indirect ‘moderate / substantial’ effect and any exceptions would be clearly explained (refer to Table 7.1). A effect perceived from outside the ‘host’ landscape character or character unit (type or area) within full description of the methodology used in this assessment is set out in Appendix 7.1 . which it is located. The potential landscape effects, occurring during the construction, 7.24 It is also worth noting that wind farm development is in a different category to other forms of decommissioning, and operation phases, may therefore include, but are not restricted to, the development such as mineral extraction or housing development. Generally wind farm development following: will have a ‘small’ development footprint, and entails the addition of tall structures to the landscape, • Changes to landscape elements: the addition of new elements or the removal of trees, usually without removing other physical elements of the landscape although the site area may be vegetation, and buildings and other characteristic elements of the landscape character. large. Wind farm development also includes aspects of visual permeability and reversibility, although • Changes to landscape quality and characteristics: change to the condition of the landscape and / generally the visual effects are most likely to form the greater part of the assessed effects. or the landscapes qualities and characteristics (including elements, patterns, and perceptual characteristics) particularly those which are considered as ‘key’ or defining characteristics. • Changes to landscape character: the magnitude of change is sufficient to alter a notable part of the overall landscape character of a particular area.

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Table 7.1: Evaluation of Landscape and Visual Effects 7.29 The level and significance of cumulative landscape or visual effects is determined in the same manner as for the LVIA, i.e. through a combination of sensitivity and magnitude of change (Table 7.1). For Magnitude Landscapes and Visual Sensitivity clarity, where significant cumulative effects have been predicted the responsible wind energy of Change High Medium Low Negligible development(s) are identified and noted in brackets in the summary tables. The resulting level of cumulative effect can emerge through four scenarios or combinations of cumulative effect, taking High Substantial Moderate / Substantial Moderate Slight / Moderate account of other wind energy development as follows: Medium Moderate / Substantial Moderate Slight / Moderate Slight • A significant effect from the proposed wind farm is predicted in addition or combination with Low Moderate Slight / Moderate Slight Negligible another significant effect attributed to other development(s). The effect is still termed significant and cumulative, but is a greater level of effect than for either development Negligible Slight Slight / Negligible Negligible Negligible individually. Zero None / No view None / No view None / No view None / No view • A significant effect from the proposed wind farm is predicted in addition or combination with another non-significant effect attributed to other development(s). The effect is still termed Key: Significant in terms of the EIA Regulations Not Significant in terms of the EIA Regulations significant and cumulative, but is attributed to the proposed wind farm and is a greater level of effect than for either development individually. Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment • A non-significant effect from the proposed wind farm is predicted in addition or combination with 7.25 The Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (CLVIA) in accordance with SNH guidance another significant effect attributed to other development(s). The effect is still termed considers the additional effects of the proposed wind farm, which in combination with other wind significant and cumulative, but is attributed to the other wind energy development(s) and is a energy development, may change the landscape resource. greater level of effect than for either development individually. 7.26 The CLVIA draws from information on other wind energy development within a 60 km radius Search • A non-significant effect from the proposed wind farm is predicted in addition or combination with Area. This allows for the possibility that other development between 30 km and 60 km from the another non-significant effect attributed to other development(s). The effect is still termed proposed wind farm may be cumulatively visible from the edge of the Study Area, and thus have a cumulative and is a greater level of effect than for either development individually; the combined cumulative effect on the landscape and visual resource within the 30 km radius Study Area. effect however, may or may not be significant. 7.27 Several types of cumulative effect are possible and are defined as follows: 7.30 A full description of the cumulative assessment methodology is provided in Appendix 7.1 . • Cumulative Landscape Effects: Where more than one wind development may have an effect on Consultation and Scope of Assessment landscape character or a landscape designation. • Cumulative Visual Effects: Where more than one wind energy development may be visible. 7.31 Formal consultation was undertaken with statutory consultees (Scoping Opinion request) and the - Simultaneous or combined – where two or more developments may be viewed from a single responses are summarised in Chapter 6: EIA Process and Methodolgy of this ES (see Table 6.1). fixed viewpoint simultaneously, within the viewer’s field of view and without requiring them 7.32 Consultation regarding the scope of the landscape and visual assessment and in particular, viewpoint to turn their head. Note: A person’s field of view is variable but is approximately 90° when selection was carried out with Scottish Borders Council (SBC), Council (ELC), Scottish facing in one direction. Natural Heritage (SNH), Historic Scotland (HS) and Council (NC) in early 2011. The - Successive or repetitive – where two or more developments may be viewed from a single consultees were provided with a list of proposed viewpoints and the reason for the viewpoint’s viewpoint successively as the viewer turns their head through 360°. selection. Further consultation was conducted via public exhibitions (held 26 -28 May 2011). 7.33 Consultation and research of local authority planning application databases, including the SBC Wind - Sequential – where a number of developments may be viewed sequentially or repeatedly Farm Database, was carried out in relation to cumulative wind energy development within a 60 km from a range of locations when travelling along a route within the Study Area. search area. A summary of wind energy development, within the search area, and whether or not this 7.28 The cumulative development of wind farms within a particular area may build up to create different has been included in the CLVIA is provided in Table 7.4. types of cumulative effect as defined by SNH, as follows: • “The wind farms are seen as separate isolated features within the landscape character type, too infrequent and of insufficient significance to be perceived as a characteristic of the area.

• The wind farms are seen as a key characteristic of the landscape, but not of sufficient dominance

to be a defining characteristic of the area. • The wind farms appear as a dominant characteristic of the area, seeming to define the character type as a ‘wind farm landscape’ character type.”

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Table 7.2: Summary of Post-Scoping Consultation Viewpoints (VP) Reason for Selection / Illustration or exclusion

Consultee Summary of Post-Scoping Consultation Renton House The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage, but site survey and analysis Scottish Borders SBC agreed with a number of the selected viewpoints, proposed some additional or confirmed that view from the front gates of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm Council alternative locations and questioned the need for those beyond 20 km distance from the would be screened and the viewpoint was dropped in favour of VP 1 at Renton Barns. proposed development. SBC agreed with the CLVIA approach. Renton East Additional photography was carried out at the following locations in the Renton area: In response, all of the SBC comments have been adopted as part of this assessment and a farm track (E382848 N665510), field corner E382799 N665021), and the small number of close range viewpoints have been provided focusing on the areas within 20 km. cemetery (E382799 N665021). Site survey and analysis confirmed that views of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be partly screened and the viewpoint was Scottish Natural SNH agreed with a number of the selected viewpoints, proposed some additional or dropped in favour of VP 1 at Renton Barns. Heritage alternative locations and questioned the need for those beyond 20 km distance from the proposed development. 2. A1, The viewpoint was requested by SBC and would be experienced by road users and In response, all of the SNH comments have been adopted as part of this assessment. (Figure 7.15) tourists (A1 tourist route).

East Lothian ELC agreed with a number of the selected viewpoints, proposed some additional or 3. Highview Caravan The viewpoint was requested by SNH and would be experienced by people at the Council alternative locations and questioned the need for those beyond 20 km distance from the Park (Figure 7.16) caravan park. proposed development. 4. St Helen’s Church The viewpoint was requested by Historic Scotland for cultural heritage reasons and In response, all of the ELC comments have been adopted as part of this assessment. (Figure 7.17) would also be experienced by walkers and visitors/tourists to Hutton’s Unconformity Historic Scotland HS requested viewpoints to be included to assist the cultural heritage assessment. All of at , within the Berwickshire Coast Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV). the requested viewpoints are illustrated as photomontages or as wireframes, either within 5. Southern Upland The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with this chapter or Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage and . Way, Blackburn SNH and SBC. The viewpoint was illustrated at the public exhibition (May 2011) and Northumberland NC did not request any viewpoints from within the Northumberland Council Area. (Figure 7.18) would be experienced by walkers on the . Council 6. A6112, Berry Hill The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with Cottage (Figure 7.19) SNH and SBC, it was illustrated at the public exhibition (May 2011) and would be Viewpoint Selection experienced by road users on the A6112. 7.34 All requests for additional or alternative viewpoint locations were considered through the viewpoint 7. Telegraph Hill, The viewpoint is indicative of the views likely to be experienced from an area of the analysis and site observation process, which was undertaken over the course of the spring and summer Dowlaw (Figure 7.20) Berwickshire Coast AGLV with overt marine influences. 2011. As far as possible, viewpoints have been selected to represent the proposed development at its Track leading to The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently illustrated at most visible, as experienced by a range of receptor groups, from a spread of different directions, and Greenwood Farm the public exhibition (May 2011). The viewpoint was later dropped in favour of other over varying distances. viewpoints and agreed with SBC.

7.35 A summary of the viewpoints considered as part of the assessment, and the reason for their selection 8. Ewieside Hill The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and requested by Historic is provided in Table 7.3. Each of these locations was visited as part of the assessment process (which (Figure 7.21) Scotland for cultural heritage reasons (see Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage and included the preparation of wireframes) and those selected for illustration are numbered and shown in Archaeology), but was also indicative of the views likely to be experienced by bold. In total 25 viewpoints agreed through consultation, have been illustrated in Figures 7.14a/b to occasional walkers on the summit accessed by a farm track / permissive path. 7.37a/b and the viewpoint locations are illustrated in Figures 7.3a, 7.3b and 7.5. Passing Place, Cove The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently illustrated at Table 7.3: Viewpoint Selection Process Farm the public exhibition (May 2011). The viewpoint was later dropped in favour of VP 11 and agreed with SBC. Viewpoints (VP) Reason for Selection / Illustration or exclusion 9. Butterdean Farm The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with 1. Renton Barns Viewpoint location agreed with SNH and SBC. This location to the north-west of (Figure 7.22) SNH and SBC, and would be experienced by road users and occasional walkers on a (Figure 7.14) Renton House offers a clear view and would be experienced by residents and road promoted path. users in the Renton area. 10. A1107 The viewpoint was identified at pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with SNH Howpark The viewpoint area identified at the pre-scoping stage, but site survey and analysis Falaknowe (Figure and SBC. The viewpoint on Moor to the east would be experienced by confirmed that views of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be screened and 7.23) road users on the A1107 and the . the viewpoint was dropped in favour of VP 1 at Renton Barns.

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Viewpoints (VP) Reason for Selection / Illustration or exclusion Viewpoints (VP) Reason for Selection / Illustration or exclusion

11. Southern Upland The viewpoint was requested by SBC and would be experienced by walkers on the 19. Law The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with Way, Cove (Figure Southern Upland Way near the settlement of Cove to the northeast of the site. Fort (Figure 7.32) SNH and SBC. The viewpoint was illustrated at the public exhibition (May 2011) and 7.24) would be experienced by occasional walkers. A wireframe (Figure 7.32c) is also included from Edin’s Hall Broch and this view would be experienced by 12. The viewpoint was requested by SBC and would be experienced by residents on the tourists/visitors to this Historic Scotland site on the northern slopes of the hill. Edin’s (Figure 7.25) north western edge of this settlement to the northwest of the site. Hall Broch is assessed under tourist attractions in this chapter. Alternative viewpoints in and around the settlement were also surveyed as follows: Crofts Road (E377216, N670887), Cove Cemetery (E377706 N671561), both used in the 20. Torness Point The viewpoint was requested by SNH and would be experienced by walkers on the public exhibition (May 2011), the A1 at the Cove roundabout (E377493 N671955), and (Figure 7.33) Way. the minor road near Kinegar Strip (E377576 N670203). Wester Dod The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with 13. Southern Upland The viewpoint was requested by SBC and would be experienced by walkers on the SNH. Subsequent consultation with ELC resulted in this viewpoint being replaced with Way, Quixwood Southern Upland Way, at an elevated location, to the west of the site. VP 22. (Figure 7.26) Barns Ness Beach This viewpoint on the John Muir Way was identified at the pre-scoping stage and 14. A6112 near The viewpoint was requested by SBC and subsequently illustrated at the public subsequently agreed with SNH. Subsequent consultation with ELC resulted in this Monashee Farm exhibition (May 2011). The viewpoint would be experienced by road users on the viewpoint being replaced with VP 24, Harbour. (Figure 7.27) A6112 to the south. 21. Blackcastle Hill The viewpoint was requested by ELC and would be experienced by occasional walkers 15. Hoprig (Figure The viewpoint was requested by SBC and would be experienced by residents at Hoprig (Figure 7.34) on the hill summit. 7.28) hamlet and occasional walkers to the west of the site. Innerwick The viewpoint was requested by ELC, however viewpoint photography aligned with 16. Home Farm, The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with the wireframe demonstrated that the view would be screened by minor intervening (Figure SNH and ELC, and illustrated at the public exhibition (May 2011). The viewpoint landform. 7.29) would be experienced by tourists/visitors to the estate (registered Garden and 22. West Steel This viewpoint (replacing the view from Wester Dod) was requested by ELC and would Designed Landscape) and Dunglass Church and is also referred to Chapter 10: (Figure 7.35) be experienced by road users on the minor road between Elmscleugh and Monynut in Cultural Heritage and Archaeology. close proximity to existing Aikengall Wind Farm.

17. A1 Layby, The viewpoint was requested by SNH and subsequently agreed with ELC and would be 23. Fancove Head , The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with (Figure experienced sequentially by road users and tourists (A1 tourist route). The (Figure SNH and SBC. The viewpoint is located on cliff tops overlooking Eyemouth and would 7.30) photomontage was illustrated at the public exhibition (May 2011). 7.36) be experienced by walkers on the Berwickshire Coastal Path.

Woollands A viewpoint from this location on a dead-end road within the John Muir Country A potential viewpoint in this location within the Country Park was agreed with SNH. conservation area was agreed with SNH and illustrated at the public exhibition. Park Viewpoint photography was carried out from the tops of the sand dunes in the north- Subsequent consultation with ELC resulted in this viewpoint being replaced with VP eastern extents of the Country Park. Subsequent alignment with the wireframe 18. indicated some blade tip visibility, but the location was subsequently dropped at the Oldhamstocks A viewpoint to represent the views from the centre of this village was requested by request of ELC. ELC. However, viewpoint photography aligned with the wireframe demonstrated that 24. Dunbar Harbour The viewpoint was requested by ELC and would be experienced by visitors / tourists the view would be screened by intervening vegetation at the two following locations: (Figure 7.37) and residents in the historic harbour area on the East Lothian coastline. the village green (E373961 N670596) and the road leading east out of the settlement 25. Twin Law (Figure The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage and subsequently agreed with (E373929 N670610). Subsequent consultation with ELC resulted in this viewpoint 7.38) SNH and SBC. The viewpoint would be experienced by walkers on the Southern being replaced with VP 18. Upland Way. Figure 10.6 shows a wireframe from Oldhamstocks Parish Church and Graveyard. Matlees Hill The viewpoint was identified at the pre-scoping stage within the Northumberland 18. Cocklaw, The viewpoint was agreed with ELC and would be experienced by residents and road Area of Great Landscape Value, but not requested by Northumberland County Council Oldhamstocks (Figure users on a minor road at Cocklaw over looking part of Oldhamstocks. and both SNH and SBC challenged the need for any viewpoints beyond 20 km distance 7.31) The village of Oldhamstocks is a Conservation Area and this is assessed in Chapter from the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. 10: Cultural Heritage and Archaeology.

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Cumulative Wind Energy Development Wind Farm Site Nr* BT* HH* RD* Distance (km)* 1 7.36 In accordance with the SNH guidance , other wind energy development within a 60 km radius Search 4. Dun Law 1 and 2 (extension) 61 63.5- 40-49 47-52 34 Area has been identified and considered for cumulative assessment. The Search Area, together with 75 the locations for other known wind energy development is illustrated in Figure 7.39. 5. Toddleburn 12 125 80 90 38 7.37 Table 7.4 provides a list of other wind energy development within the 60 km radius Search Area which 6. Long Park (Halkburn) 19 100 60 80 42 has been included in the CLVIA and includes existing and consented developments as well as developments for which there is a submitted planning application. 7. Bowbeat 24 76 43 66 55 7.38 The most relevant development to the CLVIA assessment is Drone Hill Wind Farm which is 500 m from 8. Methil 1 81 50 62 59 the proposed wind farm at its closest point and currently under construction. Three existing wind Wind Farm under Construction or Approved within 30 km farms: Crystal Rig, Aikengall, and Black Hill are located in the within approximately 9. Drone Hill (included in baseline) 22 76 45 62 0.5 11 km of the proposed wind farm and would be of some relevance to the assessment along with the consented developments at Brockholes Wind Cluster (3.9 km due south), and Dunbar Wind Cluster 10. Brockholes 3 79 55 48 3.9 (11 km). Of less relevance, but included in the CLVIA are the single turbine consented developments 11. Pressmains Farm (single turbine) 1 61 43 36 7.3 at Pressmains Farm (7.3 km) and Steps of Grace (20.8 km). 12. Steps of Grace (single turbine) 1 74 50 48 20.8 7.39 Of further relevance, although uncertain probability, is a cluster of planning application sites to the 13. Fallago Rig 48 100- 65-80 90 23.2 west of the proposed wind farm: Blackburn Farm (3.3 km), Hoprigshiels (6.1 km), Fernylea (7 km), and 125 Aikengall II (8.9 km. The proposed single turbine developments at Barnside Farm (8.1 km) and Kelloe Wind Farm Construction/ or Approved between 30 km – 60 km Mains (13.7 km) have also been considered. 14. Barmoor 6 110.5 67 87 33 7.40 Other existing wind energy development including the cluster of wind farm development at Dun Law and Toddleburn, as well as the Long Park and Bowbeat Wind Farms, are physically and visually more 15. Keith Hill 10 93.5 55 77 34 remote and would be less relevant to the CLVIA. The case is similar in respect of other consented or 16. Pogbie 6 76 45 62 35 planning application sites beyond 30 km distance from the proposed wind farm. 17. Borders Precision (single turbine) 1 70 44 52 36 Cumulative Wind Energy Development Excluded from the CLVIA 18. Carcant 3 101 60 82 48 7.41 The EIA Regulations require identification of likely significant effects and whilst the SNH guidance 19. Wandylaw 10 125 80 90 52 requires a search of all wind farms within a 60 km radius it is not practical or indeed a requirement to assess all of these in terms of their cumulative effect in relation to the proposed wind farm. Wind 20. Middlemoor 20 130 90 80 54 energy developments at the pre-planning or scoping stage have been identified where known within Wind Farm Planning Application within 30 km the Search Area (Figure 7.39), but are not included in the CLVIA in accordance with the advice set out 21. Blackburn Farm 6 125 80 90 3.3 in the web based Planning Advice Note (PAN) on Onshore Wind Turbines, previously PAN45 (wind 22. Hoprigshiels 3 125 80 90 6.1 energy developments 34 to 70 inclusive as listed in Table 7.4). 22. Ferneylea 2 71 55 32 7 Table 7.4: Wind Energy Development Included in the CLVIA within 60 km Radius 24. Barnside Farm (single turbine) 1 54 39 30 8.1 Wind Farm Site Nr* BT* HH* RD* Distance (km)* 25. Aikengall II (Wester Dod) 22 148 88 120 8.9 Operational Wind Farm within 30 km 26. Dunbar 3 100 58.5 83 11 1. Aikengall 16 125 80 90 11 27. Kelloe Mains (single turbine) 1 67 50 34 13.7 2. Crystal Rig 1, 2 and 2a extensions 85 100- 60-85 80 12 Wind Farm Planning Application between 30 km-60 km 125 28. Corsbie Moor 21 126.5 80 93 31 3. Black Hill 22 78 47 62 12 Operational Wind Farm between 30 km-60 km 29. Rowantree 23 125 80 90 39 30. Whitton 6 110 70 80 43 1 Guidance for the Assessment of Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impacts Arising from Wind farm Developments – 31. Broadmeadows 8 112 70 84 54 Version 2 (SNH Advisory Services, 2005).

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Wind Farm Site Nr* BT* HH* RD* Distance (km)* Wind Farm Site Nr* BT* HH* RD* Distance (km)*

32. Spurlens Rig 6 125 80 90 58 63. Cathpaith 15 110 - - 41.5

33. Earlseat 9 120.5 85 71 59 64. Wester Housebyres 1 67 - - 42

Wind Farm at Pre-Planning (Scoping/Screening) Stage within 30 km 65. Allanshaws 45 100 - - 45

34. Old Cambus Townhead Farm 1 66 - - 1.5 66. Blaewearie 6 - - - 50.5

35. Drysdale Moorhouse Farm 3 66 - - TBC (app 1-2 km) 67. Standhill 1 - - - 51

36. Drysdale Old Cambus Quarry 1 66 - - 2.3 68. North Common 6 125 - - 52.5

37. Quixwood Farm 13 125 - - 6 69. Minto Farm 1 71 - - 53

38. Monashee/Draikmire 17 70 - - 6.5 70. Barrel Law 10 125 - - 58

39. Blackhouse Farm 1 67.5 - - 6.7 71. Bowbeat Extension - - - - 59

40. Lintlaw Farm 1 86.5 - - 9 * Nr = Number of turbines; BT = Height to Blade Tip; HH = Hub Height; RD = Rotor Diameter; 41. Blackmains 7 125 - - 9.5 Distance = shortest measurement between outermost turbine(s)

42. Primrosehill Farm 2 79 - - 10 Baseline Description 43. Alemill 1 62 - - 10.5 7.42 Information on the existing landscape resource or baseline conditions, included in this assessment, has 44. Greenvale 1 130 - - 12 been collected from local plans, OS maps, and relevant literature, including SNH’s The Borders 45. Bulshelhill 1 100 - - 12.5 Landscape Assessmen 1998t, and information gathered from field surveys. This baseline information is 46. Edington Mains 1 86.5 - - 13.5 set out as an inventory of the existing landscape resource and focuses on those landscape and visual receptors most likely to be potentially significantly affected. 47. Rulesmain/Clockhill 1 66 - - 14 7.43 The baseline inventory is set out as follows: 48. Crystal Rig III 9-19 110 - - 16 Baseline Landscape Receptors: 49. Sunwick 5 145 - - 17 • Landscape Character of the Penmanshiel Site; 50. Murton/Shorewood 10 120 - - 25 • Landscape Character of the Surrounding Area; and 51. Brunta Hill 11 125 - - 25.9 • Landscape Designations. 52. (single turbine) 1 53 37 32 27 Baseline Visual Receptors: 53. Bassendean 1 67 50 34 29 Wind Farm at Pre-Planning (Scoping/Screening) Stage between 30 km-60 km • Visual Receptors: Settlements and Residential Properties; • Visual Receptors: Transport Routes; 54. Halidon - - - - 31 • Visual Receptors: Recreational Routes; and 55. Dere St Dunlaw 6 91 - - 33 • Visual Receptors: Recreational and Tourist Destinations. 56. Yetholm 2 71 - - 38 Baseline Landscape Receptors 57. Gilston 24 115 - - 39 7.44 The ZTV and viewpoint analysis indicates that the assessment should be focused on a detailed study 58. Frogdon - - - - 39 area of ~5.5 km radius from the proposed turbines. Taking a precautionary approach, the landscape 59. Girthgate 20 130 - - 39.5 assessment has been focused on those landscape receptors within 10 km. Within the wider 10-30 km Study Area the assessment has only included those receptors which are of national importance such as 60. Shawpark 9 99.5 - - 40 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (there are no National Parks or National Scenic Areas within the 61. Easter Housebyres 6 80 - - 40.5 30 km Study Area). 62. Forth Array Offshore 70-90 163 - - 41

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7.45 The landscape receptors included in this assessment include the landscape character and related area. However, Figure 7.7 indicates that the southernmost turbines would also be located on the landscape planning designations. The landscape character of the wider study area is classified in north-eastern edge of the Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water LCA and that turbines in the south- three landscape classification documents as follows: eastern corner of the site would be located on the boundary between the Coastal Moorland: • The Borders Landscape Assessment, SNH Report No 112, Ash Consulting Group on behalf of Coldingham Moor LCA and the Coastal Farmland: Coldingham LCA. This is considered to be a ‘quirk’ Scottish Natural Heritage, 1998; of the landscape character GIS mapping at a large scale. In practice, and judging from the site • The Lothians Landscape Assessment, SNH Report No 91, Ash Consulting Group on behalf of Scottish surveys, only the lower part of the proposed site access to Penmanshiel Wind Farm could be said to be Natural Heritage, 1998; in a ‘valley type’ landscape (Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water LCA) and the proposed Penmanshiel • North East National Character Area, Countryside Character Volume 1: North East, Countryside Wind Farm turbines are located at least 1 km further back from the ‘top’ of the Eye Water valley. Commission Report No 535, 1998; and Detailed analysis and assessment of the site also reveals that the area of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm reflects most closely the landscape characteristics of the Coldingham Moor LCA, rather • An Assessment of the Sensitivity and Capacity of the Scottish Seascape in Relation to Windfarms, than the Coldingham Farmland LCA, and the division between these LCAs is marked by a gradual SNH Commissioned Report No. 103, 2005. transition rather than an exact line on a map. This analysis conforms to the advice from SNH2 which 7.46 Each of these reports divides the landscape into regional landscape character units and then into encourages assessment of local landscape character and acknowledges that the boundary between broad areas of landscape character types (LCT) as well as more localised and area specific landscape landscape character areas is not as straight forward as a line on a map. ‘Boundaries are required character areas (LCA). Each of the LCTs within the Study Area is illustrated in Figure 7.7. around landscape character areas and types, although their precision will vary with the scale of the 7.47 Taking account of all the character assessment documents, the 10 km Study Area contains 11 assessment. In reality, landscape is a continuum and character does not, in general, change landscape character areas as follows: abruptly.’ Table 7.5: Landscape Classification 7.49 Both the Coldingham Moor and Coldingham Farmland LCAs fall within the Coastal LCT as defined by The Borders Landscape Assessment. They are elevated landscapes and the Coastal Moorland in Character Appraisal Landscape Landscape Type Landscape Character Area particular may be considered as a coastal upland type at least in part, demonstrating characteristics Name Classification of large scale, wind-swept character and remoteness3. In contrast, the Pastoral Upland Fringe LCT is a lower lying valley landscape that centres on the Tweed Tributaries, which in this case is the Eye The Borders Coastal Types Coastal Moorland Coldingham Moor (and Landscape Character Penmanshiel Moor) Water. Assessment Coastal Farmland Coldingham 7.50 The following landscapes therefore have been assessed as ‘host’ landscapes where the effects would River Valley Types Pastoral Upland Fringe Eye Water be direct: Valley • Penmanshiel Moor Local LCA and part of the wider Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA (21); Wooded Upland Fringe Middle Whiteadder Valley • Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA (21); and Upland Fringe Platform Farmland Eye Water Platform • Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water (26), due to the southern part of the proposed access. Grassland with Hills Knock Hill Landscape Character of the Surrounding Area Upland Types Dissected Plateau Lammermuir plateau Moorland 7.51 Beyond the ‘host’ landscape character, the proposed wind farm could not have a direct effect on landscape character. Rather the landscape effects would be indirect and relate to views and visual or Lowland Types Rolling Lowland Margin Eye Water Lowland perceptual characteristics which are a key feature of the surrounding landscape character. The ZTV The Lothians Uplands Lammermuir Plateau Landscape Character and viewpoint analysis indicates that significant visual effects would occur within approximately Assessment Upland Fringes Eastern Lammermuirs 5.5 km, receding in magnitude (low to negligible) and unlikely to be significant beyond this distance. Coastal Margins Dunbar Plain In order to identify any likely significant, indirect effects on landscape character, the landscape Sensitivity and Seascape Area 1: Type 1: Remote High Pease Bay to Head assessment has considered those surrounding LCTs and LCAs within 10 km of the proposed Capacity of the Berwick Upon Tweed Cliffs Scottish Seascape Penmanshiel Wind Farm in the first instance. At further distances, between 10-30 km, the assessment Type 2: Rocky Coastline Torness Point to Pease Bay / Open Seaviews has only considered LCTs where the landscape is designated at a national level such as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (there are no National Scenic Areas and National Parks within the Study Area).

Landscape Character of the local landscape 7.48 The majority of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be located within the western section of 2 Landscape Character Assessment, Guidance for and Scotland, prepared on behalf of the the Countryside Agency and the Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA and this is considered to be the primary ‘host’ character SNH by Carys Swanick and Land Use Consultants, 2002, page 40. 3 Drone Hill Wind Farm Appeal decision par. 98.

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7.52 The following landscape character types and areas have been included in this assessment and the • Lammermuirs AGLV. effects would be indirect: 7.56 Within the wider 10-30 km Study there is one nationally designated landscape: • Scottish Borders Landscape Assessment • North Northumberland Coast AONB. • Coastal Farmland: Coldingham (19); Baseline Visual Receptors • Coastal Farmland: Cockburnspath (19); • Dissected Moorland Plateau: Lammermuir Plateau (1); 7.57 The visual assessment draws from the ZTV, site visits and viewpoint analysis and assesses the potential • Platform Farmland: Eye Water Platform (9); visual effects on views and visual amenity likely to be experienced by receptors (people) within the • Grassland with Hills: Knock Hill (11); landscape as follows: • Wooded Upland Fringe Valley: Middle Whiteadder (28); • views from residential properties and settlements; • Rolling Lowland Margin: Eye Water Lowland (16); • views experienced whilst travelling through the landscape (road users, walkers, horse riders and cyclists for example); and • Lothians Landscape Assessment • views from tourist and recreational destinations. • Uplands: Lammermuir Plateau (1); 7.58 The viewpoint analysis indicates that potentially significant effects would occur within approximately • Upland Fringes: Eastern Lammermuirs (8); 3.5 km and potentially 5 km from limited receptors, namely the A6112, receding in magnitude (low to • Coastal Margins: Dunbar Plain (23); negligible) and unlikely to be significant beyond these distances. The visual assessment has focused 7.53 The coastline and associated seascape within 10 km of the proposed wind farm is Area 1: Berwick on those areas where potentially significant visual effects are most likely, in particular within the upon Tweed as identified by SHN4 and contains two seascape typologies: 10 km of the Penmanshiel Wind Farm. • Seascape: Area 1 - Berwick upon Tweed Visual Receptors: Settlements and Residential Properties - Type 1 – Remote High Cliffs (from Pease Bay to St Abbs Head); and 7.59 Settlements within approximately 10 km of the proposed wind farm, which also fall within the ZTV - Type 2: Rocky Coastline / Open Seaviews (Tourness Point to Pease Bay). have been assessed in detail, drawing from the viewpoint analysis and site survey information. The Landscape Character between 10 km and 30 km assessment of visual effects likely to be experienced from settlements includes consideration of 7.54 Previous experience has shown that significant effects are unlikely to affect landscape character areas residential areas, the public realm, and public open spaces within the settlement boundaries that beyond 10 km from the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm and therefore the following landscape would be frequented by people. character areas for which there is ZTV coverage have been excluded from the assessment: 7.60 Settlements defined in the Scottish Borders local plan are illustrated om Figures 7.11 and 7.12. Settlements included within the assessment are listed as follows: • Coastal Valley (12 km); • Lowland with Drumlins (12 km); • Grantshouse; • Upland Valley with Farmland (12 km); • Cockburnspath; • Coastal Pasture (14 km); • Oldhamstocks; • Upland Fringe Moorland (17 km); • Lumsdaine; • North Northumberland Coastal Plain (18 km); • Cairn Cross; • Cheviot Fringe (20 km); • Hoprig; • Rolling Farmland (22 km); and • Dunglass; • Lowland Margin with Hills (28 km). • Bilsdean; • Birnieknowes; Landscape Designations • Cove; 7.55 There are three local landscape designations that apply to the 10 km area surrounding the proposed • Thorntonloch; Penmanshiel Wind Farm site and note has been taken of the SBC Draft Supplementary Planning • Thornton; and Guidance: Draft Local Landscape Designations, August 2011. • Pathhead. • Berwickshire Coastline AGLV; 7.61 The visual assessment of individual residential properties has been restricted for practical reasons to 3 • East Lothian Coastline AGLV; and km and considers the views 25 of the closest individual properties and groups of properties, such as those at Old Cambus, Penmanshiel, Woodend, and Butterdean. Those residential receptors within 4 Scott K.E., Anderson C., and Benson J. F., An assessment of the sensitivity and capacity of the Scottish Seascape in relation to offshore 3 km of the wind farm have been illustrated in Figure 7.12 and a written assessment for each property windfarms, SHN Commissioned Report No.103, 2005. is provided in Appendix 7.3.

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Visual Receptors: Transport Routes 7.66 The following recreational and tourist destinations fall within the ZTV and are included in the assessment: 7.62 The visual assessment considers the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people travelling through the landscape on A roads and rail routes within 30 km, B roads within 10 km and Within 5 km: minor roads in close proximity to the site as follows: • Highview Caravan Park; • A1 (Tourist Route); • St Helen’s Church (Hutton’s Unconformity at Siccar Point); • A1107; Beyond 5 km: • A6112; • Edin’s Hall Broch; • B6438; • Dunglass Estate; • B6437; • ; • Howpark Road (minor road); and • Twin Law Cairns; • The East Coast Main Line Rail Route. • ; • Barns Ness Beach; 7.63 It is noted that other main routes within the study area including the A697 and A6105 are not • Ewieside Hill; overlapped by the ZTV and would not view the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. • Cockburn Law; and Visual Receptors: Recreational Routes • Blackcastle Hill. 7.64 The visual assessment has considered the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people 7.67 Scenic coastal settlements such as Cove and Cockburnspath have been assessed under settlements. (walkers / cyclists / horse riders / joggers) on the following recreational routes within the study area 7.68 The following tourist attractions are beyond ~20 km from the proposed wind farm and are not (Figures 7.9, 7.10 and 7.11). assessed further as significant effects would be extremely unlikely to occur: National / Regional Routes: • Tilimouth Park; • Southern Upland Way (Core Path189); • Balgone House; • Sir Way; • Leuchie; and • Ravenber Way; • Tyninghame. • Berwickshire Coastal Path (Core Path 2); 7.69 There are numerous tourist attractions within the study area which are outwith the ZTV (there would • John Muir Way; be no view of the proposed wind farm from these locations) and these have been excluded from the • National Cycle Route 76; study. These include the following: • Sustrans National Cycle Route 1; • Dunglass Church; • Sustrans National Cycle Route 68; • ; • ScotWays Walking Routes in the Lammermuirs; and • St Abbs Head; • Cockburnspath to Duns Scottish Hill Track. • Pease Bay and Caravan Park; Local Routes: • Stockbridge Caravan Park Lammer Law; • Core Path 100; • Greenknowe Tower (Historic Scotland property); • Core Path 2; and • Foulden Tithe Barn (Historic Scotland property); • Core Path 95. • Church (Historic Scotland property); Visual Receptors: Recreational and Tourist Destinations • (Historic Scotland property); • Abbey St. Bathan’s House; 7.65 Recreational and tourist destinations included in this assessment include those features that appear as • Haddington Gardens; prominent landmarks or landscape features and locations associated with passive recreation such as • Yester House; walking and where there is a clear relationship between the feature / destination and the landscape. • ; The assessment for example excludes locations for sports such as quad biking and team sports or other • Ayton Castle (Garden and designed landscape); recreational / tourist destinations where the focus of activity is indoors, for example museums, • Bughtrig (Garden and designed landscape); libraries, and gift shops. Information has been collected from the tourist office and Visit Scotland. • Paxton House; Only those locations that are open and accessible to the public are assessed. • Belchester (Garden and designed landscape); • Milne Graden (Garden and designed landscape);

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• The Hirsel Country Park (Garden and Designed Landscape); range of factors that may be considered as similar or compatible with the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under • (Garden and designed landscape); construction) are listed as follows: • Whitchester, Longformarcus; and Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) Penmanshiel Wind Farm • Broxmouth Parks. Turbine number: 22 Turbine number: 15 Information Gaps Turbine height: 76 m to blade tip Turbine height: 100 m to blade tip 7.70 The assessment of residential properties is limited to those properties which appear on the Ordnance Turbine proportions: Turbine proportions: Survey 1:25,000 scale map although it is possible that there may be un-mapped properties, including Hub Height : Rotor Diameter = 60:80 = 1:1.33 Hub Height : Rotor Diameter = 46:60 = 1:1.31 any constructed since the assessment. Turbine layout: Loose grid Turbine layout: Loose grid Mitigation Inherent in the Proposed Scheme Turbine colour: semi matt pale grey Turbine colour: semi matt pale grey Rotation Speed: 12.8-19.2 rpm Rotation Speed: 6.5 – 22.9 rpm Landscape Design Objectives Host Landscape: Host Landscape: 7.71 The landscape design objectives have been developed through consultation with SBC and SNH and aim Coastal Moorland - Coldingham Moor Coastal Moorland - Penmanshiel Moor to provide an acceptable compromise between maximising energy capture and achieving an ZTV: Limited ZTV: Limited, close match to Drone Hill acceptable design in terms of landscape and visual effects. In particular the following design objectives have been developed which are specific to the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm: 7.75 The process is illustrated in plan form in Figure 7.13a and is further illustrated through wireframes from four viewpoints in Figures 7.13b and 7.13c. In all cases, the design composition takes into • To limit the ZTV and areas of potentially significant landscape and visual effect on areas including account the appearance of the proposed wind farm alongside Drone Hill Wind Farm (under the Berwickshire Coast AGLV, local settlements including Grantshouse, Cove, Oldhamstocks and construction, shown in red on the wireframes). A commentary of the effects of the design evolution is Cockburnspath, important routes including the A1 tourist route, the A1107, the Berwickshire provided in Table 7.6. Coastal Path, and the Southern Upland Way, and from local tourist destinations such as Pease Bay and Dunglass Church. Table 7.6: Design Evolution Viewpoint Commentaries • To ensure that the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm appears visually compatible with the Drone Design Commentary Hill Wind Farm (under construction). • To ensure the design and appearance of turbines from the north eastern viewpoints in particular Turbine Layout The scoping layout is an arced layout which stretches into the northern and north- is not over dominant. Figure 7.13a western extents of the site. There is a noticeable gap between two of the “arms” of the arcs (i.e between turbines 15 to 19 and turbines 8 to 12). Turbines 1, 7, 13 and 14 • To limit landscape effects on neighbouring landscape character areas which may be considered as are located on west facing slopes. of high visual sensitivity (Pastoral Upland Fringe Valley: Eye Water and Coastal Farmland: The final layout involves the proposed number of turbines being reduced from 19 to 15. Coldingham Moor). The turbines are arranged in a grid which follows the undulations of the local landscape 7.72 The design has also considered planning policy advice at a national level as well as the advice set out and respects a topography influenced by minor watercourses which run north-west to by SNH and in the development plans. Particular attention has been paid to the Local Planning Policy south-east. The compact layout incorporates even spacing between the turbines and reduces the overall footprint encompassed by the outermost wind turbines. Crucially D4: Renewable Energy Development and the SBC Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance on Wind the turbines are kept away from the higher ground to the north and north-west of the Energy, 2010. site which forms a locally prominent skyline in certain views. Landscape Design Evolution and Turbine Layout The Penmanshiel Wind Farm turbines would be located within a shallow bowl within the raised plateau local landscape, a feature that is also noted in respect of the Drone Hill 7.73 A range of landscape constraints are present on the site area and these have influenced the final Wind Farm (under construction). layout of the proposed wind farm including turbine and access track layout, the site access road and Both wind farms are located within coastal upland landscape character types. the location of associated infrastructure such as the control building, substation, and site entrance. Viewpoint 5. Southern This is a long distance footpath and important receptor as defined in the SPG. 7.74 The design process involved a reduction in turbine numbers and a reduction in turbine height. There Upland Way, The design process constitutes a reduction to 70% of the horizontal and vertical angle of were 19 turbines at 125 m to blade tip in the initial scoping stage layout, which has reduced in the Blackburn. view (AOV) occupied by the Penmanshiel Wind Farm on the wireframe. This has the final layout to 15 turbines, 100 m to blade tip in a loose grid layout. The design process has sought to Figure 7.13b effect of minimising the apparent differences between the size of the proposed wind create a wind farm that is visually compatible with the neighbouring Drone Hill Wind Farm (under farm when compared with Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) as well as construction), which would consist of 22 turbines, 76 m to blade tip, also in a loose grid layout. A reducing potential visual effects.

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proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm has been minimised where possible and the turbines would not Design Commentary appear disproportionate to the skylines and hillsides they occupy. There would be no ‘looming’ Viewpoint 11. This is a long distance footpath and important receptor as defined in the SPG. turbines seemingly ‘precariously’ positioned on key summits and no ‘stepping down’ of turbines into Southern Upland Way, The design process constitutes a reduction to 50% of the horizontal and vertical AOV the lowland or valley landscapes when viewed from the west. For these reasons, in the assessor’s Cove occupied by the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm on the wireframe. This has the opinion, the turbine layout would be acceptable from a landscape and visual point of view. Figure 7.13b effect of minimising the apparent differences between the size of the Penmanshiel Wind Farm when compared with Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). Wind Turbines Just one hub would be visible as a result of the changes compared to nine in the 7.78 The final proposal includes 15 turbines, laid out in a loose grid which responds to the north-west– original design. The scale of the turbines relate more closely to existing features such south-east alignment of the local landform. The proposed turbines would have a maximum hub height as masts on the horizon. By setting the turbines back behind the horizon line they of 60 m and maximum rotor diameter of 80 m, giving a maximum turbine height of 100 m to blade tip. appear far less prominent. The significant level of effect at this viewpoint location becomes Moderate and not 7.79 The colour of the neighbouring Drone Hill Wind Farm turbines would be pale grey with a semi-matt significant as a result of the design process. finish and the proposed Penmanshiel wind turbines would be coloured to match this. This colour is considered to be the most appropriate to reduce their contrast with the background sky and landscape Viewpoint 12. The design process constitutes a reduction to 50% of the vertical AOV and a reduction to Cockburnspath 80% of the horizontal AOV occupied by the Penmanshiel Wind Farm on the wireframe. and minimise their reflectivity. The turbines would be uniform in colour (no company logos or Figure 7.13c In reality the horizontal AOV would be less than 20% of the original size due to forestry advertising). screening. This has the effect of minimising the apparent differences between the size 7.80 Turbine transformers would be located adjacent to the turbine towers as a visual preference. of the Penmanshiel Wind Farm when compared with Drone Hill Wind Farm (under However where this is not possible, the transformers would be housed externally adjacent to the construction). turbine tower bases. The enclosure would be brown, or green in colour to reduce contrast with The number of hubs visible would reduce from nine to one. The scale of the turbines background moorland. relate more closely to existing features such as masts on the horizon. By setting the turbines back behind the horizon line they appear far less prominent. Meteorological Masts The significant level of effect at this viewpoint location becomes Moderate and not significant as a result of the design process. 7.81 One lattice tower meteorological mast, up to 80 m high would be located amongst the wind turbines. 7.82 During the construction period and the first 6-8 months of the operation period up to six temporary Viewpoint 17. A1 This is a major tourist route and important receptor as defined in the SPG. masts, 60 m in height would be erected and are likely to add noticeably to the construction and Layby, Bilsdean The design process constitutes a reduction to 50% of the vertical AOV and a slight Figure 7.13b reduction of the horizontal AOV occupied by the proposed wind farm on the wireframe. operational effects for a short temporary period. This has the effect of minimising the apparent differences between the size of the Site Entrance and Access Tracks Penmanshiel Wind Farm when compared with Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). 7.83 Figure 4.1 illustrates the proposed site layout, which includes the use of an existing entrance area to The number of hubs visible would reduce from 14 to five. The scale of the turbines the south at Harelawside Farm. The existing entrance would be widened into a bell mouth. The relate more closely to existing features such as masts on the horizon. By setting the existing dry-stone dyke on the west side of the track will be demolished (~50 m length) and ~40 m turbines back behind the horizon line, they appear far less prominent. would be rebuilt ~1 m back from its current position. The adjoining field boundaries would be neatly The resulting level of effect at this viewpoint location reduces from Moderate to Slight/ connected to the site entrance gates via a new section of traditional 1.2 m high, dry-stone dyke to Moderate as a result of the design process and would not be significant. create a neat and attractive entrance. An approximately 15 m section of the deciduous trees and shrubs at the site entrance would be pruned / felled. 7.76 The design evolution has specifically aimed to minimise effects on the following sensitive receptors 7.84 The proposed new access track has been routed to respect existing landscape patterns and field which were identified by the consultees: boundaries and would not cut across any prominent skylines. The tracks would be approximately 5 m • The Berwickshire Coast AGLV to the north; wide, with passing places as required and increased in width on corners to allow adequate space for • tourist routes to the north-west and west including the A1, the East Coast Mainline, the Southern turning vehicles. The route of the track passes through a belt of deciduous woodland and Upland Way, and the John Muir Way; approximately two mature deciduous trees would be pruned or felled as a result. • settlements at Cockburnspath and Cove; and 7.85 The proposed access tracks would be required to cross existing field boundaries on at least 13 • Dunglass Estate and Garden and Designed Landscape. occasions. Any field boundaries at the crossing points (including hedgerows / tree belts, post and wire 7.77 The results of the design process have lead to a coherent and cohesive turbine layout, which would fences and or stone dykes) would be repaired to their full length and gated as required. Any access appear as a tight group with no unacceptable outliers or large gaps. The layout compliments the required through existing hedgerows / tree belts or stone dykes in particular, would be neatly finished Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and would succeed in appearing as an extension when and repaired / re-planted to their full length in order to retain these local landscape elements and viewed from many of the sensitive receptors to the northwest. The vertical and horizontal AOV of the

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prevent damage or erosion. Stiles would be incorporated alongside gates along the route of the Core • Using designated routes around the site for construction vehicles and operation of construction Path 100 which passes through the site (see paragraph 7.87). plant such as cranes; and 7.86 On completion, the site entrance and access tracks would be cleared of any construction signage or • Implementation and monitoring of site management procedures, such as regular litter sweeps of waste and left in a tidy and co-ordinated condition. the immediate environs to ensure the removal of all litter arising from the construction activities. Public Access Operation Mitigation

7.87 Core Path 100 passes through the site and coincides with the proposed site access track for ~500 m 7.94 The operational period of the wind farm would cover a period of 25 years and include site length to the west of Harelawside. A temporary diversion including notification and signage would be management to ensure the adequate maintenance of site facilities and landscape features such as put in place during construction. Post-construction the path would return to normal use with parts of access tracks, field boundaries, gates, and signage. the route consisting of upgraded access track and stiles located at each set of gates across the access Decommissioning Mitigation track. 7.95 All of the visible, above ground structures (turbines, and where applicable, transformers and control Control Building, Substation Compound and Electrical Cables building and compound) would be removed upon decommissioning, thus rendering the vast majority of 7.88 The control building and compound have been sensitively sited and are located to the east of the the landscape and visual effects as reversible. existing sheds at Penmanshiel Farm and also near a block of mature, coniferous woodland, such that 7.96 The areas of hardstanding at the crane pads, substation and control building, and turbine foundations this part of the site would be screened from views from potential receptors to the west on the higher visible at the surface would be broken up and removed from the equivalent depth of the surrounding ground on the far side of the Eye Water Valley. The building would be approximately 13 m x 31 m, topsoil zone, spread with new topsoil and allowed to re-vegetate to grassland / moorland. consisting of a single storey with a pitched roof and would be located adjacent to a substation of 7.97 The site access tracks (and associated underground cables) would likely remain for use by the approximately 31 m x 9 m. The colour and texture of surface building materials, covering the landowner along with localised landscape effects which would be permanent. external walls and roof of the building would be selected to match existing building colours typical of this area. Viewpoint and ZTV Analysis 7.89 The electrical cables linking the turbines, transformers, and control building will be located within a trench alongside the proposed access tracks. 7.98 The viewpoint and Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) analysis is an essential part of the design and assessment process. In particular, it is used to guide and focus the baseline information and detailed Temporary Construction Compound and Enabling Works Compound reporting of the assessment in this chapter. 7.90 The temporary construction compound would be located adjacent to the control building and Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Analysis substation compound near Penmanshiel Farm. It would require a land-take of 60 m x 50 m and be would screened by the adjacent forestry (which will remain) and sheds. On completion, the 7.99 The ZTV was calculated using the ReSoft © Wind Farm computer software to produce an area of temporary compound would be cleared and restored to grassland and left in a tidy condition. potential visibility of any part of the proposed wind project calculated to turbine blade-tip and hub- height. The ZTV however, does not take account of built development and vegetation, which can 7.91 The temporary enabling works compound and wheel wash (20 m x 30 m) would be located to the significantly reduce the area and extent of actual visibility in the field and as such provides the limits northern side of forestry, adjacent to the access road, north of Grantshouse. On completion, the of the visual assessment study area. temporary compound would be cleared and restored to grassland and left in a tidy condition. 7.100 The ZTV maps indicate the areas from where it may be theoretically possible to view all or some of Grid Connection the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm, calculated on the candidate turbine dimensions of 100 m to 7.92 The proposed grid connection would be subject to a separate consenting process and an initial blade tip, 60 m to hub height, and a rotor diameter of 80 m. A number of ZTV maps have been landscape and visual assessment of the proposal is contained in Chapter 18: Potential Grid provided as follows: Connection. No significant landscape and visual effects are anticipated. • Figure 7.2 illustrates the ZTV calculated to blade tip at 1:250,000 scale across the study area and Construction Mitigation provides an overview of the theoretical extent of visibility. • Figure 7.3a (AO fold-out) illustrates the viewpoint locations and the ZTV calculated to blade tip at 7.93 During the construction period, the effectiveness of many of the potential construction mitigation 1:80,000 scale across the study area. measures will depend on small-scale site management decisions regarding the precise location of • Figure 7.3b (AO fold-out) illustrates all the viewpoint locations and the ZTV calculated to blade construction activities. Individually these may only have minor effects, but cumulatively they will tip at 1:50,000 scale. have an influence upon the intrusiveness of the construction activities overall. The key measures that • Figure 7.4 illustrates the ZTV calculated to hub height at 1:250,000 across the study area. can be implemented in order to avoid or reduce potential construction effects include: • Figure 7.5 illustrates the viewpoint locations and the ZTV calculated to blade tip at 1:250,000 • The selective and sensitive location of temporary storage areas for materials, plant and security across the study area. fencing;

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• Figure 7.6 illustrates the detailed ZTV calculated to blade tip at 1:30,000 across the central 3 km • Figure 7.44a/b – Submitted wind farms within 30 km with Penmanshiel: Blackburn and Aikengall II section of the Study Area. In this case the ZTV has been amended to allow for the screening • Figure 7.45a/b – Submitted wind clusters within 30 km with Penmanshiel : Hoprigshiels, Fernylea effects of the main blocks of woodland within the area. and Dunbar • Figure 7.11 illustrates the detailed ZTV calculated to blade tip at 1:50,000 across the central 5 km 7.107 The analysis has been broken down into three steps covering the existing and consented wind energy section of the Study Area and also shows the routes of Core Paths. developments and wind energy application schemes. • Figure 7.12 illustrates the detailed ZTV calculated to blade tip at 1:30,000 across the central 3 km • Analysis 1: 1a: ZTV of the existing and consented baseline section of the Study Area and also indicates the locations of residential properties included in the 1b: Existing wind farms within 30 km assessment. The ZTV has been amended to allow for the screening effects of the main blocks of

woodland within the area. • Analysis 2: 2a: Consented wind farms within 30 km 7.101 With the exception of Figure 7.6 and 7.12, the ZTVs do not take account of the screening effects of 2b: Consented single turbines within 30 km buildings, localised landform variations, and vegetation. As a result there may be roads, tracks, and footpaths which, although shown as falling within the ZTV, have restricted viewing opportunities since • Analysis 3: 3a: Application wind farms within 30 km they are heavily screened or filtered by banks, walls, and vegetation. The ZTVs therefore provide a 3b: Application wind clusters within 30 km starting point in the assessment process and accordingly tend towards giving a ‘worst-case’ or over- estimate scenario of the potential visibility of the turbines. Cumulative ZTV Analysis 1a: Existing and consented baseline (including Drone Hill, under construction) within 30 km ZTV Analysis: Proposed Wind Farm 7.108 The combined cumulative ZTV (Figure 7.40) indicates that there is already theoretical visibility for at 7.102 Theoretical visibility to blade tip for the proposed wind farm accounts for ~57% of the landscape and least one operational, under construction, or consented wind farm across almost all of the study area. visual study area (Figure 7.3). However, the accounts for ~42% of the coverage, leaving just The only areas that are excluded from theoretical wind farm visibility are the floors of the river ~15% of the land in the study area within the blade tip ZTV. valleys such as the Tweed, Eye Water, and the Whiteadder. 7.103 The general visibility of the proposed wind farm development reflects the underlying landform within 7.109 The proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would theoretically contribute very little (0.1% of the study the study area and there is a concentration of theoretical visibility within 10-12 km of the site area) in terms of new areas, to this cumulative ZTV pattern (areas coloured in pink). extending northwest along the coastline, and southeast towards Eyemouth and Northumberland. 7.110 Areas where the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be theoretically visible with at least one Beyond this the ZTV pattern becomes sparsely fragmented and there is no ZTV coverage west, beyond other existing, under construction / consented wind farm closely mirror the ZTV footprint of the the Lammermuir Hills towards Haddington or south, towards Duns. under construction / consented Drone Hill Wind Farm, which is illustrated again in Cumulative ZTV 3 7.104 Within 10-12 km, theoretical visibility is spread across either side of the Eye Water valley, affecting (Figure 7.42a/b). This pattern of cumulative visibility is borne out in the viewpoint assessment Penmanshiel Moor and Coldingham Moor to the east and the upland fringe landscapes to the west. whereby all of the 360° wireframes from each of the viewpoint locations includes at least one other Visibility also extends northwest along the East Lothian coast. Limited or no visibility is predicted wind farm; in most cases Drone Hill Wind Farm. along the Berwickshire coast and around the A1 to the south-east. Cumulative ZTV Analysis 1b: Existing wind farms within 30 km 7.105 Beyond 10-12 km the ZTV pattern of theoretical visibility is limited to the following areas: the North Sea; the coastal areas around Dunbar and ; north and east-facing summits in the 7.111 The cumulative ZTVs (Figures 7.41a/b) indicate the pattern of theoretical visibility for the proposed Lammermuirs; a swath of landscape between Eyemouth and ; and either side of the Tweed Penmanshiel Wind Farm in association with the three closest existing wind farms at Crystal Rig, Valley (The Merse) between Berwick and Coldstream. Aikengall, and Black Hill. Cumulative ZTV Analysis 7.112 The broad pattern of theoretical visibility excluding the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is illustrated in Figure 7.41a. Theoretical visibility is widespread and accounts for ~80% of the study

7.106 The cumulative ZTVs have been calculated to blade tip and as above, take no account of the screening area. Black Hill would tend to be the only wind farm from this group that would be theoretically effects of vegetation, landscape features, woodland, or buildings, and assume clear visibility. The list visible in the south of the study area around the Merse, whereas Crystal Rig and Aikengall would be of the figures illustrating cumulative ZTV maps is provided as follows. more influential in the north-western extents of the study area including the A1 and the East Lothian • Figure 7.40 – Existing, under construction and consented wind farms within 30 km coast. • Figure 7.41a/b – Existing wind farms within 30 km with Penmanshiel: Crystal Rig, Aikengall and 7.113 The pattern of theoretical cumulative visibility within the ZTV footprint of the proposed Penmanshiel Black Hill Wind Farm (Figure 7.41b) indicates that there are relatively few areas where the proposed wind farm • Figure 7.42a/b – Consented wind farms within 30 km with Penmanshiel: Drone Hill (under would be the only theoretically visible wind farm in this group. In theory this situation would arise in construction), Brockholes and Fallago Rig, twelve of the 25 assessment viewpoints. In reality it happens at four of the assessment viewpoints. In • Figure 7.43a/b – Consented single turbines within 30 km with Penmanshiel : Pressmains Farm and Steps of Grace

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other words, above-ground features which are not picked up on the ZTV would screen the other wind the two consented developments compared to the ZTV for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. farms in this group from two thirds of the theoretically affected viewpoints. There is no likelihood of either of the consented developments causing significant effects in relation 7.114 Aikengall and Crystal Rig are significant features in VP 22 at West Steel and these wind farms are to views affected by the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm and this is borne out in the viewpoint marginally more likely than Black Hill to contribute to significant effects in relation to views affected assessment. by the proposed wind farm. Cumulative ZTV Analysis 3a: Submitted wind farms within 30 km

Cumulative ZTV Analysis 2a: Consented wind farms within 30 km 7.123 The cumulative ZTVs (Figures 7.44a/b) indicate the pattern of theoretical visibility for the proposed 7.115 The cumulative ZTVs (Figures 7.42a/b) indicate the pattern of theoretical visibility for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm in association with the two closest application submitted wind farms at wind farm in association with the three closest consented wind farms at Drone Hill (under Blackburn and Aikengall II. construction), Brockholes, and Fallago Rig. 7.124 The broad pattern of visibility excluding the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is illustrated in Figure 7.116 The broad pattern of theoretical visibility excluding the proposed wind farm is illustrated in Figure 7.44a. Joint theoretical visibility is concentrated on the area within 10 km of the proposed wind 7.42a. Theoretical visibility is widespread and accounts for ~74% of the study area. Fallago Rig would farm. Aikengall II would be more influential in the west and northwest of the study area around the be more influential in the west of the study area around the Lammermuirs, whereas Drone Hill (under Western Lammermuirs and the East Lothian coast and there would be relatively few areas where construction) and Brockholes would be more influential in The Merse. Drone Hill (under construction) Blackburn would be theoretically visible, independently of Aikengall II. would be the only wind farm of this group theoretically visible along the East Lothian coastline 7.125 The pattern of cumulative visibility within the ZTV footprint of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm between Dunbar and Thortonloch. (Figure 7.44b) indicates that within 10 km of the proposed wind farm all three wind farms would tend 7.117 The pattern of cumulative visibility within the ZTV footprint of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm to be visible at the same time from affected locations rather than any one wind farm having (Figure 7.42b), indicates the similarity between the Drone Hill (under construction) ZTV and the noticeably more widespread ZTV coverage than the others. proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm ZTV. In theory, only 6% of the study area would be affected by 7.126 In theory, Aikengall II would be visible from 21 of the assessment viewpoints although accounting for either the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm or Drone Hill (under construction) in isolation and this is screening elements, 15 would be affected. In theory, Blackburn would be visible from 18 of the compared to 53% where both would be theoretically visible. In the viewpoint assessment there is one assessment viewpoints although accounting for screening effects, 16 would be affected. Aikengall II instance of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm being visible in isolation of Drone Hill (under would theoretically be a significant element in four of the assessment viewpoints whereas Blackburn construction, VP 1) and this is as a result of above-ground screening. causes significant effects at five. These results reflect the geographic locations of the two wind 7.118 In theory, Brockholes would be visible from 15 of the assessment viewpoints although in reality only farms. Blackburn is located on an upland fringe whereas Aikengall II is located on an elevated part of eight are affected. In theory, Fallago Rig would be visible from nine of the assessment viewpoints, the Lammermuir uplands. although in reality only two are affected. Cumulative ZTV Analysis 3b: Submitted wind clusters within 30 km 7.119 Drone Hill (under construction) would be a significant feature in six of the assessment viewpoints 7.127 The cumulative ZTVs (Figures 7.45a/b) indicate the pattern of theoretical visibility for the proposed whereas Brockholes would not appear as a significant feature in any and Fallago Rig at one. The Penmanshiel Wind Farm in association with the three closest application submitted wind clusters at occurrence of potential significant cumulative effects in relation to views affected by the proposed Hoprigshiels, Fernylea, and Dunbar. Penmanshiel Wind Farm would, in theory, therefore be far more likely with Drone Hill (under 7.128 The broad pattern of theoretical visibility excluding the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is construction) than the other consented schemes in this group. illustrated in Figure 7.45a. Excluding the North Sea, theoretical visibility is concentrated on the East Cumulative ZTV Analysis 2b: Consented single turbines within 30 km Lothian coast (Dunbar) and the upland fringes to the east of the Lammermuirs (Hoprigshiels and 7.120 The cumulative ZTVs (Figures 7.43a/b) indicate the pattern of theoretical visibility for the proposed Fernylea). Penmanshiel Wind Farm in association with the two closest consented single turbines at Pressmains 7.129 The pattern of theoretical cumulative visibility within the ZTV footprint of the proposed Penmanshiel Farm and Steps of Grace. Wind Farm (Figure 7.45b) indicates a slight reduction, particularly in the northwest of the study area 7.121 The broad pattern of theoretical visibility excluding the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is where the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be screened by the northern Lammermuirs. illustrated in Figure 7.43a. Theoretical visibility of Pressmains covers a swathe of landscape from St 7.130 The Fernylea ZTV is essentially a subset of the Hoprigshiels ZTV and given the relative turbines sizes Abbs in the north, across the A1 and into the Merse and accounts for ~14% of the study area. and close proximity of the two schemes this pattern is easy to understand and is borne out in the Theoretical visibility of Steps of Grace within the study area is limited to the area around Berwick on viewpoint assessment whereby there are no instances of Fernylea being visible independently of Tweed (5% of the study area). Theoretical visibility of both schemes from within the study area would Hoprigshiels. be highly unlikely, judging from this ZTV and would only tend to occur in the North Sea. 7.131 In theory, Hoprigshiels would be visible from 13 of the assessment viewpoints although allowing for 7.122 The pattern of cumulative visibility within the ZTV footprint of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm screening effects 11 would be affected. In theory, Fernylea would be visible from 9 of the assessment (Figure 7.43b) indicates that there is a marked reduction in cumulative visibility with one or both of viewpoints although allowing for screening effects 7 would be affected, none significantly in respect

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of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. In theory, Dunbar would be visible from 10 of the • The combined cumulative level of effect, taking account of the addition of the proposed assessment viewpoints although allowing for screening effects 5 would be affected, none significantly Penmanshiel Wind Farm to the baseline of other existing, consented and submitted planning in respect of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. applications for wind energy development, including Drone Hill (under construction) is recorded. Viewpoint Analysis • Those levels of effect shown in bold relate to significant effects in accordance with the 7.132 The viewpoint analysis indicates that significant visual effects have been predicted at 3 km distance relevant EIA Regulations and the windfarm(s) contributing most to the cumulative effect is and that high to medium magnitude visual effects would occur within approximately 5.3 km. Beyond recorded in brackets. these distances the potential effects, resulting from the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would Sunlight and Weather Conditions recede in magnitude (low to negligible) and would be unlikely to be significant beyond this distance. 7.135 Changing weather patterns and local climatic conditions will influence the visibility of the proposed 7.133 Importantly each of the viewpoints have been specifically located where the sensitivity of the Penmanshiel Wind Farm which will vary from periods of low visibility (fog, low cloud, and bright sunny receptor and the views of the proposed wind farm would be greatest, in this sense they are not typical conditions that are accompanied by haze generated by temperature inversions) as well as periods of or representative and indicate the most visible scenario. The viewpoint analysis also assists the high visibility in clear weather. In some instances the wind farm may appear ‘back-lit’ (e.g. appearing landscape assessment, indicating the magnitude of change that may affect key characteristics of the darker in colour during sunset/sunrise and periods of pale or white blanket cloud) and in other existing landscape character and designations. Again it should be noted that the effects illustrated in circumstances may appear to be ‘up-lit’ (e.g. during stormy periods that combine dark clouds and one viewpoint cannot be applied equally to whole landscape character types or units, which for the bright sunshine). most part may have no view of the proposed wind farm and remain largely unaffected. 7.134 The viewpoint analysis is provided in Appendix 7.2 and a summary of this is provided in Table 7.7. Instructions on how to read the table, with reference to the top columns are provided as follows. Distance to nearest visible Turbine (m):

• Distance from the viewpoint location to the nearest turbine within the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm and the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). Level of Effect: Baseline

• Provides and indication of the existing levels of visual effect taking account of the other existing wind farms within the landscape baseline and Drone Hill (under construction). Sensitivity:

• Provides an indication of the sensitivity of the visual receptors and the viewpoint. Level of Effect: Penmanshiel Wind Farm only

• Magnitude of Change: The magnitude of change, taking account of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm only, is recorded (ranging from high, medium, low, negligible, and zero) in accordance with the methodology.

• Level of Effect: The level of visual effect, taking account of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm only is recorded and takes account of the sensitivity and magnitude in accordance with the methodology. Cumulative Level of Effect: Baseline and Penmanshiel

• The combined cumulative level of effect, taking account of the addition of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm to the baseline of other existing wind energy development, including Drone Hill (under construction) is recorded. Cumulative Level of Effect: Consented

• The combined cumulative level of effect, taking account of the addition of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm to the baseline of other existing and consented wind energy development, including Drone Hill (under construction) is recorded. Cumulative Level of Effect: Planning Applications

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Viewpoint Analysis Table 7.7: Viewpoint Assessment

Distance to Nearest Level of Effect: Magnitude of LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Visible Turbine (m) Baseline Change Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Consented Planning Applications Viewpoint (Figure Sensitivity Number) (Penmanshiel, existing, Drone (Existing wind farms & (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, Penmanshiel (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) consented, application, & Hill Drone Hill Wind Farm) farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) Drone Hill)

Substantial Substantial Substantial 1. Renton Barns (7.14) 1781 1339 Substantial (Drone Hill) High High Substantial (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel)

2. A1 Grantshouse N/A 1584 No View Medium Low Slight / Moderate Slight / Moderate Slight / Moderate Slight / Moderate (7.15)

3. Highview Caravan Substantial Substantial Substantial 886 2180 Substantial (Drone Hill) High Medium Moderate / Substantial Park (7.16) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel)

4. St Helen’s Church 4108 2706 Slight High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Moderate (7.17)

5. Southern Upland Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Substantial 5023 2926 Moderate High Medium Moderate / Substantial Way, Blackburn (7.18) (Penmanshiel) (Penmanshiel) (Penmanshiel and Blackburn)

6. A6112 Berry Hill Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Moderate/ Substantial 4309 3158 Moderate Medium Medium Moderate Cottage (7.19) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel)

7. Telegraph Hill, Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial 2543 4159 Moderate Medium Low Slight / Moderate Dowlaw (7.20) (Drone Hill) (Drone Hill) (Drone Hill)

Moderate / Substantial 8. Ewieside Hill (7.21) 5609 3325 Slight / Moderate Medium Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate (Blackburn)

9. Butterdean Farm 5104 3482 Slight / Moderate Medium Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate (7.22)

10. A1107, Falaknowe Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone 2724 4374 High Low Moderate (7.23) (Drone Hill) Hill) Hill) Hill)

11. Southern Upland Low to 6500 4642 Slight High Slight to Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Way, Cove (7.24) Negligible

12. Cockburnspath Low to 6875 4963 Slight High Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Moderate (Blackburn) (7.25) Negligible

13. Southern Upland No view (screened by Moderate / Substantial 7196 5325 High Low Moderate Moderate Moderate Way, Quixwood (7.26) forest) (Blackburn)

14. A6112, Monashee No view (screened by N/A 5375 Medium Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Farm (7.27) forest)

No view (screened by Moderate / Substantial 15. Hoprig (7.28) 8090 5920 High Low Moderate Moderate Moderate forest) (Blackburn)

Low to 16 Dunglass (7.29) 8120 6183 Slight High Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Negligible

17. A1 Layby, Bilsdean 9304 7454 Slight / Negligible Medium Low to Slight / Moderate to Slight / Moderate Slight / Moderate Moderate

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Distance to Nearest Level of Effect: Magnitude of LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Visible Turbine (m) Baseline Change Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Consented Planning Applications Viewpoint (Figure Sensitivity Number) (Penmanshiel, existing, Drone (Existing wind farms & (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, Penmanshiel (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) consented, application, & Hill Drone Hill Wind Farm) farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) Drone Hill) (7.30) Negligible Slight / Negligible

18. Cocklaw, Moderate / Substantial 10560 8358 Slight to Moderate High Low Moderate Moderate Moderate Oldhamstocks (7.31) (Blackburn and Hoprigshiels)

19. Cockburn Law Fort 10238 8824 Slight / Moderate Medium Low Slight / Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate (7.32)

20. Torness Point Low to Moderate / Substantial 10799 9062 Slight High Slight to Moderate Moderate Moderate (7.33) Negligible (Blackburn and Aikengall II)

21. Blackcastle Hill Moderate / Substantial 11819 9167 Moderate Medium Low Slight / Moderate Moderate Moderate (7.34) (Aikengall II)

Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial 22. West Steel (7.35) 14703 12404 Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible (Aikengall + Crystal Rig) (Aikengall + Crystal Rig) (Aikengall + Crystal Rig) (Aikengall and Aikengall II)

23. Fancove Head, 1184 13474 Slight to Moderate High Negligible Slight Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Moderate Eyemouth (7.36)

24.Dunbar Harbour Moderate / Substantial 18981 17119 Slight High Negligible Slight Slight Slight (7.37) (Aikengall II)

Moderate / Substantial (Fallago Moderate / Substantial (Fallago 25. Twin Law (7.38) 24375 22572 Slight High Negligible Slight Slight Rig) Rig and Aikengall II)

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Howpark Road. Lowries Knowes and Lumsdaine Moor, Coldingham Moor, and Drone Hill are located on Residual Landscape Effects the eastern side of the local landscape.

7.136 Landscape Effects are defined by the Landscape Institute as ‘Change in the elements, characteristics, Landscape Sensitivity character, and qualities of the landscape as a result of development.’ These effects are assessed by 7.141 In terms of landscape quality and condition, the local landscape character at Penmanshiel Moor has considering the landscape sensitivity against the magnitude of change. The type of effect is described been heavily modified by forestry and proximity to wind farm development which is under as temporary or permanent, direct or indirect, cumulative and positive, neutral, or negative. The construction (Drone Hill Wind Farm, under construction). This part of the landscape does not display assessment of residual landscape effects has been set out as follows: large areas of semi-natural moorland vegetation. The area is one of medium to large sized pasture • Local Landscape Character: Penmanshiel Moor (Penmanshiel Wind Farm Site) fields of mixed improved and rough grazing land with commercial forestry and the Drone Hill Wind • Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA Farm (under construction). The forestry and the more recent Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) have become key characteristics of the local area through landscape change. • Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water LCA 7.142 There are little or no landscape features of interest or notable landscape or scenic qualities beyond a • Indirect effects on Surrounding Landscape Character (within 10 km) medium level of Borders countryside. Although modified, the landscape and associated elements of • Indirect Effects on Designated Landscapes within the Surrounding Area fields, field boundaries, and woodland are reasonably well maintained and as such the landscape is 7.137 The residual landscape effects assessed here are those effects remaining after all of the embedded considered to be of medium landscape quality. design measures or inherent mitigation (see paragraphs 7.71 to 7.92) has been taken into account. 7.143 The landscape is not designated at a national or local level and there is no history of local landscape Local Landscape Character: Penmanshiel Moor (Penmanshiel Wind Farm Site Area) designation or related values associated with cultural heritage or tourist / artistic attractions. However, the Laird’s Path which passes through the area (Core Path 100 in the Scottish Borders 7.138 The proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is located within commercial forestry on Penmanshiel Moor. Adopted Core Paths Plan) indicates potential for recreational use of the area although the site visit The site topography forms a shallow bowl within a broadly undulating plateau of the wider indicated that this path is neither frequently used nor well signposted. These factors overall indicate Coldingham Moor area. The site area is surrounded and contained by the hills of Gowel Hill, Endless that the landscape value of the area is also medium with the associated elements of fields, field Knowes, and Meikle Black Law to the southeast, east, and north; and Greenside Hill, Lady’s Folly, and boundaries, and forestry ranging from medium to low in terms of landscape value. Penmanshiel to the northeast and east of the site. There are no settlements or residential properties and no roads within the area of the proposed turbines, excepting forestry tracks, and the area has a 7.144 In terms of landscape capacity, the site area displays a number of characteristics that indicate remote, and exposed character. Although currently under construction, the Drone Hill Wind Farm medium to high capacity for wind turbine development of this scale, including the broad and simple (under construction) is located 500 m to the east, within Coldingham Moor, and would also form a key landform, medium to large scale landscape pattern, and limited or no settlement. The site is also characteristic of the local area. The landscape and visual characteristics of the site area corresponds located within an upland coastal area and slightly contained by surrounding hills which create a subtle with the Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA, which is an area of coastal moorland as defined by bowl or dip in the topography. In some respects the presence of the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under the Scottish Boarders Landscape Assessment. Western and southern portions of the site area are construction) reduces the landscape sensitivity to further wind farm development on areas nearby, transitional to areas of adjacent Coastal Farmland and Pastoral Upland Valley Fringe as defined by the but equally the presence of this wind farm imposes a ‘limit’ on the remaining capacity of the Scottish Boarders Landscape Assessment due mainly to more marked differences in landuse, landcover landscape to accommodate further wind farm development. (forestry), elevation, and topography. 7.145 Considering all of these aspects together (landscape quality, value and capacity), the local landscape 7.139 The local landscape character of the Coastal Moorland (Figure 7.8) consists of a large-scale, raised character of Penmanshiel Moor and the Penmanshiel Wind Farm site area is considered to be of plateau running west to east from Penmanshiel Moor to Coldingham Common. The core area of the medium landscape sensitivity. This judgement corresponds in some respects with SPG and the local landscape is characterised by moorland, coarse grassland, plantation forestry, and shelterbelts. Scottish Borders Landscape Assessment where the Coldingham Moor LCA is considered to be of medium Drone Hill Wind Farm is under construction on either side of the A1107, a single carriage road that visual sensitivity. bisects the plateau. The topography is predominantly smooth and flat or gently rolling, around 200 m Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Construction AOD. In the peripheral, transitional areas of the local landscape (generally below 175 m) valleys and 7.146 The construction phase would result in localised direct landscape effects on the component elements arable fields coexist with improved grassland on land which slopes, often sharply, away from the of the local landscape. The following paragraphs provide an assessment of the landscape effect plateau at areas such as Old Cambus, Harlawside and Renton Barns. predicted in respect of each construction activity. A useful land take summary for the individual

7.140 An undulating ridge between Greenside Hill and Moss Maw clearly defines the western extents of the components of the proposed development is provided in Table 4.1 (Chapter 4: Description of raised plateau beyond which the land falls away sharply into the Eye Water valley. The A1107 and Development). Dowlaw Road define a transition to a more overtly marine influenced landscape to the north. Temporary Construction Compound Howpark Burn and Bell Hill define the southern extents of the local landscape which is bisected by the 7.147 A Temporary Construction Compound of 3000 m² would be established within an area of existing pasture of low landscape sensitivity, beyond an existing shelterbelt that would provide screening. As

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the works commence on site, the magnitude of change would increase from zero to medium, affecting Forest Management and De-forestation a localised area within the affected field. 7.158 The total area of proposed deforestation is 204 ha (or 0.2% of the total forestry in the Scottish 7.148 The landscape effect on this element (pasture) would be Slight / Moderate not significant, temporary Borders). A description of the impact of the forest clearance is provided in Chapter 13: Forestry. (reversible), direct, and negative. Offsite compensatory planting will take place although the location is yet to be confirmed. Taking into Site Entrance account the quality, condition, value, and contribution to landscape character the forestry cover within Penmanshiel Moor is considered to be of medium to low sensitivity. 7.149 There would be modifications to the existing access affecting the existing stone dykes and adjacent tree belt of medium to high sensitivity. The magnitude of change would increase from zero to 7.159 In terms of the felling operations, the magnitude of change would rise from zero to high as the medium affecting a localised area. number of trees is gradually reduced. Once the felling is complete and during the operation of the wind farm the effect of the de-forestation would constitute a change to the overall balance in 7.150 The landscape effect on this element would be Moderate, not significant, permanent, direct, and landcover elements, affecting the local landscape pattern. The removal of the forestry would re- negative (during construction) to neutral on completion of the new access. Isolated significant effects reveal the underlying rolling landform and the narrow watercourses at Broad Bog Burn, Blegdon Burn, may occur which would be Moderate / Substantial as a result of the loss of the stone wall and and Longstruther Burn. Its removal would also increase the level of external and internal deciduous trees. intervisibility particularly with regard to the neighbouring Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) Access Tracks and the wider Coastal Moorland LCA. The level of change to the local landscape characteristics, 7.151 Approximately 9.1 km of new access track would be required, affecting areas of pasture, deciduous qualities, and pattern would ultimately depend on the future management of the area as set out in and coniferous woodland, and field boundaries of low to medium sensitivity. A small area of the Outline Habitat Management Plan (See Appendix 8.3). In the short term the magnitude of change woodland to the west of Harelawside would be affected with the potential loss of up to two deciduous would be medium to high and largely negative due to the chaotic appearance of tree stumps alongside trees of medium to high sensitivity. Approximately 78 m of drystone dyke would be lost, of which the clean lines of the site tracks and wind turbines, but in the longer term, as the site “greens up” ~50 m would be rebuilt. Approximately 38 m of recently planted hedgerow would be lost. As the with the intended heathland / acid grassland / scrub mosaic the magnitude of change would be low works commence on site the magnitude of change would increase from zero to medium, affecting and positive, effectively restoring this area to the dominant characteristic or landcover element of localised areas. the Coastal Moorland LCA. 7.152 The effects caused by the access tracks on landscape elements overall would be Slight / Moderate to 7.160 During construction and up to 24 months into the operation period, the level of effect on this Moderate and not significant although permanent, direct, and negative. Isolated significant effects landscape element would range from Zero to Moderate/ Substantial and would be significant, and the which would be Moderate / Substantial may occur as a result of the loss of two mature deciduous nature of effects permanent, direct and negative. During the operation period and beyond 36 trees near Harelawside. months, the establishment of moorland / rough grazing would result in a Slight to Slight / Moderate Control Building level of effect that would not be significant and would be permanent, direct and positive.

7.153 The Control Building and Compound would be established within an area of existing grassland of low Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation landscape sensitivity, beyond an existing shelterbelt. As the works commence on site, the magnitude 7.161 During operation, the completed wind farm (including restored temporary construction compound and of change would increase from zero to medium, affecting a localised area. areas of deforestation) would gain a more ‘settled’ appearance when compared to the same area 7.154 The landscape effect on this element (grassland) would be Slight / Moderate not significant, during the construction period. This would largely be a result of the reduction in machinery temporary (reversible), direct, and negative. movement within the site area. Electrical Cables 7.162 The local landscape would already be subject to a high to medium magnitude of change as a result of 7.155 Routed along access track verges, the landscape effect would be Negligible to None and not Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and there would be a cumulative high magnitude of change significant. Although the works would be temporary, the cables would remain permanently and the affecting the site and its immediate surrounding area as a result of the Penmanshiel Wind Farm and nature of these landscape effects would be temporary, direct, and negative, altering to neutral upon the neighbouring Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). The level of effect would be Moderate / completion. Substantial and significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and Turbines and Anemometer Masts negative to neutral. 7.156 The proposed turbines and anemometer mast, including the temporary masts (up to six) would be 7.163 The landscape effects would be negative in respect of the unavoidable introduction of turbines to the located within Penmanshiel Moor (medium landscape sensitivity). As the works commence on site, the moorland landscape in terms of their, large scale, moving, man-made character and form; although magnitude of change would increase from zero to high, directly affecting much of the site area at equally these aspects could be viewed as dramatic and of visual interest set within a landscape which Penmanshiel Moor. already has wind turbine influences as a result of Drone Hill (under construction, wind turbines would 7.157 The landscape effect would range from None to Moderate / Substantial and significant. The nature of already be a key characteristic of the local area). In this respect and due to the wind farm design and these effects would be long term (reversible), direct, and negative to neutral. large scale, broad, simple and open character of the receiving landscape, the wind farm appears reasonably well accommodated, such that the landscape effects could also be regarded as neutral.

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Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Decommissioning

7.164 Wider cumulative landscape effects (excluding Drone Hill, under construction) would be limited to the 7.168 During the decommissioning, the site would return to a construction site for a temporary period and as high ground on the peripheral areas of the local landscape and related to the indirect effect of other with the construction period, the level of effect would be variable over the site and according to the wind farms that may be visible in the wider landscape on perceptual characteristics. Two perceptual phase of activity. In overall terms, the magnitude would reduce from operational levels (high) to characteristics of this landscape (sense of remoteness and the availability of long distance views) are between low and negligible with the removal of the turbines and associated above ground considered as follows: infrastructure, and the retention of the site access and access tracks / areas of hardstanding.

• Sense of Remoteness: There are no major settlements or transport corridors within the local 7.169 The level of effect would reduce to non-significant levels of between Slight / Moderate and landscape. Rather there are wide-open spaces of moorland, the unfenced dead-end Dowlaw Negligible. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and negative to neutral when compared to the existing Penmanshiel landscape. Road, isolated residential properties and low volumes of road traffic. These combine to cause a sense of remoteness. This perception is variable and ranges from points along tracks which Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA appear relatively lonely or uninhabited to small farms, steadings, and roadside residences 7.170 This character area is the host LCA for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm turbines. The area is which are less remote. The presence of intermediate horizons and forestry cover may focussed on the elevated plateau of Coldingham Moor which is an area of heather moorland, rough increase the sense of seclusion. The availability of long distance views (see below) may grassland/pasture, and forestry that is of limited productivity in agricultural terms. It is this increase the sense of remoteness. The proposed wind farm is capable of co-existing with this characteristic, as well the high elevation, plateau topography, and limited or sparse settlement characteristic because wind turbines do not constitute habitation and can emphasize the pattern that distinguishes it from the Coastal Farmland LCT to the north (Cockburnspath) and south windswept nature of the landscape. For these reasons, there would be no significant effects (Coldingham see Figure 7.8). in terms of this existing characteristic. 7.171 The landscape has a barren wind-swept quality and outwith the forestry areas there can be distant • Long distance views: such as those of the North Sea and the Lammermuirs are possible from and expansive views out to sea or inland towards the Lammermuirs. Coldingham Moor is elevated high points and the edges of the raised plateau. In these peripheral locations, the turbines above the adjacent coastline, forming a plateau landscape. Within the plateau itself, landform is would be behind the viewer (Drone Hill Wind Farm, under construction and Penmanshiel Wind typically flat or gently rolling. Settlement within the area is sparse and land use is predominantly Farm) and would not interfere with the long distance views. For these reasons, there would rough grazing, and forestry blocks. The fields are large to medium and divided by drystone dykes and fences or unenclosed. be no significant effects in terms of this existing characteristic. 7.172 The Borders Landscape Assessment describes the following as key characteristics of the Landscape Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing Type as follows: 7.165 To conclude; existing wind farms would exert a negligible magnitude on local landscape character • Expansive flat to gently rolling plateau sloping steeply to rugged cliffs at the coast, punctuated by (perceptual characteristics). As stated previously, the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and occasional knowes and rock outcrops; the Penmanshiel Wind Farm would lead to a localised significant landscape effect. The nature of • Open land cover of rushes and coarse grassland in flatter areas, heather moorland on upper these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. slopes, scattered gorse and locally prominent coniferous plantations; Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented • Widely dispersed farmsteads along minor roads; and 7.166 Consented wind farms (other than Drone Hill, under construction) would exert a low to negligible • An unusual landscape with a barren, exposed character and dramatic open views over the cliff magnitude on local landscape character (perceptual characteristics) as a result of Brockholes. These tops to the North Sea. effects would be not significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct 7.173 The Borders Landscape Assessment pre-dates the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction), but on and negative to neutral. completion it is likely that wind turbines will be visible as a new feature or characteristic element of Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites the LCA although not the dominant characteristic. 7.167 Proposed wind farms for which there has been a submitted planning application would exert a medium Landscape Sensitivity magnitude locally as a result of Blackburn but overall the magnitude would be low and the effects not significant. There would be no significant cumulative effects on the local landscape other than the 7.174 Although arguably variable (ranging from higher quality scenic views along the coastline to medium significant effects caused by Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and the proposed Penmanshiel quality and condition further inland) the landscape is considered to be higher quality scenic views Wind Farm. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to along the coastline to medium quality and condition further inland. The landscape is largely neutral. undesignated, with the exception of the Berwickshire Coast AGLV (local designation of high to medium value) and the landscape capacity for further wind farm development is also considered to be variable. Highest capacity is considered to relate to areas close to Drone Hill Wind Farm (under

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construction), within moorland areas, away from the more sensitive coastlines and smaller scale the proposed Penmanshiel Wind farm would lead to a Moderate and not significant level of effect, and valley and steep slopes. this would be cumulative with the Drone Hill Wind Farm under (construction). The nature of these 7.175 Considering all of these aspects together (landscape quality, value and capacity), the Coldingham effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. Moor LCA is considered to be of medium landscape sensitivity. This judgement corresponds with the Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Decommissioning Scottish Borders Landscape Assessment where the Coldingham Moor LCA is considered to be of medium 7.182 During the decommissioning, the site would return to a construction site for a temporary period and as visual sensitivity. with the construction period, the level of effect would be variable over the site and according to the Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Construction and Operation phase of activity. In overall terms, the magnitude would reduce from operational levels (high) to 7.176 The Penmanshiel Moor and the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm turbines would be located within this negligible with the removal of the turbines and associated above ground infrastructure, and the LCA and as stated previously (at paragraphs 7.146 to 7.167) there would be a localised significant retention of the site access and access tracks. effect on Penmanshiel Moor during the construction and operation periods. Considering the wider 7.183 The level of effect would reduce to non-significant levels of Slight / Negligible levels of effect for the Coldingham Moor LCA this would translate to a medium magnitude of change on the LCA overall and LCA overall. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and neutral. the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. The nature of these effects would be long- Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water LCA term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. 7.184 The southern and extreme western edge of the site area falls within this character area. The valley of Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation the Eye Water is flat bottomed, enclosed by slopes covered in pasture and woodland. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing 7.185 The tree cover is abundant with broadleaf woodland on the steeper slopes, riparian trees along the 7.177 ZTV coverage within the Coldingham Moor LCA as a result of Drone Hill (under construction) accounts river, and coniferous plantation and shelterbelt on the valley sides. Drystone dykes with occasional for ~78% of the total area of the LCA. This figure would increase to 80% as a result of the proposed hedgerow bound the medium/large pasture fields. Settlement is fairly sparse with scattered small Penmanshiel Wind Farm. The two ZTVs are almost identical. villages and isolated properties, although the larger town of lies just within this character 7.178 In terms of the key perceptual characteristics of this coastal landscape, the appearance of the area. proposed turbines would extend development along the skyline towards the coastline. However, for 7.186 Views are medium distance due to the enclosure and often directional along the valleys and the most part, views of the sea and the coastline would be relatively unaffected. The wind farm tributaries. would increase the perception of development, although in many inland views from within the LCA the 7.187 The Borders Landscape Assessment describes the following key characteristics of this area: proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm and Drone Hill (under construction) would appear as one • Medium scale pastoral valley with flat floor enclosed by upland fringe pastures, often with rough development. grassland and moorland covered hills above. 7.179 Localised significant effects would occur in the area around Penmanshiel and Coldingham Common, as • Smooth large-scale landform modified in places by bluffs and moraine on valley floor, scree slopes a result of Drone Hill (under construction) and the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. The nature and or rock outcrops on valley sides. extent of these significant effects is described fully in the local landscape section (see paragraphs • Narrow, often wooded tributary side valleys. 7.138 and 7.169. In overall terms the magnitude of change affecting this LCA is considered to be • Valley floor pastures enclosed by drystone dykes with occasional hedgerows, interspersed with medium as a result of the proposed wind farm and Drone Hill, and the level of effect overall would be occasional patches of scrub, coarse grass, and rushes. Moderate and not significant. Other existing wind farms would exert a negligible effect on local • Scattered villages, farmsteads, and mansion houses with policy woodlands. landscape character (perceptual characteristics). The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. Landscape Sensitivity Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented 7.188 The Eye Water valley is considered to be of medium landscape quality, condition, and value. In terms 7.180 Consented wind farms (other than Drone Hill, under construction) would exert a low to negligible of landscape capacity the area is of low capacity (indicating higher landscape sensitivity) due mainly magnitude on local landscape character (perceptual characteristics) as a result of Brockholes, which is to the smaller scale character of this landscape and the higher number of visual receptors located located on the far side of the Eye Platform LCA approximately 4 km to the south. The addition of the along the valley. The sensitivity of this area to wind farm development overall is considered to be proposed Penmanshiel Wind farm would lead to a Moderate and not significant level of effect, and this medium to high and this compares to the Borders Landscape Assessment which considers the area to would be cumulative with the Drone Hill Wind Farm under (construction). The nature of these effects be of high visual sensitivity. would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Construction and Operation Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites 7.189 The LCA borders the elevated plateau landscape which hosts the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm 7.181 Proposed wind farms for which there has been a submitted planning application would exert a medium and the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). The proposed access road from Harelawside is magnitude locally as a result of Blackburn, but overall the magnitude would be low. The addition of located within this LCA and the proposed substation is located on the edge of this LCA, bordering with

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the Penmanshiel Moor / Coldingham Moor LCA. The proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm turbines would Indirect Effects on the Surrounding Landscape Character within 10 km be located approximately 1 km northeast of the edge of the Eye Water valley sides and are located 7.198 Each of the surrounding LCAs located within 10 km of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm have been neither within a valley landscape or this LCA. assessed in paragraphs 7.200 to 7.280. The assessment has been restricted to the operational phases 7.190 The effects caused by the access tracks and site entrance on landscape elements overall would be (visibility of wind turbines) and cumulative assessment in order to focus on the assessment of likely Moderate to Slight / Moderate and not significant although permanent, direct, and negative. Isolated significant effects. significant effects which would be Moderate / Substantial may occur as a result of the loss of two 7.199 No part of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is located within any of these landscapes and the mature deciduous trees and some stone wall near Harelawside. effects could only be indirect. Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation Borders Landscape Character Assessment Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing Coastal Farmland: Coldingham LCA (19) 7.191 There are no existing wind farms within the Eye Water LCA and due to its containing valley form the 7.200 This area has a complex and distinctive topography, ranging in height from sea level to 240 m AOD. influence of Crystal Rig, Aikengall and Black Hill wind farms would only be discernable from the higher The coastline is characterised by steep cliffs. Inland the terrain is moderately to strongly rolling. The valley sides and there would be no significant effects in relation to these. landscape is more productive than the adjacent Coastal Moorland Landscape Type, and as such, land 7.192 ZTV coverage within the Eye Water LCA as a result of Drone Hill (under construction) accounts for cover is typically a diverse patchwork of small, medium, and large sized arable and pastoral fields. ~50% of the total area of the LCA. There would be an additional 20% coverage as a result of the 7.201 The Borders Landscape Assessment describes the following key characteristics of this area: proposed wind farm. However, the high levels of woodland cover on the valley sides reduce actual visibility, particularly from the valley floor as demonstrated by VP 1. • Strongly rolling terrain interrupted by narrow, deeply incised stream valleys. • Coastline formed by high, near vertical cliffs carved into strongly-folded resistant sedimentary 7.193 Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm rocks. would not affect the key perceptual characteristics of this landscape such as the moderate range • Land cover dominated by arable and pastoral fields of varying sizes. views formed by side-valleys and occasional sea views to the north. Considering the limited ZTV coverage in the core area of the LCA (the valley floor) and effect on key perceptual characteristics, • Gorse and other scrub common on steep slopes and exposed locations. the magnitude of change is considered to be low overall, the level of effect would be Moderate to • Field boundaries of mature thorn hedges with occasional hedgerow trees on lower ground. Slight / Moderate and not significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), • Major towns sited at the coast in sheltered folds and valleys. direct and negative to neutral. Landscape Sensitivity Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented 7.202 This is one of four coastal landscape types and one of two coastal farmland LCTs within the 10 km 7.194 In terms of other consented wind farms only Brockholes wind cluster would have any effect, it is study area. located approximately 1 km to the south of the LCA at its closest point and it would have a localised 7.203 The Coastal Farmland is considered to be of medium landscape quality and condition, and is partly medium effect on the higher valley sides reducing to negligible and not significant overall. The level designated Berwickshire Coast AGLV, indicating higher local value and medium value overall. In terms of effect overall would be Moderate to Slight / Moderate and not significant. The nature of these of landscape capacity the LCA has a slightly lower capacity than areas of the Coastal Moorland due effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. mainly to the smaller scale field patterns and the slightly more settled nature with a higher number of Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites visual receptors. The sensitivity of this area to wind farm development is considered to be high to 7.195 In terms of the proposed wind farms, there may be isolated significant effects on the higher valley medium overall and this compares to the Borders Landscape Assessment which considers the area to sides as a result of Blackburn, but the overall effect would be low and the cumulative level of effect be of high visual sensitivity. (Moderate to Slight / Moderate) would not be significant. The nature of these effects would be long- Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Decommissioning 7.204 The transition between this landscape and the Coastal Moorland LCA at Penmanshiel Moor is gradual 7.196 During the decommissioning, the site would return to a construction site for a temporary period and as and it is considered that the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm turbines would be set back between with the construction period, the level of effect would be variable over the site and according to the 500 m and 1 km from the ‘edge’ of the Coastal Moorland LCA, beyond which there is a gradual phase of activity. In overall terms, the magnitude would reduce from operational levels (high) to transition into the more productive farmland and lower elevation of the Coastal Farmland LCA. negligible with the removal of the turbines and associated above ground infrastructure, and the 7.205 ZTV coverage within the Coldingham Farmland LCA as a result of Drone Hill (under construction) retention of the site access and access tracks. accounts for ~50% of the total area of the LCA. There would be no additional coverage as a result of 7.197 The level of effect would reduce to non-significant levels of Slight to Slight / Negligible for the LCA the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm, the ZTV coverage of which would be ~47%. Theoretical overall. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and neutral. visibility of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is concentrated on inland areas to the southwest,

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whilst the coastal strip between St Abbs and Eyemouth is outside the ZTV with the exception of blade medium overall and this compares to the Borders Landscape Assessment which considers the area to tip visibility in the Hallydown area. be of high visual sensitivity. 7.206 Existing wind farms are discernible at distances beyond 12 km to the west and are not significant. Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation 7.207 In terms of the key perceptual characteristics of this coastal landscape, its sense of openness would Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing not be affected and dramatic distant views along the rugged coastline and over the North Sea tend to 7.213 The existing wind farms at Crystal Rig (5 km) and Aikengall (3.6 km), although visible (low magnitude) be in the opposite direction to the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. There would however, be an are not significant. The consented wind farm at Drone Hill (under construction, 1.5 km) would also be increased perception of development, cumulatively, in addition to the existing wind farms. The visible. Drone Hill would have the potential to cause isolated significant effects due to its proximity skyline would already be developed as a result of Drone Hill (under construction), which in most cases but the closest area around Redheugh and Old Cambus are not significantly affected due to limited would be viewed in front of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm, limiting its effect. The magnitude ZTV coverage and intervening landform screening the lower parts of the wind farm (low magnitude). of change would generally be low to negligible over most of the LCA with no change to coastal areas outwith the ZTV. 7.214 At its closest point around Old Cambus the LCA is within ~1.3 km of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm, although this area is outside the ZTV. ZTV coverage overall accounts for approximately 69% of 7.208 The two windfarms would be viewed side by side from more limited transitional locations (Howpark / the LCA area for blade tip visibility and 50% for hub height visibility. The LCA is separated from the Bell Hill area), but the development would not be closer to the coastline. The magnitude of change proposed turbines by high ground along the edge of the elevated plateau and the proposed wind farm to the landscape character would be medium to low, bearing in mind that there would be no direct has been specifically designed to limit effects on receptors to the west by keeping the turbines back landscape effects. The addition of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would lead to a level of from the plateau edges, thus limiting the vertical AOV of the turbines when viewing from the west. effect which would be Moderate to Slight / Moderate, overall and not significant. There would however be a small localised and significant, cumulative effects (Moderate / Substantial) on landscape 7.215 In terms of the key perceptual characteristics of this coastal landscape, its sense of openness would character around the Howpark and Bell Hill area as a result of both Penmanshiel and Drone Hill wind not be affected, and dramatic distant views along the rugged coastline and over the North Sea tend to farms. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and negative to neutral. be northwards whereas the proposed wind farm is to the east. The wind farm would increase the perception of development, cumulatively, in addition to the existing and consented wind farms, and Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented reinforce the pattern of development at Coldingham Moor. The dramatic skyline around Fast Castle to 7.209 Of the other consented wind farms only Brockholes would have any effect, it is located on the far side the east would already be developed as a result of Drone Hill (under construction) and where views of of the Eye Platform LCA approximately 4 km to the south of the nearest proposed turbine. There the rugged Berwickshire coastline occur; the proposed turbines would not affect these or extend would be a negligible effect on the key perceptual characteristics, and a resulting magnitude of development towards the sea. change, which is considered to be low overall as a result of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm and 7.216 Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of Drone Hill (under construction) would be Moderate to Slight / Moderate and not significant. The change is considered to be low overall and the level of effect would be Moderate to Slight/ Moderate nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and negative to neutral. and not significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and negative to neutral. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented 7.210 In terms of the proposed wind farms for which there has been a submitted application, the magnitude 7.217 The consented wind farm at Brockholes (6.5 km) would also be visible, but with a reduced negligible of change caused by Barnside Farm (9 km), Aikengall II (10 km), Blackburn (4.7 km), Hoprigshiels magnitude of change on the LCA. The level of effect would not change and would be Moderate to (7.4 km), and Fernylea (8.2 km) would also be negligible to low and not be significant. Cumulatively, Slight/ Moderate and not significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and the effects would be Moderate to Slight / Moderate, overall and not significant. The nature of these negative to neutral. effects would be permanent, direct, and negative to neutral. 7.218 Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Coastal Farmland: Cockburnspath LCA (19) 7.219 In terms of proposed wind energy developments where there has been a submitted planning 7.211 This is one of four coastal landscape types and one of two Coastal Farmland LCTs within the 10 km application, Fernylea is located within the Coastal Farmland: Cockburnspath LCA, Hoprigshiels is study area. It is separated from the Coastal Farmland: Coldingham LCA by the higher ground of located just outside it, Blackburn is 1.4 km away at its closest point and Aikengall II is 1.7 km away. Coldingham Moor. None of the proposed turbines is located within the Coastal Farmland LCA, nor are The combined cumulative effects of these schemes would cause significant effects in the Hoprig area. there any other existing or consented wind farms located in the LCA. The overall effect of all four schemes on the LCA would be Moderate and not significant. Landscape Sensitivity Dissected Moorland Plateau: Lammermuir Plateau LCA (1) 7.212 The Coastal Farmland is considered to be of medium landscape quality and condition, and is partly 7.220 The area in the west of the study area comprises of a series of level topped hills and ridges separated designated Berwickshire Coast AGLV, indicating higher local value and medium value overall. In terms by steep sided incised valleys, which drain down to the Tweed Valley. The summits can reach to over of landscape capacity the LCA has a slightly lower capacity than areas of the Coastal Moorland due 650 m AOD. The main vegetation cover is heather moorland and coarse acid grassland used for sheep mainly to the smaller scale field patterns and the slightly more settled nature with a higher number of grazing. These provide a great seasonal variation and a richness of colour contrasts. Areas of visual receptors. The sensitivity of this area to wind farm development is considered to be high to

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coniferous plantation can be found in limited areas and trees generally are not a common feature of 7.229 The proposed application sites of Fernylea, Hoprigshiels, and Blackburn are located within ~1 km to this landscape type. Settlements and transport links are also sparse giving the area a remote ~2.2 km of the Lammermuir Plateau LCA and would lead to a localised high to medium effect on parts character. Individual isolated farmsteads are restricted to the more sheltered valley sides. of this landscape and level of effect in relation to these would be Moderate / Substantial, reducing to 7.221 The views from these areas are generally expansive and open. Moderate overall for this LCA. 7.222 The Lammermuir Plateau contains a number of wind farms which now form part of the key Platform Farmland: Eye Water Platform LCA (9) characteristics of this landscape. The consented Fallago Rig Wind Farm is located within this LCA, 7.230 The landscape type is located on the eastern fringe of Lammermuir where it tilts gently seawards approximately 12 km to the north of the proposed wind farm. The existing Crystal Rig and Aikengall towards the Eye Water Valley. The area is characterised by large scale gently undulating hills with wind farms are also located in this LCT, at approximately 22-25 km distance further north. smooth sweeping slopes modified in places by small scale narrow incised. Tree cover consists mainly of small to medium sized single species coniferous plantations and shelterbelts. Broadleaf trees are Landscape Sensitivity present in a few scattered shelterbelts, hedgerow lines, and woodlands. 7.223 This is one of two upland landscape types within the 10 km study area. The following assessment Landscape Sensitivity incorporates the entire Lammermuir Plateau (i.e the areas which fall within both the Borders and the East Lothian council areas). The landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the 7.231 Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value (AGLV local landscape quality, value (AGLV local designation) and capacity (although approaching a limit to designation and capacity. further development within this LCA). Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing 7.232 The existing wind farms have a localised low effect on parts of this landscape, reducing to negligible 7.224 Other existing wind farms at Crystal Rig and Aikengall already have a localised high to medium overall. magnitude on parts of this landscape and level of effect in relation to these would be Moderate / 7.233 The distance between the LCA and the proposed turbines is between ~1.75 km and ~9 km (indicative Substantial, reducing to Moderate overall. of medium to negligible magnitude). ZTV coverage is widespread accounting for approximately 72.5% 7.225 The distance between the LCA and proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be between ~7 to 30 km of the LCA area. The Pease Burn and Eye Water valleys, and the south and west facing slopes would (indicative of low to negligible magnitude). ZTV coverage is fragmented, affecting the east facing be the only areas theoretically indirectly affected by the proposed wind farm. Wind farms are not slopes and hill summits and accounting for approximately 13.5% of the LCA area within the study area. currently present within this area, although they are discernible and include Black Hill (4 km) to the Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed wind farm would not affect south and Aikengall (3.5 km) and Crystal Rig (4 km) to the west. the key perceptual characteristics of this landscape such as the wide open spaces and ability to view 7.234 Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm over long distances, across the Borders, including the coastline. The wind farm would however, would not affect the key perceptual characteristics of this upland fringe landscape such as its sense of increase the perception of development cumulatively, in addition to the existing and consented wind openness and the availability of outward views including the coastline. The skyline to the east would farms (notably Crystal Rig and Aikengall). The skyline to the east would already be developed as a already be developed as a result of Drone Hill (under construction) and where views of the coastline result of Drone Hill (under construction, 11 km distance, negligible magnitude) and where views of the occur; the proposed turbines would not extend development towards the sea. The wind farm would coastline occur the proposed turbines would not extend development towards the sea. however, increase the perception of development cumulatively, in addition to the existing wind farms 7.226 Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of and Drone Hill (under construction). Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key change is considered to be negligible and the overall the level of effect would be Slight / Negligible perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of change is considered to be low overall and the level of increasing to Slight / Moderate for localised areas along the edge of the plateau and not significant. effect would be Slight / Moderate increasing to Moderate for localised areas near the A1 corridor and Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented not significant. 7.227 The consented Fallago Rig Wind Farm is located within the Lammermuir Plateau LCA and would lead Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented to a further localised and direct high to medium magnitude of change on parts of this landscape. 7.235 Brockholes would be located within the Eye Platform LCA approximately 3.8 km to the south of the Brockholes (7.5 km) would lead to a localised low effect on parts of this landscape and level of effect nearest proposed turbine, directly affecting the LCA and leading to a high to medium magnitude of in relation to these would be Moderate / Substantial to Slight / Moderate overall. change over ~16% of this LCA and a Moderate / Substantial and significant effect, although reducing to Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Slight / Moderate (low magnitude) and not significant overall. The nature of these effects would be direct, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. 7.228 The proposed Aikengall II Wind Farm is located within the Lammermuir Plateau LCA (albeit in the East Lothian council area), approximately 8.8 km to the west of the nearest proposed turbine, directly Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites affecting the LCA and leading to a high to medium magnitude of change over ~6% of this LCA, which 7.236 The proposed application schemes at Blackburn, Hoprigshiels, Fernylea, Barnside Farm and Aikengall II would be significant, although reducing to low magnitude and not significant overall. would lead to a high magnitude of change and a Moderate / Substantial and significant effect,

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particularly throughout the northern extents of the Eye Water LCA. The main contributor to 7.244 This is a valley floor landscape, which is narrow and strongly enclosed by steep slopes. Woodland is a significant effects would be Blackburn due to its central location within the LCA. The nature of these prominent feature of the valley floor and lower valley sides. Woodland includes riparian strips of effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. planting on the valley floor, mature semi-natural woodland on the steeper sections of the valley sides Grassland with Hills: Knock Hill LCA (11) and plantation woodland on the upper valley sides. 7.237 These upland fringe areas contain steep ‘cone’ or dome-shaped hills, frequently of volcanic or igneous Landscape Sensitivity rock. The topography of the grassland surrounding the hills ranges from smooth to undulating. Land 7.245 The Middle Whiteadder Water Platform is one of five areas of Wooded Upland Fringe Valley LCT within cover is characterised by permanent pasture, with occasional heather moorland on the higher slopes the Borders, although none of the other LCAs are within the study area. Landscape sensitivity to the and summits. Woodland occurs as small scattered blocks, shelterbelts, and riparian strips, with proposed wind farm is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value (AGLV local occasional coniferous plantations. Settlement density is low. designation) and capacity. 7.238 The Black Hill Wind Farm is located within the Knock Hill LCA, approximately 17 km to the northeast Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation from the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing Landscape Sensitivity 7.246 Wind farms are not currently present within this area, although they are discernible and include Black 7.239 Knock Hill is one of five areas of Grassland with Hills LCT within the Borders, although none of the Hill (3 km) to the south and Aikengall (4.5 km) and Crystal Rig (4.4 km) to the north-west (low to other LCAs is within the study area. Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the negligible magnitude). landscape quality, value (AGLV local designation) and capacity, although approaching a limit to 7.247 ZTV coverage is limited to the north and east facing slopes and the summits and accounts for further development within this LCA. approximately 37% of the LCA area. Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would not affect the key perceptual characteristics of this river Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing valley landscape such as its intimate enclosed character. Where visible, the wind farm would however, increase the perception of development cumulatively, in addition to the existing wind 7.240 The Knock Hill LCA is located approximately 8-25 km distance from the proposed Penmanshiel Wind farms. Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key perceptual characteristics, the Farm (indicative of low to negligible magnitude). ZTV coverage is fragmented and limited to the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible overall, the level of effect would be Slight / north and east facing slopes and summits, and accounts for approximately 32% of the LCA area. The Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be direct and indirect, long-term existing wind farm at Black Hill is located within this LCA (high magnitude) and other existing wind (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. farms are visible at Crystal Rig / Aikengall, Fallago Rig, and Drone Hill (under construction), (low to negligible magnitude). Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented 7.241 Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm 7.248 The magnitude of change caused by Brockholes (2.3 km), Drone Hill (6.65 km) and Fallago (9.6 km) would not affect the key perceptual characteristics of this upland fringe landscape such as the ability would be medium to low in localised areas and negligible overall and the cumulative level of effect to view over long distances. The wind farm would however, increase the perception of development would remain as Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be direct cumulatively, in addition to the existing wind farms. Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. on key perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible overall, the Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. 7.249 In terms of the proposed wind farms, the magnitude of change caused by Barnside Farm (300 m), Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented Aikengall II (1.9 km), Blackburn (3.3 km), Hoprigshiels (3.6 km), and Fernylea (4 km) would be high to 7.242 Brockholes would also be visible (negligible to zero magnitude) and the cumulative level of effect medium in localised areas and low overall and the cumulative level of effect would rise to Slight / would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be direct and Moderate (as a result of Barnside and Aikengall II) but would remain as not significant. The nature of indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. these effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Rolling Lowland Margin: Eye Water Lowland LCA (16) 7.243 The proposed single turbine at Barnside Farm is located within the LCA and would cause localised significant effect (high magnitude), reducing to (low magnitude) overall. The magnitude of change 7.250 The Eye Water Lowland is one of two areas of Rolling Lowland Margin LCT within the Borders, although caused by Aikengall II (6 km), Blackburn (5.1 km), Hoprigshiels (6.6 km), Fernylea (7.4 km) and Kelloe the other LCA at Maxwell Heugh is outwith the study area. This is the only Lowland landscape type Mains (5.5 km) would be low to zero and negligible overall and the cumulative level of effect would be within the 10 km study area. Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be direct and indirect, long- Landscape Sensitivity term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. 7.251 Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value, and capacity. Wooded Upland Fringe Valley: Middle Whiteadder LCA (28)

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Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation 7.260 The Eastern Lammermuirs LCA is located approximately 7-20 km distance from the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm (indicative of low to negligible magnitude). ZTV coverage is fragmented: Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing limited to the east facing slopes and summits, and accounts for approximately 15% of the LCA area. 7.252 The LCA is located within 4.9 - 21 km of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm (indicative of low to Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed wind farm would not affect zero magnitude). ZTV coverage is fragmented and accounts for approximately 25% of the LCA area. the key perceptual characteristics of this upland fringe landscape such as its openness, the availability Wind farms are not currently present within this area, although they are discernible and include Black of long distance views and the close affinity with North Sea Coast. The wind farm would however, Hill (3.1 km to the west) and other more distant schemes in the Lammermuirs (negligible magnitude). increase the perception of development cumulatively, in addition to the existing wind farms. The Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed wind farm would not affect skyline to the east would already be developed as a result of Drone Hill (under construction) and the key perceptual characteristics of this river valley landscape such as its open character with distant where views of the rugged coastline occur, the proposed turbines would not extend development and panoramic views. The wind farm would however, increase the perception of development towards the sea. Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key perceptual characteristics, cumulatively, in addition to the existing wind farms. Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible overall, the level of effect would be Slight / on key perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible overall, the Negligible and not significant. level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be 7.261 The existing wind farms at Crystal Rig and Aikengall are located within 1 km of the LCA and have a direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. localised high to medium effect on parts of this landscape and the level of effect would be Moderate / Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented Substantial, reducing to Moderate and not significant overall. The nature of these effects would be 7.253 The magnitude of change caused by other consented sites would be negligible overall and the direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. cumulative level of effect would remain as Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. 7.262 The consented wind farms at Fallago Rig (7.5 km), 9.2 km), Brockholes (9.5 km) would also be visible Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites (negligible magnitude). The level of effect would remain Moderate / Substantial, reducing to 7.254 The magnitude of change caused by other application sites would be negligible overall and the Moderate and not significant overall. The nature of these effects would be direct and indirect, long- cumulative level of effect would remain as Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Lothians Landscape Character Assessment 7.263 The proposed wind farms at Aikengall II (150 m), Blackburn (3.4 km), Hoprigshiels (600 m), Fernylea Uplands: Lammermuir Plateau LCA (1) (100 m) would cause localised significant indirect effects in the area around Oldhamstocks Burn (approximately one third of the LCA). The level of effect would remain Moderate / Substantial, 7.255 This is an extension of the Dissected Moorland Plateau: Lammermuir Plateau LCA described by the reducing to Moderate and not significant overall. The nature of these effects would be direct and Borders Landscape Assessment, but extended northwards into the Lothians area and described in the indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. Lothians Landscape Assessment. Coastal Margins : Dunbar Plain LCA (23) 7.256 The assessment of this area is included in the Dissected Moorland Plateau: Lammermuir Plateau LCA assessment, stated previously. 7.264 This landscape skirts the north-eastern fringes of the Lammermuir Hills and forms a transition between the Hills and the coast. The landscape in the south is gently hilly, but flattens out towards Upland Fringes: Eastern Lammermuirs LCA (8) the coast. The dominant land use is arable fields. The fields tend to be large scale. The arable fields 7.257 This landscape fringes the Lammermuir Hills. It is typically a landscape of low rounded hills are interspersed with small stretches of improved grassland along the steeper valley sides. intersected by frequent streams. Within the southern, higher ground the land use is typically 7.265 Although the streams which cut through the landscape are occasionally wooded, the landscape is improved pasture and rough grassland. Further north, towards the coastal plain, the landscape predominantly un-wooded. This provides open views which are dominated by the horizon line of the becomes arable fields. It is a large scale, open landscape which allows for extensive views towards sea. However, the A1 trunk road, the railway line and associated infrastructure e.g. bridges are also the coast. visually dominant features. Landscape Sensitivity Landscape Sensitivity 7.258 Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value (AGLV local 7.266 Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value (AGLV local designation) and capacity (medium, although approaching a limit to further development within this designation, high to medium value) and capacity. LCA). Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing 7.259 Aikengall and Crystal Rig are located within 1 km of the LCA.

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7.267 The Dunbar Plain is located approximately 5.9 to 18.7 km distance from the proposed turbines 7.274 Other consented wind farms may be visible from this area, in the opposite direction of the key views (indicative of low to zero magnitude). ZTV coverage is concentrated within the eastern and coastal and seascape characteristics. The magnitude of change would be negligible overall and the areas and accounts for approximately 60% of the LCA area. There are no existing wind farms in the cumulative level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects area, but the existing wind farms at Crystal Rig and Aikengall are visible and would lead to a would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. negligible magnitude of change on parts of this landscape. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites 7.268 Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm 7.275 Other application sites may also be visible from this area, again in the opposite direction of the key would not affect the key perceptual characteristics of this coastal margin landscape such as extensive views and seascape characteristics. The magnitude of change would be negligible overall and the views. The wind farm would however, increase the perception of development cumulatively, in cumulative level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects addition to the existing wind farms visible in the Lammermuirs to the south. The dramatic skyline would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. around Fast Castle to the south-east would already be developed as a result of Drone Hill (under Type 2 – Rocky Coastline / Open Sea Views construction, negligible magnitude) and where views of the Berwickshire coastline occur, the 7.276 The Rocky Coastline / Open Sea Views seascape extends from Tourness Point to Pease Bay. proposed turbines would not extend development towards the sea. Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of change is considered to be Landscape Sensitivity negligible overall, the level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of 7.277 Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value (AGLV local these effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and designation, high to medium value) and capacity. cumulative. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation 7.269 The magnitude of change caused by other consented sites would be negligible overall and the Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing cumulative level of effect would remain as Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these 7.278 Much of this seascape is within the ZTV for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm, and long views effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. southeast along the coastline would be possible. The design of the wind farm however has ensured Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites that visibility would be limited to blade tips and the upper parts of turbines, similar to the level of 7.270 The proposed wind farms at Aikengall II (2.7 km), Blackburn (3 km), Hoprigshiels (1 km), Fernylea consented visibility for Drone Hill (under construction). The focus of the key views and seascape (500 m) and Dunbar (within this LCA) would lead to localised areas of high magnitude, reducing to characteristics are seaward and away for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm as well as other medium magnitude overall. The cumulative level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. existing wind farms and the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). The magnitude of change The nature of these effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, would be negligible overall and the cumulative level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not and cumulative. significant. The nature of these effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. Seascape: Area 1 - Berwick upon Tweed Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented Type 1 – Remote High Cliffs 7.279 Other consented wind farms may be visible from this area, in the opposite direction of the key views 7.271 The Remote High Cliffs seascape extends from Pease Bay to St Abbs Head. and seascape characteristics. The magnitude of change would be negligible overall and the Landscape Sensitivity cumulative level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. 7.272 Landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium due to the landscape quality, value (AGLV local designation, high to medium value) and capacity. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites 7.280 Other application sites may also be visible from this area, again in the opposite direction of the key Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation views and seascape characteristics. The magnitude of change would be negligible overall and the Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing cumulative level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects 7.273 Much of this seascape is outwith the ZTV for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm and the focus of would be direct and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. the key views and seascape characteristics are seaward and away for the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Indirect Effects on Designated Landscapes within the Surrounding Area Farm as well as other existing wind farms and the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). Approximately 2.5 km of the cliff top areas, east of St Helen’s Church fall with the ZTV with blade tip 7.281 The site which hosts the proposed wind farm site is not designated at either a local or national level visibility indicated. The magnitude of change would be negligible overall and the cumulative level of and there would be no direct landscape effects on designated landscapes. effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects would be direct 7.282 The assessment has considered the potential landscape effects on those landscape designations within and indirect, long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. 10 km of the proposed wind farm, in particular the Berwickshire Coastline Area of Great Landscape Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented

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Value (AGLV). Within the wider 10-35 km study area the assessment has included those receptors Dramatic coastal and distant views along the rugged coastline and over the North Sea to Fife would be which are of national importance and includes the Northumberland Coast AONB. unaffected in the sense that the viewer would have to turn inland to gain views of the proposed wind 7.283 The following assessment considers the indirect effects on the visual character and integrity of the farm. designated landscape within the study area, with particular emphasis on the potential effects on Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing valued features and characteristics for which these areas are designated. In all cases the nature of 7.287 The proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would exert a negligible magnitude of change on this AGLV these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral, and cumulative. overall, increasing to medium in the areas along Dowlaw Road and high near the junction with the Berwickshire Coastline AGLV A1107. Other existing wind farms, at further distance would have a negligible effect on the AGLV. 7.284 The Berwickshire Coastline AGLV covers the coastal edge of the Scottish Borders Council area, from The level of effect for Penmanshiel only would be Slight / Negligible and not signficant overall but the East Lothian boundary in the north to the English Borders in the south. It comprises a narrow would be Moderate / Substantial and significant in an isolated area near the A1107 / Dowlaw Road strip, bounded on the landward side by the A1, A1107, or by landforms which mark the extent of overt junction. marine influence. In the recently published draft SPG review of the Borders local landscape 7.288 In most cases indirect effects would be related to the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). designations5 there is a slight increase in the extents of the proposed Special Landscape Area Analysis of ZTVs and wireframes indicates that in most cases only the blade tips of a small number of compared to the existing AGLV. However, these additional areas are beyond ~5 km of the site and fall the proposed Penmanshiel turbines would be visible, along side Drone Hill Wind Farm (under outwith the ZTV and therefore would not be affected by the proposed wind farm. The SPG reviewed construction). It is only from the edge of the AGLV, from Dowlaw Road, that the proposed the entire Coastal Moorland and Coastal Farmland LCTs to test potential inclusion in the proposed SLA Penmanshiel turbines would be more visible, again viewed alongside Drone Hill Wind Farm (under but concluded that the designation should only apply to a narrow strip along the coastline. The construction). Designation Statement for the proposed Berwickshire Coastline SLA includes a number of key 7.289 When considered in conjunction with Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) the overall level of characteristics, but makes no reference to existing and consented wind farms such as Drone Hill, as effect on the AGLV would be slight / negligible although there would be significant cumulative follows: landscape effects (moderate / substantial level of effect) along the Dowlaw Road on the edge of the • Dramatic and wild coastline (one of the most dramatic sections of Scotland’s east coast); AGLV and from Telegraph Hill (VP 7). In these locations Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) • Steeply-sloping landform results in a pleasing, occasionally secluded landscape with attractive would be the more prominent of the two schemes. colours; 7.290 The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. • Coldingham Moor is wild and rugged, and of very high scenic quality, with distinctive rocky Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented outcrops and long views to Fife; 7.291 In respect of consented wind farms, the effects would be negligible and there would be no change to • Important coastal landmarks include St Abbs Head, and sites of biodiversity and geodiversity the level of effect which would be Slight / Negligible and not significant overall, increasing to interest such as Siccar Point; Moderate / Substantial and significant along the AGLV boundary at Dowlaw Road and at Telegraph • The valued coastal landscape is well used for recreation; and Hill. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. • The area provides the settlement settings of Eyemouth, St Abbs, Coldingham and Cockburnspath. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Landscape Sensitivity 7.292 The proposed wind farms at Dunbar, Blackburn, and Aikengall II may also be visible from limited 7.285 The draft SPG designation statement considers that the AGLV is highly valued locally. As a local locations at further distance (negligible magnitude). The level of effect would be Slight / Negligible designation the landscape sensitivity of this landscape is considered to be medium. and not significant overall, increasing to Moderate / Substantial and significant along the AGLV boundary at Dowlaw Road and at Telegraph Hil. The nature of these effects would be long-term Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. 7.286 There would be no direct landscape effects on this designation and indirect effects on the perceptual East Lothian Coastline AGLV characteristics of this landscape would be limited due to the limited ZTV coverage. The AGLV is 7.293 In landscape terms this is a continuation of the previously assessed AGLV, stretching in a narrow located 850m distance from the nearest proposed turbine, but the ZTV pattern is sporadic and ribbon along the coastline from Cove to Dunbar. It is located at 5.5 km distance from the nearest indicates visibility only in isolated areas such as Cove, Redheugh, Old Cambus, Dowlaw Road, the proposed turbine at its closest point. The ZTV indicates visibility throughout the AGLV. Due to the A1107, Telegraph Hill, and Fancove Head. Within 10km of the proposed Penmanshiel turbines the ZTV developed nature of this stretch of coastline which incorporates including industrial and to blade tip coverage accounts for ~40% of the total AGLV area, and for the ZTV to hub height this transportation influences, the likely special qualities relevant to this assessment are as follows: reduces to ~15% of the AGLV (these calculations do not include the screening effects of forestry such as Old Cambus Woods). Valued places such as Fast Castle, St Abbs Head, Pease Bay, and Coldingham • Dramatic distant views of the rugged Berwickshire coastline and towards the and Bay are outwith the ZTV and there would be no view of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. the North Sea. • Easily accessible sandy beaches and valued places such as Barns Ness.

5 Scottish Borders Council, Supplementary Planning Guidance Draft Local Landscape Designations, August 2011

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Landscape Sensitivity 7.300 Other existing wind farms at Crystal Rig and Aikengall already have a localised high to medium magnitude on parts of this landscape and level of effect in relation to these would be Moderate / 7.294 As a local designation the sensitivity of this landscape is considered to be medium. Substantial, reducing to Moderate overall. Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation 7.301 The distance between the LCA and proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be between ~7 to 30 km Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing (indicative of low to negligible magnitude). ZTV coverage is fragmented, affecting the east facing 7.295 Where visible, Penmanshiel Wind Farm would be viewed as blade tips / upper parts of a limited slopes and hill summits and accounting for approximately 13.5% of the LCA area within the study area. number of turbines on the landward skyline to the southeast and adjacent to the Drone Hill Wind Farm Although discernible from within this LCA, the presence of the proposed wind farm would not affect (under construction) which would exert a similar level of visibility. The proposed Penmanshiel Wind the key perceptual characteristics of this landscape such as the wide open spaces and ability to view Farm would have a negligible effect on this AGLV. The level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and over long distances, across the Borders, including the coastline. The wind farm would however, not significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to increase the perception of development cumulatively, in addition to the existing and consented wind neutral. farms (notably Crystal Rig and Aikengall). The skyline to the east would already be developed as a result of Drone Hill (under construction, 11 km distance, negligible magnitude) and where views of the Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented coastline occur the proposed turbines would not extend development towards the sea. 7.296 In respect of consented wind farms, the effects would be negligible and there would be no change to 7.302 Considering the limited ZTV coverage and effect on key perceptual characteristics, the magnitude of the level of effect which would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects change is considered to be negligible and the overall the level of effect would be Slight / Negligible would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to neutral. increasing to Slight / Moderate for localised areas along the edge of the plateau and not significant. Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented 7.297 The proposed wind farms at Dunbar, Hoprigshiels and Fernylea, Blackburn, and Aikengall II may also 7.303 The consented Fallago Rig Wind Farm is located within the Lammermuir Plateau LCA and would lead be visible from limited locations (negligible magnitude). The level of effect would be Slight / to a further localised and direct high to medium magnitude of change on parts of this landscape. Negligible, increasing to Slight / Moderate along the AGLV boundary at Dowlaw Road and not Brockholes (7.5 km) would lead to a localised low effect on parts of this landscape and level of effect significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), direct and negative to in relation to these would be Moderate / Substantial to Slight / Moderate and significant to not neutral. significant overall. Lammermuirs AGLV Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing + Consented + Application Sites 7.298 The Lammermuirs AGLV (medium sensitivity) is contiguous with further AGLV in the Moorfoot Hills and 7.304 The proposed Aikengall II Wind Farm is located within the Lammermuir Plateau LCA (albeit in the East East Lothian, covering a large and diverse landscape, approximately 5-30 km to the west of the Lothian council area), approximately 8.8 km to the west of the nearest proposed turbine, directly nearest proposed turbine. The recently published draft SPG review of the Borders local landscape affecting the LCA and leading to a high to medium magnitude of change over ~6% of this LCA, which designations provides a Designation Statement for the proposed SLA and the likely special qualities would be significant, although reducing to low magnitude and not significant overall. relevant to this assessment are considered as follows: 7.305 The proposed application sites of Fernylea, Hoprigshiels, and Blackburn are located within ~1 km to • Valued key landscape characteristics which contrast with the surrounding lowlands - The proposed ~2.2 km of the Lammermuir Plateau LCA and would lead to a localised high to medium effect on parts wind farm would have no effect on the landscape characteristics which contrast with the of this landscape and level of effect in relation to these would be Moderate / Substantial, reducing to surrounding lowlands such as moorland vegetation Moderate and not significant overall for this LCA. • Perceptions of spaciousness, scale, and openness, which have also allowed this landscape to be Northumberland Coast AONB capable of absorbing multiple wind farms - The proposed turbines would have no effect on this characteristic being located outside of the AGLV. 7.306 The Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is not overlapped by the ZTV • Valued places and long distance views – The proposed turbines would have no effect on most of and there would be no views of the proposed Corsbie Moor Wind Farm and no affect on this NSA. these valued places, but would be visible from the Southern Upland Way at Twin Law Cairns (VP 25, negligible magnitude). Residual Visual Effects

Landscape Sensitivity 7.307 The visual assessment draws from the ZTV, site visits and viewpoint analysis and assesses the potential visual effects on views and visual amenity likely to be experienced by receptors (people) within the 7.299 As a local designation the sensitivity of this landscape is considered to be medium. landscape as follows: Cumulative Magnitude of Change and Level of Effect: During Operation • Visual Effects on Views from Residential Properties; Penmanshiel Wind Farm + Existing • Visual Effects on Views from Settlements; • Visual Effects on Views from Main Transport Routes; • Visual Receptors: Recreational Routes; and

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• Effects on Views from Recreational and Tourist Destinations. • Gardens Bungalow 7.308 The visual assessment has focused on those areas where significant visual effects are most likely, in 7.315 The visual effect for approximately four properties may rise to significant as a result of Blackburn particular within approximately 5 km of the proposed wind farm. (proposed wind farm): Visual Effects on Views from Residential Properties • Bowshiel Farm • Penmanshiel Farm 7.309 Visual assessment of residential properties within closest proximity of the site (3 km) has been • Penmanshiel Cottages x 2 undertaken (Figure 7.12). All of the residents and visitors to settlements and residential properties are considered to be of high sensitivity in accordance with the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual 7.316 There are several properties included within the 3 km study area that are wholly outside the ZTV Impact Assessment (GLVIA). (Redheugh Farm and Old Cambus East Mains) and these have not been included in the assessment. 7.310 Based on the viewpoint assessment, significant visual effects would generally occur within distances of Visual Effects on Views from Defined Settlements approximately 5.5 km from the nearest turbine where there are clear views of the wind turbines. Grantshouse Whilst it is not practical to assess all residential properties within this zone or the wider study area, those within 3 km of the proposed wind farm, which are likely to be the most affected have been 7.317 This is a defined settlement in the Scottish Borders Local Plan and the settlement boundary is assessed to give an indication of the greatest visual effects likely to occur. In all, 25 groups of illustrated in Figures 7.10 and 7.12. Due to the containing valley landform, Grantshouse is almost properties (and a total of 60 individual properties) have been assessed within 3 km via a combination wholly outside the ZTV and as such, the level of effect as a result of the wind turbines would be zero of a site visit to the closest public location in the vicinity of that property (usually the highway), desk / no view for all the properties to the north of the A1. The three properties to the south of the A1 based assessment, the production of wireframes and the use of Google Earth. None of the properties within the settlement boundary (Hotel, Rockvue and Tigh Bigh) are assessed independently in the has been visited at the request of the resident and the assessment is not based on direct observations residential assessment (Appendix 7.3) and there would be no significant effects on these properties. from within the house, and as a result the assessment errs on the side of caution. The findings of the 7.318 The construction stage would include potential tree felling / pruning and movement of vehicles in the residential assessment are described in detail in Appendix 7.3. Harelawside area and this would affect the properties on the northern periphery of the settlement 7.311 In summary, the residential assessment identifies four properties would experience a significant visual along Mansefield Road. Views of these activities would be relatively short in duration and would be effect: subject to partial screening from roadside vegetation. The changes would be consistent with typical rural activities and farm management and the construction stage would not have a significant effect • Howpark unnamed properties 1 and 2; overall. • Blackburn House; and 7.319 The type of effect would be cumulative (Drone Hill, under construction, ~2.7 km). The overall level • Riggwell. of effect would be Slight and there would be no significant effects. 7.312 Whilst it is accepted that a number of properties will experience a significant change to a view or views, considering the grouping and composition of the wind farm it is not considered that any of Cockburnspath these properties would unduly suffer from negative visual effects such as visual dominance, 7.320 This is a defined settlement in the Scottish Borders Local Plan and settlement boundary is illustrated overbearance, or blocking of light, which collectively may affect the overall visual amenity, and in Figure 7.10. There is a conservation area in the historic village core around the T-junction. The associated living standards. settlement is represented by a viewpoint taken from the northern periphery of the village as 7.313 The visual effect for approximately seven properties along the School Road may rise to significant as a requested by SBC to demonstrate the most visible scenario of the proposed development: VP 12 result of Drone Hill (under construction): (4,963 m viewing distance, low magnitude). Additional viewpoint photography and wireframe • The Myrtle generation was studied using a location in the south of the village (Crofts Acre) and the level of effect • Burnside Cottage would be slightly lower to that in the north due to increased levels of screening including built form • Cairnbank Schoolhouse and garden vegetation. The effects on the conservation area would be further reduced due to its • Earn Bank lower elevation (AOD) and the screening effects of intervening built form and roadside vegetation on the far side of the adjacent B road. There are no properties with unobstructed direct views of the • Hawthorn Cottage proposed wind farm. The open spaces including recreational and amenity areas within the settlement • Hawthorn Dean boundary are also relatively well insulated. For these reasons the magnitude of change to the • Springhill settlement overall would be negligible. The level of effect would be Slight and there would be no 7.314 The visual effect for approximately three properties in the Renton area may rise to significant as a significant effects as a result of the proposed wind farm. result of Brockholes (consented wind farm): 7.321 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented Drone Hill (under construction ~6.8 km), • Renton Cottages and proposed schemes at Blackburn (~3 km) and Hoprigshiels (~3 km, low magnitude). The overall • Gardeners Cottage cumulative level of effect would not be significant.

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Oldhamstocks Hoprig

7.322 The settlement of Oldhamstocks is defined in the East Lothian Local Plan and is represented by a 7.329 This hamlet is located ~6 km to the west of the proposed wind farm and the most visible scenario viewpoint which is set back form the village and at a higher elevation: VP 18 (8,358 m viewing viewing across open fields is illustrated in VP 15 (5,940 m viewing distance, low magnitude). distance, low magnitude of change). The principal orientation of the buildings is north-south and at Theoretically there would be views of the upper parts of up to 7 turbines but views will be partially 90º to the proposed wind farm and only approximately 4 properties (Cromwell Hall, Barkeridge, screened by intervening forestry. The eastern portion of the settlement would see more turbines than Smithy Cottage and Ashgrove) would experience direct views. Viewpoint photography was also carried the west but no houses have their principal elevations facing the proposed wind farm. The level of out from the village green and on the road leading out of the village to the east (potential direct / effect would be Slight. There would be no significant visual effects as a result of the proposed wind head-on views). The level of intervening vegetation and built form resulted in views from within the farm. conservation area not being taken forward to final ES viewpoints. However, the work indicated that 7.330 The type of effect would be cumulative with consented Drone Hill (under construction, ~8 km) and the level of effect for the majority of residents would be zero / no view and the effect on the village proposed Blackburn (~2.5 km, medium magnitude). The cumulative level of effect would be green open space would vary between none and slight. Overall the level of effect would be Slight and significant as a result of Blackburn. there would be no significant visual effects as a result of the proposed wind farm. Dunglass 7.323 Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage and Archaeology deals with the Oldhamstocks conservation area which extends some 500 m outside the settlement area and across the fields on either side of the valley. 7.331 The hamlet at Dunglass Mains is located ~4.5 km to the west of the proposed wind farm. There is a Viewpoint photography and wireframe assessment was carried out from the track leading up to high level of screening associated with the intervening designated Garden and Designed landscape and Woollands on the far side of the valley to the south of Oldhamstocks to demonstrate the level of visual the most visible scenario is illustrated in VP 16 (6,183 m viewing distance, low magnitude). Given effect which would not be significant. that there are no properties with unobstructed direct views of the proposed wind farm, the magnitude of change would be low in isolated areas and negligible to none elsewhere and the level of visual 7.324 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented scheme at Drone Hill (~9.5 km, negligible effect would be Slight and would not be significant. No cumulative effects. magnitude) and the proposed schemes at Hoprigshiels (~2 km, blade tips) and Blackburn (~3.9 km), low magnitude. The cumulative level of effect would increase to Moderate and not significant. Bilsdean

Visual Effects on Views from other Settlements 7.332 Bilsdean is a small hamlet located to the west of Dunglass. The location is coastal but the view towards the proposed wind farm is at greater than 100º to the coast. The settlement is well insulated Lumsdaine by valley landform and riparian vegetation to the east. There may be heavily filtered views of the 7.325 There is partial ZTV coverage in this coastal settlement area. Views would be in the opposite upper parts of up to 11 turbines in winter months (low to negligible magnitude) but these would occur direction to the coast and would be subject to high levels of screening due to extensive forestry cover only on the eastern edge of the settlement and there would be no significant visual effects as a result to the west. In theory there could be views of the upper parts of ~7 turbines from the two properties of the proposed wind farm. The level of effect would be Slight. No cumulative effects. in the north of the settlement and the level of effect would be deemed Slight as a precaution. There Birnieknowes would be no significant visual effects as a result of the proposed wind farm. 7.326 The type of effect would be cumulative (Drone Hill, under construction, ~2.7 km). The cumulative 7.333 Hamlet / steadings to the west of Dunglass. There are high levels of intervening screening in the form level of effect would not be significant. of riparian vegetation. There may be heavily filtered views of blade tips in winter months (low to negligible magnitude) but these would not be significant and the overall level of effect would be Cairn Cross Slight and not significant. No cumulative effects. 7.327 The properties are orientated by 90º to the site. Direct views would be possible when egressing Cairn Cove Cross to the west. Theoretically, there would be views of the upper parts of up to 7 turbines from this roadside hamlet to the east of the proposed wind farm. The viewing distance is ~7.5 km. In 7.334 Coastal settlement located ~4.6 km to the northwest of the proposed wind farm. VP 11 (4,642 m reality, views are likely to be screened by forestry on an intervening hillside to the west (Grange viewing distance, low to negligible magnitude) demonstrates the most visible scenario from the south- Plantation). As a precaution, the level of effect would be deemed Slight. There would be no eastern periphery of the settlement: low magnitude. There is a block of coniferous forestry (Cat’s significant visual effects as a result of the proposed wind farm. Hole Plantation) to the south of the settlement that would screen views from the properties with potential direct views which are located on the north-western periphery. Views from most of the 7.328 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented wind farms at Brockholes (~7.3 km), Drone closest properties in the south-east would be at an oblique angle (> 60º) and would be in the opposite Hill (under construction, ~6.1 km), and Pressmains (1.5 km). The overall cumulative level of effect direction to the coast. Properties at Annfield, Inverbrae, and Farthings in the south-east would have would not be significant although isolated significant effects may occur as a result of Pressmains potential direct views but there is intervening garden vegetation. The dead-end road leading through the settlement would be insulated by built form and vegetation. Views from the car park would be screened. For these reasons, the overall magnitude of change would be negligible and there would be no significant effects. The level of effect would be Slight.

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7.335 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented scheme at Drone Hill (under construction, Visual Effects on Views from Main Transport Routes ~6.5 km, blade tips, negligible magnitude) and the proposed scheme at Dunbar (~6.5 km, low to 7.342 This section of the assessment considered the visual effects on views from the main transport routes negligible magnitude). There would be no cumulative significant effects. within the study area and includes an assessment of the A1, the A1107 and the East Coast Main Line Thorntonloch which pass in close proximity to the proposed wind farm site. The views from these routes would be experienced transiently by road users and the sensitivity of these receptors is considered to be 7.336 Small settlement located to the south of Torness Power Station and in close proximity to the sea. The medium. Each of these routes was driven in both directions to assess the potential effects and the most visible scenario is represented by VP 20 (9,062 m viewing distance, low magnitude). The assessment has been assisted with the use of Google Earth modelling, Street View, sequential properties in the north-west settlement area consist of single storey properties which are orientated wireframes and ZTV maps. Those routes outside the ZTV have not been included in the assessment. towards the proposed wind farm and they will have partially filtered views which are subject to low magnitudes of change (not significant). The south-eastern settlement area consists of a large house 7.343 There would be significant visual effects on the views and visual amenity experienced from parts of (Thortonloch) and its grounds and annexe (Gardener’s Cott). The house may experience low the A1107 as they pass the site. Significant cumulative effects would also affect the views from other magnitudes of change to southerly views (not significant). The caravan park on the eastern side of roads within the wider network and although the proposed wind farm would contribute to these the settlement is not assessed, as the caravans are not permanently occupied. Given that the sequentially, it would not be the significant wind farm in the views. The nature of these effects foreground in any affected views consists of a busy transport corridor, and the unaffected easterly would be indirect, long term/reversible, and neutral to negative. In all of these cases the visual views towards the sea and the distance of view, the overall level of effect would be Slight and not effects would be experienced in the context of road travel and the sequential nature of views significant. experienced. 7.337 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented scheme at Drone Hill (under construction, 7.344 Drawing on the ZTV’s, site visits, viewpoint analysis and the assessment of views from residential ~10.5 km, negligible magnitude) and the proposed schemes at Blackburn (~8 km, low magnitude), properties and settlements, it is considered that there would be no significant effects on the views Hoprigshiels (~6 km, blade tips, negligible magnitude), Aikengall II (13 km, low magnitude) and Dunbar from other transport routes within the wider study area between 5 km and 35 km. Whilst the (~2.5 km, medium magnitude). There would be isolated cumulative significant effects as a result of proposed wind farm may be visible from some locations over longer distances, it would appear as a Dunbar but the overall cumulative level of effect would not be significant. distant feature. Thornton A1 Tourist Route

7.338 Located ~8.9 km to the north-east of the proposed wind farm. There are a dispersed group of 7.345 The A1 tourist route is illustrated in viewpoints at Bilsdean Junction (VP 17, 7,454 m viewing distance, detached properties to the north (Thortonloch properties) for which the effects would be similar to low to negligible magnitude) and Grantshouse (VP2, 1,584 m viewing distance low magnitude) those described for Thortonloch (paragraphs 7.336 and 7.337) (not significant). The more Additional photography and wireframe assessment was carried out in roadside locations near Renton concentrated settlement area is within a valley landform and there is surrounding vegetation and School House, Cove Cemetery, and Tower Bridge. ZTV coverage accounts for ~25% of the length of there would be no view. The overall level of effect would be Slight and not significant. the route in the study area. The proposed wind farm would be partially screened by landform and forestry in intermittent views from the A1. 7.339 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented scheme at Drone Hill (under construction, ~10.5 km, negligible magnitude) and the proposed schemes at Blackburn (~8 km, blade tips, negligble 7.346 Eastbound travellers would begin to notice the upper parts of the turbines in direct views from magnitude) and Dunbar (~2.5 km, medium magnitude). The overall cumulative level of effect would distances of ~15 km (south of Dunbar, negligible magnitude). In these views the upper parts of the not be significant although isolated significant effects may occur as a result of Dunbar. turbines would tend to be seen as stacked clusters. In the band between 5 km and 10 km radius, the magnitude of change would be low. Within 5 km radius the visibility is intermittent and views would Pathhead be limited to the upper parts of 1-3 turbines and the magnitude of change would remain as low overall 7.340 Small group of buildings on either side of the east coast railway line and along the road to the north of and would not be significant. Cockburnspath. Any views would be at distances of ~5 km, and would be subject to partial screening 7.347 Westbound travellers would experience intermittent close range views around Renton School Houses in the form of vegetation and built form and transport corridor infrastructure. VP 12 (4,963 m viewing and intermittent long distance views (beyond 10 km) from the stretch of the A1 to the south of distance, low magnitude) demonstrates the most visible scenario from this location. Despite potential Eyemouth. In both cases the views would consist of the upper parts of turbines or just their blade tips. views at low magnitudes of change, the overall level of effect would be Slight there would be no 7.348 Based on the viewpoint assessment, ZTV analysis, wireframe generation and Google Earth modelling, significant visual effects. it is concluded that significant effects would not occur, and given the general speed of traffic on this 7.341 The type of effect would be cumulative with the consented Drone Hill (under construction, ~6.9 km), road any views would be fleeting in nature. and proposed schemes at Blackburn (~3 km) and Hoprigshiels (~3 km), low magnitude. The overall 7.349 Cumulative visibility with Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) would result in an extension of cumulative level of effect would be Slight to Moderate and not significant. the AOV occupied by wind turbines on the horizon. In these views, only the upper parts and blade tips of the turbines would be visible and the Penmanshiel turbines would be located on the opposite side of the consented array to the coastline. The wind farm would therefore have a reduced visual

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association with the coastline and the cumulative level of effect would not be significant. In 7.358 Overall the level of effect would be Slight / Moderate and not significant. Significant cumulative Northbound views the increase in horizontal AOV would barely be noticeable in long distance views visual effects would occur in relation to the proposed wind farm affecting ~2 km of the route and the and there would be no close range cumulative visibility. For these reasons there would be no level of effect here would be Moderate / Substantial. The nature of these effects would be indirect, significant, sequential, cumulative visual effects in association with Drone Hill (under construction). long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.350 Although other wind farms would be visible from this route, most notably Dunbar (locally high B6438 magnitude affecting ~2 km of the route around the cement works), the proposed Wwind Ffarm would 7.359 This ~7 km route is located to the east of the proposed wind farm and there would theoretically be not lead to a significant, sequential, cumulative visual effect in combination with these. oblique views for ~1.2 km. In reality, views are likely to be screened by intervening vegetation and 7.351 Overall the level of effect would be Slight / Negligible to Slight / Moderate and not significant. The the overall magnitude of change would be negligible and not significant. nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.360 Although other wind farms would be visible from this route, most notably Brockholes (~7 km), Drone A1107 Hill (under construction, ~6 km), and Pressmains (~1 km), the proposed wind farm would not lead to a 7.352 The A1107 is a non-trunk route from near Cockburnspath to near . It follows the route significant, sequential, cumulative visual effect in combination with these. between Burnmouth – Eyemouth – Coldingham – Old Cambus – Pease Bay and Cockburnspath. The 7.361 Overall the level of effect would be Slight/Negligible and not significant. Significant cumulative visual route is closer to the east coast than the main , providing an alternative tourist route along effects would occur in relation to the Pressmains wind farm affecting ~1 km of the route to the east of the coast. This route is ~20 km long and is located to the north and east of the proposed wind farm the single turbine scheme and the level of effect here would be Moderate / Substantial. The nature and it runs through the middle of Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). The visual effect is of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. demonstrated by VP 10, Falaknowe (4,374 m viewing distance, low magnitude). Westbound road users B6437 would gain a direct view over some 2 km, then view the wind farm intermittently at an oblique angle for another 2.5 km and the Drone Hill turbines would stand in front of Penmanshiel. Eastbound road 7.362 This undulating ~7 km route is located to the south-east of the proposed wind farm and there would users would have head on views of ~2 blade tips over ~0.5 km and then later on oblique views of ~5 be no effect on southbound road users. In theory northbound road users would experience direct views blade tips over ~1 km. The nearest turbines would stand some 800 m from the road. Significant for ~1 km and oblique views for ~2 km at viewing distances between 6 km and 10 km but in reality cumulative visual effects would occur in relation to the proposed wind farm affecting ~2 km of the views are likely to be partially screened by intervening vegetation and the overall magnitude of route. change would be low when travelling northwards and negligible overall. 7.353 Other wind farms would be visible from this route, most notably the grouping of Aikengall I and II and 7.363 Although other wind farms would be visible from this route, most notably Black Hill (~12 km), the Crystal Rig, however the proposed wind farm would not lead to a significant, sequential, cumulative proposed wind farm would not lead to a significant, sequential, cumulative visual effect in visual effect in combination with these. combination with these. 7.354 The consented Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) straddles the A1107 and would cause 7.364 Overall the level of effect would be Slight/Negligible and not significant. The nature of these effects significant visual effects for a section of ~5 km length between Falaknowe and Meikle Black Law. would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.355 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, localised significant Howpark Road (Minor Road) effects would occur affecting ~6 km of the route in total. Of the ~6 km, approximately 5 km would 7.365 Howpark Road is a ~5 km route which connects Harelawside (the A1) and the A1107. The route is already be significantly affected by the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction), which would ~400 m from the nearest turbine at its closest point. The southern extents of the route pass alongside appear in front of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm. Approximately 1.5 km would be significantly the Howpark Burn and there would be intermittent, filtered views of parts of the proposed wind farm affected as a result of the both the Drone Hill (under construction) and the proposed Penmanshiel for the first 2 km when travelling northwards. For the remaining ~3 km between Howpark and the Wind Farm together and only approximately 500 m would be significantly affected as a result of the A1107 the road is open and passes through higher elevations and there would be clear and open views proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm alone. The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term of the proposed wind farm at close proximity and the level of effect would be significant. Overall the (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. level of effect would be Moderate / Substantial and significant. A6112 7.366 There would also be close range views of Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) on the opposite 7.356 This ~13 km route is located to the south of the proposed wind farm and there would be no effect as a side of the road at distances of less than ~100 m. The wind farm would contribute to the significant result of the proposed wind farm on southbound road users. Northbound users would experience effect. The combined level of effect would be Moderate / Substantial. The nature of these effects direct / intermittent views for ~4.5 km. would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.357 Although other wind farms would be visible from this route, most notably Black Hill (locally medium Rail Routes: East Coast Main Line (ECML) magnitude), the proposed wind farm would not lead to a significant, sequential, cumulative visual 7.367 The alignment of the ECML results in southbound passenger views being to the north-east and south- effect in combination with these. west (perpendicular from the line) rather than south-east towards the proposed wind farm. Similarly

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when travelling northbound views are north-east and south-west rather than north-west towards the 7.375 When departing from and travelling towards the coast ~12.5 km of the route is affected and proposed wind farm. The route passes through a valley landform when it is closest to the proposed the type of view is illustrated in the following viewpoints: VP 25 Twin Law (negligible magnitude), turbines. For these reasons there would be a zero magnitude of change as a result of the proposed VP 13 Quixwood (medium magnitude) and VP 5 Blackburn (high magnitude). wind farm. 7.376 Overall the level of effect would be Slight and not significant increasing to Moderate / Substantial and 7.368 Although other wind farms would be visible from this route, most notably Dunbar (locally high significant, for approximately 2.5 km of the route as it winds across a ridge near Blackburn before magnitude), the proposed wind farm would not lead to a significant, sequential, cumulative visual dropping to cross the A1 and mainline railway. Drone Hill (under construction) would cause significant effect in combination with these. visual effects (medium magnitude) around the Blackburn area for approximately 1.5 km. Visual Receptors: Recreational Routes 7.377 The Southern Upland Way is already significantly affected as a result of existing and consented wind farms within the study area as follows: 7.369 The visual assessment on views from recreational routes is set out in paragraphs 7.374 to 7.412 and 7.378 Twin Law Cairns (VP 25). Fallago Rig Wind Farm in combination with the Crystal Rig / Aikengall has considered the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people (walkers / cyclists / Group, Dun Law Group and Black Hill: Significant cumulative visual effects (medium magnitude) at horse riders / joggers) on recreational routes within the study area. Twin Law Cairns for approximately 6 km, viewing to the north with large wind farms cumulatively and 7.370 At a local level the assessment has considered the views from local recreational routes within 5 km of successively visible at approximately 7-17 km distance. the proposed wind farm and includes the Core Path Network sourced from the Scottish Borders 7.379 Black Hill Wind Farm would cause significant visual effects (high to medium magnitude) between Adopted Core Paths Plan (2010) which is partly illustrated in Figure 7.11. The sensitivity of these local and Ellemford Bridge for approximately 5 km. routes is considered to be medium, unless otherwise stated, due to the generally lower levels of use when compared to long distant or more popular routes and the tendency for some of these to be more 7.380 Further significant cumulative visual effects are predicted in respect of Blackburn proposed wind focused on providing access. between Whiteburn and Blackburn Rig for ~4 km. 7.371 Drawing on the ZTVs, site visits, and viewpoint analysis, it is considered that there would be no 7.381 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, there would be significant effects on the views from core paths within the wider study area between 5 km and 35 km. significant effects on views from substantial sections of the Southern Upland Way including the 6 km Whilst the proposed wind farm may be visible from some locations over longer distances, it would section at Twin Law Cairns (mainly as a result of Fallago Rig), the 5 km section around Black Hill wind appear as a distant feature. farm, and the ~4 km section around Blackburn wind farm. The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.372 At a national / regional level the visual assessment has considered the views from national recreational routes within the 35 km study area, which includes Long Distance Routes, Sustrans Sir Walter Scott Way national cycle ways, and long distance Ride UK horse riding routes, all of which are illustrated in 7.382 The route of the Sir Walter Scott Way duplicates with the Southern Upland Way assessed in paragraphs Figure 7.9 and Figure 7.10. The sensitivity of these national / regional routes is considered to be high 7.374 to 7.381. due to the generally higher levels of use when compared to local routes and the tendency for these to 7.383 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, there would be be more focused on recreation. There would be significant visual effects on the views and visual significant effects on views from substantial sections of the Southern Upland Way including the 6 km amenity experienced from parts of the Southern Upland Way and the Sir Walter Scott Way which section at Twin Law Cairns (mainly as a result of Fallago Rig), the 5 km section around Black Hill Wind follows the same route. Overall the level of effect on these routes would be Moderate and not Farm, and the ~4 km section around Blackburn wind farm. The nature of these effects would be significant. However, there would be significant effects on views from substantial sections of the indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. Southern Upland Way mainly as a result of Fallago Rig, Black Hill and Blackburn wind farms. The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. Ravenber Way

7.373 The proposed wind farm would lead to a significant and cumulative effect on the Blackburn section of 7.384 This long distance route in England follows the course of the river Tweed and its tributary the River this route when viewed together with Drone Hill (under construction) and Blackburn wind farms. Till in the 20 to 30 km range. The valley landform would screen any views. Overall the level of effect Southern Upland Way (Core Path 189) would be Zero / No view and not significant.

7.374 This route provides a long distance route from Cockburnspath on the coast via the Lammermuirs Berwickshire Coastal Path (Core Path 2) towards Lauder just outside the study area. The route extends for ~46.3 km within the study area and 7.385 This route connects Cockburnspath with Berwick-upon-Tweed. ~9 km of the route of the Berwickshire a total of ~14.5 km is overlapped by the ZTV. When departing from Cove and travelling south-west Coastal Path duplicates with Core Path 2. A further ~3 km duplicates with the Southern Upland Way the only affected section in terms of direct or oblique views would be the first 2 km of the route. In and Core Path 189 assessed in paragraphs 7.374 to 7.381. The remainder of the route is only this area, the minimum viewing distance is ~3.5 km and the type of view is illustrated in VP 11 (low overlapped by the ZTV during a section of ~2 km length to the south of Eyemouth and is illustrated by magnitude, not significant). VP 23 (low magnitude).

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7.386 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, there would be Sustrans National Cycle Route Route 68 significant effects on views from the ~2 km section of the route between Harly Darlies and Dowlaw as 7.394 This route connects the Sustrans Route 1 in Northumberland with destinations on the edge of the a result of Drone Hill (under construction) and the proposed wind farm. The nature of these effects study area. There is only partial ZTV coverage and the minimum viewing distance of the proposed would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. wind farm would be ~25 km (negligible magnitude). Overall, the level of effect would be Slight and John Muir Way not significant

7.387 The John Muir Way (JMW) is being developed by ELC to provide a continuous path linking East Lothian 7.395 There would be no significant cumulative visual effects. with the City of and the Scottish Borders. The JMW also forms part of the – ScotWays Walking routes in the Lammermuirs the North Sea Coastal Path Project. Within the 30 km study area, the route consists of a narrow track 7.396 There are five recreational routes developed by ScotWays in consultation with land owners, SBC, ELC on grass and pebble beaches between Dunglass and Dunbar, it then veers inland to East Lothian before and SNH. Route 1 is entirely outside the ZTV and there would be no views of the proposed wind farm. returning to the coast at North Berwick. Approximately 40 km of the route lies in the study area and Routes 2,3, 4 and 5 are located at distances of between ~12 km and ~30 km from the proposed wind ZTV coverage accounts for approximately half this distance. The types of view available are farm and are predominantly outwith the ZTV. The affected areas are as follows: Route 2: illustrated in VPs 17, 20 and 24 (low to negligible magnitude). Only south-easterly views would be intermittent visibility affecting a total of ~6 km between Longformacus and Priest Law; Route 3: affected and users travelling north-west would be unaffected. The level of effect overall would be intermittent visibility affecting summits around Black Hill wind farm; Route 4: visibility of ~4 km Slight to Moderate. around Twin Law (coincides with the Southern Upland Way); Route 5: intermittent visibility affecting a 7.388 There would be views of the existing wind farms at Crystal Rig, Aikengall (low to negligible total of ~3 km around Twin Law, Rawburn near Longformacus, and Wrunk Law. There would be views magnitude). There would be views the consented Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction, low to of the existing wind farms at Black Hill, Crystal Rig, and Aikengall (low to high magnitude). There negligible magnitude). The proposed wind farms at Hoprigshiels, Fernylea, and Aikengall II and would be views of the consented Fallago Wind Farm (low to high magnitude). The proposed wind Dunbar would be visible (low to medium magnitude). farms at Corsbie Moor, Rowantree, Blackburn, and Aikengall II would be visible (low to high 7.389 Overall the level of effect would be Slight to Moderate and not significant. However, there would be magnitude). significant effects on views from the ~4 km section of the route near the cement factory as a result of 7.397 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, there would be Dunbar. The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, significant effects for a total of ~15 km as a result of Fallago Rig, Black Hill and Crystal Rig. The and cumulative. nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. Sustrans National Cycle Route 76 Cockburnspath to Duns Scottish Hill Track 7.390 This route provides a long distance connection between Berwick-upon-Tweed to Haddington on the 7.398 This route is listed in the Scottish Rights of Way Society publication: Scottish Hill Tracks. The north- edge of the study area. The route ranges from between 1 km and 30 km distance from the proposed south route takes in the following locations: Cockburnspath – Ecclaw – Bankend – Black Hill – Harden’s wind farm. Much of the route is outwith the ZTV and there would be no view of the proposed wind Hill – Duns and part of the route overlaps with the Southern Upland Way. The route passes within farm from that part of the route. The closest point on the route within the ZTV is on the A1107 4.5 km of the nearest proposed turbine at its closest point. ZTV coverage accounts for ~15% of the around Old Cambus Wood (high magnitude). The proposed wind farm would contribute to significant route. The magnitude of change would vary from none to medium and would be negligible overall. effects for ~2 km of the route in this area. Further visibility is predicted on the A1 as illustrated by The level of effect would be Slight. VP 17 (low magnitude) and in the area to the south of Eyemouth (negligible magnitude). The level of 7.399 There would be views of the existing wind farms at Black Hill at close proximity (high magnitude effect overall would be Slight. locally but low overall). Crystal Rig, and Aikengall would also be visible (low magnitude). There 7.391 In terms of the cumulative situation, there would be significant effects in relation to Drone Hill Wind would be views of the consented Drone Hill (under construction), Fallago Rig and Brockholes wind Farm (under construction) affecting ~5.5 km of the route and Dunbar proposed wind farm would give farm (low magnitude). The proposed wind farms at Barnside Farm, Blackburn, and Aikengall II would rise to a significant effect along ~7 km of the route. all be within 3 km of the route and would cause a medium magnitude as a group. Sustrans National Cycle Route 1 7.400 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, there would be 7.392 This route connects Kelso and Berwick-upon-Tweed on the south-eastern extents of the study area. significant effects for a total of ~10 km as a result of Black Hill, Blackburn and Aikengall II. The There is only partial ZTV coverage and the minimum viewing distance of the proposed wind farm nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. would be ~20 km (negligible magnitude). Overall, the level of effect would be Slight and not Core Path Number 100 significant 7.401 Also known as the Laird’s Road, this route provides a north-south link between Grantshouse and the 7.393 There would be no significant cumulative visual effects. A1107 / Old Cambus. The route passes within 350 m of the nearest turbine (T1) at its closest point. The route length is ~4 km and it is located to the west of the proposed wind farm. Topographically the route climbs up and over Moss Maw and the Lady’s Folly. The level of effect would range from

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Moderate / Substantial on the higher ground to None / No View in the lower lying locations at either 7.412 Overall the level of effect would be Slight / Negligible and not significant. However, there would be end of the route. significant effects on views from the south-western section of the route as a result of Hoprigshiels. 7.402 The existing wind farms at Black Hill, Crystal Rig, and Aikengall and the consented wind farms at The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and Fallago Rig, Brockholes and Drone Hill (under construction) would all be visible from the higher points cumulative. of the route (medium to negligible magnitude). In addition, the proposed wind farms at Blackburn, Visual Effects on Views from Recreational and Tourist Destinations Hoprigshiels, Fernylea, and Aikengall II would be visible from the higher points of the route, (high to 7.413 The Penmanshiel site area is not a tourist or recreational area. Within 5 km of the proposed wind low magnitude). Blackburn would contribute to significant effects although at ~3 km distance at its farm site, the main tourist attractions are caravan sites and the Fast Castle Head ruin. There would closest point it would not appear as prominent as the proposed wind farm. be significant effects on the Highview Caravan Park but the remaining tourist and recreational site 7.403 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate / Substantial and significant. The nature of these within 5 km including Pease Bay Caravan Park and Stockbridge Caravan Park are outside the ZTV. effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.414 The visual effects on the views from recreational and tourist destinations within the wider study area Core Path 2 (Berwickshire Coastal Path) are assessed in paragraphs 7.421 to 7.437. There would be no significant visual effects in respect of 7.404 The 5 km study area includes a ~9 km stretch of the route which connects the coastal locations at the proposed wind farm. Oatlee, Dowlaw and Pease Bay. ~4 km is within the ZTV although approximately half of the affected Recreational and Tourist Destinations within the ZTV and within 5 km distance area (~2 km) is outside the hub height ZTV. At its closest point the route passes within 1 km of the nearest proposed turbine (T12) although at this point there would be no visibility as it is outside the Highview Caravan Park ZTV. Where visible within 2 km distance, views would be limited to blade tips and upper parts of the 7.415 Highview Caravan Park is located to the south-east of the site and contains ~150 units on site with proposed wind farm. occupation allowed for up to 7 months. The closest caravan to turbine distance is ~2.2 km and “The 6 7.405 Views of the proposed wind farm would not interfere directly with views of the North Sea which is most attractive views from the site lie in the southern half of the compass”. Most of the caravans regarded as the main point of interest in the Borders SPG. VP 4 (negligible magnitude) and VP 7 (low have their main aspect away from the proposed wind farm. The most visible scenario is illustrated in magnitude) illustrate the range of effects that would be experienced in those areas covered by the VP 3 (high magnitude). This type of view is not typical of the site as a whole and views of the ZTV. The level of effect would range from None / No view to Moderate. proposed wind farm from the eastern and southern parts of the site would be subject to screening 7.406 There would be views of the existing wind farms at Aikengall and Crystal Rig (low to negligible (medium to low magnitude). Overall, the level of effect would be Moderate / Substantial and magnitude). There would be views of the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) at close significant. The consented Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction, approximately 760 m to the proximity (~1 km at its closest point, medium magnitude). north), would contribute a high magnitude of change and would be more visible than the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm (Substantial). The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term 7.407 No other consented wind farms would be visible. (reversible), negative to neutral and cumulative. 7.408 The proposed wind farm applications at Hoprigshiels, Fernylea, Aikengall II, and Dunbar would be 7.416 Other existing developments that are visible from western and southern parts of the site include visible from the western extents of the route, (low to negligible magnitude). Crystal Rig, Aikengall and Black Hill, and they would contribute a negligible magnitude of change 7.409 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. However, there would be significant overall when considered as a group. effects on views from the ~2 km section of the route between Harly Darlies and Dowlaw as a result of 7.417 The consented Brockholes development would also be visible from western and southern parts of the Drone Hill (under construction) and the proposed wind farm, with Drone Hill (under construction) site (4 km, low magnitude). appearing as the more prominent of the two. The nature of these effects would be indirect, long- term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. 7.418 Other proposed application developments that would be visible from western and southern parts of the site include Aikengall II, and Blackburn and they would contribute a low magnitude of change Core Path 95 overall when considered as a group. 7.410 This is a ~3.5 km core path link on minor roads and it connects Cockburnspath with the Southern 7.419 Southerly views would be relatively unaffected and there would be no significant effect on views in Upland Way, crossing the A1 and the ECML. The route is restricted to lower ground and ZTV coverage this direction. is limited to the areas to the west of the ECML. Views would consist of blade tips only. VP 12 St Helen’s Church (Hutton’s Unconformity at Siccar Point) illustrates the type of view available (low magnitude). The level of effect would range from None / No view to Slight / Moderate. 7.420 The view from St Helen’s Church is illustrated by VP 4 (negligible magnitude) and the visual effects 7.411 There would be views of the existing wind farm at Aikengall (low to negligible magnitude). There are set out in the viewpoint analysis within Appendix 7.2. The level of effect would be Slight and not would be no views of any consented wind farms. The proposed wind farms at Hoprigshiels, Fernylea, significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral and and Aikengall II would be visible (medium magnitude). cumulative.

6 Drone Hill Appeal Decision Notice, Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals, The Scottish Government

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Recreational and Tourist Destinations within the ZTV and within 5-30 km distance Middelmoor, Barmoor, and Wandylaw. Other proposed wind farms that would be visible, subject to consent, include Rowantree, Aikengall II, Blackburn Farm, Whitton, and Broadmeadows. Dunglass Estate 7.430 Twin Law Cairns has been assessed as part of the viewpoint analysis contained in Appendix 7.2 7.421 Dunglass Estate is a Garden and Design Landscape and is open to the public. The view from Dunglass (VP 25). The visual effects as a result of the proposed wind farm when considered in isolation are Estate is illustrated by VP 16 (low to negligible magnitude) and the visual effects are set out in the predicted to be Slight (not significant) and the nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term viewpoint analysis within Appendix 7.2. The level of effect would be Slight to Moderate and not (reversible), negative to neutral and cumulative. significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral and 7.431 A significant cumulative effect would, however occur as a result of the consented Fallago Rig Wind cumulative. Farm and the proposed Aikengall II (Moderate / Substantial). Edin’s Hall Broch Duns Castle 7.422 This Historic Scotland visitor site is located ~8 km to the south of the proposed wind farm and the 7.432 This is a Garden and Designed Landscape, open to the public and located ~12 km from the proposed views would be experienced by tourists and visitors and is illustrated by VP 16 (low to negligible wind farm at its closest point. ZTV coverage is limited to the summit of Dun Law and the north- magnitude) and the visual effects are set out in the viewpoint analysis within Appendix 7.2. The western extents of the Garden and Designed Landscape. Forestry cover would also limit visibility and magnitude of change to northerly views would be low to negligible. Southerly views would be effects would be limited to isolated areas on the northern fringes of the forestry. The level of effect unaffected. The level of effect overall would be Slight to Moderate. would range from Zero to Moderate and overall would be Slight and not significant. 7.423 The blade tips of the existing wind farm at Aikengall would be visible subject to screening (negligible 7.433 In terms of cumulative effects there would be views of Aikengall II and Kelloe Mains proposed wind magnitude). The consented schemes at Drone Hill (under construction) and Brockholes would be farms (low magnitude). Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. The nature visible subject to screening (low magnitude). The proposed schemes at Aikengall II, Blackburn and of these effects would be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. Barnside would also be visible subject to screening (medium magnitude). 7.424 A significant cumulative effect would occur as a result of Barnside Farm and Aikengall II and the level Barn’s Ness Beach of effect would be Moderate / Substantial. The nature of these effects would be indirect, long-term 7.434 The views from the beach area would range from zero to slight and overall would be Slight and not (reversible), negative to neutral and cumulative. significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral and John Muir Country Park cumulative.

7.425 This is a coastal area to the north-west of the proposed wind farm. At its closest point it is ~20 km Ewieside Hill from the site. ZTV coverage is partial and visibility of the proposed wind farm would only occur from 7.435 The view from Ewieside Hill is illustrated by VP 8 (medium magnitude) and the visual effects are set the more distant western extents of the park. Viewpoint photography was carried out from the top of out in the viewpoint analysis within Appendix 7.2. The level of effect would be Moderate and not the dunes on the north-western spit to demonstrate the most visible scenario. The viewpoint was not significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral and carried forward to the viewpoint assessment at the request of ELC. The level of effect would range cumulative. from zero to slight and overall would be Slight. Cockburn Law 7.426 There would be views of the existing and consented wind farms at Aikengall, Crystal Rig and Drone Hill (under construction, low magnitude). There would also be views the proposed wind farm at Aikengall 7.436 The view from Cockburn Law is illustrated by VP 19 (low magnitude) and the visual effects are set out II (low magnitude). in the viewpoint analysis within Appendix 7.2. The level of effect would be Slight / Moderate and not significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral and 7.427 Overall the level of effect would be Moderate and not significant. The nature of these effects would cumulative. be indirect, long-term (reversible), negative / neutral, and cumulative. Blackcastle Hill Twin Law Cairns 7.437 The view from Blackcastle Hill is illustrated by VP 21 (low magnitude) and the visual effects are set 7.428 Twin Law Cairns are two large hill cairns or small towers on the Southern Upland Way in the out in the viewpoint analysis within Appendix 7.2. The level of effect would be Slight / Moderate and Lammermuir Hills. One of the cairns contains a visitor’s book and a stone seat orientated to view not significant. The nature of these effects would be long-term (reversible), negative to neutral and south across the borders landscape towards the Cheviots. cumulative. 7.429 The proposed wind farm would be visible at 22,572 m to the north-east. Other existing wind farms that are visible include Black Hill, (currently the closest at approximately 10 km) and in the far distance, Long Park, Bowbeat, Carcant, Toddleburn, Dun Law, Crystal Rig, and Aikengall. Consented wind farms that would also be visible in the far distance include Fallago (7 km distance), Pogbie, Keith Hill, Pinnacle Hill, Brockholes, Pressmains Farm, Drone Hill (under construction), Langhope,

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Summary and Evaluation of Residual Landscape and Visual Effects

7.438 A summary of the predicted landscape effects and an evaluation of their significance are provided in Table 7.8 and summary of the predicted visual effects and an evaluation of significance are provided in Table 7.9

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Table 7.8: Summary and Evaluation of the Predicted Landscape Effects

Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude of Change LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: (Penmanshiel Wind Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Including Consented Including Applications Farm only) (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, (Penmanshiel, existing, farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) consented, application, & Drone Hill)

Local Landscape Character: Penmanshiel Moor (Penmanshiel Wind Farm Site Area)

During Construction Medium Zero to High None to Moderate/ Substantial N/A N/A N/A

During Operation Medium High Moderate/ Substantial Moderate/ Substantial (Drone Moderate/ Substantial (Drone Moderate/ Substantial (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

During Decommissioning Medium Low to Negligible Slight / Negligible to Slight / N/A N/A N/A Moderate

Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA

During Construction and Operation Medium Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate

During Decommissioning Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible

Note: there would be a localised significant landscape effect on part of the Coastal Moorland: Coldingham Moor LCA affecting the area of Penmanshiel Moor as result of Drone Hill and Penmanshiel

Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water LCA

During Construction and Operation Medium to High Low Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate

During Decommissioning Medium to High Negligible Slight to Slight / Negligible Slight to Slight / Negligible Slight to Slight / Negligible Slight to Slight / Negligible

Note: there may be a very localised significant landscape effect on part of the Pastoral Upland Fringe: Eye Water LCA in connection with the site access.

Indirect Landscape Effects on Surrounding Landscape Character (within 10 km during Operation)

Coastal Farmland: Coldingham LCA Medium to High Low Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate

Note: there would be a localised significant landscape effect on part of the Coastal Farmland: Coldingham LCA affecting the area around Howpark and Bell Hill.

Coastal Farmland: Cockburnspath LCA Medium to High Low Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate Moderate to Slight / Moderate

Dissected Moorland Plateau: Lammermuir Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Moderate to Moderate / Slight / Moderate to Moderate / Moderate to Moderate / Plateau LCA Substantial (Crystal Rig + Substantial (Crystal Rig Substantial (Crystal Rig + Aikengall) +Aikengall) Aikengall II + Blackburn)

Platform Farmland: Eye Water Platform LCA Medium Low Slight / Moderate to Moderate Slight / Moderate to Moderate / Slight / Moderate to Moderate / Moderate / Substantial (Crystal Substantial (Crystal Rig Substantial (Crystal Rig + Rig + Aikengall II + Blackburn) +Aikengall) Aikengall)

Grassland with Hills: Knock Hill LCA Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible

Wooded Upland Fringe Valley: Middle Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Whiteadder LCA Moderate Moderate Moderate

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Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude of Change LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: (Penmanshiel Wind Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Including Consented Including Applications Farm only) (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, (Penmanshiel, existing, farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) consented, application, & Drone Hill)

Rolling Lowland Margin: Eye Water Lowland Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible LCA

Uplands: Lammermuir Plateau As per the Dissected Moorland Plateau: Lammermuir Plateau LCA

Upland Fringes: Eastern Lammermuirs LCA Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Moderate to Moderate / Moderate to Moderate / Moderate to Moderate / Substantial (Crystal Rig / Substantial (Crystal Rig / Substantial (Crystal Rig / Aikengall) Aikengall) Aikengall II)

Coastal Margins : Dunbar Plain LCA Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Moderate

Seascape: Type 1: Remote High Cliffs Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible

Seascape: Type 2: Rocky Coastline Open Sea Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible views

Indirect Landscape Effects on Landscape Designations

Berwickshire Coastline AGLV Medium Negligible to Low Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate

East Lothian Coastline AGLV Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible to Slight / Moderate

Lammermuirs AGLV Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Moderate to Moderate / Slight / Moderate to Moderate / Moderate to Moderate / Substantial (Crystal Rig + Substantial (Crystal Rig + Substantial (Crystal Rig + Aikengall) Aikengall Aikengall II + Blackburn)

North Northumberland Coast AONB High Zero No view No view No view No view

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Table 7.9: Summary and Evaluation of the Predicted Visual Effects

Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude of Change LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: (Penmanshiel Wind Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Including Consented Including Applications Farm only) (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, (Penmanshiel, existing, farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) consented, application, & Drone Hill)

Visual Effects on Views from Residential Properties

2 properties at Howpark High High to Medium Substantial to Moderate/ Substantial to Moderate/ Substantial to Moderate/ Substantial to Moderate/ Blackburn House Substantial (Penmanshiel) Substantial (Penmanshiel) Substantial (Penmanshiel) Substantial (Penmanshiel) Riggwell

The Myrtle High Low Moderate Substantial to Moderate/ Substantial to Moderate/ Substantial to Moderate/ Burnside Cottage Substantial (Drone Hill) Substantial (Drone Hill) Substantial (Drone Hill) Cairnbank Schoolhouse Earn Bank Hawthorn Cottage Hawthorn Dean Springhill

Renton Cottages High Low Moderate Moderate Moderate/ Substantial Moderate/ Substantial Gardeners Cottage (Brockholes) (Brockholes) Gardens Bungalow

Bowshiel Farm High Low Moderate Moderate Moderate Substantial to Moderate/ Penmanshiel Farm Substantial (Blackburn) Penmanshiel Cottages x 2

Visual Effects on Views from Settlements: (defined by the Scottish Borders Local Plan)

Grantshouse High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

Cockburnspath High Negligible Slight Slight Moderate Moderate

Oldhamstocks High Negligible Slight Slight Moderate Moderate

Visual Effects on Views from Other Settlements

Lumsdaine High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

Cairn Cross High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

Hoprig High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Moderate/ Substantial (Blackburn)

Dunglass High Negligible Slight - - -

Bilsdean High Negligible Slight - - -

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Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude of Change LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: (Penmanshiel Wind Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Including Consented Including Applications Farm only) (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, (Penmanshiel, existing, farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) consented, application, & Drone Hill)

Birnieknowes High Negligible Slight - - -

Cove High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Moderate

Thorntonloch High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Moderate/ Substantial (Dunbar)

Thornton High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Moderate/ Substantial (Dunbar)

Pathhead High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

Visual Effects on Views from Main Transport Routes

A1 Tourist Route Medium Negligible to Low Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Slight / Negligible to Slight / Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate

A1107 Medium Medium Moderate (Moderate / Moderate (Moderate / Moderate (Moderate / Moderate (Moderate / Substantial for 2 km) Substantial for 6 km – Drone Substantial for 6 km – Drone Substantial for 6 km – Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

A6112 Medium Low Slight / Moderate (Moderate / Slight / Moderate (Moderate / Slight / Moderate (Moderate / Slight / Moderate (Moderate / Substantial for 2 km) Substantial for 2 km – Drone Substantial for 2 km – Drone Substantial for 2 km – Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

B6438 Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Moderate / Substantial (Pressmains for 1 km)

B6437 Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible

Howpark Road (minor road) Medium High Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

East Coast Main Line Rail Route Medium Zero No view No view No view No view

National / Regional Recreational Routes

Southern Upland Way (Core Path 189) High Negligible Slight (Substantial for 2.5 km) Moderate Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial (Fallago, Crystal Rig, (Blackburn) Aikengall, Black Hill)

Sir Walter Scott Way (Core path 189) High Negligible Slight (Substantial for 2.5 km) Moderate Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial (Fallago, Crystal Rig, (Blackburn) Aikengall, Black Hill)

Ravenber Way High Zero No view No view No view No view

Berwickshire Coastal Path (Core Path 2) High Low Moderate Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

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Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude of Change LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: (Penmanshiel Wind Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Including Consented Including Applications Farm only) (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, (Penmanshiel, existing, farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) consented, application, & Drone Hill)

John Muir Way High Negligible to Low Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate (Moderate/ Substantial Dunbar)

Sustrans National Cycle Route 76 High Negligible Slight (Substantial for 2 km) Slight (Substantial for 5 km – Slight (Substantial for 5 km – Slight (Substantial - Dunbar) Drone Hill) Drone Hill)

Sustrans National Cycle Route 1 High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

Sustrans National Cycle Route Route 68 High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

ScotWays Walking routes in the Lammermuirs High Low Moderate Moderate / Substantial (Crystal Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Rig / Black Hill) (Fallago) (Fallago)

Cockburnspath to Duns Scottish Hill Track High Negligible Slight Moderate (Substantial - Black Moderate (Substantial - Black Moderate (Substantial – Hill) Hill) Blackburn / Aikengall II)

Local Recreational Routes

Core Path Number 100 Medium High Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

Core Path 2 High Low to High Moderate to Moderate / Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Moderate / Substantial (Drone Substantial Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel) Hill and Penmanshiel)

Core Path 95 Medium Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Slight / Negligible Moderate

Visual Effects on Views from Recreational and Tourist Destinations: within 5 km

Highview Caravan Park High Medium Moderate / Substantial Substantial (Drone Hill and Substantial (Drone Hill and Substantial (Drone Hill and Penmanshiel) Penmanshiel) Penmanshiel)

St Helen’s Church (Hutton’s Unconformity at High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight Siccar Point)

Visual Effects on Views from Recreational and Tourist Destinations: within 5 – 30 km distance

Edin’s Hall Broch High Low to Negligible Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Moderate / Substantial (Barnside and Aikengall II)

Dunglass Estate High Low to Negligible Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate Slight to Moderate

John Muir Country Park High Negligible Slight Moderate Moderate Moderate

Twin Law Cairns High Negligible Slight Slight Moderate / Substantial (Fallago Moderate / Substantial (Fallago Rig) Rig and Aikengall II)

Duns Castle High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Moderate / Substantial (Aikengall II)

Barns Ness Beach High Negligible Slight Slight Slight Slight

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Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude of Change LVIA Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: Cumulative Level of Effect: (Penmanshiel Wind Penmanshiel Wind Farm Baseline & Penmanshiel Including Consented Including Applications Farm only) (Penmanshiel Wind Farm only) (Penmanshiel, existing wind (Penmanshiel, existing, (Penmanshiel, existing, farms & Drone Hill) consented & Drone Hill) consented, application, & Drone Hill)

Ewieside Hill Medium Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate / Substantial (Blackburn)

Cockburn Law Medium Low Slight / Moderate Slight / Moderate Slight / Moderate Moderate / Substantial (Barnside and Aikengall II)

Blackcastle Hill Medium Low Slight / Moderate Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial Moderate / Substantial (Aikengall I) (Aikengall I) (Aikengall II and Hoprigshiels)

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the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm has been designed to appear as a compatible wind farm or Conclusions extension to the consented Drone Hill Wind Farm.

Introduction 7.445 There would be no significant effects on designated landscapes.

7.439 The LVIA conforms to the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Second Edition Visual Effects (GLVIA) and has been produced by chartered landscape architects at AMEC Environment and 7.446 Limited significant effects as a result of the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would occur at 4 Infrastructure Limited. residential properties at Howpark (the closest of which is ~1.15 km from the nearest proposed 7.440 The assessment process has encompassed the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases turbine) and Core Path 100 which crosses the site. It is not considered that any of the residential of the proposed wind farm and has included design iteration and re-assessment of the residual properties with a view of the proposed wind farm would suffer unduly from negative visual effects effects. such as visual dominance, overbearing, or blocking of light, which collectively may affect the 7.441 The assessment has also included cumulative assessment and considers the additional cumulative overall visual amenity. Further significant effects would affect short sections of road and effect that would be generated by the proposed wind farm in combination with other existing, recreational routes, as well as the views from the Highview Caravan Park as follows: consented, and proposed wind farms. The Drone Hill wind Farm (consented and currently under • A1107 / National Cycle Route 76 construction) has been assessed as though it is already existing and is illustrated as such in the • A6112 visualisations and photomontages, where the Drone Hill Wind Farm has been photomontaged into • Howpark Road (minor road) the existing view. • Southern Upland Way / Sir Walter Scott Way / Core Path 189 Landscape Design • Dowlaw Road / Core Path 2 / Berwickshire Coastal Path 7.442 In particular the following design objectives have been developed which are specific to the 7.447 All of these effects would be experienced cumulatively in the context of the Drone Hill Wind Farm proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm: (under construction) which in many cases would have a greater visual effect. • To limit the ZTV and areas of potentially significant landscape and visual effect on areas 7.448 There would be no significant effects on settlements as a result of the proposed wind farm. including the Berwickshire Coast AGLV, local settlements including Grantshouse, Cove, Oldhamstocks and Cockburnspath, important routes including the A1 tourist route, the A1107, Conclusions the Berwickshire Coastal Path, and the Southern Upland Way, and from local tourist 7.449 To conclude the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm is located within ‘Zone 1’ of SNH’s Strategic destinations such as Pease Bay and Dunglass Church. Guidance for Onshore Wind Farms, whilst at a local level the Scottish Borders Supplementary • To ensure that the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm appears visually compatible with the Planning Guidance on Wind Energy indicates that the proposed wind farm is located within an ‘Area Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). of Moderate Constraints (Higher)’ indicating landscape and visual capacity for wind farm development at this location in addition to the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction). • To ensure the design and appearance of turbines from the northern and western viewpoints in particular is not over dominant. 7.450 The site is located within a coastal moorland landscape, adjacent to the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and has been designed to appear as an extension or visually compatible wind • To limit landscape effects on neighbouring landscape character areas which may be considered farm in terms of scale, turbine layout, height, and overall design include site access tracks. The as of high visual sensitivity (Pastoral Upland Fringe Valley: Eye Water and Coastal Farmland: Coastal Moorland landscape has a number of ‘upland’ characteristics and some containment from Coldingham Moor). surrounding hills within the wider plateau, such that it is a suitable landscape character for wind 7.443 The results of the design process have lead to a coherent and cohesive turbine layout, which would farm development in accordance with the preferences expressed in SBC Policy D4 for wind farms to appear as a tight group with no unacceptable outliers or large gaps. The layout compliments the be located in ‘upland’ landscapes and in ‘Locations where there is surrounding landform that Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and would succeed in appearing as an extension when minimises the external visibility of the development, where there is no interference with viewed from many of the sensitive receptors to the northwest. The vertical and horizontal AOV of prominent skylines… will be looked on more favourably than other locations’. the proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm has been minimised where possible and the turbines would 7.451 SBC Policy D4 requires an assessment of effects on high sensitivity receptors including major tourist not appear disproportionate to the skylines and hillsides they occupy. routes and important landscape viewpoints and it may be noted that there would be no significant Landscape Effects effects on the scenic viewpoints listed in Appendix D of the Draft SPG which includes Fancove Head 7.444 The proposed Penmanshiel Wind Farm would result in a localised and significant effect on part of at Eyemouth, Twin Law Cairns, and the A1, although there would be locally significant effects on the Coastal Moorland LCA at Penmanshiel Moor. The local landscape would already be altered by the views from a small section of the Southern Upland Way and Berwickshire Coastal Path, which wind farm development as a result of the consented Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) and would already be affected by Drone Hill (under construction). Overall the zone theoretical visibility and the likely landscape and visual effects of the proposed wind farm are limited and largely correspond with the effects resulting from the Drone Hill Wind Farm (under construction) such that

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the development would avoid significant effects on the Berwickshire Coast AGVL and associated Scottish Natural Heritage Advisory Services, Guidance for the Assessment of Cumulative Landscape seascapes. and Visual Impacts Arising from Wind farm Developments – Version 2, 2005, and the emerging 3rd version which is currently out to consultation. References Scottish Natural Heritage, Siting and Design of Wind farms in the Landscape, Version 1, 2009. Ash Consulting Group on behalf of Scottish Natural Heritage, The Lothians Landscape Character Scottish Natural Heritage, The Scottish Renewables Forum and the Scottish Society of Directors of Assessment, SNH Report No. 91, 1998. Planning, Visual Representation of Wind farms: Good Practice Guidance, 2006. Ash Consulting Group on behalf of Scottish Natural Heritage, The Borders Landscape Assessment, SNH Scottish Hill Tracks, Scottish Rights of Way Society Report No 112, 1998. Scottish Natural Heritage Advisory Services, Guidance for the Assessment of Cumulative Landscape Countryside Commission, North East National Character Area, Countryside Character Volume 1: North and Visual Impacts Arising from Wind farm Developments - Version 2 2005. East: Report No 535, 1998. Scottish Natural Heritage, Guidelines on Environmental Impacts of Wind farms and Small Scale Hydro Drone Hill Appeal Decision Notice, Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals, The Scottish Electric Schemes, 2001. Government Scott K.E., Anderson C., and Benson J. F., An assessment of the sensitivity and capacity of the Scottish Landscape Institute and IEMA, Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Second Edition Seascape in relation to offshore windfarms, SHN Commissioned Report No.103, 2005. 2002. University of Newcastle and Scottish Natural Heritage, Visual Assessment of Wind Farms: Best Practice Landscape Institute, Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment, 2002. Advice Note 01/11, 2011 University of Sheffield and Landuse Consultants, Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for Macaulay Enterprises Ltd on behalf of Scottish Borders Council, Visibility Mapping for Wind Farm England and Scotland, Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage publication, produced 2002. Development, Oct 2003. OS Explorer Map 346 – Berwick-upon-Tweed Scottish Borders Council, Adopted Core Paths Plan, 2010. OS Explorer Map 351 – Dunbar and North Berwick Scottish Borders Council, Scottish Borders Structure Plan ‘The New Way Forward’ 2001-2018, 2009. OS Explorer Map 345 – Lammermuir Hills Scottish Borders Council, Scottish Borders Consolidated Local Plan 2011, 2011. Scottish Borders Council, Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance on Wind Energy, 2010. Scottish Natural Heritage, Strategic Guidance for Onshore Wind Farms, March 2009.

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