Limekiln Wind Farm s36C Variation Appendix 9.D EIA Report Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

Appendix 9.D: Assessment of cumulative effects

INTRODUCTION This Appendix relates generally to Chapter 9 of the EIA and specifically to Section 12: Assessment of Cumulative Effects. An introduction to the cumulative assessment is presented in Section 9.4, which sets out the methodology and scope of the cumulative assessment.

Cumulative effects may arise where a landscape character receptor or view is affected by more than one wind farm, and where the study areas for two or more wind farms overlap, such that they are experienced at a proximity where they may have an incremental effect. The cumulative assessment covers cumulative effects on landscape character receptors and cumulative effects on views.

There are two factors to consider in defining the scope of the cumulative assessment; firstly, which cumulative developments are relevant to the assessment; and secondly, which landscape and visual receptors have potential to undergo significant effects.

Section 9.4 of Chapter 9 LVIA, sets out a preliminary assessment to identify which of the 37 wind farms are relevant to the cumulative assessment. This preliminary assessment identifies the following five application stage wind farms as being relevant to the cumulative assessment; namely Drum Hollistan, Ackron, Forss III, Strathy Wood and Strathy South S36C. There were very few consented wind farms found to be relevant to the cumulative assessment owing to a combination of their small number of turbines, relatively small size, separation distance from the Revised Consented Development and their location close to existing clusters of wind farm development.

The cumulative assessment considers two cumulative scenarios; • Cumulative Scenario 1, in which the Revised Consented Development is added to a cumulative situation comprising all operational, under construction and consented wind farms; • Cumulative Scenario 2, in which the Revised Consented Development is added to a cumulative situation comprising all operational, under construction, consented and application stage wind farms.

This preliminary assessment presents a filtering process to ascertain which of the landscape character receptors, representative viewpoints and principal visual receptors have potential to undergo significant cumulative effects as result of the addition of the Revised Consented Development to the Cumulative 1 and 2 Scenarios.

This filtering process is presented in the four tables in this Appendix: • Table 9.D.1 Assessment of cumulative effects on landscape character types; • Table 9.D.2 Assessment of cumulative effects on designated areas; • Table 9.D.3 Assessment of cumulative effects on representative viewpoints; and • Table 9.D.4 Assessment of cumulative effects on principal visual receptors.

The landscape character types, designated areas, representative viewpoints and principal visual receptors that are considered to have potential to undergo a significant cumulative effect as a result of the Revised Consented Development are shown shaded in the tables and are assessed in full in Section 9.11 of the LVIA.

It should be noted that cumulative wind farms are included in the assessment if their own ZTV radius overlaps with the landscape character type, designated area, viewpoint or visual receptor. Wirelines sometimes indicate visibility of wind farms that are outwith their

June 2021 Page 1 Limekiln Wind Farm s36C Variation Appendix 9.D Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment EIA Report own ZTV radius, and in this case, they are not included in the assessment as they are too far away to be considered relevant. The ZTV radius for each of the cumulative wind farms is dependent on the height of the turbines and is calculated according to guidance given in NatureScot’s (formerly SNH) ‘Visual Representation of Wind farms: Version 2.2 (2017).

In respect of consented Limekiln, included in Table 9.4 Cumulative Wind Farms of Section 9.4, this is not considered in the cumulative assessment as it located on the same site as the Revised Consented Development and both would not be built.

In respect of Limekiln Extension, although it is an application stage wind farm at appeal, it is not included as a cumulative development in the Scenario 2 cumulative assessment. This is because Limekiln Extension is reliant on the Revised Consented Development to be built first and, therefore, a situation in which Limekiln Extension forms part of the predicted baseline to which the Revised Consented Development would be added, would never arise.

The importance of considering the cumulative effect of the Revised Consented Development in combination with Limekiln Extension is, however, considered in this LVIA to ensure a complete assessment. An in-combination cumulative assessment is included in respect of all the landscape and visual receptors assessed in Sections 9.8: Assessment of Effects on Landscape Character Types, 9.9: Assessment of Effects on Landscape Designations, 9.10: Assessment of Effects on Representative Viewpoints and 9.11: Assessment of Effects on Principal Visual Receptors. The Revised Consented Development in combination with the Limekiln Extension is referred to as the ‘Combined Development’.

In Section 9.12: Assessment of Cumulative Effects, an assessment has been included which considers the effects of the Combined Development in respect of all landscape and visual receptors assessed under Cumulative Scenario 1 and Cumulative Scenario 2, that is the additional effect of the Combined Development in respect of all other operational, consented and application stage wind farms.

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ON LANDSCAPE CHARACTER The first part of the cumulative assessment is the assessment of cumulative effects on landscape character, presented in Tables 1 and 2 below, which cover landscape character types and designated areas respectively. The landscape character types and designated areas that are considered to have potential to undergo a significant cumulative effect as a result of the Revised Consented Development are shown shaded in the table and are assessed in full in Section 9.11 of Chapter 9. Table 9.D.1: Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Landscape Character Types

No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit 14 Coniferous Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented woodland There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented plantation / landscape unit. Development may contribute to Limekiln Views within the woodland are limited due to tree an additional cumulative effect, cover. Views possible from cleared areas at the but this will not be significant due base of the turbines and along paths and rides. to: The ZTVs show theoretical areas of inter-visibility • Very limited visibility as a result of the Revised Consented Development with: of blanket woodland cover with • Baillie Hill (close relative proximity to the localised visibility occurring in north-east) openings around turbine bases • Forss, Hill of Lybster (close relative proximity and along tracks. to the north-east) • Most notable influence coming from the Revised Consented • Strathy North (In the wider landscape to the Development with influences west) from other wind farms being relatively less notable.

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary (In the wider landscape to the south- east). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented landscape unit. Development may contribute to The ZTVs show theoretical areas of inter-visibility an additional cumulative effect, of the Revised Consented Development with: but this will not be significant due to the reasons described in • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (close relative proximity to the north-west). respect of Scenario 1.

• Forss III (close relative proximity to the north- east). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape to the west). 14 Coniferous Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented woodland There are no wind farms located within these No; the Revised Consented plantation / landscape units. Development may contribute to All an additional cumulative effect, remaining The ZTVs show scattered areas of theoretical but this will not be significant areas visibility of the Revised Consented Development with: due to: • Baillie Hill (close relative proximity in units to • Very limited visibility as a result the east where there is patchy visibility) of blanket woodland cover with localised visibility occurring in • Strathy North (In the wider landscape to the west) openings and along tracks. • Forss, Hill of Lybster (close relative proximity in units to the east where there is patchy visibility) • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad Cheo, Halsary: (In the wider landscape. Scattered areas of theoretical visibility in units to the south-east). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms

There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented landscape unit. Development may contribute to The ZTVs show areas of scattered theoretical an additional cumulative effect, visibility of the Revised Consented Development but this will not be significant with: due to the reasons described for • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (close relative Scenario 1. proximity to the north-west). • Forss III (close relative proximity to the north- east). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape to the west). 2 Flat Peatland Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented / All areas: There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Smigal; Bad landscape unit. Development may contribute to nam Bo The ZTVs show patchy areas of visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development within the Bad but this will not be significant due nam Bo unit at a distance of 6 to 15 km and to: typically of 1 to 4 turbines. • Patchy extents and low levels of There are views of the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Development with: Consented Development. • Forss, Hill of Lybster, Baillie Hill (In the • Patchy extents and low levels of wider landscape in combination with the visibility of the cumulative Revised Consented Development to the north). developments. • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad Cheo, Halsary: • The closer association of the Flat (In the wider landscape, in succession to the Peatlands with the Sweeping Revised Consented Development to the east.) Moorlands and Lone Mountains to the south than the Sweeping • Strathy North (In the wider landscape, in succession to the Revised Consented Moorlands to the north. Development to the west).

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show patchy theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Consented Development Development may contribute to with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In the wider but this will not be significant due landscape in combination with the Revised to the reasons described for Consented Development to the north). Scenario 1. • Forss III (In the wider landscape in combination with the Revised Consented Development to the north). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape, in succession to the west). 5 High Cliffs & Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Sheltered There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Bays / Red landscape unit. Development may contribute to Point The ZTV shows theoretical visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development within the unit but this will not be significant due at a distance of approximately 4.5 km with: to: • Baillie Hill, Hill of Lybster, Forss (In close • The small scale of the LCT and proximity in combination to the east). its close association with the coastal edge rather than inland landscapes such as the Limekiln Coniferous Woodland Plantation where the Revised Consented Development would be located. • The location of the LCT along the north coastal edge and its orientation out towards the North Atlantic. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows theoretical visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development with: Development may contribute to • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (close relative an additional cumulative effect, proximity to the north-west). but this will not be significant due to the reasons described for • Forss III(close relative proximity to the north- east). Scenario 1. 5 High Cliffs & Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented Sheltered There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Bays / Other landscape unit. Development may contribute to areas: Rub an additional cumulative effect, na Cloiche; The ZTV shows patchy visibility of the Revised but this will not be significant due Spear Head Consented Development from elevated areas – notably Brims Hill at Spear Head at a distance of to: approximately 12 km. From these areas there is • Patchy extent of visibility of the theoretical visibility of the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development with: Development and the • Baillie Hill, Hill of Lybster, Forss (In cumulative developments. combination to either the west or east). • Distance from which the Revised • Strathy North (In the wider landscape, in Consented Development and the either combination or succession to the west). cumulative developments will be seen which ensures they will not • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad Cheo, Halsary: (In the wider landscape, in combination to the feature as prominent influences south-east). on landscape character. • The closer association of this LCT with the coastal edge. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show patchy theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Consented Development Development may contribute to from elevated areas with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In combination to but this will not be significant due either the west or east). to the reasons described for Scenario 1.

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit • Forss III (In combination to either the west or east). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape, in combination or succession to the west). 6 Long Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Beaches There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Dunes and landscape unit. Development may contribute to Links / an additional cumulative effect, Sandside The ZTV shows full areas of visibility of the Revised Consented Development within the unit but this will not be significant due at a distance of approximately 3 km with: to: • Baillie Hill (In close proximity in combination • The orientation of the landform to the south-east). towards the coastal edge and the strong association between this LCT and the North Atlantic. • The location of the Revised Consented Development to the rear of the main orientation of the Long Beaches Dunes and Links. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show patchy theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Consented Development Development may contribute to to the north of the unit with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In close proximity in but this will not be significant due combination to the south-west). to the reasons described for • Forss III (In close proximity in combination to Scenario 1. the east). 12 Mixed Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Agriculture The Revised Consented Development will be seen Yes; there is potential for a and in the context of Baillie Hill wind farm which is significant cumulative effect that Settlement / situated within this landscape unit. There are requires further assessment due North-East extensive areas of visibility of this wind farm to: within this landscape unit. • The close proximity of the The ZTV shows full visibility of the Revised Revised Consented Consented Development from areas to the west Development to the LCT and the of the unit where the influence of the Revised wide extent of visibility.in Consented Development increases as proximity relation to Baillie Hill wind farm. to the Revised Consented Development • The high levels of intervisibility increases. The Revised Consented Development between the two developments will be seen with: across the LCT. • Camster (In the wider landscape, in succession to the south-east). • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad Cheo, Halsary: (In the wider landscape, in succession to the south-east). • Forss, Hill of Lybster (In close proximity to the north). • Strathy North (In the wider landscape, in combination to the west). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show that there will be small patches of Yes; there is potential for a inter-visibility of the Revised Consented significant cumulative effect that Development with: requires further assessment due • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In close relative to: proximity, in combination to the north-west). • Potential cumulative effects on • Forss III (In close relative proximity to the landscape character arising from north and north-east). visibility of the Revised Consented Development in • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider conjunction with Drum Hollistan, landscape, in combination to the south-east). Ackron and Forss III.

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit 3 Moorland Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Slopes and There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Hills / Ben landscape unit. Development may contribute to Dorrery The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development on northwest but this will not be significant due facing slopes at a minimum distance of 6.5 km to: with: • Intermittent visibility and • Baillie Hill (Approximately 8 km and in distance of the Revised combination to the north-west). Consented Development from the receptor, which ensures that • Forss / Hill of Lybster (Approximately 12 km the turbines will be relatively viewed behind Baillie Hill to the north-west). minor influential components • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, from the majority of the Halsary: (Approximately 8 km and in landscape type. combination to the south-east). • Intermittent visibility of the • Achairn, Flexhill, Camster and Buolfruich other operational, under (In the wider landscape, at a minimum distance construction and consented of 18 km in combination to the south-east). wind farms at distance. • Strathy North (In the wider landscape, in combination to the north-west). • Stroupster, Wathegar and Wathegar 2 (In the wider landscape, at a minimum distance of 20 km in combination to the east). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development on northwest Development may contribute to facing slopes at a minimum distance of 6.5 km an additional cumulative effect, with: but this will not be significant • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In the wider due to the reasons described for landscape beyond the Revised Consented Scenario 1. Development). • Forss III (In the wider landscape beyond Baillie Hill). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape, in combination to the north-west). 3 Moorland Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Slopes and There are no wind farms located within this Yes; there is potential for a Hills / Beinn landscape unit. significant cumulative effect that nam Bad requires further assessment due Mor The ZTV shows visibility of the Revised Consented Development on north facing slopes at to: a minimum distance of 3.2 km and with: • Potential cumulative effects on • Baillie Hill (Approximately 9 km in combination landscape character arising from to the north-east). visibility of the Revised Consented Development in • Forss / Hill of Lybster (Approximately 13 km in combination to the north-east viewed behind conjunction with Baillie Hill, Forss and Hill of Lybster. Baillie Hill). • Potential cumulative effects on • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary: (Approximately 14 km in succession landscape character arising from to the south-east) visibility of the Revised Consented Development and the • Achairn, Flexhill, and Buolfruich (In the other operational, under wider landscape, in succession at distances over construction and consented 21 km). wind farms. • Strathy North, Bettyhill (In the wider landscape, in combination approximately 17 km to the north-west). • Camster, Stroupster, Wathegar and Wathegar 2 (In the wider landscape, in succession at a minimum of 14 km to the east). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows areas of visibility of the Revised Yes; there is potential for a Consented Development on north facing slopes in significant cumulative effect that close proximity and with:

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (close relative requires further assessment due proximity to the north-west). to: • Forss III (close relative proximity to the north- • Potential cumulative effects on east). landscape character arising from • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider visibility of the Revised landscape, in combination to the north-west). Consented Development in conjunction with Drum Hollistan, Ackron and Forss III. 3 Moorland Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Slopes and There are no wind farms located within this Yes; there is potential for a Hills / Beinn landscape unit. significant cumulative effect that Ratha The ZTV and wirelines show areas of visibility of requires further assessment due the Revised Consented Development in close to: proximity with: • Potential cumulative effects on • Baillie Hill (Approximately 7 km in combination landscape character arising from to the north-east). visibility of the Revised Consented Development in • Forss / Hill of Lybster (Approximately 9 km conjunction with Baillie Hill, in combination to the north-east). Forss and Hill of Lybster. • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, • Halsary: (visible in the wider landscape at Potential cumulative effects on distances beyond 28 km viewed in landscape character arising from combination). visibility of the Revised Consented Development and the • Achairn, Flexhill and Buolfruich (visible in other operational, under the wider landscape at distances beyond 25 km construction and consented viewed in combination). wind farms. • Strathy North (in the wider landscape in succession at a distance of over 10 km to the west). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV and wirelines show areas of visibility of Yes; there is potential for a the Revised Consented Development in close significant cumulative effect that proximity with: requires further assessment due • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (close relative to: proximity to the north-west). • Potential cumulative effects on • Forss III (close relative proximity to the north- landscape character arising from east). visibility of the Revised Consented Development in • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape, in succession to the south-west). conjunction with Drum Hollistan, Ackron and Forss III. 11 Open Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Intensive There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Farmland / landscape unit. Development may contribute to Brims The ZTV shows theoretical visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development from the west but this will not be significant due of the unit at a distance of approximately 9.5 km to: with: • The close proximity of Baillie Hill • Baillie Hill (In close proximity, 3 km to the and Forss diminish the influence south-west and in combination with the Revised the Revised Consented Consented Development). Development has on the cumulative situation. • Forss, Hill of Lybster (In close proximity in combination to the west). • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from • Strathy North (In the wider landscape, in combination with the Revised Consented the LCT means that the turbines will be relatively minor Development to the south-west). influential components from the majority of the LCT. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows theoretical visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development within the unit Development may contribute to with: an additional cumulative effect, but this will not be significant due

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In the wider to the reasons described for landscape, in combination with the Revised Scenario 1. Consented Development to the west). • Forss III (In close proximity in combination to the west). 11 Open Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Intensive The ZTV shows full areas of visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Farmland / Revised Consented Development within the unit Development may contribute to Lower at a distance of approximately 3 km with: an additional cumulative effect, Dounreay • Baillie Hill (In close proximity in combination but this will not be significant due with the Revised Consented Development to the to: south-east). • The close proximity of Baillie Hill • Forss / Hill of Lybster (located within this and Forss diminish the influence landscape unit and seen in combination from the Revised Consented the majority of the unit). Development has on the cumulative situation. • The LCT relates more closely to the influence from the coastal edge than the inland landscapes where the Revised Consented Development is located. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows full areas of visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development within the unit Development may contribute to with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In the wider but this will not be significant due landscape, in combination with the Revised to the reasons described for Consented Development to the west). Scenario 1. • Forss III (located within this landscape unit and seen in combination from the majority of the unit).

11 Open Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Intensive There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Farmland / landscape unit. Development may contribute to Sandside The ZTV shows full areas of theoretical visibility an additional cumulative effect, of the Revised Consented Development within but this will not be significant due the unit at a distance of approximately 3 km to: with: • The contained extents of the • Baillie Hill, Forss, Hill of Lybster (In close Revised Consented proximity in combination to the south-east). Development and the other operational and consented wind farms. • The closer association of this unit with the open coastal landscapes than the hinterland. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows areas of theoretical visibility of No; the Revised Consented the Revised Consented Development within the Development may contribute to unit with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In close proximity in but this will not be significant due combination to the south-west). to: • Forss III (In close proximity in combination to • The contained extents of the the south-east). Revised Consented Development and the other operational, consented and application wind farms. • The closer association of this unit with the open coastal landscapes than the hinterland. 13 Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit Small Farms There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented and Crofts / landscape unit. Development may contribute to Broubster The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development within the unit but this will not be significant due at a distance of approximately 4 km. Up to 16 to: turbines are visible to the south and east of the • The patchy extent and low unit where the landform begins to rise. The levels of visibility of the Revised Revised Consented Development will be seen Consented Development across with: this LCT. • Baillie Hill (Visible in combination to the north • The reduced prominence of the at a distance of approximately 8 km). Revised Consented • Forss, Hill of Lybster (Visible in combination Development seen behind the to the north at a distance of approximately ridgeline and contained in 12 km behind Baillie Hill). woodland plantation. • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary: (Visible across the north part of the LCT but not in combination with the Revised Consented Development and in the wider landscape) Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development will be seen No; the Revised Consented from elevated areas with: Development may contribute to • Forss III (Visible in combination to the north an additional cumulative effect, at a distance of approximately 12 km behind but this will not be significant due Baillie Hill). to the reasons described for Scenario 1. 13 Small Farms Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented and Crofts / There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Loch Calder landscape unit. Development may contribute to The ZTV shows a patch of visibility of the Revised an additional cumulative effect, Consented Development in the north of the LCT but this will not be significant due at a distance of approximately 6.5 km. Visibility to: of the Revised Consented Development within • Limited extent of visibility of the the unit is from the north, where there is partial Revised Consented visibility of up to 16 turbines. The Revised Development across the LCT Consented Development will be seen with: • Medium range between the LCT • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, and the Revised Consented Halsary: (In the wider landscape, in Development. combination to the south-east). • Baillie Hill (Approximately 4 km to the north- east and seen in combination with the Revised Consented Development). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development will be seen No; the Revised Consented from elevated areas with: Development may contribute to • Forss III (Approximately 11.5 km to the north an additional cumulative effect, and seen in succession with the Revised but this will not be significant due Consented Development). to the reasons described for Scenario 1. 13 Small Farms Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented and Crofts / There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Melvich landscape unit. Development may contribute to The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development within the unit but this will not be significant due at a distance of approximately 9 km. Visibility of to: the Revised Consented Development within the • Limited extent of visibility of the unit is restricted to hills in the west extremity of Revised Consented the unit at Portskerra, where there is partial Development across the LCT visibility of up to 8 turbines. The Revised • Medium range between the LCT Consented Development will be seen with: and the Revised Consented • Baillie Hill, Forss, Hill of Lybster Development (Approximately 14 km to the east and seen in

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit combination with the Revised Consented • Intermittent visibility of the Development). development in combination with Baillie Hill, Forss and Hill of Lybster wind farms. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development will be seen No; the Revised Consented from elevated areas with: Development may contribute to • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (Approximately 5 km an additional cumulative effect, to the east and seen in combination with the but this will not be significant due Revised Consented Development). to the reasons described for Scenario 1. • Forss III (Approximately 14 km to the east and seen in combination with the Revised Consented Development). 13 Small Farms Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented and Crofts / There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Shurrery landscape unit. Development may contribute to The ZTV shows very small patches of visibility of an additional cumulative effect, the Revised Consented Development within the but this will not be significant due LCT at a distance of approximately 7.5 km, to: restricted to the north-west facing slopes on Ben • Intermittent visibility from Dorrery and another small patch in the north of scattered elevated locations the area. From these locations the Revised combined with distance of the Consented Development will be seen with: Revised Consented • Baillie Hill, Forss, Hill of Lybster Development from the receptor, (Approximately 8.5 km and 13.5 km which ensures that the turbines respectively, viewed in combination to the will be relatively minor north-west). influential components from the majority of the LCT. • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary: (Approximately 9.5 km, viewed in • Intermittent visibility of other combination to the south-east). wind farms from scattered elevated locations. • Achairn, Flexhill, Camster and Buolfruich (In the wider landscape, viewed in succession to the south-east). • Strathy North (In the wider landscape, viewed in combination to the north-west). • Stroupster, Wathegar and Wathegar 2 (In the wider landscape, viewed in succession to the east). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development will be seen No; the Revised Consented from elevated areas with: Development may contribute to • Forss III (viewed in combination to the north- an additional cumulative effect, west) but this will not be significant due to the reasons described for • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape, viewed in combination to the north- Scenario 1. west). 7 Strath / Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Strath Halladale The ZTVs show patchy theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Consented Development Development may contribute to from Trantlemore Hill with: an additional cumulative effect, • Strathy North, Bettyhill (In the wider but this will not be significant due landscape in combination to the west and to; north-west). • Limited visibility of both the Revised Consented Development and cumulative developments, which ensures that the turbines will be relatively minor influential components from the majority of the LCT. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit The ZTVs show patchy theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Consented Development Development may contribute to from Trantlemore Hill with: an additional cumulative effect, • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider but this will not be significant due landscape in combination to the west and to the reasons described for north-west). Scenario 1. 1 Sweeping Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Moorland / Broubster There are no wind farms located within this Yes; there is potential for a landscape unit. significant cumulative effect that

The ZTVs show theoretical areas of visibility of requires further assessment due the Revised Consented Development with: to: • Baillie Hill (In close proximity seen mostly in • Potential cumulative effects on combination with the Revised Consented landscape character arising from Development). visibility of the Revised Consented Development and • Forss, Hill of Lybster (In relative close proximity seen behind Baillie Hill from the Baillie Hill wind farm in close north-east of the unit). proximity. • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary (Seen in succession to the Revised Consented Development from a small patch to the north of the LCT) Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows areas of visibility of the Revised Yes; there is potential for a Consented Development from these areas with: significant cumulative effect that • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In relative close requires further assessment due proximity seen in combination with the Revised to: Consented Development). •Potential cumulative effects on • Forss III(In relative close proximity seen landscape character arising from behind Baillie Hill from the north-east of the visibility of the Revised unit). Consented Development and other application stage wind farms in close proximity. 1 Sweeping Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Moorland / There are no wind farms located within this Yes; there is potential for a Beinn Ratha landscape unit. significant cumulative effect that

The ZTVs show theoretical areas of visibility from requires further assessment due the eastern / northeast side of this unit of the to: Revised Consented Development with: • Potential cumulative effects on • Baillie Hill (In close proximity seen in landscape character arising from combination with the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Development). Consented Development and the wind farms at Baillie Hill, Forss, • Forss, Hill of Lybster (at a distance to the north-east seen in combination with the Revised Hill of Lybster and Strathy Consented Development). North.

• Strathy North (in the wider landscape to the west and in succession with the Revised Consented Development). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows areas of visibility of the Revised Yes; there is potential for a Consented Development from these areas with: significant cumulative effect that • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In close proximity requires further assessment due seen in combination with the Revised to: Consented Development). •Potential cumulative effects on • Forss III (at a distance to the north-east seen landscape character arising from in combination with the Revised Consented visibility of the Revised Development). Consented Development and Drum Hollistan / Ackron Wind • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (at a distance to the north-east and in succession with the Farms in close proximity. Revised Consented Development). 1 Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit Sweeping There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented Moorland / landscape unit. Development may contribute to Beinn Ruadh The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Revised Consented Development with: but this will not be significant due to: • Baillie Hill (in the wider landscape to the north-east and in combination with the Revised • Intermittent visibility and Consented Development). distance of the Revised Consented Development from • Forss, Hill of Lybster (in the wider landscape to the north-east and in combination with the the receptor, which ensures that Revised Consented Development). the turbines will be relatively minor influential components • Strathy North (In close relative proximity seen from the majority of the LCT. in succession with the Revised Consented Development in scattered areas). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development with: Development may contribute to • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (in the wider an additional cumulative effect, landscape to the north-east and in combination but this will not be significant with the Revised Consented Development). due to the reasons described for • Forss III (in the wider landscape to the north- Scenario 1. east and in combination with the Revised Consented Development). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In close relative proximity seen in succession with the Revised Consented Development in scattered areas). 1 Sweeping Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Moorland / Loch Scye There are no wind farms located within this No; the Revised Consented landscape unit. Development may contribute to The ZTVs show theoretical areas of visibility of an additional cumulative effect, the Revised Consented Development with: but this will not be significant due • Baillie Hill (seen in combination with the to: Revised Consented Development). • The not significant effect that the Revised Consented • Forss, Hill of Lybster (seen in combination with the Revised Consented Development Development will have on the visible behind Baillie Hill from the north-east of LCT owing to limited extent and levels of visibility and the the LCT). location of the turbines behind • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, an intervening ridgeline Halsary (seen in succession to the Revised • Consented Development from the central strip Intermittent visibility of other through the LCT) operational, under construction and consented wind farms. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development from these Development may contribute to areas with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (seen in combination but this will not be significant due with the Revised Consented Development). to the reasons described for • Forss III (seen in combination with the Scenario 1. Revised Consented Development). 1 Sweeping Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented Moorland / There are no wind farms located within these No; the Revised Consented Other areas: LCTs. Development may contribute to Airg nam The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the an additional cumulative effect, Bruach Revised Consented Development from these but this will not be significant due Dubha; areas with: to: Olgrimmore; • Intermittent visibility and Brawlbin • Baillie Hill (In the wider landscape). distance of the Revised • Forss, Hill of Lybster (In the wider landscape). Consented Development from the receptors, which ensures • Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, that the turbines will be Halsary (In combination to the south-east).

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No. Landscape Other wind farms visible /comments Further assessment required? Type / Unit • Strathy North (In the wider landscape to the relatively minor influential north-west). components. • Intermittent visibility of other operational, under construction and consented wind farms. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms

The ZTV shows patchy areas of visibility of the No; the Revised Consented Revised Consented Development from these Development may contribute to areas with: an additional cumulative effect, • Drum Hollistan, Ackron (In the wider but this will not be significant due landscape). to the reasons described for Scenario 1. • Forss III (In the wider landscape). • Strathy South, Strathy Wood (In the wider landscape to the north-west).

Table 9.D.2: Initial Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Landscape Designations Landscape Type Other wind farms visible / Further assessment required? comments

National Scenic Areas

Kyle of Tongue Scenario 1 and 2: Operating, under construction, consented and application The ZTVs indicate that there is only No, the Revised Consented Development very limited visibility of the Revised will not contribute to a cumulative effect Consented Development. due to limited visibility.

Gardens and Designed Landscapes

Castle of Mey Scenario 1 and 2: Operating, under construction, consented and application (Barrogill Castle) The ZTV indicates negligible visibility No, the Revised Consented Development of the Revised Consented will not contribute to a cumulative effect Development from a minimum of due to negligible visibility. 33 km away. Dunbeath Castle Scenario 1 and 2: Operating, under construction, consented and application The ZTVs indicate that there is no No, the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented will not contribute to a cumulative effect Development. due to lack of visibility. Tongue House Scenario 1 and 2: Operating, under construction, consented and application The ZTVs indicate that there is no No, the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented will not contribute to a cumulative effect Development. due to lack of visibility. Melsetter House Scenario 1 and 2: Operating, under construction, consented and application The ZTV indicates negligible visibility No, the Revised Consented Development of the Revised Consented will not contribute to a cumulative effect Development from a minimum of due to negligible visibility. 39 km away.

Special Landscape Areas

Ben Griam & Loch Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented nan Clar There are no wind farms located No; the Revised Consented Development within this SLA. may contribute to an additional cumulative The ZTV shows visibility of the effect, but this will not be significant due to: development from elevated locations • Intermittent visibility which is restricted to at Ben Griam Beg, Ben Griam Mor hills and elevated areas and distance of

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Landscape Type Other wind farms visible / Further assessment required? comments and Meall a Bhuirich at a minimum the Revised Consented Development from distance of approximately 22.5 km. the receptor, which ensures that the Strathy North would be visible from turbines will be relatively minor influential elevated areas in combination to the components from the majority of the SLA. west of the Revised Consented Development. Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary, Stroupster, Wathegar and Wathegar 2 would be visible in succession in the wider landscape to the northeast of the SLA. Achairn, Flexhill, Camster, Causeymire and Buolfruich are all visible in the wider landscape at a minimum distance of 30 km from the SLA. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan, Ackron and Forss III No; the Revised Consented Development are visible at a minimum distance of may contribute to an additional cumulative 21 km to the south-east. effect, but this will not be significant due to In the wider landscape from elevated the reasons described for Scenario 1. areas there would be visibility of Strathy South and Strathy Wood to the north. Dunnet Head Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented There are no wind farms located No; the Revised Consented Development within this SLA. may contribute to an additional cumulative The ZTV shows patches of visibility of effect, but this will not be significant due to: the Revised Consented Development • The distance of the Revised Consented from the west and north of the SLA at Development from the receptor which a distance of approximately 22 km. ensures that the turbines will form Baillie Hill, Forss and Hill of Lybster relatively minor influential components wind farms are visible in combination from the majority of the SLA. with the Revised Consented • The limited influence of the cumulative Development from the west facing wind farms on the character of the SLA. slopes of the SLA. Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary, Stroupster, Wathegar and Wathegar 2 will be visible in combination in the wider landscape to the southwest of the SLA at a minimum distance of approximately 20 km. Strathy North is visible at a distance of approximately 28 km from the west of the SLA in combination with the Revised Consented Development. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan, Ackron, and Forss III No; the Revised Consented Development are visible at a minimum distance of may contribute to an additional cumulative 11 km to the south-east. effect, but this will not be significant due to Strathy South and Strathy Wood will the reasons described for Scenario 1. be visible in combination with the Revised Consented Development at a distance of approximately 27 km. Farr Bay, Strathy & Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Portskerra There are no wind farms located No; the Revised Consented Development within this SLA. may contribute to an additional cumulative The ZTV shows very small patchy effect, but this will not be significant due to: areas of visibility of the Revised • The distance of the Revised Consented Consented Development with up to Development and the limited extent of 20 turbines theoretically visible from visibility, which ensures that the turbines elevated areas within the SLA – most will form relatively minor influential

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Landscape Type Other wind farms visible / Further assessment required? comments notably Strathy Point. At its closest components from the majority of the point, between 1 and 5 turbines will Special Landscape Area. theoretically be visible at a distance • The association of this SLA with the of 9.5 km. seaward, rather than landward aspect. Baillie Hill, Forss and Hill of Lybster are visible in combination with the Revised Consented Development from elevated areas. Strathy North is theoretically visible in succession with the Revised Consented Development at a distance of approximately 7 km.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan, Ackron, and Forss III No; the Revised Consented Development are visible at a minimum distance of may contribute to an additional cumulative 4.5 km to the south-east. effect, but this will not be significant due to Strathy South and Strathy Wood the reasons described for Scenario 1. theoretically visible in succession with the Revised Consented Development at a distance of approximately 7 km.

Flow Country & Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Berriedale Coast There are no wind farms located No; the Revised Consented Development within this SLA. may contribute to an additional cumulative The ZTV shows patchy areas of effect, but this will not be significant due to: visibility of the Revised Consented • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the north of the Development and the limited extent and SLA and from elevated areas to the levels of visibility, which ensures that the south of the SLA –notably Morven turbines will be relatively minor influential and Scaraben. At its closest point, up components from the majority of the SLA. to 5 turbines will theoretically be • The association of this SLA with the visible at a distance of 15 km. seaward, rather than landward aspect. Baillie Hill and Forss are visible in combination with the Revised Consented Development from elevated areas. Boulfruich, Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo and Halsary are visible at closer proximity to the northeast. Flexhill, Achairn, Wathegar, Wathegar 2 and Stroupster are visible in succession with the Revised Consented Development to the far northeast. Strathy North is visible in succession with the Revised Consented Development to the northwest. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan and Ackron are visible No; the Revised Consented Development at a minimum distance of 16.5 km to may contribute to an additional cumulative the north. effect, but this will not be significant due to Strathy South and Strathy Wood are the reasons described for Scenario 1. visible in succession to the west at a minimum distance from the SLA of 18.5 km.

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ASSESSMENT OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ON VIEWS The second part of the cumulative assessment is the assessment of cumulative effects on views, presented in Tables 3 and 4 below, which cover representative viewpoints and principal visual receptors respectively. The representative viewpoints and principal visual receptors that are considered to have potential to undergo a significant cumulative effect as a result of the Revised Consented Development are shown shaded in the table and are assessed in full in Chapter 9.

Table 9.D.3: Preliminary Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Views

Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible 1 Drum Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Hollistan Baillie Hill: Visible 8.74 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative Layby east. effect that requires further assessment due to:

Forss: Visible 9.94 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented northeast. Development will be to a view where other Hill of Lybster: 10.44 km to the operational wind farms are apparent. northeast. • The proximity of the Revised Consented Development in relation to Baillie Hill and Forss. • The number and scale of the Revised Consented Developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 0.95 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the south-east. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 2.06 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented south with landform reducing Development will be to a view where other visibility. application wind farms are apparent. Forss III: Visible 10.35 km to the • The proximity of the Revised Consented north-east Development in relation to Drum Hollistan. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 2 Reay Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Footpath There are no wind farms visible No; the Revised Consented Development will not from this viewpoint. contribute to an additional cumulative effect as there are no other operational or under construction wind farms visible from the viewpoint. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 2.53 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 4.41 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented west. Development will be to a view where other application wind farms are apparent. • The proximity of the Revised Consented Development in relation to Drum Hollistan and Ackron. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 3 Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible Reay Baillie Hill: Visible 5.26 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative Church, east. effect that requires further assessment due to: A836 Forss: Visible 7.07 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented (Figure north-east. Development will be to a view where other 9.27) Hill of Lybster:7.36 km to the operational wind farms are apparent. north-east. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously on the skyline. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 3.25 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 5.12 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented west. Development will be to a view where other Forss III: Visible 7.30 km to the application wind farms are apparent. north-east • The proximity of the Revised Consented Development in relation to Drum Hollistan and Ackron. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 4 Shebster Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented (Figure Baillie Hill: Visible 0.87 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative 9.28) north. effect that requires further assessment due to: Causeymire: Blades theoretically • The addition of the Revised Consented visible 18.88 km to the southeast. Development will be to a view where other Woodland in the foreground may operational wind farms are apparent. restrict visibility. • The scale comparison between the proposed Achlachan, Halsary, Bad a turbines and other wind farms in the view. Cheo: Blades theoretically visible • The distance of the Revised Consented 17.65 km, 20.25 km, 20.28 km Development from the viewpoint. respectively to the southeast. Woodland in the foreground may restrict visibility.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 7.88 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 9.84 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented west. Development will be to a view where other application wind farms are apparent. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 5 Sandside Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Bay Baillie Hill: Visible 6.17 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative Harbour east. effect that requires further assessment due to: (Figure Forss: Visible 7.03 km to the east. • The addition of the Revised Consented 9.29) Hill of Lybster: 7.53 km to the Development will be to a view where other east. operational wind farms are apparent. • The number and scale of the Revised Consented Developments seen simultaneously.

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 6.85 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the south-west, although effect that requires further assessment due to: screened by landform and stone • The addition of the Revised Consented walls. Development will be to a view where other Forss III: Visible 3.72 km to the application wind farms are apparent. east. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 6 A836 / Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Dounreay Baillie Hill: Visible 2.62 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative Road east. effect that requires further assessment due to: Junction near • The addition of the Revised Consented Raithmuir Development will be to a view where another operational wind farm is apparent. (Figure 9.30) • The scale of the Revised Consented Developments seen simultaneously. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 6.85 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 8.66 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented west. Development will be to a view where other application wind farms are apparent. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 7 Strathy Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented Point Car Park Baillie Hill: Visible 19.45 km to No; the Revised Consented Development will not (Figure the east contribute to an additional cumulative effect in 9.31) Forss: Visible 19.04 km to the relation to other operational and consented wind east. farms due to distance and limited visibility of the Hill of Lybster: 19.79 km to the Revised Consented Development and the east. cumulative developments. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 11.51 km No; the Revised Consented Development will not to the south-east. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Ackron: Visible 9.90 km to the relation to other operational, consented and south-east. application stage wind farms due to distance and Forss III: Visible 19.63 km to the limited visibility of the Revised Consented east. Development and the cumulative developments.

8 Anglers Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented Car Park, Baillie Hill: Visible 4.41 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative Loch north-west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Calder Hill of Lybster: Visible 8.75 km to the north-west.

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible (Figure Forss: Visible 8.56 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented 9.32) north-west. Development to a view where other operational wind farms are apparent. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 13.23 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the north-west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 15.16 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented north-west Development will be to a view where other application wind farms are apparent. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. 9 Ben Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented Dorrery Baillie Hill: Visible 10.09 km to Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative (Figure the northwest. effect that requires further assessment due to: 9.33) Forss: Visible 14.79 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented northwest. Development to a view where other operational and Hill of Lybster: Visible 14.83 km consented wind farms are apparent. to the northwest. • The visibility of the Revised Consented Strathy North: Visible 24.40 km Development in combination with Baillie Hill and to the west. Forss wind farms. Achairn: Visible 23.86 km to the • The scale comparison between the proposed east. turbines and other wind farms in the view. Boulfruich: Visible 21.38 km to the southeast. Camster: Visible 19.64 km to the southeast. Causeymire: Visible 9.77 km to the southeast. Flexhill: Visible 20.98 km to the east. Halsary: Visible 11.79 km to the east. Achlachan: Visible 9.06 km to the east. Bad a Cheo: Visible 11.47 km to the east. Stroupster: Visible 28.19 km to the northeast. Wathegar: Visible 21.56 km to the northwest. Wathegar 2: Visible 22.49 km to the northwest. Cogle Moss: Visible 20.88 km to the north-east.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 14.76 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the north-west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 16.10 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented north-west. Development to a view in which application stage Forss III: Visible 14.98 km to the wind farms will be apparent. north Strathy South: Visible 25.24 km to the west.

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible 10 Minor road Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Lythmore Baillie Hill: Visible 2.07 km to the No; the Revised Consented Development may Junction southwest. contribute to an additional cumulative effect, but (Figure this will not be a significant contribution due to: 9.34) Hill of Lybster: Visible 4.05 km to the northwest. • The location of the Revised Consented Forss: Visible 4.34 km to the Development behind Baillie Hill wind farm which northwest. will reduce its influence in the cumulative situation. Halsary: Blade tips theoretically • The Revised Consented Development appearing visible 19.62 km to the southeast as a minor addition to the horizontal extent of the developed skyline. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 11.78 km No; the Revised Consented Development will not to the west. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Ackron: Visible 13.72 km to the relation to other operational, consented and west. application stage wind farms due to distance and Forss III: Visible 4.24 km to the limited visibility of the Revised Consented north-west Development and the cumulative developments.

11 Georgemas Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Junction Baillie Hill: Blade tips theoretically No; the Revised Consented Development will not Station visible 13.14 km to the north. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in (Figure relation to other operational wind farms due to; 9.35) Causeymire: Blades theoretically visible 8.48 km to the south, • The distance of the Revised Consented although screened by railway Development and cumulative developments from station. the viewpoint. Achlachan: Blade theoretically • The limited visibility of the cumulative visible 7.28 km to the south, developments. although screened by railway station. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 21.92 km No; the Revised Consented Development will not to the north-west. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Ackron: Visible 23.81 km to the relation to other operational, consented and north-west. application stage wind farms due to distance and limited visibility of the Revised Consented

Development and the cumulative developments. 12 A9, North Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented of Spittal Baillie Hill: Visible 16.43 km to No; the Revised Consented Development may (Figure the northwest. contribute to an additional cumulative effect, but 9.36) Forss: Visible 20.58 km to the this will not be a significant contribution due to: northwest. • The distance of the Revised Consented Hill of Lybster: Visible 20.29 km Development from the viewpoint which means its to the northwest. influence on the cumulative situation will be Buolfruich: Visible 18.72 km to limited. the south. • The closer range and more notable effect of the Achlachan: Visible 2.79 km to the cluster of operational and consented windfarms around Causeymire. south. Causeymire: Visible 3.78 km to the south. Bad a Cheo: Visible 4.64 km to the south. Halsary: Visible 3.77km to the south. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 24.05 km No; the Revised Consented Development will not to the north-west. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Ackron: Visible 25.81 km to the relation to other operational, consented and north-west. application stage wind farms due to distance and limited visibility of the Revised Consented Development and the cumulative developments.

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible Forss III: Visible 20.48 km to the north-west. 13 Dunnet Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Head A large number of operational, No; the Revised Consented Development may (Figure under construction and consented contribute to an additional cumulative effect, but 9.37) wind farms are visible from this this will not be a significant contribution due to: viewpoint all concentrated in the • The distance of the Revised Consented sectors to the southwest and Development from the viewpoint which means its southeast. The closest cluster influence on the cumulative situation will be comprises operational Stroupster limited. at 16.16 km, consented Taigh na • The location of the Revised Consented Muir at 6.16 km and Lochend at Development behind Baillie Hill such that it will not 10.32 km to the east. The Revised be seen to increase the extent of the developed Consented Development will be skyline. located to the west, seen set at 26.24 km behind Baillie Hill at • The distance and limited visibility of all 20.15 km. operational and under construction wind farms. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 29.75 km No; the Revised Consented Development will not to the south-west. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Ackron: Visible 31.60 km to the relation to other operational, consented and south-west. application stage wind farms due to distance and Forss III: Visible 19.33 km to the limited visibility of the Revised Consented south-west. Development and the cumulative developments. 14 Borlum Hill Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented (Figure Baillie Hill: Visible 4.79 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative 9.39) northeast. effect that requires further assessment due to: Forss: Visible 7.54 km to the east. • The addition of the Revised Consented Hill of Lybster: 7.75 km to the Development to a view where another operational east. wind farm is apparent. • The close range visibility of the Revised Consented Development in conjunction with Baillie Hill and Forss wind farms. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 3.51 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the north-west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 5.48 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented north-west. Development will be to a view where other Forss III: Visible 7.73 km to the application wind farms are apparent. north-east. • The proximity of the Revised Consented Development in relation to Drum Hollistan. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously. • The scale comparison between the proposed turbines and other wind farms in the view. • The distance of the Revised Consented Development from the viewpoint. 15 Beinn Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented Ratha Forss: Visible 10.53 km to the Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative (Figure northeast. effect that requires further assessment due to: 9.41) Baillie Hill: Visible 7.49 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented northeast. Development to a view where other operational Hill of Lybster: Visible 10.75 km wind farms are apparent. to the northeast. • The visibility of the Revised Consented Strathy North: Visible 13.69 km Development in combination with Baillie Hill and to the west. Forss. Bettyhill: Visible 21.56 km to the • The scale comparison between the proposed west. turbines and other wind farms in the view. Boulfruich: Visible 35.50 km to the southeast.

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible Camster: Visible 32.08 km to the southeast. Causeymire: Visible 22.31 km to the southeast. Flexhill: Visible 33.00 km to the southeast. Achairn: Visible 35.95 km to the southeast. Wathegar: Visible 33.65 km to the southeast. Wathegar 2: Visible 34.65 km to the southeast. Bad a Cheo: Visible 23.95 km to the southeast. Achlachan: Visible 21.51 km to the southeast. Halsary: Visible 24.25 km to the southeast.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 2.36 km Yes; there is potential for a significant cumulative to the north-west. effect that requires further assessment due to: Ackron: Visible 3.77 km to the • The addition of the Revised Consented north-west. Development will be to a view in which application Forss III: Visible 10.71 km to the stage wind farms will be apparent. north-east Strathy Wood: Visible 13.05 km to the south-west. Strathy South: Visible 16.64 km to the south-west. 16 Shurrery Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented (Figure Baillie Hill: Visible 6.42 km to the No; the Revised Consented Development may 9.43) north. contribute to an additional cumulative effect, but Forss: Visible 11.31 km to the this will not be a significant contribution due to: north. • The limited visibility of the Revised Consented Hill of Lybster: Visible 11.18 km Development; to the north. The containment of the developments in the sector Stroupster: Blade tips to the north. theoretically visible 29.00 km to the east. Forestry in the foreground will obscure the view to the east.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 12.01 km to No; the Revised Consented Development will not the north-west. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Forss III: Visible 11.32 km to the relation to other operational, consented and north. application stage wind farms due to distance and limited visibility of the Revised Consented

Development and the cumulative developments. 17 A836, Hill Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented of Forss Baillie Hill: Visible 4.01 km to the No; the Revised Consented Development may (Figure southwest. contribute to an additional cumulative effect, but 9.44) Forss: Visible 3.42 km to the this will not be a significant contribution due to: northwest. • The closer proximity of Baillie Hill and Forss which Hill of Lybster: Visible 3.15 km to will comparatively diminish the influence of the the northwest. development on the cumulative situation. Strathy North: Visible 26.04 km • The Revised Consented Development being visible to the west. behind Baillie Hill and not notably extending the developed horizon.

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Viewpoint Other wind farms theoretically Further assessment required? visible Bettyhill: Blade tips theoretically visible 33.02 km to the southwest.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms Drum Hollistan: Visible 13.26 km No; the Revised Consented Development will not to the west. contribute to an additional cumulative effect in Ackron: Visible 15.11 km to the relation to other operational, consented and west. application stage wind farms due to distance and . limited visibility of the Revised Consented Development and the cumulative developments. Forss III: Visible 3.25 km to the north. Strathy South: Theoretically visible at 25.79 km to the south- west. Strathy Wood: Visible as small collection of blades and tips at 29.61 km to the south-west.

Table 9.D.4: Initial Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Visual Receptors

Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? Settlements (refer to Figures 9.5 and 9.15) Detailed study area (0-15 km) Glengolly Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement at a effect, but this will not be a significant distance of 11.5 km with: contribution due to: Baillie Hill: Theoretical visibility shown • The distance at which the Revised on the ZTV across the majority of the Consented Development will be seen. settlement, at distances from 6 km to • The insular pattern of the settlement the west. Visible in combination with the which leads to inward looking views. Revised Consented Development. • Visibility restricted to the western edge of the settlement where the Revised Consented Development would only be visible with Baillie Hill. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows no or very limited • No; the Revised Consented Development theoretical areas of visibility of the will not contribute to an additional Revised Consented Development from cumulative effect since it will not be these settlements. readily visible from these settlements.

Halkirk Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement with: effect, but this will not be a significant Baillie Hill: Theoretical visibility shown contribution due to; on the ZTV across the majority of the • The distance at which the Revised settlement, at distances from 11 km to Consented Development will be seen. the northwest. • The insular pattern of the settlement Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, which leads to inward looking views. Halsary: Theoretical visibility shown on • Views of Causeymire cluster mainly the ZTV across the settlement, at visible from the southern edge of the distances from 8 km to the south-east settlement where visibility of the Revised in succession with the Revised Consented Development will be limited Consented Development. and in the opposite direction.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement with: effect, but this will not be a significant Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical contribution due to: visibility shown on the ZTV across the • The distance at which the Revised settlement, at distances from 17.5 km Consented Development will be seen to the north-west in combination with from. the Revised Consented Development. • The distance at which the application stage wind farms will be seen from. • The enclosure from built form which will reduce actual visibility. Harpsdale Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement effect, but this will not be a significant (mainly blades and hubs) at distances contribution due to: from 13 km with: • Distance, the Revised Consented Baillie Hill: Theoretical visibility shown Development and Baillie Hill are viewed on the ZTV across the majority of the as more distant elements in a wider view. settlement, at distances from 13 km to • Limited visibility of the Revised Consented the northwest. Development with mainly hubs and Causeymire, Halsary, Achlachan, blades visible from elevated areas. Bad a Cheo: Theoretical visibility • Limited visibility of Causeymire cluster shown on the ZTV across the majority due to intervening wooded hills at of the settlement, at distances from Achlachan Moss. 5 km to the southeast and in succession

with the Revised Consented Development (intervening topography restricts views to blade tips only). Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement with: effect, but this will not be a significant Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical contribution due to: visibility shown on the ZTV across the • The distance at which the Revised settlement, at distances from 20 km to Consented Development will be seen. the north-west in combination with the • The distance at which the application Revised Consented Development. stage wind farms will be seen from. • The enclosure from built form which will reduce actual visibility. Strath Halladale: Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented Melvich, Golval, The ZTV shows no or very limited No; the Revised Consented Development Upper Bighouse, theoretical areas of visibility of the will not contribute to an additional Dalhalvaig,Croick, Revised Consented Development from cumulative effect in relation to other Trantlebeg, these settlements. operational wind farms since it will not be Trantlemore readily visible from these settlements. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows no or very limited No; the Revised Consented Development theoretical areas of visibility of the will not contribute to an additional Revised Consented Development from cumulative effect since it will not be these settlements. readily visible from these settlements.

Portskerra Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from elevated areas effect, but this will not be a significant where up to 10 turbines are contribution due to: theoretically visible with: • Limited visibility of the Revised Consented Baillie Hill: Theoretical visibility shown Development which will have a limited on the ZTV from the west of the influence on the cumulative situation. settlement, at distances from 14.5 km • Limited visibility of other operational and to the east. consented wind farms.

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? Forss / Hill of Lybster: Theoretical visibility shown on the ZTV from the west of the settlement, at distances from 14.5 km to the east. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement with: effect, but this will not be a significant Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical contribution due to: visibility shown on the ZTV across the • The distance at which the Revised settlement, at distances from 5.5 and Consented Development will be seen 3.5 km to the east in combination with from. the Revised Consented Development. • The distance at which the application stage wind farms will be seen from. The enclosure from built form which will reduce actual visibility. Reay / Isauld Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of Yes; there is potential for a significant visibility of the Revised Consented cumulative effect that requires further Development from the majority of the assessment due to: settlement at a distance of 2.5km with: • The addition of the Revised Consented Baillie Hill: Theoretical visibility shown Development to views from the on the ZTV, at distances from 4 km to settlement where other wind farms are the east. apparent. Forss, Hill of Lybster: Theoretical • The scale comparison between the visibility shown on the ZTV at distances proposed turbines and other wind farms from 5.5 km to the east. in the view. • The close proximity of the Revised Consented Development from this settlement. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show theoretical areas of Yes; there is potential for a significant visibility of the Revised Consented cumulative effect that requires further Development from the settlement with: assessment due to the reasons described Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical for Scenario 1. visibility shown on the ZTV across the settlement, at distances from 2.5 and 4 km to the west in succession with the Revised Consented Development. Forss III: Theoretical visibility shown on the ZTV across the settlement, at distances from 6.5 km to the north-west in succession with the Revised Consented Development. Olgrinmore Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development patchy visibility of up to 20 turbines of may contribute to an additional cumulative the proposed development to the north effect, but this will not be a significant of the rail line with: contribution due to: Baillie Hill: Theoretical visibility shown • Limited visibility of the Revised Consented on the ZTV to the west of the Development which will have a limited settlement, at distances from 10.5 km influence on the cumulative situation. to the northwest. • Limited visibility of other operational and Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, consented wind farms. Halsary: Theoretical visibility shown on the ZTV at distances from 6 km to the southeast. Forss / Hill of Lybster: Theoretical visibility shown on the ZTV to the west of the settlement, at distances from 15 km to the northwest. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement with: effect, but this will not be a significant Forss III: Theoretical visibility shown contribution due to: on the ZTV across the settlement, at • The distance at which the Revised distances from 15 km to the north in Consented Development will be seen succession with the Revised Consented from. Development. • The distance at which the application stage wind farms will be seen from. • The enclosure from built form which will reduce actual visibility. Scrabster Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented There are no operational, under No; the Revised Consented Development construction or consented wind farms will not contribute to an additional visible from this settlement. cumulative effect as there are no other operational, under construction or consented wind farms visible from this settlement. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms There are no application wind farms No; the Revised Consented Development readily visible from this settlement. will not contribute to an additional cumulative effect as there are no other application wind farms visible from this settlement. Shebster Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of Yes; there is potential for a significant visibility of the Revised Consented cumulative effect that requires further Development from the settlement at a assessment due to: distance of 3.5 km with: • The addition of the Revised Consented Baillie Hill: In close proximity (1 km) Development to a view where other in combination to the northeast. operational and consented wind farms are Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, apparent. Halsary: At a distance of 18.5 km to • The scale comparison between the the southeast and in succession with proposed turbines and other wind farms the Revised Consented Development. in the view. • The close proximity of the Revised Consented Development from this settlement. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show theoretical areas of Yes; there is potential for a significant visibility of the Revised Consented cumulative effect that requires further Development from the settlement with: assessment due to the reasons described Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical for Scenario 1. visibility shown on the ZTV across the settlement, at distances from 7.5 and 10 km to the west in combination with the Revised Consented Development.

Strathy Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTV shows no theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented will not contribute to an additional Development from this settlement. cumulative effect since it will not be visible from this settlement. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTV shows no theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented will not contribute to an additional Development from this settlement. cumulative effect since it will not be visible from the receptor. Thurso Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? The ZTVs show a very small patch of No; the Revised Consented Development theoretical visibility of the Revised may contribute to an additional cumulative Consented Development to the east of effect, but this will not be a significant the settlement. contribution due to: • Limited visibility of the Revised Consented Development with a theoretical maximum of 10 turbines visible from the eastern edge. The majority of the settlement will have no views.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show a very small patch of No; the Revised Consented Development theoretical visibility of the Revised may contribute to an additional Consented Development to the east of cumulative effect, but this will not be the settlement. significant due to the reasons described for Scenario 1. Westfield / Lieurary Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTVs show theoretical areas of Yes; there is potential for a significant visibility of the Revised Consented cumulative effect that requires further Development from Lieurary and the east assessment due to: of Westfield with: • The addition of the Revised Consented Baillie Hill: At a distance from 2 km to Development to views in which other the northwest in combination with the operational and consented wind farms are Revised Consented Development. apparent. Forss, Hill of Lybster: At a distance • The scale comparison between the from 6.5 km to the northwest in proposed turbines and other wind farms combination with the Revised in the view. Consented Development. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs show theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development from the settlement with: effect, but this will not be a significant Forss III: Theoretical visibility shown contribution due to: on the ZTV across the settlement, at • The distance at which the Revised distances from 3.5 km to the north-west Consented Development will be seen in succession with the Revised from. Consented Development. • The distance at which the application stage wind farms will be seen from. • The enclosure from built form which will reduce actual visibility. Local Country Roads (refer to Figures 9.5 and 9.15) Detailed study area (0-15 km) B870 Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented The ZTVs show two theoretical areas of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development: A 4.5 km stretch to the effect, but this will not be a significant southeast (where mainly blades and tips contribution due to: are visible) and a 3 km stretch to the • Limited visibility of the Revised Consented northeast of the Revised Consented Development with intermittent views of Development (with intermittent views of the full development. the full development) at distances from • The transient nature of the view from a 9.5 km. The Revised Consented moving vehicle. Development would be visible with: • Alignment of the road perpendicular to Baillie Hill: In views to the west in the location of the Revised Consented combination with the Revised Development with no direct views along Consented Development. the road axis. Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary: In views travelling south in succession with the Revised Consented Development and seen in succession in the wider landscape.

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? Forss, Hill of Lybster: In views travelling north in combination with the Revised Consented Development in the wider landscape. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development No; the Revised Consented Development will most notably be visible with: may contribute to an additional cumulative Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical effect, but this will not be a significant visibility shown on the ZTV in patches contribution due to: along the A9, at distances from 18 and • Limited visibility of the Revised Consented 20 km to the west in combination with Development with intermittent views of the Revised Consented Development. the full development. Forss III: Theoretical visibility shown • Alignment of the road perpendicular to on the ZTV as very small patches, at the location of the Revised Consented distances from 10 km to the north-west Development with no direct views along in succession with the Revised the road axis. Consented Development. Main Roads (refer to Figures 9.5 and 9.15)

Detailed study area (0-15 km) A9 Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTVs shows a theoretical area of No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the Revised Consented may contribute to an additional cumulative Development occurring in intermittent effect, but this will not be a significant patches from north of Latheron to the contribution due to: junction with the A882. The Revised • Limited extent and distance of visibility of Consented Development will most the Revised Consented Development. notably be visible with: • Notable extent and proximity of visibility Baillie Hill: In views travelling north of the operational and consented wind bound in combination with the Revised farms in the Causeymire cluster which by Consented Development at greater comparison will diminish the influence of distance in the wider landscape the Revised Consented Development. Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, • Alignment of the road perpendicular to Halsary: In views both north and south the location of the Revised Consented bound in very close proximity to the Development with no direct views along road. the road axis. Camster: In views both north and south-bound offset by a minimum distance of 10 km to the east. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development No; the Revised Consented Development will most notably be visible with: may contribute to an additional cumulative Drum Hollistan / Ackron: Theoretical effect, but this will not be a significant visibility shown on the ZTV in patches contribution due to: along the A9, at distances from 15.5 • Limited extent and distance of visibility of and 17.5 km to the west in combination the Revised Consented Development. with the Revised Consented • Notable extent and proximity of visibility Development. of the operational and consented wind Forss III: Theoretical visibility shown farms in the Causeymire cluster which by on the ZTV as very small patches, at comparison will diminish the influence of distances from 15 km to the north-west the Revised Consented Development. in succession with the Revised • Alignment of the road perpendicular to Consented Development. the location of the Revised Consented Development with no direct views along the road axis. A836 Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTVs shows theoretical visibility of Yes; there is potential for a significant the Revised Consented Development cumulative effect that requires further along a 15 km stretch to the north of assessment due to: the Revised Consented Development. • The addition of the Revised Consented The A836 runs in close proximity to the Development to views where other Revised Consented Development at operational and consented wind farms are Reay at a distance of approximately readily apparent. 2.8 km. The Revised Consented

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? Development will be most notably • The combined and sequential visibility of visible with: the Revised Consented Development with Baillie Hill: In close proximity in Baillie Hill and Forss. combination with the Revised • The number and scale of the cumulative Consented Development. developments seen simultaneously along Forss, Hill of Lybster: In close the route. proximity in views travelling west in • The close proximity of the Revised combination with the Revised Consented Development from this route Consented Development. corridor. Strathy North: In views travelling west in succession with the Revised Consented Development at greater distance in the wider landscape. Causeymire, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo, Halsary: Small area of theoretical visibility in succession with the Revised Consented Development at greater distance in the wider landscape. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development Yes; there is potential for a significant will be most notably visible with: cumulative effect that requires further Drum Hollistan / Ackron: In close assessment due to: proximity in views travelling east and • The addition of the Revised Consented west in combination with the Revised Development to views where other Consented Development. operational, consented and application Forss III: In close proximity in views wind farms are readily apparent. travelling west in combination with the • The combined and sequential visibility of Revised Consented Development. the Revised Consented Development with the application wind farms. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously along the route. • The close proximity of the Revised Consented Development from this route corridor. A897 Scenario 1: Operating under construction and consented The ZTVs shows no theoretical visibility No; the Revised Consented Development of the Revised Consented Development will not contribute to an additional from this road within the study area. cumulative effect since it will not be visible from this road. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs shows no theoretical visibility No; the Revised Consented Development of the Revised Consented Development will not contribute to an additional from this receptor within the study area. cumulative effect since it will not be visible from this road. National Cycle Route (refer to Figures 9.5 and 9.15)

Detailed study area (0-15 km) National Cycle Route Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented 1 The ZTVs shows theoretical visibility of Yes; there is potential for a significant the Revised Consented Development cumulative effect that requires further along a 16 km stretch to the north of assessment due to: the Revised Consented Development. • The addition of the Revised Consented NCR1 runs in close proximity to the Development will be to views where other Revised Consented Development at operational and consented wind farms are Reay at a distance of approximately apparent. 2.8 km and Shebster approximately • The combined visibility of the Revised 3 km. The Revised Consented Consented Development with Baillie Hill Development will most notably be and Forss. visible with: • The number and scale of the Revised Baillie Hill: In combination with the Consented Developments seen Revised Consented Development at a sequentially and in combination along the route.

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Visual Receptor Other wind farms visible/comments Further assessment required? minimum distance of less than 1 km to • The close proximity of the Revised the north. Consented Development from this route Forss: In combination with the Revised corridor. Consented Development at a minimum distance of 5 km to the north. Hill of Lybster: In combination with the Revised Consented Development at a minimum distance of 5 km to the north. Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The Revised Consented Development Yes; there is potential for a significant will be most notably visible with: cumulative effect that requires further Drum Hollistan / Ackron: In close assessment due to: proximity in views travelling east and • The addition of the Revised Consented west in combination with the Revised Development to views where other Consented Development. operational, consented and application wind farms are readily apparent. • The combined and sequential visibility of the Revised Consented Development with the application wind farms. • The number and scale of the cumulative developments seen simultaneously along the route. • The close proximity of the Revised Consented Development from NCR1. The close proximity of the Revised Consented Development from this route corridor. Railways (refer to Figures 9.5 and 9.15) Detailed study area (0-15 km)

Inverness to Wick Scenario 1: Operating, under construction and consented line The ZTVs shows theoretical visibility of No; the Revised Consented Development the Revised Consented Development may contribute to an additional cumulative occurring in intermittent patches to the effect, but this will not be significant due southeast of East Halladale WLA at a to: minimum distance of 11 km. The • The distance between the railway line and Revised Consented Development will the Revised Consented Development. most notably be visible with: • The limited extent of actual visibility of Baillie Hill: In combination with the the Revised Consented Development from Revised Consented Development at a the train line taking into account the minimum distance of 12 km to the enclosure of forest cover in parts. northwest. Causeymire, Halsary, Achlachan, Bad a Cheo: In succession with the Revised Consented Development at a minimum distance of 7.5 km to the southeast.

Scenario 2: Application stage wind farms The ZTVs shows very limited theoretical No; the Revised Consented Development visibility of the application wind farms will not contribute to an additional from the railway line. cumulative effect in relation to other application wind farms since visibility of both will be limited from the railway line.

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