5.1.1.2 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.1.1 Introduction 5.1.1 5.1 5 5.1.1.5 Consultations 5.1.1.4 5.1.1.3

Human Environment Environment Human

Commercial Fisheries Fisheries Commercial

BaselineInformation • • • • • The following technical reports and ES Chapters sup Chapters ES and reports technical following The soitd ih h mdfe rue ti Environmen this route, OfTI. modified of the assessment full a provides modified the with associated in differences the and route the in changes the to la route cable export modified the to OSPs the from consented OfTI three (modified infrastructure the transmission of offshore boundary the within located OSPs two The Deer. New at point connection grid the cables export four to up Offshor and cabling (AC) infras inter-platform Current Alternating transmission two to modified co up includes the the from of fishing decommissioning commercial on impacts potential s (ES) Statement Environmental this of chapter This A (Commercial Fisheries). Fisheries). A(Commercial sec see OfTI, modified the and fisheries commercial oth on detail further For 5.1-1. Table assessm in the presented to recei relevance direct Those of are 2014). that rais report, and were 2011 EIA 2010, the Scotland, in (Marine address in to OfTI concerns modified particular the for issued was report scoping consultee non-statutory and statutory fa to circulated wind consented three the for reports scoping EIA h fseis n hpe 42 s oeta efcs o species. the on effects potential effects potential as 4.2 Chapter in fisheries the approp considered is it species, these of behaviour Shellf and (Fish 4.2 Chapter ES within assessed are fishe trout sea and salmon the on effects Potential umr o te e fseis dniid s operatin OfTI. as identified fisheries key the Fish of (Commercial summary A 5.1 Appendix Technical in base detail the summarises below 5.1.1.9-5.1.1.14 Sections

Technical Appendix 5.1 A (Commercial Fisheries) of Fisheries) A(Commercial Appendix 5.1 Technical ES Chapter 8.1 (Commercial Fisheries) (MORL, 2012); (MORL, Fisheries) (Commercial 8.1 Chapter ES Fisheries); A(Commercial Appendix 5.1 Technical ES Chapter 4.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Ecology). Shellfish (Fishand 4.2 Chapter ES and Navigation); and (Shipping 5.2 Chapter ES Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS er consultation done in relation to to relation in done consultation er ) includes export cable(s) will run run will cable(s) export includes ) ish Ecology). Due to the migratory migratory the to Due Ecology). ish te ihr wl b a a eut of result a as be will fishery the n ry as a result of the modified OfTI OfTI modified the of result a as ry ummarises the assessment of the of assessment the ummarises the commercial fishery receptors receptors fishery commercial the s by MORL (2010, 2011). A further further A 2011). (2010, MORL by s port this chapter: chapter: this port g in the vicinity of the modified modified the of vicinity the in g tion 4 of Technical Appendix 5.1 Appendix Technical of 4 tion which will connect the OSPs to to OSPs the connect will which riate to make an assessment of assessment an make to riate ent of commercial fisheries are are fisheries commercial of ent ndfall site at Inverboyndie. Due Due Inverboyndie. at site ndfall and associated cabling will be will cabling associated and 2014. A number of issues and and issues of number A 2014. rms and associated OfTI were were OfTI associated and rms e Substation Platforms (OSPs), (OSPs), Platforms Substation e ie hc i dsrbd n full in described is which line ed in the scoping responses responses scoping the in ed eries). This section includes a a includes section This eries). a Ipc Assmn (EIA) Assessment Impact tal ved from the 2014 scoping scoping 2014 the from ved the MORL ES (MORL, 2012); 2012); (MORL, ES MORL the

tructure (modified TI). This This TI). (modified tructure tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms nstruction, operation and and operation nstruction, wind farms. The modified modified The farms. wind tatement 5.1-1

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.1.6 Consultation has been undertaken with the organisations and individuals listed in Table 5.1-1. Where organisations have responded to the scoping opinion, this is highlighted. Full details of all scoping responses are provided in Chapter 1, section 1.4 of this ES.

Table 5.1-1 Responses to the 2014 Scoping Report

Organisation Consultation response MORL approach

Scottish Fishermen’s Federation Would expect cables to be buried The potential effects of the cable to as far as possible at a depth to commercial fishing activity along with ensure minimum risk from snagging the appropriate mitigation methods or changes in seabed as a result of (including cable burial and discussion tidal movement. Where this is not through the Moray Firth Commercial possible, consultation and Fisheries Working Group) are mitigation on alternative measures described in section 5.1.2. must be decided and agreed The cumulative and in combination through the Moray Firth Commercial effect to commercial fishing activity Fisheries Working Group. are described in section 5.1.3. The SFF expect to see the The commercial fisheries baseline is cumulative and in combination provided in section 5.1.1 of this impacts clearly illustrated along with chapter and Technical Appendix 5.1: any necessary mitigation. Commercial Fisheries. Provided information for inclusion in the baseline.

Marine Scotland Science ScotMap data should be used as a ScotMap data was included in primary source of information. Technical Appendix 5.1 A It would be worth ensuring good (Commercial Fisheries) to aid in contact is made and consultation establishing a coherent baseline maintained with fisheries upon which a robust assessment of representatives in the area. potential effects can be made. VMS vessel fishery data indicates Contact has been made and is the key target species as nephrops, ongoing with all relevant fisheries scallops and some demersal stakeholders. whitefish species. Squid is The commercial fisheries for becoming increasingly important for Nephrops, scallops, demersal vessels as there are fewer restrictions whitefish and squid have all been on vessels targeting this species. assessed separately for relevant The fisheries baseline assessment effects. was based on relatively old data Maps provided by MSS have been (2000-2009), however MSS used to prepare the commercial commercial fishing landings fisheries baseline and are presented distribution maps relate to data in Technical Appendix 5.1 A: from 2007-2011. MS could provide Commercial Fisheries. more up to date datasets in greater As above, ScotMap data has been scale for a more informed baseline included in preparing the baseline assessment. assessments. Baseline assessments of vessels under-15 m is very limited, thus overlapping the development with ScotMap layers is advised.

5.1.1.7 Additionally, information provided through previous consultation for the three consented wind farms has been included in this assessment. This includes information provided by the following organisations: • Caithness Static Gear Fishermen’s Association; • Fishermen’s Association Limited; • North East Inshore Fisheries Group; • Scrabster Fishery Office;

5.1-2 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.1.12 5.1.1.11 5.1.1.9 Characteristics Baseline 5.1.1.8 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.1.13 5.1.1.10 5.1.1.14

• • high proportion of vessels targeting targeting vessels of proportion high any occur can grounds fishing squid that considered the over considerably fluctuated have landings and howeve Firth, Moray the throughout fished are Squid and lobster by creelers. There is also some mackere some also is There bycreelers. lobster and whitefis trawlers, demersal by squid dredgers, boat recorded between June and September. September. and June between recorded all targeted are Scallops Firth. Moray the in those grounds target will and fleet nomadic the to belong fis vessels of majority The dredges. boat deploying a Scallops farms. wind consented three and corridor vicinity the in located grounds discrete with Firth record is activity dredging scallop of majority The target squid when when squid target the area of the modified OfTI are: OfTI modified the of area the sp commercial principal f The Fisheries). in (Commercial described is baseline fisheries commercial The the three consented wind farms is negligible. negligible. is farms wind consented three the June in activity in peak a with year the throughout Report). Report). A: 5.1 Appendix (2012, ES MORL the in presented are 2 the from received responses the on detail Further ne-5m le we te ete i favourable. is weather the when fleet m under-15 agt rud frhr fsoe Te oiid expor intensity high of modified areas through The offshore. further grounds inner target the in fish predominantly vessels m under-15 within the immediate area of the modified OfTI is l is OfTI modified area of the immediate the within Fr at coast the off Firth, Moray t eastern the of in and north the to occurs activity This haddock. and f trawl which vessels of number limited a are There In the Moray Firth, Firth, Moray the In squid landings are recorded between July and Novemb July and between recorded are landings squid when area the in squid target seasonally h will which at based vessels visiting also are there vessels, the same area. area. same the in in creels of will vessels some creeling, to number addition In months. small a set will who a vessels There site operating. as landfall identified cable been have export creelers modified the of area the betwee occurring landings of majority lobst the and with Crab year length. in m under-10 are vessels of are coastal the in lobster and crab target Creelers

Aberdeen Fishery Office. Office. Fishery Aberdeen and Office; Fishery Buckie Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Nephrops Nephrops

stocks are low or quota is restricted. In addition In restricted. is quota or low are stocks r tree aog h suhr Mry it coast; Firth Moray southern the along targeted are Nephrops Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops grounds fished by the over-15 m fleet and fleet m over-15 the by fished grounds by demersal trawlers, king scallops by by scallops king trawlers, demersal by of the modified export cable route route cable export modified the of seasonally hand-line for mackerel in mackerel for hand-line seasonally il esnly wth hi ga to gear their switch seasonally will imited. imited. ome ports outside the Moray Firth Firth Moray the outside ports ome aserburgh and Peterhead. Activity Activity Peterhead. and aserburgh hing for scallops in the Moray Firth Firth Moray the in scallops for hing year with the majority of activity activity of majority the with year and July. Activity in the vicinity of vicinity the in Activity July. and ed in central areas of the Moray Moray the of areas central in ed as of the Moray Firth. The majority majority The Firth. Moray the of as 010 and 2011 scoping documents documents scoping 2011 and 010 l hand-lining activity in the area. area. the in activity hand-lining l they are present. The majority of of majority The present. are they h by demersal trawlers and crab crab and trawlers demersal by h or whitefish species such as cod cod as such species whitefish or l i Tcncl pedx . A 5.1 Appendix Technical in ull shore areas during the summer summer the during areas shore he three consented wind farms farms wind consented three he re targeted by vessels over-15 m m over-15 vessels by targeted re Firth whereas over-15 m vessels vessels m over-15 whereas Firth Commercial Fisheries Technical Technical Fisheries Commercial ecies targeted by gear type in type gear by targeted ecies where within the Moray Firth. A Firth. Moray the within where e lo nme o pr time part of number a also re er are caught throughout the the throughout caught are er n June and November. Within Within November. and June n around the UK, in addition to addition in UK, the around t cable route corridor passes passes corridor route cable t past ten years. As a result, it is is it result, a As years. ten past at Inverboyndie, six full time time full six Inverboyndie, at r they are a sporadic species species sporadic a are they r er. er. tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Nephrops are targeted targeted are to these these to tatement 5.1-3

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Desktop Studies

5.1.1.15 In addition to the consultation with commercial fishermen and their representatives (see Table 5.1) to inform the baseline outlined above, a desktop review was undertaken of available data and information from the following key sources: • Marine Scotland Science (MSS); • International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES); • Marine Management Organisation (MMO); • European Commission – Fisheries (Europa); • Scientific research and other relevant publications; and • Brown and May Marine in-house databases.

5.1.1.16 As there is currently no single data source or recognised model to establish a commercial fisheries baseline, the approach has incorporated a wide range of relevant data and information sources. Technical Appendix 5.1 A (Commercial Fisheries) outlines the relevant information and data and provides information on the varying limitations, sensitivities and uncertainties. Legislative and Planning Framework

5.1.1.17 The assessment of potential effects from the modified OfTI on commercial fishing activities takes into account the following guidance: • British Wind Energy Association (BWEA) (2004) Recommendations for fisheries liaison; • Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) (2012) Guidelines for data acquisition to support marine environmental assessments of offshore renewable energy projects. Contract report; • Cefas, Marine Consents and Environment Unit (MCEU), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) (2004) Offshore Wind Farms - Guidance note for Environmental Impact Assessment In respect of FEPA and CPA requirements, Version 2; • Fishing Liaison with Offshore Wind and Wet Renewables Group (FLOWW) (2014) Best Practice Guidance for Offshore Renewables Developments: Recommendations for Fisheries Liaison; • Renewable UK (2013) Cumulative impact assessment guidelines; Guiding principles for cumulative impacts assessments in offshore wind farms; • Sea Fish Industry Authority and UK Fisheries Economic Network (UKFEN) (2012) Best practise guidance for fishing industry financial and economic impact assessments; • Blyth-Skyrme (2010) Options and opportunities for marine fisheries mitigation associated with wind farms. Final report for Collaborative Offshore Wind Research into the Environment; • International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) (2009) Fishing and Submarine Cables - Working Together; • Marine Scotland, Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of Draft Plan for Offshore Wind Energy in Scottish Territorial Waters (STW): Volume 1: Environmental Report (Marine Scotland, 2010); • The Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), UK Offshore Energy SEA (DECC, 2009);

5.1-4 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.2.5 Mitigation Embedded 5.1.2.2 5.1.2.4 5.1.2.3 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.1 Mitigation and Effects of Summary 5.1.2

Impact Impact Assessment • • • • • aies NM) ulse i Knfse ad distrib and Kingfisher in dis Offi community. be published will as Liaison (NtMs) sea be Fisheries at Mariners will activities a This regarding and information community. fishing (FIRs) the Representatives by raised phas be operational fisherme and to disseminated effectively construction is information the during and to w dialogue practice, industry standard with line In requirements for the assessment of impacts on comme on of impacts assessment for the requirements and Cefas the in provided as are impacts Potential salmon and sea trout, are assessed in ES Chapter 4. Chapter ES in assessed are trout, sea and salmon recreat on effects adverse previously, mentioned As operational phases: phases: operational considered is and consultation stakeholder through fol the above, effects potential the to addition In operation and decommissioning of the modified OfTI OfTI modified of the decommissioning and operation s likely of the assessment an presents section This

o o o o o o o o o o o o o

Implications for fisheries during the operation pha operation the during for fisheries Implications Displacement of fishing activity into other areas. areas. other into activity of fishing Displacement Implications for fisheries during the construction construction the during for fisheries Implications UK Oil & Gas, Fisheries Liaison Guidelines (UK Oil Oil (UK Guidelines Liaison Gas,Fisheries & UKOil energy installations’. installations’. energy aro zones safety for ‘Applying on Guidance DECC and Control and Procedures (Application Zones) (Safety Electricity The 2004, Act Energy the of 95 Section Temporary loss or restricted access to traditional traditional to access orrestricted loss Temporary Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessel fishing including shipping, for issue Safety Interference with fisheries activities. activities. fisheries with Interference Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; and and grounds; fishing to times steaming Increased Complete loss or restricted access to traditional f traditional to access or restricted loss Complete Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessel fishing including shipping, for issue Safety and fish exploited commercially on effects Adverse Obstacles on the sea bed post-construction; post-construction; bed sea the on Obstacles Interference with fisheries activities. activities. fisheries with Interference Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; and and grounds; fishing to times steaming Increased Adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and and fish exploited commercially on effects Adverse des fet nrcetoa ihppltos populations; fish recreational on effects Adverse des fet nrcetoa ihppltos populations; fish recreational on effects Adverse Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS ignificant effects of the construction, construction, of the effects ignificant n, as well as allowing for issues to to issues for allowing as well as n, ill be ongoing with fishermen prior fishermen with ongoing be ill lowing effect has been identified identified been has effect lowing 2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Ecology). Shellfish (Fishand 2 & Gas, 2008); and and Gas, 2008); & phase: phase: s; s; s; s; MCEU guidelines which specify specify which guidelines MCEU on commercial fisheries. fisheries. commercial on seminated through Notice to to Notice through seminated se: o bt te osrcin and construction the both for ional fish populations, such as as such populations, fish ional (Offshore Generating Stations) Stations) Generating (Offshore fishing grounds; grounds; fishing ishing grounds; grounds; ishing rcial fisheries are listed below. below. listed are fisheries rcial cer (FLO). Additionally, all all Additionally, (FLO). cer uted to the wider fishing fishing wider the to uted of Access) Regulations 2007 2007 Regulations Access) of tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms shellfish populations; populations; shellfish shellfish populations; populations; shellfish s o nue ht project that ensure to es sisted by Fishing Industry Industry Fishing by sisted und offshore renewable renewable offshore und tatement 5.1-5

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.2.6 Cables will be buried to a target depth of 1 m, where it is technically practicable to do so, which will reduce the risk to fishing vessels from snagging. In instances where adequate burial cannot be achieved an appropriate cable protection will be used. Over-trawlability surveys will be undertaken as necessary along areas of the cable route where potential snagging risks (such as clay berms) could be located, to reduce risks to the vessels operating trawled gear. Fishing vessels have previously been used to undertake surveys in the area and it is feasible that this will continue throughout all phases of development.

5.1.2.7 Engagement with the creel fishery for offshore surveys has already been undertaken and gear removal successfully negotiated to reduce interference to those fishing activities. This engagement will continue into the construction, operation and decommissioning phases. Summary of Effects

5.1.2.8 The main fisheries present within the area of the modified OfTI are trawling for Nephrops , squid and whitefish, dredging for scallops, creeling for crab and lobster and hand-lining for mackerel.

5.1.2.9 Fishing activity is expected to be restricted in discrete areas of the modified OfTI corridor during construction. It is considered however, that during operation, vessels will be able to regain access to fishing grounds located within the modified OfTI corridor.

5.1.2.10 During the construction phase, a significant moderate effect is predicted on the crab and lobster fishery due to potential temporary loss of fishing area, displacement into other grounds and interference with fishing vessels. Effects on the Nephrops , scallop, squid, whitefish and mackerel fisheries, during construction are considered, at worst, minor, which is not significant in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) terms.

5.1.2.11 Safety issues for fishing vessels will be reduced to within acceptable levels by the application of safety zones where construction activity takes place.

5.1.2.12 Cables will be buried or protected by other means where target burial depth is not possible and, although OSPs will be present, the area occupied by these will be discrete. It is considered that fishing activities would be able to resume their normal fishing patterns and practices once the modified OfTI is operational and therefore no significant effects have been identified.

5.1.2.13 During the decommissioning phase, likely significant effects are considered to be, at worst, no greater than those identified for the construction phase. Summary of Proposed Mitigation Measures and Residual Effects

5.1.2.14 The Moray Firth Commercial Fisheries Working Group (MFCFWG) has been established and will continue to facilitate future engagement with the fishing industry. Working practices will also be agreed to achieve any possible reduction in interference. A construction management plan will be defined in consultation with fishing interests which clearly establishes protocol for engagement between Moray Offshore Renewables Limited (MORL) and fishermen throughout the construction period. Where necessary, a mitigation strategy will be devised through the means of the Moray Firth Commercial Fisheries Working Group (MFCFWG). MORL has committed to a draft Commercial Fisheries mitigation strategy as part of the applications for the Project (i.e. the three consented wind farms and export cable route to Fraserburgh). This strategy is referred to in the conditions in the Section 36

5.1-6 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.2.17 5.1.2.16 5.1.2.15 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries fishinggrounds restrictedaccess to Temporaryloss or populations recreationalfish Adverseeffects on shellfishpopulations exploitedfishand commercially Adverseeffects on Construction&Decommissioning Effect 5.1-2 Assessment Impact Summary Table

post-mitigation is provided in Table 5.1-2. 5.1-2. Table in provided is post-mitigation o level the and receptors effects, the of summary A engagement during the construction and operation ph operation and construction the during engagement investigation, under developm options mitigation the discuss the of phases operational and construction t dialogue ongoing facilitate to continue will MORL rprn a esblt rpr fr hs til whi trials these 2014. of summer the during industry scallop for report feasibility a preparing fleet scallop the and developer the both to benefit scallop traditional to enhancements identifying industry. to fishing the modifie using trials fishing undertake to with proposing consultation in and options exploration the continuing to committed is MORL osns o te he wn frs n adess bot infrastructure. addresses and farms wind three the for consents

trawling Over-15 m troutseaand seabed –salmon disturbanceto the Underwater squid species except targetseabed –all disturbanceto the Underwater Receptor Noise – shellfishNoise – Noise – herring Noise – whitefish seabed –squid disturbanceto the Underwater Scallopdredging Nephrops Under-15 m troutsea salmonNoise – and

trawling Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Nephrops

Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Pre-mitigationEffect Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS

schedules constructionand mitigationstrategies developmentof MFCFWGto include throughthe Ongoingdiscussions None None Mitigation Softstart piling Softstart piling as well as defining the protocol for protocol the defining as well as d scallop dredge gear with a view view a with gear dredge scallop d ch will be consulted on with the the with on consulted be will ch fishing practices that may be of of be may that practices fishing hroughout the pre-construction, pre-construction, the hroughout . At present Bangor University is is University Bangor present At .

At the current time, MORL is is MORL time, current the At f impact significance pre- and pre- significance impact f h wind farm and transmission transmission and farm wind h ases. ases.

development of mitigation mitigation of development

tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms n, hc wl cniu to continue will which ent,

Minorsignificance Post-mitigationEffect Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance significance Minor Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance

tatement 5.1-7

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect

Cable burial and Squid trawling Minor protection Minor significance significance Over-trawlability Whitefish trawling Minor significance surveys Minor significance Ongoing fisheries Creeling Moderate liaison Minor significance significance

Hand-lining for Minor significance Minor significance mackerel

Safety issues for All vessels Within acceptable Updates on the Within acceptable fishing vessels limits construction limits programme will be provided to the fishing industry through the forum of the MFCFWG, FIRs, FLO and NtMs Safety zones and adherence to standard maritime practices

Increased steaming Over-15 m Nephrops Minor significance Ongoing discussions Minor significance times to fishing trawling through the grounds MFCFWG to include Under-15 m Minor significance development of Minor significance Nephrops trawling mitigation strategies and construction schedules Scallop dredging Minor significance Minor significance Ongoing fisheries Squid trawling Minor significance liaison Minor significance

Whitefish trawling Minor significance Minor significance

Creeling Minor significance Minor significance

Hand-lining for Minor significance Minor significance mackerel

Displacement of Over-15 m Nephrops Minor significance Ongoing discussions Minor significance fishing activity trawling through the MFCFWG to include Under-15 m Minor significance development of Minor significance Nephrops trawling mitigation strategies and construction schedules Scallop dredging Minor significance Minor significance Cable burial and Squid trawling Minor significance protection Minor significance Over-trawlability Whitefish trawling Minor significance surveys Minor significance Ongoing fisheries Creeling Moderate Minor significance liaison significance

Hand-lining for Minor significance Minor significance mackerel

Interference with Towed gear vessels Minor significance Ongoing discussions Minor significance

5.1-8 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries fishingactivity Displacementof construction seabedpost- Obstaclestheon grounds times to fishing Increasedsteaming fishingvessels Safetyissues for fishinggrounds restrictedaccess to Completeloss or populations recreationalfish Adverseeffects on shellfishpopulations exploitedfishand commercially Adverseeffects on Operation fishingvessels Effect

trawling trawling trawling Over-15 m vesselsAll Over-15 m vesselsAll Over-15 m troutsea EMFs –salmon and EMFs –Shellfish gearStatic vessels Receptor Scallopdredging Whitefishtrawling trawlingSquid Scallopdredging species commercialfish EMFs –Other Whitefishtrawling trawlingSquid

Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops

Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance significance Minor Minorsignificance limits acceptableWithin limits acceptableWithin significance Moderate Pre-mitigationEffect Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance significance Minor Minorsignificance

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS

burial/protection Cable liaison Ongoingfisheries liaison Ongoingfisheries burial/protection Cable throughthe Ongoingdiscussions protection Cableburial and MFCFWG throughthe Ongoingdiscussions protection Cableburial and MFCFWG throughthe Ongoingdiscussions FIRs, FLO FIRs, and NtMs distributedthrough Information liaison Ongoingfisheries schedules construction developmentof MFCFWGto include throughthe Mitigation by contractors by obligatorystandards Complianceto surveys Over-trawlability procedures Seabedrectification FLO FIRs, and NtMs distributedthrough Information liaison Ongoingfisheries

tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms

Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance significance Minor Minorsignificance Post-mitigationEffect Minorsignificance limits acceptableWithin limits acceptableWithin Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance Minorsignificance significance Minor

tatement 5.1-9

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect

MFCFWG Scallop dredging Minor significance Minor significance Cable burial and Squid trawling Minor significance protection Minor significance Ongoing fisheries Whitefish trawling Minor significance liaison Minor significance

Interference with Static gear vessels Minor significance Ongoing fisheries Minor significance fishing vessels liaison Towed gear vessels Minor significance Information Minor significance distributed through FIRs, FLO and NtMs

Introduction to Impact Assessment

5.1.2.18 Establishing a commercial fisheries baseline upon which a robust assessment of effects can be made requires utilising a number of data and information sources. It should be noted that different data and information sources are subject to varying sensitivities and limitations which have been taken into account in the following assessment. The aim has been to provide a detailed account of commercial fishing activities using all sources currently available.

5.1.2.19 Responses arising from the scoping exercise, as well as any issues and concerns identified during the course of consultation have informed the following assessments. Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment

5.1.2.20 A worst case scenario for the effect of the installation / decommissioning and operation of the modified OfTI upon commercial fishing activities has identified the design parameters which will realistically have the greatest effect upon the fishing activities described in the baseline.

5.1.2.21 The principal factor in determining the design parameters that will constitute a worst case is the consideration of how the fishing activities described in the baseline will be most affected. This could occur in two ways: the first is the potential for the modified OfTI to cause adverse effects to fish and shellfish populations of commercial importance and hence result in reduced fishing productivity. Whilst this type of effect is briefly discussed within this section, it is more fully assessed in ES Chapter 4.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Second, there is the potential for the modified OfTI to constitute a physical obstacle or risk to the continuation of normal fishing activities as described in the baseline. Accepting that the Fish and Shellfish Ecology assessment will identify the worst case parameters for the first issue, it is the second which determines the parameters of a worst case for commercial fishing activities and which may result in the identifying of design parameters different to those identified as the worst case for incurring effects to species.

5.1.2.22 below summarises the design parameters considered to constitute a realistic worst case scenario for the continuation of normal fishing activities as described in the baseline.

5.1-10 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries to relevant 5.1-3 Envelope Design Parameters Table activities Interference fishing with Displacementof fishing activity construction Obstaclestheon seabed post- Increasedsteaming times Safetyissues fishingfor vessels fishinggrounds Lossorrestricted access to shellfishpopulations commercially exploited fishand Adverseeffects on Operation activities Interference fishing with Displacementof fishing activity Increasedsteaming times Safetyissues fishingfor vessels access to fishinggrounds Temporaryloss orrestricted shellfishpopulations commercially exploited fishand Adverseeffects on Construction&Decommissioning PotentialEffect

DesignEnvelope Scenario Assessed

Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

See ChapterSee 5.2: Shipping and Navigation Maximumnumber ofOSPs the in areathe threeof con ChapterESSee 4.2: Fishand Shellfish Ecology Locationof (notport currently known)construcfor Maximumnumber ofsafety zones thein area resultin ChapterSee 5.2: Shipping and Navigation Noneforeseen additionin topotential operational Maximumnumber ofOSPs the in areathe threeof con Anyconstructionrelated obstacles and changes tos Noneforeseen withjacket substructures –two 100x100 m includingcable burial and protection withjacket substructures –two 100x100 m potentiallyafurther 1 OSP and cables2 2020)in months18 twoin phases (installationofOSP1 and numberofconstruction vesselsworks 6 vessels– wo and/or competitionincreased for a resourcelimited Anindirect could effect result conflictin between beingdisplaced into othergrounds and impactingfi steamingtimes Maximumnumber ofsafety zones thein area resultin constructedbe result the will in highest number of zonesaround construction works.Themaximum number Maximum oflossfishing grounds resulting frommaxi ChapterESSee 4.2: Fishand Shellfish Ecology o o o o o o o o

Maximumconstruction period –18 months the MacColl wind farm – approximately52 km farm boundary–approximately 70 km wind farms jacket with substructures two 100– x 10 aiu nme o OP i te ra f h tre con three the of area wind farms jacket with substructures two 100– x 10 the in OSPs of number Maximum inf the of construction the detailed fromabove posed re risks also should safety scenario case worst the addition, In Maximum ofwidthexport cable trenches 46 x – m Maximumnumber ofexport cables –4 Offshore export cable route length from the souther ca export to plus length route cable Inter-platform con three the of area the in OSPs of number Maximum Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS

the Commercial Fisheries Impact Fisheries theCommercial Assessment

tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms

static and mobilevessels safety zones tion maximumand 2 cables2 2017in and rking255 days/yearfor effects above mum numbersafety of

shermen thatin area. gfishing in activity g increasedin eabedconditions sented wind farms sented wind farms of infrastructureto 0 m 0 m n n boundary of : ons the cognise l t wind to ble

rastructure tatement sented sented 5.1-11

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.2.23 The offshore export cable(s) will be buried to a target depth of 1 m based on site specific seabed conditions. Where adequate burial cannot be achieved alternative protection such as mattress or rock placement will be used. The appropriate post- construction surveys and, if necessary, seabed rectification procedures will be undertaken to ensure that fishing vessels are able to safely resume activities in the modified OfTI once operational.

EIA Methodology

5.1.2.24 The following section describes the impact assessment methodology, which has been applied to the commercial fisheries baseline. In the absence of published guidelines by Marine Scotland regarding the assessment of effects of wind farm developments (including export cables) upon commercial fishing activities, the aspects requiring assessment for the proposed development are as specified in the Cefas/MCEU et al . (2004) Guidelines, as follows. • Implications for fisheries during the construction phase: o Adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations; o Adverse effects on recreational fish populations; o Temporary loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds; o Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessels; o Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; and o Interference with fisheries activities. • Implications for fisheries during the operation phase: o Adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations; o Adverse effects on recreational fish populations; o Complete loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds ; o Obstacles on the sea bed post-construction; o Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessels; o Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; and o Interference with fisheries activities.

5.1.2.25 In addition to the potential effects above, the following effect has been identified through stakeholder consultation and is considered for both the construction and operational phases: • Displacement of fishing activity into other areas.

5.1.2.26 Effects shall be assessed separately for the construction, operation and decommissioning phases for each identified receptor group. For the purposes of this assessment and in the absence of detailed information on decommissioning schedules and methodologies, it is assumed that any effects derived from the decommissioning phase will, at worst, be of no greater significance than those derived from the construction phase and are likely to be significantly less (e.g. there will be no piling works during decommissioning).

5.1.2.27 Displacement effects will be considered to occur if a significant loss of fishing area is identified.

5.1-12 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Significance Criteria Criteria Significance Assessment Limitations Limitations Assessment 5.1.2.32 5.1.2.33 5.1.2.31 5.1.2.30 5.1.2.29 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.28

• • • niomna Mngmn (EM 21) udlns fo guidelines 2010) (IEEM, Eco Shellfish and Fish 4.2: (seeChapter assessment Management Environmental based is former the as fisheries, commercial assess significance (including species shellfish and fish methodo the that noted be should It below. sections commerc fin s the and affect and Ecology Shellfish fish and Fish indirectly 4.2: upon Chapter effects may potential the OfTI, of assessment modified the of i construction/d the commercial from of arising environment, species marine of behaviour the to Changes h mgiue f n fet s osdrd o ec t each char following the instance, each for In basis. fishery considered is effect an of magnitude The mat n vse b vse bss Ised scallo Instead, scallop available to as well as Firth, Moray the to basis. vessel conte the within considered by been have OfTI modified vessel a on impact this of scope the within possible not is it Firth, r certain in time more spend may vessels individual around grounds targeting variously vessels, inshore s of exception the with nomadic, largely is (Commercia fishery A 5.1 Appendix Technical in discussed As the scope of the impact assessment undertaken is li is undertaken assessment impact of the scope the cost fuel as such constraints economic and policies change landings, in fluctuations reasons; of number cha to baseline established the of potential the is effect of assessment an of limitation principal The e sesd n ul n hpe 42 Fs ad Shellf and Fish 4.2: Chapter in wher chapter fisheries commercial the full in summarised in assessed be c including stocks, shellfish and fish upon Impacts il e sesd n ul s at f hpe 52 Sh 5.2: Chapter of part as full relevant. where chapter this within summarised in assessed be will increased and fishing commercial for issues Safety

ras fo wih ctgr o fsig s exclude is fishing of category a excepti which the phases operational and construction/decommissioning With from occurs. area(s) effect the e the of extent the species, exploited commercially which over area as specific development (for effects: of extent The full spontaneous recovery is possible or for which which for implemented. be will and possible or possible is recovery spontaneous full (tempora Reversible timescales. reasonable a from within those are effects Irreversible Reversibility: constructi the of phase. operational the to duration relating the to exp related is temporary effect the which spec exploited commercially on of effects exception over duration the Duration: Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS assessment to consider the extent of an an of extent the consider to assessment criteria) differs from the one used to to used one the from differs criteria) grounds around the UK. UK. the around grounds acteristics are taken into account. into account. taken are acteristics s upon commercial fishing activities activities fishing commercial upon s logy). logy). ommercially exploited species will will species exploited ommercially everal smaller and predominantly predominantly and smaller everal nge over time. This may be for a a for be may This time. over nge dings summarised in the relevant relevant the in summarised dings the UK. Although it is noted that that noted is it Although UK. the steaming times to fishing grounds grounds fishing to times steaming s and crew availability. As a result Asresult a availability. crew sand egional areas such as the Moray Moray the as such areas egional mited by the baseline identified. identified. baseline bythe mited s in legislation and management management and legislation in s on the Institute of Ecology and and Ecology of Institute the on e relevant. relevant. e ecommissioning and operation operation and ecommissioning which recovery is not possible possible not is recovery which logy used to assess impacts on impacts assess to used logy hellfish species is provided in in provided is species hellfish xt of their relative importance importance relative their of xt ype of effect on a fishery by by fishery a on effect of ype s Eooy seset and assessment Ecology ish pig n Nvgto and Navigation and ipping sessments) referring to the full full the to referring sessments) p grounds affected by the the by affected grounds p ffect will be the extent of the the of extent the be will ffect l Fisheries), the king scallop scallop king the Fisheries), l effective mitigation is both both is mitigation effective tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms mportance in the offshore offshore the in mportance ies, the effects will either be be either will effects the ies, ry) are effects from which which from effects are ry) on phase or permanent permanent or phase on ial fishing activities. An An activities. fishing ial . . ce t ls. ih the With last. to ected r ecological impact impact ecological r on of effects on on effects of on d during the the during d tatement 5.1-13

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.2.34 The magnitude of an effect has been assessed as negligible, low, medium or high, using the following criteria. • Negligible: there is no discernible effect upon current fishing practices. • Low: there is no noticeable effect upon current fishing practices. • Medium: a discernible effect upon current fishing practices. • High: fishing activities are noticeably and permanently affected.

5.1.2.35 The definition of the magnitude of effects takes account of the principal concern expressed by fishermen during the various consultation meetings. Primarily this relates to effects associated with exclusion and/or restriction from traditional fishing grounds and displacement impacts in a wider Moray Firth context. It also recognises that the magnitude of effects will differ between receptor groups as a consequence of the proportional extent of fishing areas affected.

5.1.2.36 Due to the high seasonality of certain fisheries, it is not possible to standardise the definition of duration of effects. For example, whilst an effect may be of short duration, if it coincides with the entire period of a valuable seasonal fishery, the consequences will differ from when an effect occurs during a year round fishery.

5.1.2.37 The sensitivity of a receptor will be assigned taking account of its degree for adaptability, tolerance and recoverability to the potential effect. In addition, the following parameters will be considered. • Value: referring to the proportional value of the fishery affected by the modified OfTI. • Tolerance: the ability of the fishery (i.e. vessels) to withstand temporary or permanent effects. • Recoverability: referring to the degree to which a receptor group can resume baseline fishing activities. • Adaptability: referring to the degree to which a receptor group can adapt to alternative similarly productive fishing methods, operating patterns or areas.

5.1.2.38 The sensitivity of each fishery has been assessed as low, medium or high using the following criteria. • Low sensitivity: no significant change to current fishing practices. • Medium sensitivity: discernible changes to current fishing practices. • High sensitivity: fishing activities are significantly and permanently affected.

5.1.2.39 It is not within the scope of the assessment to consider the extent of an effect on a vessel by vessel basis but rather receptors have been identified based on fishing method and geographical extent of fishing grounds.

5.1.2.40 The significance criteria as defined in Table 5.1-4 have been used for this assessment. It should however be noted that the impacts of the construction/decommissioning and operation of the modified OfTI upon commercial fishing activities cannot be easily categorised and the application of the significance criteria to an assessment of effects is, as a result, subjective.

5.1-14 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Adverse Effects on Commercially Exploited Fish and Fish Exploited Commercially on Effects Adverse 5.1.2.42 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.43 Construction Assessment Impact 5.1-4 Criteria Significance Table 5.1.2.41 5.1.2.44

Magnitude

High High Moderate Low Negligible moderate or above is significant for the purposes o purposes for the significant is or above moderate significa the assessment this of purposes the summarised, For apply. Chapter been have Chapter Ecology where instances in that noted be further should It f h mdfe OT ae eprr, s hy ny oc only they as temporary, month 18 overan occur to estimated is (which phase are OfTI modified the of effe potential the however, terms general In below. OfTI. modified the by caused receptors fisheries commercial on changes of vicinity the within occurring ass been have phase construction the of effects The Navigation. and Shipping 5.2: Chapter see fis ofnormal course the during incurred those than of outside considered is risk (a limits acceptable is risk the Instead, applied. be cannot assessment the crew, and vessel fishing a of safety and health th of effect potential the whereby instances the In an indirect effect and whilst the potential effect effect potential the whilst Fish 4.2: Chapter in fully assessed is it section, and effect indirect an the affect indirectly may which abundance, species t fi changes in to result hence effects and importance adverse commercial cause to OfTI modified the of i there stated, previously As mackerel. and lobster Nephrops th within targeted species commercial principal The

salp, qi, htfs (nldn cd n had and cod (including whitefish squid, scallops, , Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Minorsignificance significantNot Low Sensitivityof Receptor Minorsignificance Moderatesignificance

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS

Minorsignificance Moderate Minorsignificance Moderatesignificance Major Major significance Shellfish Populations Populations Shellfish and Shellfish Ecology. Ecology. Shellfish and acceptable limits if they are greater greater are they if limits acceptable s the potential for the construction construction the for potential the s hing operations). For further details details further For operations). hing

findings from the Fish and Shellfish Shellfish and Fish the from findings f EIA. fEIA. e modified OfTI pose a risk to the to risk a pose OfTI modified e significance criteria used for this this for used criteria significance e vicinity of the modified OfTI are are OfTI modified of the vicinity e assessed to be within or outside outside or within be to assessed any effect with a significance of of significance a with effect any A description of the potential potential the of description A cts arising from the construction construction the from arising cts productivity of the fishery. This is is This fishery. the of productivity period). period). h n selih ouain of populations shellfish and sh is briefly discussed within this this within discussed briefly is essed on commercial fisheries fisheries commercial on essed each identified effect is given given is effect identified each cur during the construction construction the during cur o behaviour or a decline in decline a or behaviour o tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms

c ciei ue i that in used criteria nce

dock), crab species, species, crab dock), Minorsignificance High Moderatesignificance Major Major significance Major Major significance

tatement

5.1-15

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.2.45 The effects of the construction phase on these species are summarised in Table 5.1-5.

Table 5.1-5 Summary of Impact Assessment on Principal Commercial Species

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect effect

Underwater disturbance to the All target species except Minor None Minor significance seabed squid significance

Squid Minor None Minor significance significance

Noise Whitefish Minor Soft start Minor significance significance piling

Herring Minor Minor significance significance

Shellfish Minor Minor significance significance

5.1.2.46 Taking into account the findings of Chapter 4.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology and accepting that there may be short-term species displacement effects which may have a limited indirect effect upon catch rates, it is reasonable to assume that the indirect effects to commercial fishing will not be greater than those identified in the table above.

5.1.2.47 The sensitivity of squid to underwater disturbance to the seabed is considered to be medium and the magnitude of effect is considered to be small. This results in a significance of effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.48 The sensitivity of all target species with the exception of squid to underwater disturbance to the seabed is considered to be low and the magnitude of effect is considered to be small. This results in a significance of effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.49 The sensitivity of whitefish and herring to noise is considered to be medium and the magnitude of effect is considered to be small. This results in a significance of effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.50 The sensitivity of shellfish to noise is considered to be low and the magnitude of effect is considered to be negligible. This results in a significance of effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1-16 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Adverse Effects on Recreational Fish Populations Populations Fish Recreational on Effects Adverse 5.1.2.57 5.1.2.56 Grou Fishing to Access Restricted or Loss Temporary 5.1.2.58 5.1.2.55 5.1.2.52 5.1.2.54 5.1.2.51 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.53 Noise seabed Underwaterdisturbance the to Effect 5.1-6 Impact of Summary Assessment Princip on Table

• • • dioy aey oe wih a wl a rdcn th reducing export the vessels, works the to as protection provide well as which, zones safety advisory vessels All communications. other and NtMs through noti be will industry fishing The area. fishing of, acc restrict and further will cable of infrastructure sections exposed installed partially around zones v associated non-construction all which from works, be to expected are m 500 of zones safety Temporary access to these fishing grounds during the construc the during grounds fishing these to access to considered construction of effects principal The assessment to assess effects on a vessel by vessel vessel by vessel a on effects assess to assessment it previously, cou mentioned As opportunities advances. fishing construction that follows therefore It effect of effect negligible. be to considered is effect of magnitude is noise to trout sea and salmon of sensitivity The 6. 6. spec these on phase construction the of effects The This results in a significance of effect of of effect significance a in results This effect of magnitude the and medium be to considered underwat to trout sea and salmon of sensitivity The 4.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology. Ecology. Shellfish and Fish 4.2: s this within discussed briefly is effect potential a i populations This abundance. species in decline a or fish behaviour to effects adverse cause to OfTI fo potential the is There trout. sea and salmon are within targeted species recreational principal The esnbe o sue ht h idrc ipcs will impacts indirect the above. table in the identified Fi that 4.2: assume Chapter to of reasonable findings the account into Taking

Safety zones around installed or partial installed installed or partial installed around zones Safety activities; construction around zones Safety Advisory safety zones along exposed sections of cab sections exposed along zones safety Advisory minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is ,which Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S trout Salmonseaand Receptor trout Salmonseaand

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Minorsignificance Effect Pre-mitigation Minorsignificance minor al Recreational Species Recreational al nds nds

, which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is ,which fied of the location of all safety zones zones safety all of location the of fied ection, it is fully assessed in Chapter Chapter in assessed fully is it ection, considered to be medium and the the and medium be to considered basis. It is however recognised that that recognised however is It basis. ess to, and result in temporary loss loss temporary in result and to, ess cables and other infrastructure. infrastructure. other and cables r the construction of the modified modified the of construction the r incur temporary loss or restricted restricted or loss temporary incur tion phase are: are: phase tion s an indirect effect and whilst the whilst and effect indirect an s ld be progressively reduced as as reduced progressively be ld essels would be excluded. Safety Safety excluded. be would essels the vicinity of the modified OfTI OfTI modified the of vicinity the infrastructure; and and infrastructure; er disturbance to the seabed is is seabed the to disturbance er advisory safety zones around around zones safety advisory ies are summarised in Table 5.1- Table in summarised are ies will be requested to respect the the respect to requested be will hs eut i a infcne of significance a in results This nd hence result in changes to to changes in result hence nd

e risk of collision damage, will will damage, collision of risk e s o wti te cp o this of scope the within not is h n Selih clg, t is it Ecology, Shellfish and sh imposed around construction construction around imposed not be greater than those those than greater be not None Mitigation piling Softstart tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms le. le. is considered to be small. small. be to considered is

Minorsignificance effect Post-mitigation Minorsignificance

tatement 5.1-17

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

skippers may elect to avoid the area of the modified OfTI during the entire construction phase and therefore the assessed effect will be slightly higher for these vessels. The seasonality of fishing activity will also render these safety zones more sensitive depending upon the time of year, with the summer months recording the highest levels of activity overall.

5.1.2.59 During installation of the cables, simultaneous lay and burial techniques would require rolling short term safety zones around installation activities. Where separate burial methods are to be deployed or where additional protective measures are necessary, there may be longer periods when fishing vessels deploying gears will be required to avoid exposed cable sections. As has been previously stated, the export cable(s) will be buried where possible (target depth of 1 m) and where adequate burial cannot be achieved alternative protection will be used.

5.1.2.60 There is the potential for cable installation works (including export cables and inter- platform cabling) to preclude fishing activities safely resuming as a result of the associated risks with snagging fishing gear, particularly in the case of towed gear fishing activities such as bottom otter trawling for Nephrops and boat dredging for scallops. It is considered that normal fishing practices cannot safely resume in the immediate vicinity of the cable(s) until all the necessary cable protection measures, including rock placement and/or mattressing, have been completed and the area is considered at an acceptable standard for all fishing activities to safely resume. It is considered that access to fishing grounds will not resume until these measures are satisfactorily complete and their ‘over-trawlable’ status confirmed by post- installation surveys.

5.1.2.61 The construction of the OSPs will progressively result in permanent loss of fishing grounds within the footprint of those areas, which will potentially be up to 0.02 km 2. In addition, vessels will not be able to resume fishing activities in the immediate vicinity of the export cables during installation and until the appropriate post-installation surveys confirm the ‘over-trawlable’ status of the seabed.

5.1.2.62 Given the availability of fishing grounds within the Moray Firth and the ability of large, over-15 m vessels to exploit these grounds, the sensitivity of the over-15 m vessels targeting the Nephrops , squid, scallops and whitefish fisheries is considered to be low.

5.1.2.63 Smaller vessels targeting inshore fisheries including the under-15 m Nephrops fleet, creel vessels and vessels hand-lining for mackerel are limited by their operational ranges. Additionally, these fisheries are often seasonal, with the majority of activity occurring over a limited period of time. The sensitivity of these fisheries is therefore considered to be medium.

5.1.2.64 As shown in Figures 5.21, 5.27 and 5.32 of Technical Appendix 5.1 A (Commercial Fisheries), activity by the under-15 m Nephrops fleet, vessels hand-lining for mackerel and vessels trawling for whitefish generally occurs in areas outwith of the modified OfTI. As a result, the magnitude of effect for these vessels is considered to be low. It is noted, however, that under-15 m Nephrops vessels will occasionally target the same grounds as the over-15 m fleet in the vicinity of the modified export cable route during favourable weather.

5.1.2.65 Figures 5.13, 5.14, 5.31 and 5.33 of Technical Appendix 5.1 A (Commercial Fisheries) show fishing activity for the over-15 m Nephrops fleet, scallop dredgers, squid trawlers and creelers, respectively. High levels of activity for each fishery are located in the vicinity of the modified OfTI and grounds are considered to be of high value to each fishery. As the cable route and footprint of the OSPs constitute a relatively very

5.1-18 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.2.72 Vessels Fishing for Issues Safety 5.1.2.74 5.1.2.71 5.1.2.69 5.1.2.70 5.1.2.73 5.1.2.68 5.1.2.67 5.1.2.66 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries

a residual effect of effect residual a mitig the that however, considered is It terms. EIA vessel. These issues are considered further in Chap in further considered are issues These vessel. regards i with responsibility that ultimate recognised the practices be also should occur It only occurred. would zones vessels fishing to Risk excluded. vessels, all which from works construction 50 offshore of zones safety practices, standard with line In not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not risks safety put would practices maritime standard constru the during zones safety the with Compliance significance of effect is therefore considered to b to considered therefore is effect of significance sen medium of be to considered is fishery creel The The over-15 m m over-15 The a a se low of be to considered is fishery whitefish The minor resulti magnitude, medium and sensitivity low of be pae o te osrcin rgam wl b provi be will NtMs and FLO FIRs, MFCFWG, ofthe forum the through expo programme for construction the communicated on zones updates safety advisory be also prese the e by offshore marked be exposed will risk of snagging Areas potential force. in be will zones ih ihn ga. hs nlds xot al() O cable(s), be will export installed fully not is that Infrastructure includes This gear. fishing with result a as vessels fishing to risk a pose to zones infrastruct for potential the is there addition, In osdrd o e f eim estvt, o magnitu low sensitivity, be to considered therefore is effect medium of be to considered The under-15 m m under-15 The would result in a a in result would negotiation removal gear include will this FLO, the i fishing the with Liaison necessary. as undertaken dev and possible the not is depth burial target include where means th will will Cables of schedules. MFCFWG construction respect and strategies in the MORL through by given discussions also are there given prop then the and farms wind consented three the of Strate Mitigation Fisheries Commercial draft the to th for conditions consent 36 Section The industry. im reduce will which implemented be will Mitigation ih h ecpin f h cel ihr wih a a has which fishery creel the adversemoderate of exception the with The significance of effect for all fisheries is con is fisheries all for effect of significance The ml pooto o ttl rud aalbe n the medium. be to and considered is of effect magnitude available grounds total of proportion small minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIA terms. significant not is ,which effect, which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is which effect, Nephrops Nephrops minor adverseminor . All effects are direct and of a temporary nature. temporary of a and direct are Alleffects . Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S minor Nephrops , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIA terms. significant not is ,which fishery, squid fishery and scallops fishery are con are fishery scallops and fishery squid fishery, fishery and the mackerel hand-lining fishery are are fishery hand-lining mackerel the and fishery residual effect on the creel fishery. fishery. creel the on effect residual Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant is not ,which appropriately marked and lit and safety and lit and marked appropriately sidered to be, at worst, worst, at be, to sidered ure outside of the designated safety safety designated the of outside ure of potentially hazardous interaction interaction hazardous potentially of ndustry will be ongoing via FIRs and and FIRs via ongoing be will ndustry e three consented wind farms refer refer farms wind consented three e nsitivity and magnitude, resulting in resulting magnitude, and nsitivity ation suggested above will result in result will above suggested ation ter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation. Navigation. and 5.2: Shipping ter o aey is ih h mse o a of master the with lies safety to e e gy proposed by MORL in respect respect in MORL by proposed gy 0 m may be in place around all all around place in be may m 0 be buried or protected by other other by protected or buried be within acceptable limits acceptable within including fishing vessels, will be be will vessels, fishing including s where required. This mitigation mitigation This required. where s pacts on the commercial fishing commercial the on pacts ng in a significance of effect of effect of significance a in ng SPs and inter-platform cabling. cabling. inter-platform and SPs moderate nce of guard vessels. There will will There vessels. guard of nce sitivity and magnitude and the the and magnitude and sitivity over-trawlability surveys will be be will surveys over-trawlability if infringement of these safety safety these of infringement if ction phase and adherence to to adherence and phase ction effect will be temporary, the the temporary, be will effect n line with standard maritime maritime standard with line n pr cbe ht osiue a constitute that cable xport . . osed OfTI. The commitments commitments The OfTI. osed e n te infcne of significance the and de tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ded to the fishing industry industry fishing the to ded infcne f fet of effect of significance e modified OfTI. Ongoing Ongoing OfTI. modified e sed cables. Furthermore, Furthermore, cables. sed elopment of mitigation mitigation of elopment , which is significant in significant is which ,

minor adverse minor sidered to to sidered , which is which , tatement 5.1-19 ,

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Increased Steaming Times

5.1.2.75 The implementation of safety zones during the construction phase could result in some increases in steaming distances and times and therefore higher operational costs for fishing vessels. Safety zones will however be very discrete (500 m around construction vessels) and relatively short term. The sensitivity of vessels is as defined above in “Temporary loss or restricted access to fishing grounds” and the magnitude of effect is considered to be low. The significance of the effect is therefore, at worst, minor adverse for all vessels. All effects are direct and of a temporary nature.

5.1.2.76 The MFCFWG will include the development of construction schedules which will potentially reduce impacts of construction on the commercial fishing industry. In addition, ongoing fisheries liaison, including the dissemination of information through Fishery Industry Representatives (FIRs), Fisheries Liaison Officer (FLO) and Notice to Mariners (NtMs), will ensure that all potentially impacted stakeholders will be aware of ongoing construction works.

5.1.2.77 Vessels participating in the under-15 m Nephrops fishery, the creel fishery and the mackerel hand-lining fishery are considered to be of medium sensitivity, low magnitude and therefore the effect will be of minor significance, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.78 Vessels scallop dredging, trawling for squid, trawling for whitefish and the over-15 m vessels trawling for Nephrops are considered to be of low sensitivity, low magnitude and therefore the effect will be of minor significance, which is not significant in EIA terms. Displacement of Fishing Activity

5.1.2.79 Concerns were raised during consultation with fishermen that wind farm related activities, including the installation of export offshore cable(s) and OSPs which may limit access to fishing grounds, could displace vessels into grounds outside the area, potentially resulting in increased competition for grounds elsewhere. This may result in either conflict between vessels competing for the same resource or between different fishing methods (i.e. between static and towed gear).

5.1.2.80 Displacement of fishing vessels into other areas will be a function of the loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds as fishing areas are restricted by substrate type, operational ranges of vessels targeting the fishery and, in some cases, seasonality. As discussed previously, the creel fleet has been assessed as potentially being significantly affected by the construction of the modified OfTI. It is therefore possible that creel vessels will be displaced and impact upon other creelers targeting grounds outside of the modified OfTI. The significance of effect is as assessed for the loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds and is therefore considered to be moderate adverse for creel vessels and, at worst, minor adverse for all other fishing types. All effects are direct and of a temporary nature.

5.1.2.81 As mentioned above (Sections 5.1.2.5-5.1.2.7), embedded mitigation will be implemented which will reduce impacts on the commercial fishing industry. Ongoing discussions through the MFCFWG will include the development of mitigation strategies and construction schedules. Cables will be buried or protected by other means where target burial depth is not possible and over-trawlability surveys will be undertaken as necessary. Liaison with the fishing industry will be ongoing via FIRs and the FLO, this will include gear removal negotiations where required. This mitigation would result in a minor adverse residual impact on the creel fishery.

5.1-20 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.2.87 5.1.2.86 Vessels Fishing with Interference 5.1.2.85 5.1.2.83 5.1.2.84 5.1.2.89 5.1.2.88 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.82

a residual effect of effect residual a mitig the that however, considered is It terms. EIA uain f h cntuto shdl ad h relat activit construction OfTI modified for the the transits and schedule construction the of duration that transit routes will be in the vicinity of stat of vicinity the in be will routes transit that conservativ a however unknown, is port de construction part, in be, construc the of location the and works will construction interference for potential The akr uy ad hn, r oe ga vses being vessels gear towed direction. or dhans, and vesse buoys cons marker fishing be coul This OfTI. between modified the to from and to transiting arising effect conflict additional navigational An activities. fishing asses this in included effects potential the of All significance of effect is therefore considered to b to considered therefore is effect of significance sen medium of be to considered is fishery creel The The over-15 m m over-15 The a a se low of be to considered is fishery whitefish The minor resulti magnitude, medium and sensitivity low of be moderate adverse moderate a still e of is significance the result, a As there lost. or damaged COLREGS, with comply will vessels althou and, time of periods extended for unattended th of nature the to Due gear. towing vessels mobile greater be static to considered for is vessels works potential by fouled the as medium rang be operational to and considered mobility the in restricted are of be to considered are vessels gear Static towed. a and r which COLREGS with comply also will routes vessels Works shipping in gear their deploying avoid minim to order in that recognised be also should It opy ih ORG t mnms itreec wt t with be to interference minimise to significance The low. be to considered is magnitude COLREGs t considered with is comply sensitivity the vessels, gear towed safety maritime with routes aid to Transit commencing course. construction alter the to fishing with in comply engaged fully th negate to will (COLREGS) sea at collisions preventing vessels works Transiting hog te en o te Is FO n truh NtMs through and FLO FIRs, the of means the through construction be of will activity construction development regarding information the include will MFCFWG osdrd o e f eim estvt, o magnitu low sensitivity, be to considered therefore is effect medium of be to considered The under-15 m m under-15 The minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIA terms. significant not is ,which minor adverseminor effect, which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is which effect, Nephrops Nephrops . It should be noted however that ongoing discussio ongoing that however noted be should It . Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S minor Nephrops , which will be a direct effect of a temporary natu temporary ofa effect direct a be will ,which , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIA terms. significant not is ,which fishery, squid fishery and scallops fishery are con are fishery scallops and fishery squid fishery, fishery and the mackerel hand-lining fishery are are fishery hand-lining mackerel the and fishery Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant is not ,which ic and towed gear grounds. The limited limited The grounds. gear towed and ic ies are recognised. iesrecognised. are sment could cause interference to to interference cause could sment nsitivity and magnitude, resulting in resulting magnitude, and nsitivity ation suggested above will result in result will above suggested ation d include the fouling of static gear static of fouling the include d ffect is therefore considered to be be to considered therefore is ffect e e ise gear loss, static gear fishermen fishermen gear static loss, gear ise medium sensitivity as these vessels vessels these as sensitivity medium distributed to the fishing industry industry fishing the to distributed than works vessels colliding with with colliding vessels works than tion port. At this current time, the the time, current this At port. tion educes risk to fishing gears being being gears fishing to risk educes will also be established prior to to prior established be also will of effect is therefore considered considered therefore is effect of risk of static fishing gear being being gear fishing static of risk emnd y h saoaiy of seasonality the by termined o be low. As works vessels will will vessels works As low. be o e requirements for fishing vessels vessels fishing for requirements e ng in a significance of effect of effect of significance a in ng moderate e static gear fishery, gear is left is gear fishery, gear static e sitivity and magnitude and the the and magnitude and sitivity e. The magnitude of effect is is effect of magnitude The e. e assumption has been made made been has assumption e ively low level of works vessel vessel works of level low ively nentoa rgltos for regulations international reas of high shipping activity. activity. shipping high of reas gh gear is marked and works works and marked is gear gh er o e oe aa or away towed be to gear ls and construction vessels vessels construction and ls De o h hg mblt of mobility high the to Due . drd s h ptnil for potential the is idered e n te infcne of significance the and de tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms required to alter towing towing alter to required schedules. Additionally, Additionally, schedules. owed gear vessels, the the vessels, gear owed published in Kingfisher. Kingfisher. in published , which is significant in significant is which , re. re. ns through the the through ns sidered to to sidered tatement 5.1-21

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Consultation with the fishing industry will be ongoing to minimise potential impacts on fishing activities. This will result in a residual effect of minor adverse .

5.1.2.90 The sensitivity of towed gear vessels is considered to be low and the magnitude of effect is also low. The significance of effect is therefore considered to be minor, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.91 The static gear fleet is considered to be of medium sensitivity and there is expected to be a medium magnitude of effect. The significance of effect is therefore considered to be moderate , which is significant in EIA terms. It is considered however, that the mitigation suggested above will result in a residual effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. Operation

5.1.2.92 The assessment below is based on the current baseline and the potential of this to change should be recognised. It should be noted that once operational it is assumed that the export cable(s) will no longer have the potential to adversely affect commercial fishing activities as cables will be buried or protected where burial is not possible. Adverse Effects on Commercially Exploited Fish and Shellfish Populations

5.1.2.93 The principal commercial species targeted within the vicinity of the modified OfTI are Nephrops , scallops, squid, whitefish (including cod and haddock), crab species, lobster and mackerel. There is the potential for the operational modified OfTI to cause adverse effects to fish and shellfish populations of commercial importance, and hence result in changes to behaviour or a decline in species abundance, which may indirectly affect the productivity of the fishery. This is an indirect effect and whilst the potential effect is briefly discussed within this section, it is fully assessed in Chapter 4.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology, and summarised below.

5.1.2.94 The impacts of the operational phase on these species are summarised in Table 5.1- 7.

Table 5.1-7 Summary of Impact Assessment on Principal Commercial Species

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-mitigation effect

EMFs Shellfish Minor Cable burial/protection Minor Significance Significance

Other commercial fish species Minor Minor Significance Significance

5.1.2.95 Taking into account the findings of Chapter 4.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology, and accepting that there may be short-term species displacement effects which may have a limited indirect effect upon catch rates, it is assumed that the indirect effects upon commercial fishing will not be greater than those identified in the table above.

5.1.2.96 The sensitivity of shellfish and other commercial fish species to EMFs is considered to be low and the magnitude of effect is considered to be small. This results in a significance of effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. Adverse Effects on Recreational Fish Populations

5.1-22 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.2.102 5.1.2.101 Groun Fishing to Access Restricted orLoss Complete 5.1.2.100 5.1.2.98 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.99 MFsE Effect 5.1-8 Impact of Summary Assessment Princip on Table 5.1.2.97 5.1.2.104 5.1.2.103

Salmonseaand trout Receptor

effect is therefore considered to be be to considered therefore is effect mag low sensitivity, medium of be to considered are Once operational, the two OSPs will result in a tot a in result will OSPs two the operational, Once assessed. assessed. m over-15 the t only by targeted grounds should than It offshore OSPs. further the located of presence the of result a as during grounds fishing to access orrestricted loss con is it Furthermore, cable(s). operational the of identi activities fishing commercial the on impacts It OfTI. modified the in recommence to able be will if or cable(s) underta the being surveys post-construction appropriate of burial successful to Subject of This small. be to considered is effect of magnitude is EMFs to trout sea and salmon of sensitivity The 8. speci these on phase operational the of impacts The effect for each receptor will be, at worst, worst, at be, will and receptor each construction” for effect during grounds fishing to access previou assessed as is receptor each of sensitivity effe of magnitude the therefore and grounds fishing very a be to considered is This OfTI. modified the those identified in the table above. above. table in the identified those Fi 4.2: Chapter recreational upon of impacts indirect the that assumed findings the account into Taking below. summarised and Ecology, Shellfish it section, this within discussed briefly is effect indir an is This abundance. species in decline a or hence and populations fish to effects adverse cause fo potential the is There trout. sea and salmon are within targeted species recreational principal The The under-15 m m under-15 The OfTI. OfTI. distributio designs and locations the of aware fully information fishermen and liaison appropriate The permanent. permanent. minor

, which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is ,which

Nephrops Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Significance Minor Pre-mitigationEffect Nephrops

fishery, creel fishery and the mackerel hand-linin mackerel the and fishery creel fishery,

, scallop, squid and whitefish fisheries have been been have fisheries whitefish and squid scallop, , Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor

al Recreational Species Recreational al Mitigation Cableburial/protection , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant is not ,which ds ds minor is fully assessed in Chapter 4.2: Fish and and Fish 4.2: Chapter in assessed fully is the operational phase will only arise arise only will phase operational the

considered to be medium and the the and medium be to considered adverse sidered that impacts of temporary temporary of impacts that sidered al loss of seabed of 0.02 km 0.02 of seabed of loss al fied previously will occur as a result a as occur will previously fied ect effect and whilst the potential potential the whilst and effect ect sly in “Temporary loss or restricted restricted or loss “Temporary in sly discrete area when compared to compared when area discrete of all infrastructure in the modified modified the in infrastructure all of r the operational modified OfTI to to OfTI modified operational the r results in a significance of effect effect of significance a in results the vicinity of the modified OfTI OfTI modified the of vicinity the necessary, protection, and the the and protection, necessary, be noted that the OSPs will be be will OSPs the that noted be wl b udrae t make to undertaken be will n is therefore considered that no no that considered therefore is ken, it is considered that fishing fishing that considered is it ken, ct is considered to be low. The The low. be to considered is ct es are summarised in Table 5.1- Table in summarised are es fishing will not be greater than than greater be not will fishing behaviour to changes in result he inshore fleet and therefore therefore and fleet inshore he nitude and the significance of of significance the and nitude h n Selih clg, t is it Ecology, Shellfish and sh therefore the significance of of significance the therefore tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms . All effects are direct and direct are effects All .

Significance Minor Post-mitigationeffect

g fishery fishery g tatement 2 2 within within 5.1-23

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.2.105 The over-15 m Nephrops fishery, squid fishery, scallops fishery and whitefish fishery are considered to be of low sensitivity and low magnitude, resulting in a significance of effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

Safety Issues for Fishing Vessels

5.1.2.106 Safety issues for fishing vessels during the operational phase of the modified OfTI are discussed in Chapter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation and are summarised below.

5.1.2.107 Provided cable protection measures (for both export cables and inter-platform cables) and over-trawl surveys are satisfactorily completed and, if necessary, seabed rectification procedures are undertaken, it is considered that fishing vessels will be able to continue with normal fishing practices once the cable(s) are operational. It is therefore considered that safety risks to fishing vessels as a result of the operational cable(s) will be within acceptable limits.

5.1.2.108 There is the potential for fishing gears to fasten on the foundations of the OSPs. In order to minimise this risk the appropriate liaison and information distribution will be undertaken to make fishermen fully aware of the locations and designs of all underwater infrastructure which might represent a fastening risk to fishing gears. Furthermore, in line with standard offshore practices, fishermen will be made fully aware of the procedures to be adopted in the event of a fastening incident. Compliance with the implemented safety measures and policies means that the safety risks to fishing vessels and their gears should be within acceptable limits, which is not significant in EIA terms. Increased Steaming Times

5.1.2.109 As mentioned previously, it is considered that the cable(s) will not affect fishing activities once operational and therefore there will be no increase in steaming times for fishing vessels. As before, only the fisheries potentially impacted by the presence of the OSPs will therefore be assessed.

5.1.2.110 Chapter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation considers that there is good prospect for fishing vessels to navigate within the three consented operational wind farm sites where the OSPs will be located. The magnitude of effect associated with increases in steaming times as a result of the operational OSPs is considered to be low. The sensitivities of the receptors are as defined previously and therefore the significance of effect is considered to be, at worst, minor adverse . All effects are direct and permanent.

5.1.2.111 The appropriate liaison and information distribution will be undertaken to make fishermen fully aware of the locations and designs of all infrastructure in the modified OfTI.

5.1.2.112 Vessels participating in the under-15 m Nephrops fishery, the creel fishery and the mackerel hand-lining fishery are considered to be of medium sensitivity, low magnitude and therefore minor significance, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.113 Vessels scallop dredging, trawling for squid, trawling for whitefish and the over-15 m vessels trawling for Nephrops are considered to be of low sensitivity, low magnitude and therefore minor significance, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1-24 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.2.123 5.1.2.122 5.1.2.121 Vessels Fishing with Interference 5.1.2.120 5.1.2.116 5.1.2.115 5.1.2.119 5.1.2.117 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.2.114 Post-construction Seabed the on Obstacles 5.1.2.118 Activity Fishing of Displacement

be well established prior to operation. to operation. prior established well be irrespective activities, construction of completion vessel fishing and vessels works between conduct of will vessels further and phase construction the maintenance during occurring and operations by Activity of static and towed gear grounds. grounds. gear and towed ofstatic At port. transi maintenance and operation that made been maintenance has and however unknown, is port operations maintenance and operations modified the the more of of impact vicinity location immediate to the potential in the operating has interference This towing direction. direction. towing v gear towed or dhans, and buoys marker gear static site from and to have transiting vessels e maintenance and betwee arising assessment additional conflicts navigational An this for activities. potential in fishing included to impacts interference the of All The over-15 m m over-15 The effect of effect magnitu low and sensitivity low of be to considered effect is therefore considered to be be to considered therefore is effect mag low sensitivity, medium of be to considered are which might represent a hazard to fishing, such as as such fishing, to a hazard represent might which during identified spoil and obstructions seabed Any rhbtn te icrig f bet o wse t s at waste required. also is objects or objects sta recove and reporting of The with 1996). (IMO), Organisation discarding compliance ensure the to prohibiting monitored development and undertake obliged to engaged (those Contractors The under-15 m m under-15 The are direct and permanent. permanent. and direct are eesr, h ipeetto o sae rectificati seabed standard of be to considered obligatory implementation to the compliance necessary, is there Provided ok sc a cbe rnhn cn rdc sae ob g fishing to seabed damage and nets for fishing fastenings produce can trenching cable as sa such a works representing as well as gears, fishing of loss whic OfTI modified the of phases decommissioning or on left be to obstacles for potential the is There the significance of effect on fishing vessels will will vessels fishing on effect of significance the gr fishing traditional to access restricted or loss ac fishing of displacement previously, discussed As minor Nephrops Nephrops , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is ,which Nephrops within acceptable limitsacceptable within Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S fishery, squid fishery, scallops fishery and whitef and fishery scallops fishery, squid fishery, fishery, creel fishery and the mackerel hand-linin mackerel the and fishery creel fishery, Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is ,which , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant is not ,which be, at worst, worst, at be, ounds. It is therefore considered that considered therefore is It ounds. the seabed during the construction construction the during seabed the of port used. Transit routes will also will routes Transit used. port of ears. ears. fety hazard. Additionally, offshore offshore Additionally, hazard. fety trenching berms, will be rectified. be rectified. berms, will trenching tivity is a function of the complete complete the of function a is tivity n fishing vessels and operations operations and vessels fishing n . This could include the fouling of fouling the include could This . more it is considered that codes codes that considered is it more fc t b cniee i the is considered be to ffect de, resulting in a significance of significance a in resulting de, ry of any accidentally dropped dropped accidentally any of ry s will be well established by the the by established well be will s post-installation surveying and and surveying post-installation nitude and the significance of of significance the and nitude h could result in damage to or or to damage in result could h e es rqet hn that than frequent less be essels being required to alter alter to required being essels OfTI, depending upon the the upon depending OfTI, n esrs te fet is effect the measures, on t routes will be in the vicinity vicinity the in be will routes t a conservative assumption assumption conservative a tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ea (International Maritime Maritime (International ea fishing vessels than those those than vessels fishing the potential to cause cause to potential the s by contractors and, if if and, contractors by s structions that can cause cause can that structions minor adverse minor the current time, the the time, current the ok ofhr) il be will offshore) works ndard offshore policies policies offshore ndard ish fishery are are fishery ish . All effects effects All . g fishery fishery g tatement 5.1-25

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.2.124 Transiting works vessels will fully comply with COLREGS to negate the requirements for fishing vessels engaged in fishing to alter course. It therefore follows that the significance of impact on these vessels will be of low sensitivity and low magnitude, which results in a minor adverse effect, which will be a direct, permanent impact.

5.1.2.125 Works vessels will also comply with COLREGS which reduces risk to fishing gears being towed. Static gear vessels are considered to be of medium sensitivity and the magnitude of effect will be low, which results in a minor adverse effect on these vessels, which will be a direct, permanent effect.

5.1.2.126 The sensitivity of towed gear vessels is considered to be low and the magnitude of effect is also low. The significance of effect is therefore considered to be minor, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.2.127 The static gear fleet is considered to be of medium sensitivity and there is expected to be a low magnitude of effect. The significance of effect is therefore considered to be minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. Decommissioning

5.1.2.128 As mentioned previously, for the purposes of this assessment and in the absence of detailed information on decommissioning schedules and methodologies, it is assumed that any effects derived from the decommissioning phase will, at worst, be of no greater significance than those derived from the construction phase and are likely to be significantly less (e.g. there will be no piling works during decommissioning).

5.1.3 Cumulative Impact Assessment Summary

5.1.3.1 This section presents the results of the assessment of the potential cumulative effects upon commercial fisheries arising from the modified OfTI in conjunction with reasonably foreseeable marine coastal developments and activities. MORL’s approach to the assessment of cumulative effects is described in Chapter 1.3: Environmental Impact Assessment.

5.1.3.2 A whole project assessment has been undertaken for the likely significant cumulative effects of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms.

5.1.3.3 An assessment then follows of the likely significant cumulative effects of the whole project with the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm Limited (BOWL) (including the offshore generation station and associated TI) and the Western Development Area (WDA).

5.1.3.4 An assessment of the likely significant effects of the whole project in conjunction with the following unconsented but reasonably foreseeable projects has also been undertaken: • Firth of Forth Phase 1 (including the associated TI); • Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm (including the associated TI); and • Neart Na Gaoithe Offshore Wind Farm (including the associated TI).

5.1.3.5 Due to lack of detail about schedules and design parameters, it has not been possible to carry out an assessment of the likely cumulative effects of some anticipated future developments located in the Moray Firth and elsewhere. Instead a general commentary on the following developments has been provided, however these have not been assessed:

5.1-26 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.3.7 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.6

• • • • • • • cumulative effects also remain the same or are redu or are same the remain also effects cumulative extent magnitude, nature, the sin Therefore, made. (reduced) were cumulati refined been have for or same, the considered stayed developments consented, now Co 2012). (MORL, ES MORL the in assessed previously cu modi the from effects potential the of significance and mag individually nature, the that demonstrates both assessment impact developments, relevant all assess detailed a provided 2012) (MORL, ES MORL The The following likely significant effects are consid are effects significant likely following The

o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

Implications for fisheries during the operation pha operation the during for fisheries Implications Implications for fisheries during the construction construction the during for fisheries Implications The Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission Limited (S Limited Transmission Hydro Electric Scottish The developments; energy renewable Other Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and other closed orr closed other Areasand (MPAs) Protected Marine and activities; gas and oil Relevant navigation; and Shipping Temporary loss or restricted access to traditional traditional to access orrestricted loss Temporary Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessel fishing including shipping, for issue Safety Displacement of fishing activity into other areas. areas. other into activity of fishing Displacement Interference with fisheries activities; and and activities; fisheries with Interference Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; grounds; fishing to times steaming Increased Complete loss or restricted access to traditional f traditional to access or restricted loss Complete Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessel fishing including shipping, for issue Safety Obstacles on the sea bed post-construction; post-construction; bed sea the on Obstacles and fish exploited commercially on effects Adverse Displacement of fishing activity into other areas. areas. other into activity of fishing Displacement Interference with fisheries activities; and and activities; fisheries with Interference Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; grounds; fishing to times steaming Increased Adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and and fish exploited commercially on effects Adverse des fet nrcetoa ihppltos populations; fish recreational on effects Adverse des fet nrcetoa ihppltos populations; fish recreational on effects Adverse Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS ered. ered. fied OfTI are the same or less than than less or same the are OfTI fied phase: phase: ced. ced. s; s; s; s; HE-T) cable; cable; HE-T) mparable aspects of the other, other, the of aspects mparable se: fishing grounds; grounds; fishing ishing grounds; grounds; ishing ment of potential effects from from effects potential of ment , duration and significance of significance and duration , ce the previous assessments assessments previous the ce nitude, extent, duration and duration extent, nitude, tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms mulatively. The preceding preceding The mulatively. estricted areas. areas. estricted shellfish populations; populations; shellfish shellfish populations; populations; shellfish ve effects have either either have effects ve tatement 5.1-27

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.8 A summary of cumulative effects is listed in Table 5.1-9 below.

Table 5.1-9 Cumulative Impact Summary

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole project Whole project Whole project Mitigation Method significance assessment: with consented with level for projects + WDA unconsented modified TI Modified TI + but reasonably Stevenson, foreseeable Telford and projects MacColl

Construction

Underwater Underwater Underwater Underwater Soft-start piling disturbance to disturbance to disturbance to disturbance to Adverse effects on the seabed – the seabed – the seabed – the seabed – commercially general: Minor general: Minor general: Minor general: Minor exploited fish and significance significance significance significance shellfish populations Noise – Noise – Noise – Noise – general: general: Minor general: Minor general: Minor Minor significance significance significance significance

Underwater disturbance to the seabed: Cumulative effects associated with increased Total Cumulative suspended sediment concentrations and sediment re-deposition are expected to be of minor Impact Assessment significance. (Whole project plus those Noise: Cumulative effects associated with underwater noise are expected to be minor developments listed in sections following mitigation (see Chapter 2.1: Fish and Shellfish Ecology, section 2.1.3 for further 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4) details).

Underwater Underwater Underwater Underwater Soft-start piling disturbance to disturbance to disturbance to disturbance to the seabed – the seabed – the seabed – the seabed – salmon and salmon and salmon and salmon and sea sea trout: sea trout: sea trout: trout: Negligible Adverse effects on Minor Minor Negligible - - Minor recreational fish significance significance Minor significance populations significance Noise – salmon Noise – salmon Noise – salmon and sea trout: and sea trout: Noise – salmon and sea trout: Minor Minor and sea trout: Minor significance significance Minor significance significance

Total Cumulative Underwater disturbance to the seabed: Cumulative effects associated with increased Impact Assessment suspended sediment concentrations and sediment re-deposition are expected to be of minor (Whole project plus significance. those developments Noise: Cumulative effects associated with underwater noise are expected to be minor listed in sections following mitigation (see Chapter 2.1: Fish and Shellfish Ecology, section 2.1.3 for further 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4) details).

5.1-28 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment restrictedaccess Safetyissues for Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative fishing to grounds Temporaryloss or Residual Effect/Receptor fishingvessels

All vessels:All Within acceptable limits otherAll vessels: Minorsignificance Scallopdredge vessels: Moderatesignificance modifiedTI levelfor significance significance Minor vessels:All limits acceptable Within vessels:All Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S MacColl andTelford Stevenson, TIModified + assessment: projectWhole significance Minor vessels:All limits acceptable Within vessels:All Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS

projectsWDA+ consented with projectWhole significance Minor vessels:All limits acceptable Within vessels:All projects foreseeable butreasonably unconsented with projectWhole significance Minor otherAll vessels: significance Moderate vessels: Scallopdredge limits acceptable Within vessels:All tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms MitigationMethod Scallopgear trials liaison Ongoingfisheries surveys Over-trawlability protection Cableburial and schedules constructionand mitigationstrategies developmentof to include throughthe MFCFWG Ongoingdiscussions practices standardmaritime adherenceto zonesSafety and NtMsand MFCFWG,FLO FIRs, forumofthe industrythrough the toprovided the fishing programme be will construction Updates onthe tatement 5.1-29

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole project Whole project Whole project Mitigation Method significance assessment: with consented with level for projects + WDA unconsented modified TI Modified TI + but reasonably Stevenson, foreseeable Telford and projects MacColl

All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: Minor Ongoing discussions Minor Minor Minor significance through the MFCFWG significance significance significance to include development of Increased mitigation strategies steaming times to and construction fishing grounds schedules

Ongoing fisheries liaison

Total Cumulative All vessels: Minor significance Impact Assessment (Whole project plus those developments listed in sections 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4) All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: Scallop dredge Ongoing discussions Minor Minor Minor vessels: through the MFCFWG significance significance significance Moderate to include significance development of mitigation strategies All other vessels: and construction Minor schedules significance Displacement of Cable burial and fishing activity protection

Over-trawlability surveys

Ongoing fisheries liaison

Scallop gear trials

Total Cumulative Scallop dredge vessels: Moderate significance Impact Assessment (Whole project plus All other vessels: Minor significance those developments listed in sections 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4)

5.1-30 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment populations shellfish populations recreationalfish Adverseeffects on Adverse Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative exploitedfishand commercially Operation and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative fishingvessels Interference with Residual Effect/Receptor effects

on

effectEMFs of be will of minorsignificance. depththat EMFs be will minor (EN-3),contributthe AsEMFs: expectedis it that the cablesthe within impactofEMFs ofbeminor will significance. depththat EMFs be will minor (EN-3),contributthe AsEMFs: expectedis it that the cablesthe within vessels:All Minorsignificance significance Minor vessels:All modifiedTI levelfor significance significance general: Minor EMFs – significance Minor trout:seaand EMFs –salmon Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S significance Minor vessels:All MacColl andTelford Stevenson, TIModified + assessment: projectWhole significance general: Minor EMFs – significance Minor trout:seaand EMFs –salmon Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS significance Minor vessels:All projectsWDA+ consented with projectWhole significance general: Minor EMFs – significance Minor trout:seaand EMFs –salmon modifiedOfTI will buriedbe tosufficient a modifiedOfTI will buriedbe tosufficient a ion ofthe modifiedion OfTIto the cumulative ofthe modifiedion OfTIto the cumulative significance vessels:All Minor projects foreseeable butreasonably unconsented with projectWhole significance Minor EMFs –general: significance Minor trout:seaand EMFs –salmon tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms NtMs throughFIRs,FLO and Informationdistributed liaison Ongoingfisheries schedules construction developmentof to include throughthe MFCFWG Ongoingdiscussions MitigationMethod burial /burial protection Cable burial /burial protection Cable tatement 5.1-31

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole project Whole project Whole project Mitigation Method significance assessment: with consented with level for projects + WDA unconsented modified TI Modified TI + but reasonably Stevenson, foreseeable Telford and projects MacColl

All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: Scallop dredge Ongoing discussions Minor Minor Minor vessels: through the MFCFWG significance significance significance Moderate significance Cable burial and Complete loss or protection restricted access All other vessels: to fishing grounds Minor Ongoing fisheries significance liaison

Scallop gear trials

Total Cumulative Scallop dredge vessels: Moderate significance Impact Assessment (Whole project plus All other vessels: Minor significance those developments listed in sections 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4) All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: Ongoing fisheries Within Within Within Within liaison Safety issues for acceptable acceptable acceptable acceptable fishing vessels limits limits limits limits Information distributed through FIRs, FLO and NtMs

Total Cumulative All vessels: Within acceptable limits Impact Assessment (Whole project plus those developments listed in sections 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4t All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: All vessels: Minor Ongoing discussions Minor Minor Minor significance through the MFCFWG significance significance significance Increased Cable burial and steaming times to protection fishing grounds

Ongoing fisheries liaison

Total Cumulative All vessels: Minor significance Impact Assessment (Whole project plus those developments listed in sections 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4)

5.1-32 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment seabedpost- Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative fishingvessels Interference with and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative fishingactivity Displacementof and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) listedinsections developments those (Wholeproject plus Impact Assessment TotalCumulative construction Obstaclestheon Residual Effect/Receptor

All vessels:All Minorsignificance significance Minor vessels:All otherAll vessels: Minorsignificance Scallopdredge vessels: Moderatesignificance significance Minor vessels:All acceptableWithin limits limits acceptable Within modifiedTI levelfor significance Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

significance Minor vessels:All significance Minor vessels:All limits acceptable Within MacColl andTelford Stevenson, TIModified + assessment: projectWhole Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS

significance Minor vessels:All significance Minor vessels:All limits acceptable Within projectsWDA+ consented with projectWhole significance vessels:All Minor significance Minor otherAll vessels: significance Moderate vessels: Scallopdredge limits acceptable Within projects foreseeable butreasonably unconsented with projectWhole tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms NtMs throughFIRs,FLO and Informationdistributed liaison Ongoingfisheries Scallopgear trials liaison Ongoingfisheries protection Cableburial and throughthe MFCFWG Ongoingdiscussions contractors by obligatorystandards Complianceto surveys Over-trawlability procedures Seabedrectification MitigationMethod tatement 5.1-33

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Assessment of Cumulative Effects

5.1.3.9 The developments and activities considered in detail within this assessment are listed below and are shown in Figure 5.1-1. • MORL three consented wind farms (Telford, Stevenson and MacColl); • MORL WDA; • BOWL site and export cable route; • Firth of Forth Phase 1 and export cable route; • Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm and export cable route; and • Neart Na Gaoithe Offshore Wind Farm and export cable route.

5.1.3.10 The connection between the WDA and the three consented wind farms necessitates a slightly different approach to assessment, as the effects arising from the “worst case” for the three consented sites cannot simply be added to the “worst case” scenario for the WDA. The potential capacity of the WDA (500 MW) when added to the consented capacity of the EDA (1,166 MW) exceeds the overall target capacity of the MORL zone (1,500 MW). It is not proposed that the target capacity for the MORL zone will be exceeded. 500 MW represents the maximum development on the WDA, but in the event that MORL successfully constructs in excess of 1,000 MW in the three consented wind farm sites then the development in the WDA will be restricted accordingly to ensure the MORL zone capacity is not exceeded.

5.1.3.11 This restriction of the total capacity of the MORL zone means that the effects from development in the EDA and WDA combined will be restricted also. In the MORL ES, effects were assessed on the basis of a potential capacity of 1,500 MW (3x500 MW) from the EDA alone. So the predicted effects of a 1,500 MW offshore wind farm within the MORL zone have been assessed and reported in the MORL ES. Where it is considered relevant and can be justified on the basis that conditions across the zone are consistent, the conclusions from that assessment have been assumed in this ES to be representative of the effects of the three consented wind farms and the WDA combined.

5.1.3.12 As mentioned previously, a general commentary on the following developments has been provided, however no significance ratings have been assessed: • Other renewable energy developments; • The SHE-T cable; • Shipping and navigation; • Relevant oil and gas activities; and • MPAs and other closed or restricted areas.

5.1.3.13 Although sufficient information has been provided on the MeyGen tidal project in the Pentland Firth to assess potential cumulative effects, it is considered that the fishing activity that occurs in the Moray Firth will not be synonymous with that occurring in the area of the tidal project. As such, a full cumulative assessment has been scoped out and a brief commentary on tidal projects in the Pentland Firth, including the MeyGen project, has been provided.

5.1.3.14 There is currently one MPA which is proposed for the Moray Firth area (Southern Trench). As no information on the management procedures for the area is available (i.e. whether or not fishing will be able to resume within the operational MPA) it is not possible to full assess potential cumulative effects arising from this proposal. As such,

5.1-34 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.3.22 MacColl and Stevenson Telford, 5.1.3.21 Scenarios Case Worst 5.1.3.18 5.1.3.20 Methodology 5.1.3.17 5.1.3.16 5.1.3.15 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.19

o te he cnetd id am a poie i E in provided as 2012). (MORL, Fisheries) farms wind consented three the for fr varies this that noted be should It below. 5.110 win consented three the for scenario case worst The id am n epr cbe ot, s rsl o th of result a available. made been has that information project as route, cable export and Farm Wind and route cable export and Farm Wind Offshore Cape Pha Forth of Firth the route, cable export and site consent three the with conjunction in OfTI c modified significant likely the of assessment detailed The uuaie fet o cmecal epotd ih a fish exploited Shellfis and Fish 4.2: Chapter in full in addressed commercially on effects Cumulative D: MFOWDG Cumulative Assessment Document). Document). Assessment Cumulative D:MFOWDG 20 (MORL, Document Discussion Group Developers Wind outlin that followed has methodology assessment The h suy ra f h assmn i te ae s tha as same the Firth. Moray the in is assessment p the focuses and Fisheries) (Commercial A 5.1 Appendix of area study The ra s rsl o ageae rdig a apy to i apply to basis. vessel assessment may this of dredging scope the aggregate within of considered result a as area Althou Forth. of Firth the in located being closest dredging aggregate licensed no are there Currently, Ardeseir, these development works are not expected expected not are fisheries. works development port these the at Ardeseir, development some be will there Although effect has been provided. provided. been has effect c to potential their and MPAs on commentary brief a h Mry it hv be cniee wti te con the within considered been re offshore other to UK relevant the around grounds have Firth Moray the af grounds scallop Instead, basis. vessel by vessel such con to assessment areas this of scope the regional within possible certain in time more spend previous may stated As UK. the around grounds targeting he t vessels by and targeted is which Firth fishery, scallop the Moray i the This them. affect spend also in may developments not time renewable may their vessels of fishing proportion, that recognised is It Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS h Ecology and summarised below. below. summarised and Ecology h gh it is recognised that loss of fishing fishing of loss that recognised is it gh om the original worst case scenario scenario case worst original the om fected by the proposed projects in in projects proposed the by fected hat are largely nomadic, variously variously nomadic, largely are hat se 1 and export cable route, Inch Inch route, cable export and 1 se umulative effects focuses on the the on focuses effects umulative sider the extent of an effect on a a on effect an of extent the sider newable developments. developments. newable ed wind farms, WDA, the BOWL BOWL the WDA, farms, wind ed dentify impacts on a vessel by by vessel a on impacts dentify ontribute towards a cumulative cumulative a towards ontribute rincipally on cumulative effects effects cumulative on rincipally d farms is summarised in Table in summarised is farms d ed in the Moray Firth Offshore Offshore Firth Moray the in ed ly, although individual vessels vessels individual although ly, i poiiy n te ee of level the and proximity eir areas in the Moray Firth, the the Firth, Moray the in areas all, or indeed a significant significant a indeed or all, s most obviously the case for case the obviously most s S Chapter 11.1 (Commercial (Commercial 11.1 Chapter S d hlfs ppltos are populations shellfish nd nce certain other offshore offshore other certain nce s of Invergordon, Nigg and and Nigg Invergordon, of s s h Mry it, t s not is it Firth, Moray the as tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Neart na Gaoithe Offshore Offshore Gaoithe na Neart 12, Technical Appendix 1.3 1.3 Appendix Technical 12, text of available scallop scallop available of text t described in Technical Technical in described t certain vessels, it is not not is it vessels, certain to have any impact on on impact any have to tatement 5.1-35

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.1-10 Summary of the MORL Three consented wind farms Worst Case Parameters

Worst case parameters Scenario assessed

Wind farm site 186 x 6 MW turbines

Turbine Layout

Minimum spacing (crosswind) 1,080 m

Minimum spacing (downwind) 1,350 m

Foundations and Substructure

Foundation type Gravity Base

Footprint of individual turbine 65m diameter

Met Mast

Maximum number of met masts 2

Inter Array Cables

Estimated total length 572 km

Western Development Area

5.1.3.23 The worst case parameters of wind farm design for the WDA in terms of commercial fisheries are provided in Table 5.1-11.

Table 5.1-11 Summary of the MORL WDA Worst Case Parameters

Worst case parameters Scenario assessed

Wind farm site 100 x 5 MW turbines

Turbine Layout

Minimum spacing (crosswind) 1,080 m

Minimum spacing (downwind) 1,350 m

Foundations and Substructure

Foundation type Gravity Base

Footprint of individual turbine 3,318 m2

Met Mast

Maximum number of met masts 1 x 4.5 m diameter

BOWL Site and Export Cable Route

5.1.3.24 The worst case parameters of wind farm design for the BOWL site and export cable route in terms of commercial fisheries are provided in Table 5.1-12.

5.1-36 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.25 Developments Other Paramet5.1-12 the of Case Worst Summary BOWL Table aiu egho fsoeepr al ordr 65 cableExport route Maximumnumber ofcables Maximum oflengthoffshore exportcablecorridor 3 Cable Export Maximumnumber ofOSPs AdditionalOffshore Infrastructure Estimatedtotal length InterArrayCables m 924 Maximumnumber ofmet masts m 924 MastMet Footprint of individualturbine Foundationtype Foundationsand Substructure Minimumspacing (downwind) Minimumspacing (crosswind) TurbineLayout farmWindsite Worst caseparameters • • •

Firth of Forth Phase 1 – 2 x 75 turbine wind farms; wind turbine 75 x 2 – 1 Phase of Forth Firth Neart na Gaoithe Offshore Wind Farm – 125 turbines turbines 125 – Farm Wind Offshore Gaoithe na Neart three turbines, 213 – Farm Wind and cables; export offshore 6 and substations Offshore Cape Inch eeomns ht r a a erir tg ad o w for and stage fol as are and detail in limited are projects these earlier an conside also are stage, this at at details development are that Developments

Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS ers as consented and restricted by condition restricted by and consented as ers South ofSouththe development to landfall thein BaSpey 4 3 km325 TubularJacket and Gravity Base consentconditions are met. turbines125 but the potentialwith to install140t Scenarioassessed 1,963m km

2 lows: lows:

and 2 offshore substations. substations. offshore 2 and red. The worst case scenarios for for scenarios case worst The red. tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms met masts, five offshore offshore five masts, met hich there are limited limited are there hich tatement 5.1-37 urbines if y y area

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Cumulative Assessment

5.1.3.26 The types of effects considered in this assessment are listed below. • Implications for fisheries during the construction phase: o Adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations; o Adverse effects on recreational fish populations; o Temporary loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds; o Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessels; o Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; o Interference with fisheries activities; and o Displacement of fishing activity into other areas. • Implications for fisheries during the operation phase: o Adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations; o Adverse effects on recreational fish populations; o Complete loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds; o Obstacles on the sea bed post-construction; o Safety issue for shipping, including fishing vessels; o Increased steaming times to fishing grounds; o Interference with fisheries activities; and o Displacement of fishing activity into other areas.

5.1.3.27 The receptors identified for consideration in this assessment are: • Demersal trawling for Nephrops (over and under-15 m vessels); • Dredging for scallops; • Demersal trawling for squid; • Demersal trawling for whitefish; • Creeling for crab and lobster; and • Hand-lining for mackerel.

5.1.3.28 A summary of the overall significance for each effect described below is given in Table 5.1-9 above. Adverse Effects on Commercially Exploited Fish and Shellfish Populations

5.1.3.29 The principal commercial species targeted within the vicinity of the modified OfTI are Nephrops , scallops, squid, whitefish (including cod and haddock), crab species, lobster and mackerel.

5.1.3.30 Predicted cumulative adverse effects on commercially exploited fish and shellfish populations arising from the construction and operation of the proposed developments are described in Chapter 4.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology and summarised in Table 5.1-13 below.

5.1-38 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Adverse Effects on Recreational Fish Populations Populations Fish on Recreational Effects Adverse Assessment populations Adverseeffects commerciallyon 5.1.3.32 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.31 and5.1.3.3 5.1.3.4) developmentslisted insections (Wholeproject plus those TotalCumulative Impact Residual Effect/Receptor 5.1-13 Impact of Summary Assessment Princi on Table exploitedfishand shellfish

h cntuto ad prto o te rpsd deve proposed summari and Ecology Shellfish and Fish 4.2: the Chapter of operation and construction the recreationa on effects adverse cumulative Predicted are salmon and sea trout. trout. sea and salmon are within targeted species recreational principal The

Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S significance Minor general: EMFs – significance Minor general: Noise – significance Minor general: seabed – tothe disturbance Underwater impactofEMFs ofbeminor will significance. Therefore,the contribution ofthe modifiedOfTIto footprintover EMFswhich could be detected bysens EMFs diminishrapidly both horizontally verticaand sufficientdepth that EMFs significantlybe will at EMFs: It expectedis that the cables the modwithin section2.1.3 for further details). minorbe following mitigation (seeChapter 2.1: Fis Noise:Cumulative effectsassociated underwatewith expectedtobe ofminor significance. increasedsuspended sediment concentrations sedand Underwater disturbancetothe seabed:Cumulative ef OfTI modified levelfor significance significance Minor general: EMFs – significance Minor general: Noise – significance Minor general: seabed – tothe disturbance Underwater MacColl andTelford Stevenson, + OfTI Modified assessment: project Whole Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS pal Commercial Species Commercial pal significance Minor general: EMFs – significance Minor general: Noise – significance Minor general: seabed – tothe disturbance Underwater WDA projects+ consented projectwith Whole sed in Table 5.1-14 below. below. 5.1-14 Table in sed the vicinity of the modified OfTI OfTI modified the of vicinity the fs ppltos rsn from arising populations fish l tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms lopments are described in in described are lopments significance Minor general: EMFs – significance Minor general: Noise – significance Minor general: seabed – tothe disturbance Underwater projects foreseeable reasonably but unconsented projectwith Whole tenuated(EN-3). Furthermore, as the overall cumulative hShellfishand Ecology, lly lly fromsource, the overall ified OfTIified be towill buried a itive speciesitive be will small. rnoise are expectedto fectsassociated with iment re-depositioniment are burial /burial protection Cable Soft-start piling Method Mitigation tatement 5.1-39

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.1-14 Summary of Impact Assessment on Principal Recreational Species

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole Whole Whole Mitigation significance project project with project with Method level for assessment: consented unconsented modified projects + but OfTI Modified WDA reasonably OfTI + foreseeable Stevenson, projects Telford and MacColl

Underwater Underwater Underwater Underwater Soft-start piling disturbance disturbance disturbance disturbance to the to the to the to the seabed – seabed – seabed – seabed – salmon and salmon and salmon and salmon and Cable sea trout: sea trout: sea trout: sea trout: burial / protection Minor Minor Negligible - Negligible - significance significance Minor Minor significance significance Noise – Noise – Adverse effects on recreational fish salmon and salmon and Noise – Noise – populations sea trout: sea trout: salmon and salmon and Minor Minor sea trout: sea trout: significance significance Minor Minor significance significance EMFs – EMFs – salmon and salmon and EMFs – EMFs – sea trout: sea trout: salmon and salmon and Minor Minor sea trout: sea trout: significance significance Minor Minor significance significance

Underwater disturbance to the seabed: Cumulative effects associated with increased suspended sediment concentrations and sediment re-deposition are expected to be of minor significance.

Total Cumulative Impact Noise: Cumulative effects associated with underwater noise are expected to Assessment be minor following mitigation (see Chapter 2.1: Fish and Shellfish Ecology, (Whole project plus those section 2.1.3 for further details). developments listed in sections 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3.4) EMFs: As it is expected that the cables within the modified OfTI will be buried to a sufficient depth that EMFs will be minor (EN-3), the contribution of the modified OfTI to the cumulative effect of EMFs will be of minor significance.

Temporary and Complete Loss or Restricted Access to Fishing Grounds

5.1.3.33 It should be noted that the worst case scenario for the three consented wind farms differs from that previously identified in ES Chapter11.1 (Commercial Fisheries) (MORL, 2012). Additionally, the availability of different data sets has resulted in changes to the assessment. It therefore follows that the potential effects arising from the three consented wind farms in MORL ES (2012) Chapter 11.1 may vary to those identified below.

5.1-40 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified OfTI and Three Consented Wind Farms Farms Wind Consented Three and OfTI Modified 5.1.3.37 5.1.3.36 5.1.3.35 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.34 5.1.3.40 5.1.3.39 5.1.3.38

ot o te OL ie te aoiy f rud are grounds of (Fi cumulat routes significant a be to majority considered not is there cable the export associated site, and BOWL developments the of north h for (principally activity whitefish some Although Zone and associated export cables (Figure 5.1-5). (Figure5.1-5). cables export associated and Zone si BOWL the from arise predominantly therefore will significantly on an annual basis. In light of this, of light In basis. annual an on this significantly although Forth, of Firth the in fishery squid o important is Firth Moray the in fishery squid The elsewhere. elsewhere. avai and productivity the upon depends sp and time annually of amount The UK. the around grounds target vessel of majority The 5.1-4). (Figure routes cable B Zone, MORL the of vicinity the in and Firth Moray o scallops for dredging that demonstrates fishermen ga information and datasets statistical of Analysis The The h tmoay 0 sft zns rud l mjr c major construction all OfTI. modified MORL of major the six safe around m 500 to addition in sites be farm wind zones consented will safety there m 500 Cumulatively, temporary the d sites farm wind consented three MORL the in areas to activity fishing all for potential the is There in addition to the modified OfTI. OfTI. modified the to addition in ranges effect operational cumulative no be will limited there that considered have will which vessels hand-lining mackerel the fishery, creel the with As this. this. fishery the upon effect cumulative a be will there A 5.1-7). (Figure cables export the Inverboyn of at installation landfall OfTI modified the of vicinity targetin vessels The areas. discrete to vessels the w vessels of ranges operational small the to due is immedia the fishing vessels those of comprised only other and OfTI modified the of result a as arising cons under fishery the that considered is it Firth, throu located is activity lobster and crab Although e, oee salr aeoy esl ae iie i gr limited fishing time of majority their the spend to tend are vessels category smaller however Sea, targ to range operational the have vessels category generally is Activity route. cable export modified far wind consented the with out located are grounds the same grounds as the over-15 m fleet in favourab in fleet m over-15 the as grounds same the th that however, noted be should flee It 5.1-3). m under-15 (Figure the for grounds fishing whereas 2), southern the in concentrated principally are fleet Fi m. under-15 and over both vessels, of range a by Nephrops Nephrops fishery is the most important fishery in the Moray Moray the in fishery important most the is fishery Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS be temporarily displaced from localised localised from displaced temporarily be the cumulative effect upon the fishery fishery the upon effect cumulative the is less productive and landings vary vary landings and productive less is ounds in the Moray Firth. Firth. Moray the oundsin ideration for the cumulative effects effects cumulative the for ideration g the crab and lobster fishery in the the in fishery lobster and crab the g constant on an annual basis. Larger Larger basis. annual an on constant s a result, it is not considered that that considered not is it result, a s s are nomadic and will potentially potentially will and nomadic are s developments in the Moray Firth is is Firth Moray the in developments n a national scale. There is also a a also is There scale. national a n ese vessels will occasionally target target occasionally will vessels ese ive effect upon the fishery. fishery. the upon effect ive dok i rcre i te n the in the in recorded is addock) half of the Moray Firth (Figure 5.1- (Figure Firth Moray the of half fishery is targeted by small, local local small, by targeted is fishery ghout coastal areas of the Moray Moray the of areas coastal ghout thered through consultation with with consultation through thered i wl ol b afce b the by affected be only will die ithin the creel fishery which limits limits which fishery creel the ithin from infrastructure in addition to addition in infrastructure from te in conjunction with the MORL MORL the with conjunction in te te area of the modified OfTI. This This OfTI. modified the of area te OWL site and associated export export associated and site OWL on the fishery from infrastructure infrastructure from fishery the on ty zones during the construction construction the during zones ty shing grounds for the over-15 m m over-15 the for grounds shing t are located in the inner Firth Firth inner the in located are t le weather. All weather. le uring construction as a result of result a as construction uring n their operational range and and range operational their n m sites but in the vicinity of the the of vicinity the in but sites m ccurs in areas throughout the the throughout areas in ccurs et grounds in the wider North North wider the in grounds et (Figure 5.1-8). It is therefore therefore is It 5.1-8). (Figure events in the MORL three three MORL the in events n i te oa Frh varies Firth Moray the in ent lability of grounds here and and here grounds of lability gure 5.1-6) and as a result result a as and 5.1-6) gure tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms located away from the the from away located onstruction activities. activities. onstruction Firth and is targeted targeted is and Firth Nephrops tatement fishing fishing 5.1-41

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.41 Additionally, during the construction phase, the safety risks associated with the installation of inter array cables and export cables for the MORL consented wind farms would result in the progressive loss of access to these areas as the construction schedule advances. Access to these areas will not resume until the appropriate over-trawl surveys and if necessary seabed rectification measures have been completed, confirming that normal fishing activities can safely resume.

5.1.3.42 The sensitivities of the fisheries are as defined for the site specific impact assessment previously (i.e. over-15 m Nephrops fleet is low, under-15 m Nephrops fleet is medium, scallop fleet is low and the squid fleet is low).

5.1.3.43 As shown in Figure 5.1-3, activity by the under-15 m Nephrops fleet generally occurs in areas to the south-west of the developments, with discrete areas transected by the MORL modified OfTI. As a result, the magnitude of effect for these vessels is considered to be low. The cumulative significance of effect of the MORL modified OfTI and three consented wind farms for these vessels is considered to be minor adverse .

5.1.3.44 Figure 5.1-2 shows the fishing activity by the over-15 m Nephrops fleet. All activity occurs outside of the three consented wind farm sites, to the south in the areas of the modified OfTI. It is therefore considered that there is no additional cumulative effect arising from the MORL modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms and the effect is as assessed previously (i.e. minor adverse ).

5.1.3.45 Figure 5.1-4 shows scallop dredging activity in the Moray Firth (see inset). Moderate to high levels of activity are located throughout the Moray Firth, including in the vicinity of the MORL three consented wind farms and modified OfTI. The magnitude of effect is considered to be high. The cumulative significance of effect of the MORL modified OfTI and three consented wind farms for scallop dredging vessels is considered to be moderate adverse .

5.1.3.46 It can be seen from Figure 5.1-5, that squid trawling occurs throughout the Moray Firth. As mentioned previously, the fishery varies year on year and it is not possible to predict future fishing grounds. As such, the assumption has been made that squid trawling can occur throughout the Moray Firth, including within the vicinity of the MORL three consented wind farms and the modified OfTI. Due to the availability of grounds, the magnitude of effect is therefore considered to be medium. The cumulative significance of effect of the MORL modified OfTI and three consented wind farms for vessels trawling for squid is considered to be minor adverse .

5.1.3.47 Subsequent to any necessary seabed rectification measures being satisfactorily completed, it is considered that fishing vessels will regain some degree of access to fishing grounds within the operational wind farm sites, although it is recognised that individual skippers, particularly those operating bottom towed gear, may consider it unsafe to continue fishing. It is also considered that vessels fishing grounds over the export cables will regain full access to their traditional fishing grounds during operation. It is therefore considered that the magnitude of effect will remain as identified for the construction phase. The significance of the cumulative effect of complete loss of fishing grounds during the operational phase is therefore expected to be moderate adverse for scallop and minor adverse for Nephrops (both over and under-15 m) and squid.

5.1.3.48 As mentioned above (Sections 5.1.2.5-5.1.2.7), embedded mitigation will be implemented which will reduce impacts on the commercial fishing industry. Ongoing discussions through the MFCFWG will include the development of mitigation strategies and construction schedules. Cables will be buried or protected by other

5.1-42 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms, WDA and WDA and Farms, Wind Consented Three OfTI, Modified 5.1.3.55 5.1.3.56 5.1.3.57 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.54 5.1.3.53 5.1.3.49 5.1.3.52 5.1.3.50 5.1.3.51

medium, scallop fleet is low and the squid fleet is fleet squid the and low is fleet scallop medium, o. h cmltv sgiiac o efc o te M the of adverseminor effect of thes for WDA and project BOWL farms, significance wind consented cumulative The low. ex thes in recorded activity of BOWL levels low very the to and OfTI WDA. modified the in located also are grounds value monetary the by transected grounds so the in located activity of levels low with Firth As mentioned previously, the under-15 m m under-15 the previously, mentioned As The over-15 m m over-15 The ots Te antd o efc i cniee t be to considered is effect of magnitude The and routes. site BOWL WDA, farms, wind consented three MORL Fi Moray the throughout located are grounds Scallop magnitude of effect is considered to be no greater greater b no be covered to significan a in resulting (i.e.low), areas OfTI modified considered is discrete effect of the magnitude and installation cable constructi the of nature temporary the to Due a pass. OfTI modified the which through grounds including in a a in u be will trails gear scallop addition, FLO.In the i fishing the with Liaison necessary. as undertaken and possible not is depth burial target where means previously (i.e. over-15 m m over-15 (i.e. previously f defined as are fisheries the of sensitivities The BOWL site and export cable route and the WDA. WDA. the and route cable export and site BOWL di temporarily be to activity fishing for potential farms wind consented three MORL the to addition In considered to be be to considered with conjunction in OfTI modified the of operation effect of significance cumulative the and magnitude The under-15 m m under-15 The construction and operation. operation. and construction mackerel hand-lining fisheries have been identified been have fisheries hand-lining mackerel f wind consented three the with conjunction in OfTI construction the from arising effects cumulative No significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant The over-15 m m over-15 The iiain ugse aoe il eut n residua a in result will above suggested mitigation three consented wind farms of wind consented three modif the of operation and construction both cu during a in resulting magnitude, medium and sensitivity eutn i a uuaie infcne f fet du effect moderate of significance with cumulative conjunction in OfTI modified the of operation a in resulting l of be to considered is fishery dredge scallop The io adverse minor wih s infcn i EA em. t s consider is It terms. EIA in significant is which , . . Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops minor Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S residual cumulative effect on the scallop fishery fishery scallop the on effect cumulative residual , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is which , le tres rud i te ot o te oa Fi Moray the of south the in grounds targets fleet ihr ad qi fsey r cniee t b o l of be to considered are fishery squid and fishery ihr i cniee t b o mdu sensitivity, medium of be to considered is fishery Nephrops minor Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is ,which fleet is low, under-15 m m under-15 low, is fleet Nephrops Nephrops ce of effect of of of effect ce BOWL BOWL or the site specific impact assessment assessment impact specific site the or ndertaken. This mitigation would result result would mitigation This ndertaken. splaced from localised areas in the the in areas localised from splaced low). low). uth of the Moray Firth. This includes includes This Firth. Moray the of uth ndustry will be ongoing via FIRs and and FIRs via ongoing be will ndustry e areas, the magnitude of effect is is effect of magnitude the areas, e ow sensitivity and high magnitude, magnitude, high and sensitivity ow the three consented wind farms of of farms wind consented three the the three consented wind farms is is farms wind consented three the . . on events for the offshore export export offshore the for events on fleet targets grounds in the inner the in grounds targets fleet arms on the whitefish, creel and and creel whitefish, the on arms and operation of the modified modified the of operation and rth, including in the areas of the the of areas the in including rth, efc of effect l over-trawlability surveys will be be will surveys over-trawlability ied OfTI in conjunction with the with conjunction in OfTI ied mulative significance of effect effect of significance mulative and modified OfTI, there is the the is there OfTI, modified and during both construction and construction both during It is considered however, due due however, considered is It nd BOWL export cable route route cable export BOWL nd ig oh osrcin and construction both ring e vessels is considered to be to considered is vessels e than that assessed for the the for assessed that than tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ORL modified OfTI, three three OfTI, modified ORL y the cable routes, the the routes, cable the y associated export cable cable export associated high. The cumulative cumulative The high. port cable route. Low Low route. cable port minor adverseminor ed however, that the the that however, ed minor Nephrops wih s not is which , during both both during . . le is fleet tatement 5.1-43 low low rth, rth, ow

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

significance of effect of the MORL modified OfTI, three consented wind farms, WDA and BOWL project for scallop dredging vessels is considered to be moderate adverse .

5.1.3.58 Squid grounds are located throughout the Moray Firth, however, as mentioned previously, fishing activity can vary year on year. Due to the availability of grounds, the magnitude of effect is therefore considered to be medium. The cumulative significance of effect of the MORL modified OfTI , three consented wind farms, WDA and BOWL project for vessels trawling for squid is considered to be minor adverse .

5.1.3.59 As mentioned above, during operation vessels will be able to regain access to the BOWL site, WDA and three consented wind farms. Vessels towing trawl gear may decide it is unsafe to continue working within the operational wind farm site and as such the magnitude of effect is considered the same as for construction. The significance of the cumulative effect of complete loss of fishing grounds during the operational phase of the MORL three consented wind farms, WDA, modified OfTI and BOWL project is therefore expected to be moderate adverse for scallop and minor adverse for Nephrops (both over and under-15 m) and squid.

5.1.3.60 As mentioned previously, mitigation has been suggested which will reduce the effect on scallop dredging activity to minor adverse . Potential mitigation for the BOWL project is unknown, however it is considered that as the majority of scallop dredging activity is located in the three consented wind farms and as BOWL are included in the MFCFWG, the mitigation suggested above would still reduce the effect to minor adverse for both the construction and operational phases.

5.1.3.61 The under-15 m Nephrops fishery is considered to be of medium sensitivity, low magnitude and the cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA is considered to be minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.62 The over-15 m Nephrops fishery and squid fishery are considered to be of low sensitivity and medium magnitude, resulting in a cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.63 The scallop dredge fishery is considered to be of low sensitivity and high magnitude, resulting in a cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA of moderate , which is significant in EIA terms. It is considered however, that the mitigation suggested above will result in a residual effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.64 No cumulative effects arising from the construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA on the whitefish, creel and mackerel hand-lining fisheries have been identified. Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms and Unconsented but Reasonably Foreseeable Projects

5.1.3.65 In addition to the MORL three consented wind farms and modified OfTI, there is the potential for fishing activity to be temporarily displaced from localised areas in other unconsented but reasonably foreseeable projects. Principally, these include the three developments in the Forth and Tay area:

5.1-44 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.3.73 5.1.3.71 5.1.3.72 5.1.3.70 5.1.3.69 5.1.3.74 5.1.3.68 5.1.3.67 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.66

• • • The over-15 m m over-15 The n oeain f h mdfe OT i cnucin w of projects unconsented other and farms conjunction in OfTI modified the of operation and o significance cumulative a in resulting magnitude, moderate adversemoderate projects unconsented other and OfTI the modified of farms, phase operational the during grounds t of fishing significance The construction. for as same the v all for effect of magnitude the operation, During such the residual effect is considered to be be to considered is effect residual the such lowered be not will effect residual cumulative the occurr activity dredging scallop of levels high the th in farms wind unconsented the for suggested been OfTI modified and farms wind consented three the of whic MORL by suggested been has mitigation Although cumulative effect on these vessels. an vessels. these on effect cumulative Forth the that considered therefore is It Firth. more fish to Fo choose often the will vessels in and limited recorded been has activity squid Although adverse f fet f h MR mdfe OT, he consente three i vessels OfTI, dredging modified scallop for MORL projects unconsented the of effect of ar be to developments considered is effect of magnitude the offshoreresult, which locate on are grounds activity including dredging scallop of levels High te ucnetd rjcs o tee esl i the is adverse vessels these for projects unconsented other t OfTI, the modified MORL the of cables, effect of significance by covered areas pr identified that than greater no be to considered discrete the and works t the to due therefore, and 5.1-2) (Figure area Tay high over located are routes cable export Only Tay. eutn i a uuaie infcne f fet du effect of projects unconsented other and of with conjunction in significance OfTI modified the of cumulative operation a in resulting l of be to considered is fishery dredge scallop The Over-15 m m Over-15 medium, scallop fleet is low and the squid fleet is fleet squid the and low is fleet scallop medium, and Tay projects will not add to any cumulative eff cumulative any to add not will Tay projects and It 5.1-3. Figure in identified areas the of outside Under-15 m vessels targeting targeting vessels m Under-15 previously (i.e. over-15 m m over-15 (i.e. previously f defined as are fisheries the of sensitivities The

Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm and export cable route cable export and Farm Wind Offshore Cape Inch route; cable export and 1 Phase of Forth Firth Neart Na Gaoithe Offshore Wind Farm and export cabl export and Farm Wind Offshore Gaoithe Na Neart . . . . Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops for scallop and and scallop for Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S trawlers have the potential to target grounds in th in grounds target to potential the have trawlers fishery are considered to be of low sensitivity and sensitivity low of be to considered are fishery Nephrops Nephrops Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor adverseminor moderate fleet is low, under-15 m m under-15 low, is fleet in the Moray Firth will target fish grounds grounds fish target will Firth Moray the in minor moderate adversemoderate , which is significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant is ,which or the site specific impact assessment assessment impact specific site the or is therefore considered that the Forth the that considered therefore is , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is ,which low). low). for over-15 m m forover-15 ing in the area, it is considered that that considered is it area, the in ing d Tay projects will not add to any any to add not will projects Tay d ow sensitivity and high magnitude, magnitude, high and sensitivity ow by MORLs mitigation alone and as as and alone mitigation MORLs by high. The cumulative significance significance cumulative The high. ect on these vessels. vessels. these on ect productive grounds in the Moray Moray the in grounds productive eviously (i.e. low). The cumulative cumulative The low). (i.e. eviously hree consented wind farms, and and farms, wind consented hree emporary nature of construction construction of nature emporary f effect during both construction construction both during effect f essels towing gear is considered considered is gear towing essels the three consented wind farms farms wind consented three the he cumulative complete loss of of loss complete cumulative he refore considered to be be to considered refore to minor, mitigation has not yet not has minor,mitigation to activity areas in the Forth and and Forth the in areas activity d in the Forth and Tay area, area, Tay and Forth the in d s considered to be be to considered s MORL three consented wind wind consented three MORL ith the three consented wind wind consented three the ith e Forth and Tay area. Due to to Due area. Tay and Forth e s hrfr epce t be to expected therefore is ig oh osrcin and construction both ring rth and Tay area, activity is is activity area, Tay and rth h reduce the residual effects effects residual the reduce h tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms e being considered. As a a As considered. being e d wind farms and other other and farms wind d antd o efc is effect of magnitude ; and ;and e route. route. e . . Nephrops Nephrops e Forth and Forth e vessels. vessels. moderate moderate medium medium le is fleet tatement minor minor 5.1-45

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.75 No cumulative effects arising from the construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms and other unconsented projects on the under-15 m Nephrops fleet, squid trawlers, whitefish trawlers, creelers and mackerel hand-lining fishery have been identified. Total Cumulative Effect

5.1.3.76 The total cumulative effect of all developments which have the potential to result in loss or restricted access for commercial fishing activities during the construction and operational phases is considered to be of moderate significance for scallop dredge vessels, which is significant in EIA terms. The total cumulative effect on all other vessels is considered to be of minor significance, which is not significant in EIA terms. Safety Issues to Fishing Vessels Modified OfTI and Three Consented Wind Farms

5.1.3.77 Vessels travelling greater distances to fishing grounds may be affected by multiple developments. The proximity of the MORL three consented wind farms and modified OfTI pose a cumulative risk to the safety of fishing vessels in the area.

5.1.3.78 There will be overlap in the construction schedules of the MORL three consented wind farms and the modified OfTI. In line with standard practice, construction safety zones of 500 m will be in place around all offshore construction activities and partially construction infrastructure, from which all vessels, including fishing vessels, will be excluded. There will also be communications of advisory safety zones around areas of exposed cables.

5.1.3.79 Risks to fishing vessels would only occur if there were infringements of these safety zones. It should also be recognised that, in line with standard maritime practice, the ultimate responsibility with regards to safety lies with the master of a vessel. Compliance with the safety zones would put the safety risk within acceptable limits. These issues are considered further in Chapter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation.

5.1.3.80 There is the potential for infrastructure outside of the designated safety zones to pose an additional risk to fishing vessels as a result of potentially hazardous interactions with fishing gear. These include turbines, inter array cables, OSPs and offshore export cables.

5.1.3.81 Infrastructure that is not fully installed will be appropriately marked and lit and safety zones put in place. Areas of exposed cable that constitute a potential snagging risk will be marked by the presence of guard vessels and advisory safety zones communicated. Furthermore, updates on the construction programme and vessel management plan will be provided to the fishing industry through the forum of the MFCFWG, FIRs, FLO and NtMs.

5.1.3.82 It is expected that, subsequent to the appropriate overtrawl surveys and installation burial and protection measures being completed, normal fishing activities will be able to safely resume in the immediate vicinity of Moray Firth developments during the operational phases. The safety risks would therefore be within acceptable limits for all commercial fisheries operating in the area, which is not significant in EIA terms. Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms, WDA and BOWL

5.1.3.83 Vessels travelling greater distances to fishing grounds may be affected by multiple developments. The proximity of the MORL three consented wind farms and modified OfTI to the WDA and BOWL project poses the greatest cumulative risk to the safety of fishing vessels in the area.

5.1-46 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms and Uncon and Farms Wind Consented Three OfTI, Modified Modified OfTI and Three Consented Wind Farms Farms Wind Consented Three and OfTI Modified Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.84 5.1.3.85 Projects 5.1.3.89 5.1.3.86 5.1.3.90 5.1.3.92 5.1.3.91 5.1.3.87 Effect Cumulative Total 5.1.3.88 Grounds to Fishing Time Steaming Increased

standard guidelines as outlined above and as such t such as and above outlined as guidelines standard i BOWL farm, wind the for conditions consent per As cetbe limits acceptable significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant medium, scallop fleet is low and the squid fleet is fleet squid the and low is fleet scallop medium, Tay, to be affected by other, unconsented developme unconsented byother, affected be Tay,to travelling vessels some for potential the is There significance of the effect is therefore therefore is effect of the significance effect of magnitude the however, zones safety these construction OfTI. modified and farms wind consented MORL the of major six safe m 500 to addition in sites be farm wind consented will there Cumulatively, udlns s ulnd bv ad s uh h safety the such as and above outlined will as developments unconsented guidelines the that farms, condit wind and commitments ES of because assumed, is It considered to be be to considered du effect with conjunction in OfTI modified the of of operation significance cumulative o The be to magnitude. considered are fishery hand-lining mackerel uig h oeainl hs. h sgiiac o t adverseminor of significance The phase. operational the during of magnitude The OfTI. modified and sites farm wind navigate to vessels fishing for prospect good a is 5.2 (Chapter assessment Navigation and Shipping The Vessels participating in the under-15 m m under-15 the in participating Vessels Is FO n NM, il nue ht l potentiall all that works. construction of ongoing ensure aware will NtMs, and FLO FIRs, c the including the liaison, fisheries ongoing on addition, construction construc of impacts of reduce development potentially the include will MFCFWG The cetbe limits acceptable aey sus o fsig esl drn te constr the during of be to considered vessels fishing for issues safety whi developments all of effect cumulative total The significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant previously (i.e. over-15 m m over-15 (i.e. previously f defined as are fisheries the of sensitivities The for all vessels. vessels. for all minor o al omril ihre oeaig n h area the in operating fisheries commercial all for o al omril ihre oeaig n h area the in operating fisheries commercial all for Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S within acceptable limits acceptable within

, which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is which , Nephrops Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor adverseminor fleet is low, under-15 m m under-15 low, is fleet Nephrops , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is ,which sented but Reasonably Foreseeable Foreseeable Reasonably but sented or the site specific impact assessment assessment impact specific site the or to other areas, such as the Forth and and Forth the as such areas, other to dissemination of information through through information of dissemination low). low). uction and operational phases is is phases operational and uction fishery, the creel fishery and the the and fishery creel the fishery, the three consented wind farms is is farms wind consented three the within the consented operational operational consented the within ipce saeodr wl be will stakeholders impacted y for all vessels. vessels. for all ch have the potential to result in in result to potential the have ch ty zones during the construction construction the during zones ty he effect is therefore, at worst, worst, at therefore, is effect he s expected to follow the same the follow to expected s effect is considered to be low low be to considered is effect he safety risks would be be would risks safety he of this ES) considers that there that considers ES) this of Due to the discrete nature of nature discrete the to Due is considered to be low. The The low. be to considered is ommercial fishing industry. In In industry. fishing ommercial f medium sensitivity and low low and sensitivity medium f nts. nts. events in the MORL three three MORL the in events ions on currently consented consented currently on ions ig oh osrcin and construction both ring tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms follow the same standard standard same the follow tion schedules which will will which schedules tion risks would be be would risks Nephrops , which is not not is which , , which is not not is which , le is fleet tatement within within within within 5.1-47

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.93 Vessels scallop dredging, trawling for squid, trawling for whitefish and the over-15 m vessels trawling for Nephrops are considered to be of low sensitivity and low magnitude. The cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms is considered to be minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms, WDA and BOWL

5.1.3.94 The sensitivities of the fisheries are as defined for the site specific impact assessment previously (i.e. over-15 m Nephrops fleet is low, under-15 m Nephrops fleet is medium, scallop fleet is low and the squid fleet is low).

5.1.3.95 There is the potential for the maximum of eight 500 m safety zones (six simultaneous construction events within the three MORL consented wind farms and modified OfTI and two in the BOWL site and associated export cable route) plus additional safety zones in the MORL modified OfTI and WDA to result in minor increases to steaming times during the construction phase. Due to the discrete nature of these safety zones however, the magnitude of effect is considered to be low. The significance of the effect is therefore minor adverse for all vessels.

5.1.3.96 The Shipping and Navigation assessment (Chapter 5.2 of this ES) considers that there is a good prospect for fishing vessels to navigate within the consented operational wind farm sites, modified OfTI, WDA and BOWL project. The magnitude of effect is considered to be low during the operational phase. The significance of the effect is therefore, at worst, minor adverse for all vessels.

5.1.3.97 Vessels participating in the under-15 m Nephrops fishery, the creel fishery and the mackerel hand-lining fishery are considered to be of medium sensitivity and low magnitude. The cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA is considered to be minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.98 Vessels scallop dredging, trawling for squid, trawling for whitefish and the over-15 m vessels trawling for Nephrops are considered to be of low sensitivity and low magnitude. The cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA is considered to be minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms and Unconsented but Reasonably Foreseeable Projects

5.1.3.99 Due to the high number of construction events which could occur simultaneously within the Forth and Tay area, it is considered that there may be some increases to steaming times during construction. This will, however, only apply to those vessels that target grounds in the area, namely the over-15 m Nephrops fleet and the scallop dredge fleet. The magnitude of effect for these vessels is therefore considered to be medium. The sensitivity of vessels is as defined above (i.e. low for both) and therefore the cumulative significance of effect is considered to be minor adverse. There is considered to be no additional cumulative effect for all other fisheries as a result of unconsented developments in the Forth and Tay.

5.1.3.100 It is generally considered that there is a good prospect for fishing vessels to navigate within the operational wind farm sites in the Moray Firth and Forth and Tay. The sensitivity of vessels is as defined above and the magnitude of effect is considered to be low during the operational phase. The significance of the effect is therefore, at

5.1-48 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified OfTI and Three Consented Wind Farms Farms Wind Consented Three and OfTI Modified Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms, WDA and WDA and Farms, Wind Consented Three OfTI, Modified 5.1.3.105 5.1.3.103 Effect Cumulative Total 5.1.3.104 Post-construction Seabed on the Obstacles 5.1.3.106 5.1.3.107 5.1.3.102 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.101

jack-up legs or cable trenching can produce seabed seabed produce can trenching cable or legs jack-up areas of all the consented developments and the mod the and developments consented the of all areas rectificatio dropped seabed and surveys accidentally overtrawl addition, any of recovery and reporting of Dumping by Pollution Marine of Prevention the on objects of discarding the prohibits policy Offshore nrae semn tms uig h cntuto an construction the during of be to considered times steaming increased whi developments all of effect cumulative total The potential effect. effect. potential wi OfTI modified the and farms wind consented three c The gears. fishing to damage and fastenings cause a such lo works Offshore orhazard. safety on a to, representing left damage in be result to could which obstacles construction for potential the is There and mackerel hand-lining fishery have been identifi been have fishery hand-lining mackerel and terms. terms. be to considered is rectificati effect seabed of standard implementation obligatory the to necessary, compliance is there Provided effect would be be would effect abo outlined as guidelines standard same the follow conditions consent and ES the in commitments to Due fI n ojnto wt te he cnetd id f wind m under-15 the consented on projects three the with conjunction in OfTI construction the from arising effects cumulative No minor unconsented and farms wind consented three the with of operation and construction both during effect of magnitu low and sensitivity low of be to considered 15 m m 15 worst, worst, esl salp rdig ad h oe-5 vessels m over-15 the and dredging, scallop Vessels diinl uuaie fet o al te fisherie other all Tay. forand Forth the in developments effect cumulative additional , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIA terms. significant not is ,which minor adverse minor Nephrops Nephrops within acceptable limits acceptable within le ad clo deg vses. hr i conside is There vessels). dredge scallop and fleet Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S minor for vessels that fish grounds in the Forth and Tay and Forth the in grounds fish that vessels for

significance, which is not significant in EIA in term significant not is which significance, Nephrops ihn cetbe limits acceptable within Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS fleet, squid trawlers, whitefish trawlers, creeler trawlers, whitefish trawlers, squid fleet, , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant is not ,which BOWL BOWL or waste at sea (IMO Convention Convention (IMO sea at waste or n measures will be undertaken in undertaken be will measures n ed. the modified OfTI in conjunction conjunction in OfTI modified the ch have the potential to result in in result to potential the have ch and operation of the modified modified the of operation and de. The cumulative significance significance cumulative The de. s construction vessel anchoring, anchoring, vessel construction s wih s o sgiiat n EIA in significant not is which , s as a result of unconsented unconsented of result a as s h sae drn- n post- and during- seabed the ve and as such the cumulative cumulative the such as and ve Wastes and other Matter). The The Matter). other and Wastes ll be an increase in the scale of scale the in increase an be ll s f fsig er, s el as well as gears, fishing of, ss arms and other unconsented unconsented other and arms on measures, the cumulative cumulative the measures, on umulative effect of the MORL MORL the of effect umulative ified OfTI in the Moray Firth. Firth. Moray the in OfTI ified , it is assumed that BOWL will will BOWL that assumed is it , projects is considered to be be to considered is projects s by all contractors and, if if and, contractors all by s rwig for trawling tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms objects is also required. In In required. also is objects d operational phases is is phases operational d obstructions which could could which obstructions area (i.e. over- (i.e. area Nephrops red to be no no be to red s. s. tatement 5.1-49 are are s

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms and Unconsented but Reasonably Foreseeable Projects

5.1.3.108 Due to ES commitments and conditional consents awarded for other wind farm projects, it is assumed that the three unconsented developments will follow the same standard guidelines as outlined above and as such the cumulative effect would be within acceptable limits , which is not significant in EIA terms. Total Cumulative Effect

5.1.3.109 The total cumulative effect of all developments which have the potential to result in obstacles on the seabed post-construction is considered to be within acceptable limits , which is not significant in EIA terms.

Displacement of Fishing Activity Modified OfTI and Three Consented Wind Farms

5.1.3.110 Concerns were raised during consultation with fishermen and their representatives that any loss or restricted access to fishing grounds as a result of wind farm development could result in increased competition for grounds outside of the wind farm boundaries. This might result in either potential conflict between vessels competing for the same resource, or between different fishing methods (i.e. static and towed gear vessels).

5.1.3.111 Displacement of fishing vessels into other areas will be a function of the loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds as fishing areas are restricted by substrate type, operational ranges of vessels targeting the fishery and, in some cases, seasonality. As mentioned previously, the whitefish, creel and mackerel hand- lining fisheries will not experience cumulative effects due to the location of fishing grounds.

5.1.3.112 In the Moray Firth, there is the potential for fishing activity to be displaced from MORL’s three consented wind farms during construction as a result of the safety risks associated with the installation of inter array cables. In addition, fishing vessels will be temporarily excluded from the area of the modified OfTI, until overtrawl surveys confirm the ’over-trawlable’ status of the seabed.

5.1.3.113 Overtrawl surveys, and, if necessary, seabed rectification procedures, within the wind farm sites will also confirm the ‘over-trawlable’ status of the seabed. Fishing vessels will subsequently regain some degree of access to grounds within the operational wind farms. It is however recognised that individual skippers will ultimately decide whether they wish to resume fishing within the operational sites.

5.1.3.114 Subsequent to the above measures being satisfactorily completed, it is considered that fishing vessels will regain some degree of access to fishing grounds within the consented operational wind farm sites, although it is recognised that individual skippers, particularly those operating bottom towed gear, may consider it unsafe to continue fishing within the consented operational wind farm sites because of the presence of infrastructure.

5.1.3.115 The significance of the cumulative displacement of fishing vessels during the construction and operational phases of the three consented wind farms and modified OfTI is as identified previously for the complete loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds (i.e. moderate adverse for scallop dredge vessels and minor adverse for over and under-15 m Nephrops trawlers and squid trawlers).

5.1-50 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms, WDA and WDA and Farms, Wind Consented Three OfTI, Modified 5.1.3.124 5.1.3.123 5.1.3.121 5.1.3.122 5.1.3.117 5.1.3.120 5.1.3.118 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.116 5.1.3.119

The over-15 m m over-15 The terms. terms. BOWL project and WDA is considered to be be to considered is WDA and project BOWL with conjunction in OfTI modified the of operation effect of significance cumulative the and magnitude he cnetd id am, OL rjc ad D of WDA and project BOWL farms, wind consented three modif the of operation and construction both cu during a in resulting magnitude, medium and sensitivity The under-15 m m under-15 The significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant etitd ces o rdtoa fsig rud (i grounds fishing previou traditional identified to as access is restricted project BOWL and WDA of OfTI, co displacement three the of cumulative phases operational and the construction of significance The considered to be be to considered with conjunction in OfTI modified the of operation effect of significance cumulative the and magnitude nldd n h MCW, h mtgto sgetd ab suggested to effect mitigation the MFCFWG, the in consented included three the in located is activity t dredging considered is it however unknown, is project BOWL to activity sugges dredging scallop been on has effect mitigation previously, mentioned As The under-15 m m under-15 The squid trawlers). trawlers). squid mackerel hand-lining fisheries have been identified been have fisheries hand-lining mackerel f wind consented three the with conjunction in OfTI construction the from arising effects cumulative No significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant dredge vessels and and vessels dredge The over-15 m m over-15 The h FO I adto, OL il netk salp g scallop a in result undertake will MORL addition, In FLO. the i fishing the with Liaison necessary. as undertaken dev and possible the not is depth burial target include where means will will Cables schedules. MFCFWG construction and strategies the through embe discussions 5.1.2.5-5.1.2.7), (Sections commer the on reduce impacts will which implemented above mentioned As iiain ugse aoe il eut n residua a in result will above suggested mitigation three consented wind farms of wind consented three modif the of operation and construction both cu during a in resulting magnitude, medium and sensitivity eutn i a uuaie infcne f fet du effect moderate of significance with conjunction cumulative in OfTI modified the of operation a in resulting l of be to considered is fishery dredge scallop The minor adverseminor wih s infcn i EA em. t s consider is It terms. EIA in significant is which , minor adverseminor Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops Nephrops minor Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S minor adverse minor , which is not significant in EIA terms. in EIAterms. significant not is which , for both the construction and operational phases. phases. operational and construction the both for residual effect on the scallop fishery. fishery. scallop the on effect residual ihr ad qi fsey r cniee t b o l of be to considered are fishery squid and fishery ihr ad qi fsey r cniee t b o l of be to considered are fishery squid and fishery ihr i cniee t b o mdu sensitivity, medium of be to considered is fishery ihr i cniee t b o mdu sensitivity, medium of be to considered is fishery minor Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS for over and under-15 m m under-15 and over for , which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is ,which io adverse minor BOWL BOWL minor ndustry will be ongoing via FIRs and and FIRs via ongoing be will ndustry ow sensitivity and high magnitude, magnitude, high and sensitivity ow the three consented wind farms of of farms wind consented three the .e. .e. the three consented wind farms is is farms wind consented three the . . be buried or protected by other other by protected or buried be the three consented wind farms, farms, wind consented three the arms on the whitefish, creel and and creel whitefish, the on arms and operation of the modified modified the of operation and wih s o sgiiat n EIA in significant not is which , efc of effect l over-trawlability surveys will be be will surveys over-trawlability wind farms and as BOWL are are BOWL as and farms wind ied OfTI in conjunction with the with conjunction in OfTI ied ear trials. This mitigation would would mitigation This trials. ear ied OfTI in conjunction with the with conjunction in OfTI ied mulative significance of effect effect of significance mulative mulative significance of effect effect of significance mulative moderate adverse adverse moderate during both construction and construction both during during both construction and construction both during hat as the majority of scallop scallop of majority the as hat nsented wind farms, modified modified farms, wind nsented . Potential mitigation for the the for mitigation Potential . ig oh osrcin and construction both ring l fr h cmlt ls or loss complete the for sly cial fishing industry. Ongoing Ongoing industry. fishing cial tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ted which will reduce the the reduce will which ted ove would still reduce the the reduce still would ove fishing vessels during the the during vessels fishing dd iiain il be will mitigation dded elopment of mitigation mitigation of elopment ed however, that the the that however, ed Nephrops Nephrops

minor minor wih s not is which , wih s not is which , trawlers and trawlers for scallop scallop for tatement 5.1-51 low low low low ow ow

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.125 The scallop dredge fishery is considered to be of low sensitivity and high magnitude, resulting in a cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA of moderate , which is significant in EIA terms. It is considered however, that the mitigation suggested above will result in a residual effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.126 No cumulative effects arising from the construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA on the whitefish, creel and mackerel hand-lining fisheries have been identified. Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms and Unconsented but Reasonably Foreseeable Projects

5.1.3.127 The significance of the cumulative displacement of fishing vessels during the construction and operational phases of the three consented wind farms, modified OfTI and other unconsented developments in the Forth and Tay area is as identified previously for the complete loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds (i.e. moderate adverse for scallop dredge vessels and minor adverse for over-15 m Nephrops trawlers).

5.1.3.128 Although mitigation has been suggested by MORL which reduce the residual effects of the three consented wind farms and modified OfTI to minor, mitigation has not yet been suggested for the unconsented wind farms in the Forth and Tay area. Due to the high levels of scallop dredging activity occurring in the area, it is considered that the cumulative residual effect will not be lowered by MORLs mitigation alone and as such the residual effect is considered to be moderate adverse .

5.1.3.129 The over-15 m Nephrops fishery are considered to be of low sensitivity and medium magnitude, resulting in a cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms and other unconsented projects of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.130 The scallop dredge fishery is considered to be of low sensitivity and high magnitude, resulting in a cumulative significance of effect during both construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms and other unconsented projects of moderate , which is significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.131 No cumulative effects arising from the construction and operation of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms and other unconsented projects on the under-15 m Nephrops fleet, squid trawlers, whitefish trawlers, creelers and mackerel hand-lining fishery have been identified. Total Cumulative Effect

5.1.3.132 The total cumulative effect of all developments which have the potential to result in displacement of fishing activity during the construction and operational phases is considered to be of moderate significance for scallop dredge vessels, which is significant in EIA terms. The total cumulative effect on all other vessels is considered to be of minor significance, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1-52 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified OfTI and Three Consented Wind Farms Farms Wind Consented Three and OfTI Modified 5.1.3.137 5.1.3.138 5.1.3.135 5.1.3.134 5.1.3.136 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.133 Activities Fishing to Interference 5.1.3.140 5.1.3.139

significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant be low, resulting in a a in resulting low, be m both for of effect magnitude the such as reduced; number the that considered is it operation, During impacts on fishing activities. This will result in result will This activities. fishing on impacts industry fishing the with FLO Consultation Kingfisher. FIRs, the of means Additionally the pla through industry management fishing vessel schedules. the and activity construction construction of through development discussions ongoing that noted be should It during construction on towed gear vessels will be be fol will vessels gear towed on construction during therefore It low. be w to interference considered is minimise magnitude to COLREGs with comply will mariti with aid is sensitivity the vessels, gear towed of mobility to commencing construction to prior course. alter to fishing in engaged vessels fishing COL with fully comply will vessels works Transiting en ae ta wrs esl wl hv te potenti the have will area. in the activities vessels works that taken been howeve unknown, are ports the time, current this de At part, in be, t and works maintenance and operation will construction, interference for potential The effect is therefore considered to be be to considered therefore is effect T vessels. gear towed with interference to compared is there towed, being gears fishing to risk reduce vessels works although rang as, medium operational be to and considered mobility the in restricted are of be to considered are vessels gear Static towed. a and r which COLREGS with comply also will routes vessels Works shipping in gear their deploying avoid minim to order in that recognised be also should It nld te oln o sai ga mre bos and direction. towing alter to required being buoys marker and gear static to of fouling the transiting include vessels maintenance and e operation additional betwee arising An conflicts navigational for activities. potential in fishing included to effects interference cumulative potential the of All h tre osne wn frs s hrfr conside therefore is farms wind consented three mo the the of effect of significance The magnitude. low consider is fleet gear static the operation, During fet s lo o. h sgiiac o efc duri conjunct in be to considered therefore is farms wind effect OfTI modified of the significance of phases The operational low. also is effect considered is vessels gear towed of sensitivity The static gear fleet during construction. construction. during fleet gear static Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S minor adverse Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS cumulative effect for both. for both. effect cumulative moderate adversemoderate minor, minor, a residual effect of effect residual a considered to be low. As works vessels vessels Asworks low. be to considered which is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is which will be ongoing to minimise potential potential minimise to ongoing be will Transit routes will also be established established be also will routes Transit REGS to negate the requirements for for requirements the negate to REGS still higher risk of this occurring when when occurring this of risk higher still ed to be of medium sensitivity and sensitivity medium of be to ed minor adverseminor to be low and the magnitude of magnitude the and low be to n fishing vessels and construction, construction, and vessels fishing n ise gear loss, static gear fishermen fishermen gear static loss, gear ise medium sensitivity as these vessels vessels these as sensitivity medium educes risk to fishing gears being being gears fishing to risk educes and through NtMs published in in published NtMs through and emnd y h saoaiy of seasonality the by termined of works vessels required will be will required vessels works of os ht h cmltv effect cumulative the that lows fc t b cniee i the is considered be to ffect g oh h cntuto and construction the both ng obile and static gear vessels will will vessels gear static and obile r a conservative approach has has approach conservative a r this assessment would cause cause would assessment this e. The magnitude of effect is is effect of magnitude The e. dhans, or towed gear vessels vessels gear towed or dhans, the MFCFWG will include the the include will MFCFWG the iid fI n ojnto with conjunction in OfTI dified reas of high shipping activity. activity. shipping high of reas ion with the three consented consented three the with ion red to be be to red e uuaie infcne of significance cumulative he during construction. construction. during he location of the works ports. ports. works the of location he l o nefr wt al fishing all with interfere to al will comply with COLREGS to to COLREGS with comply will me safety. Due to the high high the to Due safety. me ith towed gear vessels, the the vessels, gear towed ith n will be distributed to the the to distributed be will n tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms from the sites. This could could This sites. the from , information regarding regarding information , minor adverse minor . . minor, minor, hc i not is which tatement on the the on 5.1-53

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.141 The static gear fleet is considered to be of medium sensitivity and there is expected to be a medium magnitude of effect during construction. The significance of effect of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms during construction is therefore considered to be moderate , which is significant in EIA terms. It is considered however, that the mitigation suggested above will result in a residual effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms, WDA and BOWL

5.1.3.142 There is the potential for interference to fishing vessels to increase due to the presence of works vessels for the BOWL project and WDA in conjunction with those present for the three consented wind farms and modified OfTI. Assuming BOWL follow the standard guidelines highlighted above, it is considered that there will be no increase in the cumulative effect on the towed gear vessels (i.e. minor adverse during the construction and operational phases) and static gear vessels ( moderate adverse during construction and minor adverse during operation).

5.1.3.143 It is assumed that BOWL will have the same standard mitigation as discussed above and, as they are also a member of the MFCFWG, the residual effect on the static gear fleet will be minor adverse .

5.1.3.144 The sensitivity of towed gear vessels is considered to be low and the magnitude of effect is also low. The significance of effect during both the construction and operational phases of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA is therefore considered to be minor, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.145 During operation, the static gear fleet is considered to be of medium sensitivity and low magnitude. The significance of effect of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA is therefore considered to be minor, which is not significant in EIA terms.

5.1.3.146 The static gear fleet is considered to be of medium sensitivity and there is expected to be a medium magnitude of effect during construction. The significance of effect of the modified OfTI in conjunction with the three consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA during construction is therefore considered to be moderate , which is significant in EIA terms. It is considered however, that the mitigation suggested above will result in a residual effect of minor , which is not significant in EIA terms.

Modified OfTI, Three Consented Wind Farms and Unconsented but Reasonably Foreseeable Projects

5.1.3.147 There is the potential for interference to fishing vessels to increase due to the presence of works vessels for the unconsented developments in the Forth and Tay in conjunction with those present for the three consented wind farms and modified OfTI. It should be noted however that interference with these works vessels will only occur with fishing vessels operating in the Forth and Tay (i.e. over-15 m Nephrops vessels and scallop dredgers).

5.1.3.148 It is assumed that the unconsented project developers will follow the standard guidelines highlighted above and as such it is considered that there will be no increase in the cumulative effect on the towed gear vessels (i.e. minor adverse during the construction and operational phases).

5.1-54 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.3.155 5.1.3.154 5.1.3.153 Farms Wind Offshore Other Developments on Commentary 5.1.3.152 5.1.3.151 Effect Cumulative Total 5.1.3.150 Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries 5.1.3.149

• • • vial fr h ohr rjcs A sc, commen a such, As nom the on effects cumulative potential discussthe projects. other the the using a for scale undertake available national a to on feasible fleet scallop considered nomadic been not has it Ramp the for available are details project Although iiiy f clo fsig rud ae itd belo listed are grounds fishing WDA scallop farms, of wind vicinity consented Proposed Tay. and Forth the three in projects f unconsented the MORL affect OfTI, could which modified UK the around of developments number a are there fleet, scallop nomadic the of noma the to given been has consideration Additional Reference source not found. not source Reference other developments, as well as the construction and construction as the well as developments, other far wind offshore sca of importance the multiple upon depend will of displacement result a be to displacem areas, resulting the and grounds fishing of is loss This UK. the potenti the is around there where fishery, scallop nomadic farms wind offshore other of b fisheries some in result potentially may UK), the vesse fishing certain of range operational wide The terms. terms. prto i cniee t b of be to considered vessels is gear operation mobile on effect cumulative total The significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant moderate constr the during vessels fishing with interference whi developments all of effect cumulative total The on the static gear fleet have been identified. identified. have been fleet gear static the on f wind consented three the with conjunction in OfTI construction the from arising effects cumulative No is not significant in EIA terms. EIA in terms. significant not is effect of effect discuss mitigation the that however noted be should fet s lo o. h sgiiac o efc duri conjunct therefor is projects unconsented in the and farms wind effect OfTI modified of the significance of phases The operational low. also is effect considered is vessels gear towed of sensitivity The

First Flight Offshore Wind Farm Zone. Zone. Farm Offshore Wind Flight First and Zone; 3 Round Sea Irish Zone; 3 Round Rampion minor infcne o sai ga vses wih s sig is which vessels, gear static for significance significance Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

: : on the static gear fleet during construction, which construction, during fleet gear static the on Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS minor infcne wih s o sgiiat n EIA in significant not is which significance, uction phase is considered to be of be to considered is phase uction eing affected by the development development the by affected eing to be low and the magnitude of magnitude the and low be to al for temporary and/or complete complete and/or temporary for al adic scallop fleet. fleet. scallop adic ch have the potential to result in in result to potential the have ch e considered to be be to considered e ion Round 3 Zone development, development, Zone 3 Round ion ent of fishing activity into other other into activity fishing of ent arms and unconsented projects projects unconsented and arms operational programmes. programmes. operational and operation of the modified modified the of operation and g oh h cntuto and construction the both ng ls (in some instances all around around all instances some (in ls w and can be seen in in seen be can and w dvlpet. h sae of scale The developments. m ed above will result in a residual residual a in result will above ed particularly the case for the the for case the particularly rpsd fsoe id farm wind offshore proposed uig oh osrcin and construction both during developments located in the in located developments ion with the three consented consented three the with ion dic scallop fishery. In the case the In fishery. scallop dic limited information currently currently information limited llop grounds in the vicinity of vicinity the in grounds llop tary has been provided to to provided been has tary tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms robust assessment on the the on assessment robust ishery in addition to the the to addition in ishery nificant in EIA terms. It It terms. EIA in nificant BW poet and project BOWL , minor, minor, tatement which which is not not is 5.1-55 Error!

CHAPTER 5.1 5.7.1.4 Consultations 5.7.1.3 Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.1.2 5.7.1.1 Introduction 5.7.1 5.7 5

Human Environment

OtherHumanActivities

Baseline Information Baseline Information presented in Table 5.7-1. more recent consultation hasbeen unde full in the MORL ES(MORL, 2012 – ES Chapter 5.8 Other Human Activities).Where in are presented responses OfTI; consultation to the modified alsorelevant which are MORL ES for the consultation during highlighted were that issues the summarises windoffshore farms and original transm Activities that occur within the vicinity of the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Human Other on the information gather to stakeholders key with undertaken was (ES), consultation Statement (MORL) Environmental Limited Renewables Assess Impact Environmental of the As part    Note that thefollowingchapters Activity’ stakeholders with interests in the modified OfTI study area. area. study OfTI modified in the interests with stakeholders Activity’ publicly available information resu and information the available publicly The description ofbaseline conditions that followsis based upon desktop of reviews This chapterdescribestheOther Human considered necessary. components) in Moray the Firth, alongwith proposed mitigation measures, where (with marine Activities Human onOther OfTI modified decommissioning ofthe and of construction, operation the effects significant likely assessment of the unexploded telecommunications, ordnance and infrastructure, marinedredgingand and plans,carbon capture andstorage plans,military activity, oilandgasactivity offsho include (OSPs). Activities platforms farms, incorporates which the export cablecorridorandoffshoresubstation (OfTI) associated with the consented Telf the of vicinity withinorinthe occurring

Chapter 5.5– Socio-economics. Chapter 5.2– Shipping and Navigation;and – CommercialFisheries; Chapter 5.1 ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo

describe other marine activities: Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray modified offshore transmission infrastructure infrastructure transmission offshore modified ord, Stevenson and MacColl offshore wind re wind, waveand tidal energy projects ment (EIA) process for the Moray Offshore MorayOffshore forthe process (EIA) ment ission infrastructure. Table 5.7-1 below rtaken, outcomes the of that are also disposal, subseacables and pipelines, lts of consultation with lts with ‘Other Human of consultation and aviation. This chapter presents an an presents chapter This aviation. and Activities(with marine components) r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r 5.7-1 5.7-1

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.7-1 Summary of Consultation Responses Relevant to Other Human Activities

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

Marine Scotland Marine Scotland noted that the Moray MORL is committed to ongoing Firth Round 3 zone lies close to the Beatrice collaboration as a member of the Offshore Wind Farm within Scottish Moray Firth Offshore Wind Developers Territorial Waters of the Moray Firth, and Group (MFOWDG) and adherence to that they welcome and encourage the MFOWDG Cumulative Impact collaborative working between the Assessment Discussion Document, which developers in the area. has involved joint gathering / sharing of baseline data and adherence to standardised impact assessment approaches.

Marine Scotland – Modified The ES must include what measures are MORL commissioned a desk-based OfTI Scoping Opinion proposed to be in place to do a pre- study to identify the risk posed to the sweep for Unexploded Ordnance MORL Project by unexploded ordnance (“UXO’s”). If discovered, the time it takes to (UXO) and to identify potential remove such an object may have measures by which any risks may be detrimental effects on the project reduced to an acceptable level. This timelines. This is of particular importance as study is discussed in this chapter. the cable route passes through a firing practice area. MS LOT recommend that MORL engage with the Ministry of Defence on this matter.

Ministry of Defence (MoD) – In response to the proforma submitted by MORL will adhere to all conditions of Military Practice and MORL to the MoD at the Project scoping consent. Exercise stage, the MoD stated that it would object to the Project unless mitigation measures are agreed that would minimise impacts upon danger area D807, which overlapped with parts of the wind farm sites and original transmission infrastructure. In March 2012, the D807 ceased to exist and subsequently the MoD has confirmed that they will not object to the Project on these grounds. During consent determination, the MoD objected to the MORL Project citing concerns about hazards to MoD nautical and aeronautical activities in the area. Following further discussions between MORL and the MoD, in 2014 the MoD removed their objection subject to conditions being applied to the consent. MORL will adhere to all conditions of consent. In relation to concerns about hazards to MoD nautical activities, a condition of consent requires that MORL submit a Lighting and Marking Plan (LMP) to Marine Scotland for their approval, with such approval to only be granted following consultation with advisors, including the DIO, prior to construction commencing. MoD consultation responses relevant to ‘aeronautical activities’ are presented below.

Joint Radio Company (JRC) The JRC stated that they do not foresee No action required. Limited the proposed developments resulting in any interference to scanning telemetry systems. MORL confirmed this position in April 2012.

5.7-2 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter Scoping Opinion (“NATS”) –Modified OfTI NERL Safeguarding (NERL) Limited En-Route NATS (CAA) Authority Civil Aviation Suncor Faroese Telecom SHE-T MORLApproach (HSE) Executive Safety Health and (OFCOM) Communications of Office ConsultationResponse Atkins Limited Organisation ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo Report. theto Scoping on no comments make Moray FirthModified Transmission Infrastructure for the wind farms.NATS anticipates noimpactthe from As such NATS has wind farmboundaries. encompass the that OSPs will sit within default, the mitigation will solution By objection. their withdrawn have NATS Consequently, Project. tothe in relation solution mitigation defined and identified ofan implementation design and the entered into betweentwothe parties for has been agreement an NATS, MORL and operations.Following discussionsbetween trafficair radarandassociated Allanshill becauseof potentialthe impacts on Project MORL the to objected NATS charting. (UKHO) andmaritime Office for aviation tocommunicated the UK Hydrographic and requirements, CAA MoD and per as lit and marked is farm wind built’ ‘as the ensure to consent Project MORL the on placed been have Conditions Project. the MORL to no objection consent determination.They raised have ProjectEIA andduring MORL Project MORL during was consulted CAA The Licence 12/27. Block place. take to consultation Ongoing in activity exploration future proposed their MORLon advised have Suncor crossing agreements, ifrequired. cable SHEFA-2 todetermine planned modified OfTI. Further consultation is MORL the of aware is Telecom Faroese ongoing. Consultation withinwind the farm sites. heads well abandoned four the around arepresent no safety zones confirmed that HSE the consultation EIA Project During this confirmed position2012. inApril microwave fixedlinks. MORL to civil developments resulting inanyinterference proposed the foresee not do OFCOM 2012.April systems.this position MORLconfirmed in tointerference scanning telemetry proposed developments resultingany in the foresee not do they that stated Atkins Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r No action required. required. No action solution. mitigation of Implementation consent. conditions of to all will adhere MORL OSPs. the of charting relationtothe marking, lighting and willOfTI include suchconditions in modified the for granted consent Any place. take to Suncor with consultation Ongoing agreements. Telecom to determine cable crossing Faroese with consultation Ongoing required. No action required. No action required. No action 5.7-3 5.7-3

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

MoD - Aviation The MoD initially objected to the MORL MORL will adhere to all conditions of Project citing concerns with the Air Traffic consent. Control radar at RAF Lossiemouth and the Air Defence Radar at RAF Buchan. Following discussions with the MoD, and further consideration of the mitigation proposals submitted by MORL, the MoD confirmed that it was prepared to withdraw their objection subject to conditions being attached to any consent. MORL Project consent conditions require MORL to, prior to the erection of any wind turbine generators (WTGs) on the site, submit an Air Traffic Control Radar Mitigation Scheme (ATC Scheme), in writing, to the Scottish Ministers for their written approval. Such approval may only be granted following consultation by the Scottish Ministers with the MoD. By default, the ATC Scheme will encompass the OSPs that will sit within wind farm boundaries.

Offshore Helicopter Consultation has been undertaken with No action required. Operators and Platform CHC Scotia, Bond Offshore, Bristow, Operators Ithaca, Wood Group, and Talisman. No objections to the MORL Project have been raised.

British Telecom (Radio BT Radio Network Protection do not have No action required. Network Protection Team) – any comments to make. Modified OfTI Scoping Opinion

Highlands and Islands This development falls outside the No action required. Airports Ltd – Modified OfTI safeguarded areas for Inverness Airport, Scoping Opinion therefore HIAL do not object to the modified Transmission Infrastructure.

Desktop Studies 5.7.1.5 Other Human Activities have been described through desk-based study of available data and information gathered during the consultation process (see Section 1.1.2 above). The following data sources have been used to inform this chapter:  Offshore Wind o Blue Seas – Green Energy, A Sectoral Marine Plan for Offshore Wind Energy in Scottish Territorial Waters (Part A, The Plan) (Marine Scotland, 2011); o The Crown Estate leasing information (The Crown Estate, 2014); o Offshore Wind Energy in Scottish Waters - Draft Regional Locational Guidance (Marine Scotland, 2012); o Offshore Wind Initial Plan Framework (Draft Plan Options) (Marine Scotland, 2013); o Potential Scottish Test Sites for Deep Water Floating Wind Technologies - Draft Regional Locational Guidance (Marine Scotland, 2014); and o Proposed project Scoping reports and Environmental Statements.

5.7-4 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.7.1.7 Legislative and Planning Framework 5.7.1.6 Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter

miles (nm).miles The Draft Plan emphasises th policies for the sustainable use of Scotland’s marine resources out to 200 nautical Scotland’s Draft National Ma Scotland online National Marine Plan Interactive (Marinetool Scotland, 2014). Strategic Environmental(SEA) Assessment In addition to the data sources listed above, reference was alsomade DECCto          economic growth of sectors, manageco ofsectors, economic growth support marine the which planning policies variously sector-specific also provides it multiple uses of marine space are encouraged(Planning Policy Principle GEN 5) and

o Aviation o Unexploded Ordnance o Telecommunications o o Subsea CablesandPipelines o Disposal and Marine Dredging o o o Oil and GasActivity o Military Activity o o o andStorage Carbon Capture o o o o Tidal and Wave

consent application(MORL, 2012). Technical reports and assessments prepared in support of the MORL Project Alpha Associates, 2011). Moray OffshoreRenewablesLimited SHEFA website(Faroese Telecom, 2014). Datasets from SeaZone Solutions and UK DEAL. DEAL. UK and Solutions SeaZone from Datasets project (KIS-ORCA) (Kingfisheproject website -Offs Service Kingfisher Information Datasets fromMarineScotland.Datasets Operator websites and reports. UK Oil and GasData website(CDA, 2014); and information (DECC, 2014); Department of Energy and Climate Change(DECC) licensing rounds Datasets fromSeaZoneDatasets Solutions. CO2 Stored website(British Geological Survey and TheCrown Estate, 2014). Scottish Carbon Capture and Storage(SCCS) website(SCCS, 2014); and Government and Scottish Enterprise,2012); (Scottish forScotland Carbon Captureand –ARoadmap Storage Proposed project Scoping reports and Environmental Statements. and 2013); Wave andTidal PlanInitial Framework(Draft(Marine Plan Options) Scotland, RegionalLocational Wave andTidal The Crown Estate wave and information(Thetidal Crown Estate, 2014); ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo rine (MarinePlan Scotland, 2013)sets strategicout Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray at development proposals whichenable nflicts between marine outputs (e.g.outputs DTI, 2004) and the Marine Guidance (Marine Scotland,Guidance 2012); hore Renewable & Cable Awareness r Information Service,2014); and (MORL)-commissioned desk (6-study r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r users ormanage 5.7-5 5.7-5

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

environmental impacts. Sectors included in the Draft Plan include Oil and Gas (Chapter 9), Carbon Capture and Storage (Chapter 10), Renewables (Chapter 11), Telecommunications (Chapter 14) and Defence (Chapter 15). Specifically in relation to Renewables, a Draft Plan Policy states that ‘Developers bringing forward proposals for new developments must actively engage at an early stage with existing users of the area to which the proposal relates; and of adjoining areas which may be affected’ (Marine Scotland, 2013, page 94). In line with this draft policy, MORL has engaged with ‘Other Human Activities’ stakeholders throughout the consenting of the Project and subsequently in relation to applying for a Marine Licence for the modified OfTI (see Section 5.7.1.2 above). 5.7.1.8 In sectoral plans relevant to the future of offshore wind in Scottish Territorial Waters (Marine Scotland, 2011, 2012a), it is noted that in the planning and licensing of future offshore wind farm developments, key issues that will need to be addressed in the Moray Firth region relate to potential interactions with ‘aviation and radar’, and ‘defence activities’ (Marine Scotland, 2012). MORL has considered these interactions within both the MORL ES and the modified OfTI EIA. 5.7.1.9 The assessment of impacts on Other Human Activities has been undertaken in line with guidance presented in the Draft Marine Renewables Licensing Manual (Marine Scotland, 2012). The Draft Manual states that EIA should take account of the following ‘other sea users (… oil and gas; subsea pipelines; dredging and marine aggregate extraction; tourism and recreation; aviation; military activity; munitions etc)’ (page 58). These topics have all been considered within this chapter, with the exception of tourism and recreation, which is considered in Chapter 5.5 – Socio-economics. 5.7.1.10 The impact assessment has also been undertaken with reference to the following guidance documents:  Subsea Cables UK Guideline No 6 – The Proximity of Offshore Renewable Energy Installations & Submarine Cable Infrastructure in UK waters (Subsea Cables UK [SCUK], 2012);  International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) series of recommendations for marine cables. Recommendations 2 (ICPC, 2007a), 3 (ICPC, 2007b) and 13 (ICPC, 2010);  28th Seaward Licensing Round - Other Regulatory Issues (DECC, 2014); and  The Crown Estate (TCE) Position Paper: Round 3 Offshore Wind and Oil & Gas – A Critical Interface (TCE, 2010).

Baseline Characteristics Offshore Wind 5.7.1.11 The Beatrice Wind Farm Demonstrator Project is one of two operational offshore wind farms in Scottish waters and is located adjacent to the Beatrice oil field, immediately to the west of the Moray Firth Round 3 Zone. It is comprised of two 5 MW wind turbines and was developed in 2007 by Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and Talisman Energy. The Project has a proposed lifespan of five years and all electricity generated is fed to a nearby Beatrice oil platform. 5.7.1.12 In 2014 MORL was granted consent by the Scottish Ministers under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 to construct and operate the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl offshore wind farms and OfTI within the Eastern Development Area (EDA) of the Moray Firth Round 3 Zone. The three offshore wind farms will have a maximum generating capacity of up to 1,116 MW. It is envisaged that turbine foundation installation will commence in 2017, with turbine installation and final commissioning running through to 2021. MORL are yet to confirm plans for project development within the Western Development Area (WDA) of the Round 3 Zone.

5.7-6 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.1.15 5.7.1.14 5.7.1.13 5.7.1.17 5.7.1.16 5.7.1.18 Wave and TidalEnergy 5.7.1.20 5.7.1.19

to four years. MORLandBOWL for the ispotential There expected to commence in 2016 and the Project will be operational by 2020. wind farm,with a maximum generating capacity of up to 750 MW.Construction is Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 to construct and operate the Beatrice offshore potential for cumulative impacts to arise, impactsto cumulative for potential In order minimise conflictto and encourage collaboration andin light of the WTG diam rotor five to equivalent buffer The MORL and BOWL lease areas lie adjacent oneto another.proposes MORL a and Repsol NuevasEnergias)wasgranted WindfarmIn 2014Beatrice Offshore Limite interactions have not been consider been havenot interactions proposed Hywind the between temporally) system on the sea bed. As there is no indication of an overlap in activity (spatially or whic structure onafloating mounted each comprises fiveup windto turbines, eachwith a maximumcapacity of 6MW,and Wind proposal the scopingat The Limited,is currently stage. by Statoil developed decommissioning. potentially collaboration willcontinue through constr and agreed uponstandardised approaches to the EIA. is envisaged It that Estate(TCE). Via MFOWDG,and BOWL MORL WindFirth Offshore Developers (MGroup wind farms are Assu under construction. lo in these anyactivity be to is unlikely Plan areas areearmarked asmedium to The Head. Rattray off east, the to lying consented wind farms OfTI, and modified referred to as ‘OWNE1’ and ‘OWNE2’. OWNE2 is located closest to the three MORL located, are there two draft Plan Option areas for offshore wind development, around Scottishthe coastline. In the North region,East within which Moraythe in Firth scale offshore commercial forfuture Options WatersScottish (Marine Scotland, 2013). The Framework details the draft Plan Marine Scotland has published an Initial Pl The Hywind ScotlandPark Project, Pilot have not been considered further e projects, potential defined than rather Pentland Firth andOrkney waters to theno Wave and tidal energy project development activity in Scottish waters is focused in coast ofcoast Scotland(Marine Scotland,2012, 2013). specifies that construction must commence within 5 years of the issueofconsent. commence ofthe within years must construction 5 that specifies construction start date and programmeiscurrently unknown however consent the Tidal Energy was Project awarded consent by Scottish the Ministers in 2013. The generation capacity of 95 MW(ScottishPower Renewables, 2014). The Inner Sound energy site, beingdeveloped byScot generation capacity of 86 MW(MeyGen, 2014) and the Ness of Duncansby tidal Limited andwithamaximum byMeyGen developed Project, being Energy Tidal two existing tidal energy sites with Agreement for Lease. These are the Inner Sound are there OfTI, modified the closest to Pentland Firth area ofthe in the north, To the available. iscurrently information project detailed planning’; no a potential wave energy project off Burghead. Theproject is described as ‘in Within the Moray Firth, AWSOcean Energy Limited holds an Agreement for Lease for Development activity within or immediately adjacent to the Moray Firth is limited. ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray within this impa this within ed within this impact assessment. assessment. this within impact ed located 25 km east of Peterhead and being being and of Peterhead east km 25 located cations whilst the MORL and BOWL offshore MORLandBOWLthe offshore whilst cations d (BOWL)d (apartnership of SSE Renewables MORL and BOWL have formed the Moray formedthe have and BOWL MORL long term development options and there tishPower RenewablestishPower with amaximum ffects of the modified OfTI on Plan areas on areas ofPlan ffects OfTI the modified eters along the MORL /BOWL boundary. uction and into wind farm operation and and wind farmoperation andinto uction an Framework for Offshore Wind for in Offshore an Framework Energy ch, andas these are FOWDG) in association with Crown inassociation The FOWDG) rth of the Moray Firth and alongrth oftheMorayFirth the west constructionschedules to overlapby up project and the modified OfTI, potential project and OfTI, potential the modified consent by the Scottish Ministers under wind developments on a regional basis h is then held in place by a mooring by a mooring held inplace h is then have undertaken consultation joint r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r ct assessment. assessment. ct draft PlanOptions 5.7-7 5.7-7

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Construction will therefore need to commence by 2018, and therefore has the potential to overlap with the construction of the modified OfTI (2017 – 2021). However there will be no spatial overlap between the projects. The Ness of Duncansby tidal energy site remains in the early stages of planning. 5.7.1.21 As a result of there being no data to indicate an overlap in activity (spatially and/or temporally) between wave and tidal lease sites and the modified OfTI, potential interactions have not been considered within this impact assessment.

Carbon Capture and Storage 5.7.1.22 The Scottish Government has a clear policy to decarbonise electricity generation by 2030 and it is intended that carbon capture and storage (CSS) will support this. A CCS demonstration project is being developed by SSE and Shell at Peterhead gas power plant, where carbon dioxide (CO2) will be captured and transported via existing pipelines for offshore storage in Shell’s Goldeneye depleted gas field. It is hoped that the demonstration project will be operational by 2017 (Scottish Carbon Capture and Storage website, 2014). Further potential offshore storage hubs for CO2 in Scottish waters have been identified (Marine Scotland, 2013b), including a site within the Moray Firth, referred to as ‘Mains’. In light of anticipated CCS project development timelines, it is unlikely that any offshore storage opportunities in the Moray Firth will be investigated prior to or during the installation of the MORL modified OfTI. On this basis, potential interactions between the modified OfTI and CCS activity have not been considered within this impact assessment.

Military 5.7.1.23 Practice and Exercise Areas (PEXA) are used for various military practice activities by the Royal Navy, the Army, the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Portions of the modified OfTI, within which OSPs may be located, lie within offshore Danger Area D809(South), which is used by the RAF for a variety of practice flying and firing exercises (see Figure 5.7-1). 5.7.1.24 The modified OfTI export cable corridor passes through offshore Danger Area D807, which has been used by the RAF for live firing, bombing and sonobuoy training. However, since 1st March 2012, D807 has been permanently and completely withdrawn (Notice to Airmen No. B0238 /12). 5.7.1.25 A portion of the modified OfTI lies within the large Air Force Department Area D712D, which is used for combat and training exercises and supersonic flight at an altitude of 22,000 to 25,000 feet. 5.7.1.26 The closest coastal Danger Area to the modified OfTI landfall is located approximately 35 km to the west at the Binn Hill Firing Range between Buckie and Lossiemouth.

Oil and Gas 5.7.1.27 There are three producing oil fields in the inner Moray Firth; two are located within / immediately adjacent to the Moray Firth Round 3 Zone and referred to as the ‘Beatrice’ and ‘Jacky’ fields (see Figure 5.7-2). 5.7.1.28 The Beatrice oil field (Block 11/30a) commenced production in 1981 and the Jacky oil field (Block 12/21c) commenced production in 2009. Infrastructure within the fields comprises the Beatrice Alpha, Bravo and Charlie platforms, the Jacky platform, and seabed cables and pipelines linking the platforms. Beatrice Alpha, Bravo and Charlie are owned by Talisman Energy and operated by Ithaca Energy. Production forecasts predict that 2014 will be the last year of production from the Beatrice field (Energy Voice website, 2014). The Jacky platform is owned and operated by Ithaca Energy. These fields and their associated infrastructure do not overlap with the proposed modified OfTI boundaries.

5.7-8 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.1.32 Marine Dredging andDisposal 5.7.1.31 5.7.1.30 5.7.1.29 5.7.1.34 Subsea CablesandPipelines 5.7.1.33 5.7.1.35

outcome of (Norecooutcome survey website,2014). the upon depending by2015 installed be will awell that indicates information in2014, andavailable 12/27 within Block survey geophysical to undertake intentions Discovery’ is located(DECC, 2014). Inmeetings with MORL,Suncor have stated their activity exploration ofanyfuture focus the 12/26b and 12/27. basis Onthe of consultati bySend isheld 12/21b forBlock licence Dredging and disposal activity within the Mo modified OfTI. for the foralicence MORL’sapplication made prior to 12/22, 12/23, 12/28, 18/2, 18/7and 18/8). Potential awards are not expected beto (blocks OfTI with modified overlap the blocks on offer ofthe Several 2014. in April ongo is round licensing gas oil and The 28th boundaries overlap with currentlyactive, OfTI modified the andproduction, exploration forfuture potential In ofthe terms zones associated with the wellheads. Correspondence with the HSE has confirmed that there are no mandatory safety boundary. OfTI modified within wells the plugged andabandoned five are There have not been considered further within the impact assessment. or di marine anddisposal activity dredging overlap with(DTI, it 2001). hasreceivedhistorically smal travel within several kilometres of the exis (see Figure 5.8-1).Where proposedthe offsho andharbourport maintenance and developm 5.8-1). This is the SHEFA-2 fibre-optic te fibre-optic SHEFA-2 Thisis the 5.8-1). (Figure corridor OfTI modified the to inproximity cable subsea isoneexisting There modifie the that It isconsidered unlikely operator must be notified prior to any works being undertaken. undertaken. anyworksbeing priorto notified be must operator 250 m either side of the cable.Where works are within 1 km of the cable, the be grantedmust by cableowner foran the them as part of their seabed lease with The Crown Estate. Inparticular, permission coast, SH nmofthe Within 12 ongoing. are the SHEFA-2 cable and may need to crossit. Discussions with SHEFA in relation to this with point alandfall share potentially could cables export OfTI Themodified landfall. 2013) andis buried under the seabed surfac runs south from Orkneythe Islands to theSc Telecom, whichlinks main Faroe the Islands to Scottish Hydro Electric(S Transmission plc closed inMay2014and adecision isawaited. on Consultation corridor. OfTI modified (SHE-T, 2014). TheHVDC subsea cable wo and offshore generation, along withupgr and offshoregeneration, along Moray with two onshore converterto stations Current(HVDC) reinforcement of the transmissionnetwork between Caithnessand proposed the Caithness –Moray Link, whichwill be a subseaVoltage High Direct renewables pr of theconnection supporting electricity Transmission Owner in the north of Scotland and they are committed to ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo l volumes of dredge arisings, though at no point will will atnopoint arisings,though ofdredge l volumes Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray lecommunications cable, owned by Faroese Faroese owned by cable, lecommunications the ‘Needs Case’ for the SHE-T proposal SHE-T forthe Case’ ‘Needs the ting ‘MacDuff’ marine disposal site, disposal marine which ‘MacDuff’ ting ero andSuncorholdslicences forBlocks but asbut yet un-exploited, licence blocks.A ade onshorene of the EFA has specific seabed rights granted to to rightsgranted hasspecificseabed EFA will be in Block 12/27, where a‘Significant 12/27, where inBlock be will d OfTI will result in any impacts upon inanyimpacts result will d OfTI y worksplanned to beundertaken within HE Transmission[SHE-T ottish mainland at Inverboyndie (Seafish, Inverboyndie mainland at ottish uld be installed by 2018 by2018 and cross uld beinstalled the e as it transits the MorayFirth and makes sposal sites andas such these activities ing, with licence applications submitted applications ing,with licence ray Firth issporadic andassociatedwithray Firth on with Suncor, MORL understands that that on Suncor, MORLunderstands with allow for future connection to Shetland Shetland to connection for future allow ojectsNational tothe have Grid.SHE-T land Scotland via the Northern Isles. It re export cable makes landfall, it will will it makes landfall, cable re export ent andcoastal mari r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r twork in Caithness twork inCaithness ]) is the licensed licensed ]) isthe ne disposalsites 5.7-9 5.7-9

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.7.1.36 BOWL’s proposed export cable will travel approximately 65 km from the BOWL wind farm, through the MORL WDA and make landfall at Portgordon, to the west of the modified OfTI landfall (BOWL, 2012). BOWL cable installation is scheduled to take place in 2016/2017, which may temporally overlap with MORL modified OfTI installation by up to one year. The modified OfTI does not spatially overlap at any point with the BOWL export cable. However MORL has objected to the BOWL export cable route on the basis that it passes through the WDA. MORL and BOWL will seek to meet mutual agreement on BOWL’s cable routing and in the event of a failure to agree, The Crown Estate will determine a solution. 5.7.1.37 There are no pipelines within the modified OfTI footprint. Pipelines are located to the north and east of the modified OfTI footprint (see Figure 5.7-2). Telecommunications 5.7.1.38 An initial screening exercise of the potential impacts of the development of the Moray Firth Round 3 Zone on telecommunications was undertaken in 2009 (Pager Power, 2009). The study stated that development in the EDA would not interfere with existing microwave links, scanning telemetry or non-aviation radar and would not cause TV or radio interference. Stakeholders requested that MORL sought re- confirmation of this position prior to consent application for the Project being made because the use of the spectrum is dynamic and the use of the band changes on an ongoing basis. Further consultation in April 2012 confirmed the development of the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl wind farms is not expected to result in any interference to existing telecommunications systems. 5.7.1.39 Telecommunications used by the Beatrice and Jacky oil platforms are set up via satellite and will therefore not be affected by wind farm development. 5.7.1.40 During MORL ES consent determination the Highland Council raised a concern that the Project could cause an impact upon television reception in the area around Helmsdale. The Scottish Ministers have therefore included a condition within the MORL consent which sets out the mitigation measures that would be taken to investigate and rectify any complaint made regarding television reception that is attributable to the MORL Project. 5.7.1.41 On the basis of consultation feedback to date and Project consent condition requirements that will be fulfilled by MORL, it is considered highly unlikely that the above- surface modified OfTI infrastructure, comprising two OSPs, would result in any adverse impacts upon telecommunications systems. Potential effects upon telecommunications have not been considered any further within this impact assessment.

Unexploded Ordnance 5.7.1.42 MORL commissioned a desk-based study (6 Alpha Associates Ltd, 2011) to identify the risk posed to the MORL Project by unexploded ordnance (UXO) and to identify potential measures by which any risks may be reduced to an acceptable level. The study identified potential UXO sources based on analysis of a variety of data and presented the results of a UXO risk assessment, which considered the hazards associated with the potential UXO sources. The study also recommended measures to be taken to minimise the risk posed by potential sources of UXO. 5.7.1.43 UXO threat within the Moray Firth offshore area is potentially the result of munitions and weaponry employed during World War I and World War II: sea-dumped munitions / explosives, shipwrecks carrying munitions / explosives, and sea mines represent the main sources of UXO within the region. 5.7.1.44 The probability of UXO encounter within the Moray Firth Round 3 Zone has been mapped on the basis of desk study findings. The majority of the MORL EDA, within which the OSPs will be located, is considered to have a background residual UXO threat resulting from general wartime and subsequent military training activities in

5.7-10 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.2.4 5.7.2.3 5.7.2.2 5.7.2.1 and Mitigation Summary ofEffects 5.7.1.45 5.7.2 5.7.1.47 5.7.1.46 Aviation

Impact Assessment

committed to a suite of standard industry measures to minimise risk from UXO, UXO, from riskstandard measures minimiseindustry suitecommitted of to a to be will aneffect ofsuch consequences safety, as well as infrastructure and equipment. Without mitigation, the UXOdetonati disturb andany to unplanned OfTIfootprint. modified within seabed the There is a potential for unexploded ordnance(UXO) be to encountered on the an construction significance during as crossing agreements will Implementati operation. significance during andminoradverse during construction significance adverse of moderate activities, including where cable crossings arerequired.has been This assessed beto construction OfTI during modified cables fordamage subsea to ispotential There consultation,co–existence where aimingfor achievable. MORLiscommitted ongoing of is significance. be minoradverse judged to to effect infrastructure may exclude exploration acti operation, During and decommissioning. operation construction, OfTI modified during survey) seismic undertake (e.g. areas impactthe assessment assume which overlap approach, Takinga footprint. withprecautionary OfTI modified the twooperatorshold licences to footprint, isnoand gasinfrWhilst there oil existing significant. be to proposedoffshorewindfarmsan other with associated activity disrupt to modifiedOfTI forthe The potential context. temporal and therefore conflict between activities and operators in both a geographical and The assessment of effects has been focuse UXO encounter is ‘almost certain’ on wreckthe of the by presence the Thisisdriven likely’. Windconsented MacColl Farmsite,UXO enco military practice activity in danger area D809 South. In the southwest portion of the farm sites, probability the of encountering UXOslightly is higher asaresult of present the region. Within the easternmost extent Main Routes (HMRs) and aviation operations. operations. (HMRs) aviation and Main Routes civi on cable export offshore and OSPs WTGs, ES Chapter 5.3 –Military and Civil Aviation). TheEIA considered the effects of the potential effects of the Project on military and civil aviation(MORL, receptors 2012; unknown(6 Alpha Associates Ltd, 2011). though the volume of munitions being carried by the vessel at the time of sinking is Lynx cable corridor. export modified boundary andon ofthe eastern the boundary in sunk whichliesof1915, outside Wind and souththe MacCollto ofthe Farm considered any further within this impact assessment. assessment. impact this within further any considered – Military and Civil Aviation). Potentia would not in anysignificant result effects upon (MORL,aviation 2012; ESChapter 11.3 OfTI ESon the basis that previousthe assessment concluded that the original TI assessment andimpact information Baseline The MORL ES presents baseline informat sank after striking a seamine; shewas armedwith gunsand torpedo tubes, ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo ensure that the residualeffe ensure that the s thatlicence holders wish may explore to the licence Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray d not significant during operation. operation. during d significant not of historical ‘live’ bombing ofhistorical ranges. astructure within the proposed proposed modified OfTI within the astructure of major adverse significance. MORL are MORLare significance. ofmajoradverse l effects upon aviation have not been been not have uponaviation l effects of the proposed Telford and MacColl wind proposed wind and MacColl of the Telford explorepotential the of licence blocks Construction activities have the potential potential have the activities Construction ion relevant to the assessment of the of the assessment the to ion relevant the physical presence of modified OfTI OfTI ofmodified presence physical the d military practice areas is not expected on may impact upon human health and d on establishing potential for overlaps foroverlaps potential d onestablishing vities from particular locations and the on of industry standard measures such such standardmeasures on of industry are not repeated within this modified within modified this repeated not are l and military radar systems, Helicopter unter probability is defined as‘highly isdefined probability unter r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r HMS Lynx ct will beofminor adverse , destroyer asteamer 5.7-11 5.7-11 HMS

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

including a pre–construction UXO seabed survey, and therefore the residual effect will be of minor adverse significance during construction. 5.7.2.5 A summary of the impact assessment is shown in Table 5.7-2 below.

Table 5.7 -2 Other Human Activities Impact Assessment Summary

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect

Construction & Decommissioning

Effects on offshore Beatrice Offshore Wind Not significant None Not significant wind farm projects Farm

D809 military practice Effects on military and exercise area and Not significant None Not significant activity regional military activity

Ongoing consultation with Effects on oil and Licence holders for oil licence holders to gas activity and and gas blocks 12/21b, Not significant Not significant remain informed of infrastructure 12/26b and 12/27 their exploration plans

Cable burial protection measures Cable crossing / SHEFA-2 Damage to subsea proximity telecommunications Moderate adverse Minor adverse cables agreements cable Adherence to appropriate guidance

Health and safety Pre-construction UXO risk associated with Offshore construction Major adverse survey Minor adverse unexploded workers ordnance UXO Safety Plan

Operation

Effects on offshore Beatrice Offshore Wind Not significant None Not significant wind farm projects Farm

In relation to OSPs, adherence to any D809 military practice consent conditions Effects on military and exercise area and Not significant on the lighting, Not significant activity regional military marking and activity charting of infrastructure

Ongoing consultation with licence holders to remain informed of Effects on oil and Licence holders for oil their exploration gas activity and and gas blocks 12/21b, Minor adverse plans Minor adverse infrastructure 12/26b and 12/27 Adherence to appropriate guidance to resolve conflicts of interest

5.7-12 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.2.10 5.7.2.9 5.7.2.8 5.7.2.7 Details ofImpactAssessment 5.7.2.6 ImpactIntroduction to Assessment ordnance unexploded with risk associated safety Health and cables subsea Damage to Effect 5.7.2.11 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered inthe Assessment

telecommunications and aviation). andaviation). telecommunications (i.e. modifiedOfTI the to applicable are results and the upon anactivity effect (MORL,MORL ES 2012)demonstrated that th activity(i.e. wave and tidal projects, CCS, dredging and disposal),or where the and particular the OfTI modified between the overlap no physical and/or temporal disposal activity; telecommunications; andavia projects and plans; capture carbon an section above, arenot considered within impact assessment: wave and tidal energy baseline in the described been have which Activities, Human Other following The of cumulative impact assessment are presented in Section 5.7.3. andactivities projects orproposed existing Potential cumulative effects upon Other Human Activities may arise where other      impactupon: to modified OfTI forthe potential the considered re the presents chapter of the This section UXO.disturb potential to disrupt Other Human Activities,damage existing infrastructure or has the OfTI modified and decommissioning ofthe operation construction, The Likely significant effects upon commercial upon effects significant Likely    socio-economics, ar andrecreation tourism maximum dimensions,and the maximum nu assumed amaximum(i.e. infrastructure footprint maximum numberOSPs, of their case scenario hasbeen defined and is presented in Table5.7-3 below. Insummary, it For the purposes of the Other Human Activities impact assessment, a realistic worst

Unexploded ordnance. Unexploded ordnance. Subsea cables; and and infrastructure; gasactivity Oil and Military activity; andplans; farm projects wind Offshore Chapter 5.5– Socio-economics. Chapter 5.2– Shipping and Navigation;and – CommercialFisheries; Chapter 5.1 workers workers and maintenance Offshore operation cable telecommunications SHEFA-2 Receptor ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo

Not significant Minor adverse Pre-mitigation Effect Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray sults of the impact assessment, which has has which assessment, impact of the sults interact with the modified OfTI. The results results The with OfTI. modified the interact d storageplans; marinedredging and e discussed in the following ES chapters: ESchapters: in following the discussed e fisheries, shipping and navigation and and shippingand fisheries, navigation e original OfTI would havee originalOfTI no significant

mber of export cables of maximum tion. This is as a result of there being being of there Thisisasaresult tion. planned planned intrusive works are where required, as measures, mitigation Decommissioning Construction/ per As guidance appropriate to Adherence Mitigation r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r

Not significant Not significant Post-mitigation Effect 5.7-13 5.7-13

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

length) and a maximum construction window. The scenario defined below is also applied in the assessment of cumulative effects.

Table 5.7-3 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Relevant to the Other Human Activities Impact Assessment

Potential Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Construction & Decommissioning

Damage / Maximum footprint = 1.76 km2 based on: Disturbance / Disruption of Other  Length of cable corridor from boundary of the three consented wind farm sites to the Human Activities landfall site = 52 km (not including micro-siting allowance);  No. of cable trenches = 4;  Width of trench affected area = 6 m;  Length of modified OfTI cable within three consented wind farms (including inter-platform cabling) = 70 km;

 Area of seabed prepared for each OSP = 7,536 m2;  Maximum no. AC OSPs = 2 (installed at least one year apart);

 Vessel anchors = 36,000 m2; and

 Jack-up vessel footprint of 420 m2 per installation. In addition, rolling safety zones / advisory exclusion zones may be applied for / recommended, extending 500 m around active installation works. Maximum construction activity:  Cable and OSPs likely to be installed in two phases:

o Phase 1 (indicative timescales Q2 2017 – Q4 2018): installation of two cables and 1 OSP;

o Phase 2 (indicative timescales 2020 – 2021): installation of two cables and 1 OSP.  255 working days at sea to install 2 x OSPs and 4 x export cables  72 vessel movements to install 2 x OSPs and 4 x export cables Maximum decommissioning activity:  Construction window, working days and vessel movements as per maximum construction activity above

Health and Safety  Maximum construction footprint as defined above Risk Associated with UXO  Maximum construction activity as defined above  Maximum decommissioning activity as defined above

5.7-14 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.2.12 EIA Methodology 5.7.2.16 5.7.2.15 5.7.2.14 5.7.2.13 Human Activities Human Activities Disruption ofOther Disturbance / Damage / Operation Effect Potential

The assessment has considered the likely hasconsidered likely the The assessment influenced by the modified OfTI. OfTI. modified bythe influenced focused on activities and infrastructure that have the potential to overlap or be andwithin in the vicinity ofthe study area, covers is which but the widerMoray Firth consultation with the operators responsible for other activities and infrastructure of assessment the has been defined through a processof gathering data and described inChapter 2.2(Pro as definedin Chapter 1.3(Envir and 5.7-4 Table in indicated as receptor, the of sensitivity the and magnitude impact asse hasbeen ofaneffect significance The    Sensitivity is alsodefined where appropriate, into taking consideration the:    been considered: In determining the magnitude ofany have been applied, asper the MORL(MORL, ES 2012). farm developments upon Other Human Activities, following the assessment criteria In absencethe of published guidelines regarding theassessment of effects of wind

Value / importance of the receptor. receptor. ofthe Value importance / and receptor; the of Recoverability receptor; the of Vulnerability Frequency effect. of the and theeffect; of Duration effect; of the extent Spatial

Most frequent maintenance schedule. schedule. maintenance frequent Most Maximum operational lifetime25 years. works. maintenance extending 500maroundmajor In addition, rolling safety /advisory zones       footprintMaximum operational km 0.09 Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed Scenario Rochdale Envelope

ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo Use of rock cutting equipment in water depths < 10 m. 10 < depths water in equipment cutting rock of Use 4; and = cables export of No. area protection requiredNominal =11,000 ofcable export cable each material along No. OSPs= AC 2; (assumingto isrequired protection Cable protection adistance of100mfromthe =5,026scour material per m and OSPfoundation Area m2; 20,000 m = OSP per connections) cable (or tubes “J” 20 to up and m 10 of width a to foundation 2 ; ject Description) on Other Human Activities. Thescope onmental Impact Assessment). onmental Impact Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

2 based on: basedon: significant effects of the modified OfTI as OfTI modified ofthe effects significant exclusion zones be applied may for/recommended, ssed by combining the evaluations of the ofthe evaluations ssed by combiningthe given effect, the following have have following the effect, given r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r 2 ; 5.7-15 5.7-15

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.7-4 Significance of Effect Matrix

Sensitivity of Receptor

Low Medium High

Low Not significant Minor Minor / Moderate

Medium Minor Moderate Moderate / Major Effect

Magnitude of High Minor / Moderate Moderate / Major Major

5.7.2.17 Effects were rated from ‘not significant’ where no effect is foreseen or where the effect will be indistinguishable from background variation, to ‘major significance’ where interaction between the MORL modified OfTI and Other Human Activities is likely to result in a measurable effect that exceeds acceptable limits or standards. The combination of receptor sensitivity and impact magnitude has been used to define the level of significance of an impact, as defined in Chapter 1.3 (Environmental Impact Assessment). For the purposes of this assessment, effects of moderate significance and greater are deemed to be significant in EIA terms. Where likely significant adverse effects are identified, mitigation measures are proposed to reduce the level of significance. 5.7.2.18 MORL has developed a draft Decommissioning Programme (Technical Appendix 1.3 E to MORL, 2012) but is yet to finalise its approach to project decommissioning. At the time of ES preparation it is considered likely that decommissioning will involve the removal of structures above the seabed, whilst subsea cabling is likely to be left in situ at the end of the modified OfTI’s lifetime. Decommissioning activities are likely to have effects on Other Human Activities but for the purposes of this EIA they have been regarded as being comparable to those that occur as a result of construction activities. As a result, the effects of construction and decommissioning activities on Other Human Activities are considered together. Impact Assessment Construction / Decommissioning Effects on Offshore Wind Farm Projects 5.7.2.19 The modified OfTI will not overlap with either the existing Beatrice Demonstrator Project WTGs or the consented BOWL wind farm and its offshore transmission infrastructure. BOWL and MORL developers have to date worked cooperatively (e.g. undertaking joint EIA studies) and would continue to do so during wind farm and transmission infrastructure installation, looking for opportunities to work together efficiently. 5.7.2.20 Project programmes indicate that it is possible that the BOWL and MORL Projects would be constructed concurrently, with temporal overlap by up to four years. BOWL and MORL developers will continue to share information on planned project activities and in line with the conditions of their project consents, will submit construction plans and method statements to Marine Scotland for approval. These standard practices would limit the potential for interaction between the sites and it is considered unlikely that one developer would hinder the other during construction. No significant effect is predicted. 5.7.2.21 Effects on other offshore wind farm projects associated with increased vessel traffic during the installation of the MORL modified OfTI are addressed in Chapter 5.2 (Shipping and Navigation).

5.7-16 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.2.22 Effects on Military Activity 5.7.2.23 and Effects onOilandGasActivity Infrastructure 5.7.2.25 5.7.2.24 5.7.2.27 Cables Subsea to Damage 5.7.2.26 5.7.2.29 5.7.2.28

modified OfTI is located, during surface an surface during OfTIis modified located, altitudes up to 55,000 feet. TheMoD also uses the wider Moray Firth, within which the at andexercises subsurface gunnery ofairflying, (RAF) forawide variety Air Force The area within which OSPs may be located overlaps with D809, used by Royal the low sensitivity and magnitude, magnitude, and sensitivity low regarding the potential effects of construction activity offshore and therefore, with a MoD anyconcerns has not the highlighted However, activity. ongoing military military activity within D809 and across the wider Moray Firth or pose a hazard to of or exclusion temporary could lead to disruption infrastructure modifiedOfTI the There is potential that the physical presence of vessels involved in the construction of area by the installation OfTI of themodified by the installation area Activities such as geophysical surveys will be spatially restricted over a relatively small of construction activities. Drilling and the placement of infrastructure would alsoberestricted by thepresence a variet and that is undertaken survey a for purposes the of assessmentthis that there install a well in Block 12/27 in 2015. MO in2015. 12/27 inBlock awell install understood dependentthat upon the outcome of survey, they would intend to and a portion of the area whichwithin OSPs may belocated, in2014. It is Block 12/27, which overlaps with the northern extent of the export cable corridor withSuncor hasindicated that they intend to undertakegeophysical survey within their licence blocks. Sendero’s exploration plans arecurrently unknown. Consultation Suncoroperators and Sendero. Theseoperators areyet to explore the potential of by oil and gasblocks held licensed doeswith currently overlap OfTI The modified zoneno safety associated with them. andhave andabandoned are plugged all footprint, though the within wells five are There footprint. within modified OfTI the andgasinfrastructure oil isnoexisting There infrastructure within the licensed blocks that overlap with the modified OfTI. with OfTI. overlap modified blocks the that licensed within the infrastructure required but in line in with precautionar line but required be acrossingwill whether confirmed be to isyet cable. It telecommunications SHEFA-2 existing cross mayneed the cables to export OfTI The modified be assessed aslowand the sensitivity low, therefore the potential effect is deemed to consultation between MORL and the licence holders, magnitude the has been andongoing drilling for directional potential the to due blocks, and not the entire blocks, of licenced and the aproportion only occupies OfTI modified the basis that commence until 2017, would interfere with operators currently known plans. Onthe not whichwould construction, modified OfTI that isnoindication present, there At assumed MORLthe export cables will cross SHEFA-2. considered beto high. The magnitude of the effect will be medium assuming that Asaresu telecommunications. international Damage to subsea cables is expensive repairto and can cause disruption to    could impact upon the SHEFA cable: activities following process, the installation cable export OfTI modified ofthe As part

minor significance Debris clearance operations. clearanceoperations. Debris Vessel and anchoring; Cable installation and protection activity(via trenching, jetting, ploughing,etc.); ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo . no significanteffect Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray y principles, impact the assessment has y of survey techniques may be employed. beemployed. may techniques y ofsurvey RL are not aware not install are ofanyplans RL to d sub-surface naval activity and exercises. and exercises. activity naval d sub-surface OSPs and export cabling. It It is assumed cabling. OSPsand export is a degree of flexibility in terms of when in terms ofwhen offlexibility is adegree lt, the sensitivity of the receptor is is receptor the of sensitivity the lt, r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r is predicted. ispredicted. 5.7-17 5.7-17

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

the SHEFA cable will have to be crossed. The unmitigated effect is therefore considered to be of moderate adverse significance. Following the application of the mitigation measures detailed in Section 5.7.2.43 below, the residual effect is predicted to be of minor adverse significance. 5.7.2.30 If the proposed SHE-T HVDC reinforcement gains approval, it is possible that installation of the modified OfTI export cable and SHE-T cable will run concurrently, although it is considered that this would be highly unlikely. As per the text immediately above, the modified OfTI export cable installation process could impact upon the SHE-T cable and the unmitigated effect would be of moderate adverse significance. Following the application of the mitigation measures detailed in Section 5.7.2.43 below, the residual effect is predicted to be of minor adverse significance. Health and Safety Risk Associated with Unexploded Ordnance 5.7.2.31 There is potential for UXO associated with historic and current military activity to be encountered on the seabed in the area of the modified OfTI. During construction, activities which will have contact with the seabed, either directly (e.g. jack–up vessel, cable laying) or via the placement of material (e.g. foundations or cable protection), run the risk of disturbing UXO with potentially damaging and dangerous effects to both employees and equipment. 5.7.2.32 As human life is at risk, receptor sensitivity is considered to be high. Effect magnitude is considered to be medium and the effect is of potentially major adverse significance. Following the application of the mitigation measures detailed in Section 5.7.2.43 below, the residual effect is predicted to be of minor adverse significance. Operation Effects on Offshore Wind Farm Projects 5.7.2.33 Activity associated with the operation of the modified OfTI will be significantly reduced relative to the construction / decommissioning phases. Monitoring and maintenance vessels will require access, with any exceptional maintenance activity likely to have a temporary 500 m exclusion zone imposed around the relevant structure. It is theoretically possible for there to be a temporal overlap between temporary exclusion zones associated with exceptional maintenance activities for the modified OfTI and other offshore wind farm projects. However the potential for two such exceptional maintenance events occurring concurrently is considered to be unlikely and in light of established and ongoing coordination of works by MORL and BOWL, no significant effect is predicted. Effects on Military Activity 5.7.2.34 The MoD has raised no concerns specifically in relation to the modified OfTI. 5.7.2.35 As a result of consultation with the MoD prior to and throughout consent determination for the MORL ES, a series of consent conditions were put in place for the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl offshore wind farms that addressed the MoDs concerns regarding the effects of the Project (primarily the WTGs) on military nautical and aeronautical activities. These conditions include the requirement for MORL to submit a Project Lighting and Marking Scheme and Air Traffic Control Radar Mitigation Scheme prior to construction commencing, for approval by the MoD and other relevant stakeholders. The OSPs will be captured within these Schemes and therefore the operation of the modified OfTI will have no significant effect on MoD interests. Effects on Oil and Gas Activity and Infrastructure 5.7.2.36 As detailed above, the intentions of current oil and gas block licence holders beyond 2015 are currently not known by MORL.

5.7-18 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.2.38 5.7.2.37 5.7.2.42 Ordnance Unexploded Associated and with Risk Safety Health 5.7.2.41 5.7.2.40 Cables Subsea to Damage 5.7.2.39 5.7.2.43 Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

to the operational modified OfTI, it is ex it modified OfTI, operational the to wish of infrastructure. drill Should operators to Drilling and the placement of infrastructure would alsoberestricted by thepresence employed. be may techniques is asurvey when of in terms flexibility cabling. is It assumed for purposes the of this assessment that isthere a degree of spatially restricted over a relatively small area by the presence of OSPs and export is operational, is it expected that activities such as geophysical survey will be commence seek to holders licence Should pre–construction surveys. Therefore, minor adversesignificance medium and the sensitivity low, therefore the potential effect is deemed to be of between MORL and the licence holders, magnitude the has been assessed as for dire potential the due blocks,to and of OfTIoccupies aproportion modified only proceed in the vicinity of MORL operational infrastructure. On the basis that the Scotland, DECCandMarine asto including would enter discussions andbe steered by advice from authorities, relevant the risk is expected to be limited as UXO maintenance and repair activities of foundations, cables and scour protection but for implications Thiswillhave time. corridorover OfTI modified into the moving contributealso the to movementobje of Human seabed. on the of objects movement movement of sandwaves, wave action conditions, action, seabed ofthesea, tidal processes including The natural The likelihood fordamage to existing ca asOSP from maintenance such activities, During the operational phase, there is the potential for disturbance to subsea cables (Shipping and Navigation). 5.2 inChapter addressed Effects associated with vessel access to existing oiland gasinfrastructure are residual effect is predicted to be be to is predicted effect residual below, 5.7.2.43 the inSection detailed of mitigation measures application the ofa be will effect potential the result the and therefore, telecommunications to low. Damage to submarine cables is expensive to repair and cancause disruption therefore remote and consequently magnitude the of effect is considered beto agreements asestablis suchactivityexpectedany samewill besubject the and that to principles could entail usethe of jack–up vessels and the deployment of anchors. is It co–existence where possible. will li engagement decommissioning. Such into and OfTI modified the of life operational the throughout continue and after the installation of the OSPs and export cable. This engagement will shareplansandprogrammes before, during OfTIinorder to of modified the vicinity with to engage develo continue MORL will ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo

hed under construction. . not significant Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray no significant effect pected that MORL an that pected minor adversesignificance undertaken and that a variety ofsurveyundertaken a andthat variety will have previously been identified during during identified been previously have will ctional drilling and ongoing consultation andongoingconsultation drilling ctional foundation and cable repair repair work andcable which foundation mit any conflicts of interest andachieve of interest anyconflicts mit cts, andassuch, is there a riskofUXO block exploration once the modified OfTI OfTI once the modified exploration block and badweather all contribute the to bles duringsuch maintenance work is blocks,the licenced andnot entire the pers and operators with interests in the in the interests with operators and pers how oil and gas operations could safely could safely how andgas oil operations value and sensitivity will be high.Asa be will and sensitivity value or install infrastructu orinstall activities such as seabed trawling will trawling asseabed such activities . r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r is predicted. ispredicted. d any such operator d anysuchoperator re in close proximityre inclose . Following the the . Following 5.7-19 5.7-19

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Construction / Decommissioning Effects on Oil and Gas Activity and Infrastructure 5.7.2.44 MORL has been actively engaged in ongoing discussions at industry level with RenewableUK, Oil and Gas UK and the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), aiming to develop a protocol by which any conflicts of interest between the offshore wind, oil and gas industries may be amicably resolved. MORL note that DECC, as of June 2014, have published a detailed framework that would be used to satisfactorily resolve any conflicts of interest between offshore wind developers and oil and gas operators (RenewableUK, 2014). Damage to Subsea Cables 5.7.2.45 There are a number of mitigation measures that will be implemented as part of standard industry best practice that will serve to lower the risk of any impact on subsea cables. Where necessary, cable protection will be used to ensure future cable integrity and to separate sections of cable from potential risks (e.g. the risk of anchor penetration in areas where cable burial depth is restricted by geology). 5.7.2.46 Consultation has been undertaken with Faroese Telecom (the operator of the SHEFA–2 cable) and they have not raised an objection to the MORL Project. Further discussions will result in cable crossing / proximity agreements being secured which will include detailed crossing conditions and methodology. Faroese Telecom will also be notified of any MORL works within 1,000 m of the SHEFA–2 cable. 5.7.2.47 MORL, as part of the Connections Infrastructure Options Note (CION) process in 2013, and later as part of an ongoing initiative with SHE-T and National Grid, meets with both entities on a monthly basis in order to progress the grid connection and OFTO infrastructure. Since signature of the connection agreement at New Deer, SHE- T and National Grid have been informed on a monthly basis of the progress which is being made associated with the modified OfTI. This engagement will continue through to the construction phase for both MORL and SHE-T TI assets. Health and Safety Risk Associated with Unexploded Ordnance 5.7.2.48 Although the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 do not specifically require a dedicated UXO assessment, there is an obligation on those responsible for intrusive works to ensure that a comprehensive threat assessment is undertaken and risk mitigation measures are implemented with regard to all hazards on site. MORL will ensure that all practicable mitigation measures to minimise the risk of health and safety incidents associated with UXO are fully developed prior to construction. A UXO site survey will be undertaken prior to construction, where it is considered to be likely that UXO will be encountered, and site safety instructions will be prepared in the event that an item of UXO is located. All contractors’ staff will be given munitions awareness briefings prior to and during the construction work. Should suspected items of UXO be discovered, their location will be accurately mapped and recorded for future assessment and possible removal / disposal or remediation in situ by a specialist contractor. The MoD and emergency services will also be consulted as appropriate. Operation Effects on Military Activity 5.7.2.49 In adhering to the conditions attached to any consent for the modified OfTI in relation to the lighting, marking and charting of infrastructure, MORL will ensure that the operational OfTI (specifically the OSPs) does not interfere with military activity.

5.7-20 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.3.5 5.7.3.4 5.7.3.3 5.7.3.2 5.7.3.1 Summary 5.7.2.50 and onOilandGasActivity Infrastructure Effects 5.7.2.53 Residual Effects 5.7.2.52 Ordnance Unexploded Associated and with Risk Safety Health 5.7.2.51 Cables Subsea to Damage 5.7.3

Cumulative Impact Assessment Assessment Cumulative Impact A summary of the cumulative impact as impact cumulative ofthe A summary are decommissioned. most cases, buried cables / other buried structures will remain in-situ when projects implementation of industry standard practi forUXO is ri predicted effect cumulative practi standard ofindustry implementation and activities considered in the cumu operational phase in relation subseato cables(when considering all other projects construction phase in relation to subsea cables and UXO risk, and during the sign ofminoradverse effects Cumulative Firth operators. together. This assumes that ongoing consultation will take place between Moray Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms and BOWLthe are builtproject out event that inthe and OfTI, Telford, andgas the modified infrastructure, oil activity signific adverse of minor effects Cumulative not expected to be significant. proposedoffshore wi other associated with activities considered in the cumulative impact assessment, to disrupt activity consented windfarms, and for the whole project together withother projects and and MacColl Stevenson Telford, with together the OfTI modified potential forthe The and MacColl consented windfarms)inrela farms, beforeassessing the whole project andMacColl consented wind Stevenson Telford, with the together OfTI modified effects associated with the construction/decommissioning and operation of the geographical and temporal co overlaps and therefore conflict between activities and operators in both a cumulativeimpactThe assessment hasbeen possible and adhere to standard industry possible andadhere industry to standard continue to engage with oil and gas operators achieveto co–existence where As per mitigation during construction and decommissioning phases, MORLwill interest. interest. The significance of post-mitigation residual residual of post-mitigation significance The maintenance worksare required. intrusive above where described measures practice best the implement As per mitigation during construction and decommissioning phases, MORLwill Telecom, se SHE-Tandanyotheroperatorswill Faroese with crossingagreement inanycable made arrangements future The 2 above. ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo

ntext. Theassessment firstly considers the cumulative Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray sessment is shownin Table 5.7-5. ificance have been predicted during the been predictedduring the have ificance ce by all proposed projects. No significant by proposed No projects. significant ce all (modified OfTI and the Telford, Stevenson Stevenson Telford, and OfTI (modified the effects is presented in summary Table insummaryTable 5.7- ispresented effects tion to other relevant projects/plans. relevant to other tion ce by all proposed projects and that in proposedprojects and ce byall that ance have been assessed for effects on foreffects been assessed ance have sk during operation. This alsoassumes lative impact assessment), assuming nd farms and military practice areasnd farmsandmilitarypractice is guidance in resolving any conflicts of anyconflicts inresolving guidance rve to reduce rve to the likelihood foreffect. focused on establishing potential for potential on establishing focused r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r 5.7-21 5.7-21

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.7-5 Cumulative Impact Summary

Effect/Receptor Residual significance Whole project Mitigation Method level for modified OfTI assessment: Modified OfTI + Stevenson, Telford and MacColl

Construction / Decommissioning

Effects on Offshore Not significant Not significant None Wind Farm Projects

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment (Whole project plus those developments Not significant listed in sections 5.7.3.7 and 5.7.3.8 below)

Effects on Military Not significant Not significant None Activity

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment (Whole project plus those developments Not significant listed in sections 5.7.3.7 and 5.7.3.8 below)

Effects on Oil and Assumes ongoing consultation amongst Gas Activity and Not significant Minor adverse Moray Firth operators Infrastructure

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment (Whole project plus those developments Minor adverse, assuming ongoing consultation amongst Moray Firth operators. listed in sections 5.7.3.7 and 5.7.3.8 below)

Assumes implementation of industry standard practice by all proposed Damage to Subsea projects (note: also assumes that in most Minor adverse Minor adverse Cables cases, buried cables / other buried structures will remain in-situ when projects are decommissioned).

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment (Whole project plus Minor adverse, assuming implementation of industry standard practice by all proposed those developments projects (note: also assumes that in most cases, buried cables / other buried structures will listed in sections remain in-situ when projects are decommissioned). 5.7.3.7 and 5.7.3.8 below)

Assumes implementation of industry Health and Safety standard practice by all proposed Risk Associated with projects (note: also assumes that in most Minor adverse Minor adverse Unexploded cases, buried cables / other buried Ordnance structures will remain in-situ when projects are decommissioned).

5.7-22 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter Effect/Receptor Ordnance Unexploded with Risk Associated Safety Health and below) 5.7.3.8 and 5.7.3.7 listed insections those developments plus (Whole project Impact Assessment Total Cumulative Cables Subsea Damage to below) 5.7.3.8 and 5.7.3.7 listed insections those developments plus (Whole project Impact Assessment Total Cumulative Infrastructure and Gas Activity onOiland Effects below) 5.7.3.8 and 5.7.3.7 listed insections those developments plus (Whole project Impact Assessment Total Cumulative Activity onMilitary Effects below) 5.7.3.8 and 5.7.3.7 listed insections those developments plus (Whole project Impact Assessment Total Cumulative Wind FarmProjects onOffshore Effects Operation below) 5.7.3.8 and 5.7.3.7 section sections listed insection those developments plus (Whole project Impact Assessment Total Cumulative

Not significant Not significant Minor adverse Not significant Not significant Not significant projects projects assuming implementationMinor adverse, ofin consul assuming ongoing Minor adverse, Not significant whenremain in-situ proj (note: assumesprojectsalso that cases, /other inmost buriedcables buried structureswill assuming implementationMinor adverse, ofin level for modified OfTI OfTI modified for level Residual significance ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo

ects are decommissioned) Not significant Not significant None significant Not None significant Not Minor adverse MacColl and Stevenson, Telford + Modified OfTI assessment: Whole project Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

tation amongst Moray Firth operators Firthoperators Moray amongst tation dustry standard practice by all practicedustryproposed byall standard practicedustryproposed byall standard r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r Mitigation Method Mitigation Method projects projects proposed byall standard practice Assumes implementation ofindustry projects proposed byall standard practice Assumes implementation ofindustry Moray Firth operators operators Firth Moray amongst consultation ongoing Assumes

5.7-23 5.7-23

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect/Receptor Residual significance Whole project Mitigation Method level for modified OfTI assessment: Modified OfTI + Stevenson, Telford and MacColl

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment (Whole project plus Not significant, assuming implementation of industry standard practice by all proposed those developments projects listed in sections 5.7.3.7 and 5.7.3.8 below)

Assessment of Cumulative Effects 5.7.3.6 MORL’s approach to the assessment of cumulative effects is described in Chapter 1.3 (Environmental Impact Assessment). The spatial context within which the cumulative assessment is set is based upon the range over which the proposed modified OfTI may overlap and / or interact with Other Human Activities in the Moray Firth. 5.7.3.7 The modified OfTI is firstly assessed cumulatively against the following developments to represent a whole project assessment:  Consented MORL Telford, Stevenson and MacColl offshore wind farms.  The whole project is then assessed together with the following other developments and activities:  Consented BOWL Beatrice offshore wind farm and transmission infrastructure;  Operational Beatrice Demonstrator Project turbines;  Operational SHEFA-2 telecommunications cable;  Operational Beatrice and Jacky oil platforms and their associated cable and pipeline infrastructure; and  MORL Western Development Area (WDA) of the Moray Firth Round 3 Zone. 5.7.3.8 In addition, the following developments and activities have been identified which may have cumulative effects over the lifetime of the modified OfTI but there is currently insufficient information available on which to base a detailed assessment of effects:  Licensed oil and gas blocks (intent of operators beyond the short-term plans of Suncor is unknown); and  Proposed SHE-T HVDC offshore reinforcement (approximate route and completion data available). Methodology 5.7.3.9 The assessment methodology has followed that outlined in the Moray Firth Offshore Wind Developers Group Discussion Document (ERM, 2011). 5.7.3.10 To inform the assessment, project parameters for the consented MORL and BOWL projects have been extracted from their respective ESs and publicly available consent documentation (See Table 5.7-6 and Table 5.7-7 below). MORL has provided parameters for the WDA of the Round 3 Zone (see Table 5.7-8 below). In each case these parameters represent a ‘worst case’ development scenario (i.e. maximum development footprint, maximum construction duration, etc.).

5.7-24 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.7.3.13 5.7.3.12 Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter SummaryofBOWLProjectWorstCaseParameters Table 5.7-7 SummaryofMORLTelford,StevensonandMacColloffshorewindfarmWorst Case Table 5.7-6 Parameters 5.7.3.11 Worst Case Parameters Scenario Assessed Scenario permanent footprintof 11,690m Gravity base andscourprotectionwith combined (eitherFoundations pinpiles, suction orgravity piles bases) substation OSPsandonewind AC/DC turbines, two AC to 140 Up plus Assessed Scenario WorstCaseParameters schedule andmaintenance Maximum operation Maximum operational lifetimeof 25years window construction Maximum 5year Gravity Base Structure or jacket foundations Up to 62 wind turbines wind per farm WorstCaseParameters Maximum operation and maintenance schedule schedule andmaintenance Maximum operation Maximum operational lifetimeof 25years window construction Maximum 5year with325 kminter-arraywidthtrench cables 3 m of 65 kmexport route cable

The cumulative impact assessment firstlyco These developments are all operational and have known parameters. cableorthe telecommunications Scenarios have not been supplied for Beatrice the Demonstrator Project, SHEFA the ensureaccordingly to the MORLZonecapacity exceeded. isnot WDA restricted be in will the development the then sites wind farm consented but in the event that MORL successfully constructs in excess of1,000 MW in the three Zone will be exceeded. 500 MW represents the maximum development onWDA, the the(1500 MORL Zone MW). isproposed not It capacity that the target for MORL the consented capacity of the(1,166 EDA MW) exceeds overallthe target capacity of WDA.for the Thepotential capacityWDA of the (500 MW) whenadded to the case” for consentedEDAcannotsimply the other relevant projects/plans. other relevant wind to farms)inrelation consented andthe three (modified OfTI project whole with the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl co together OfTI modified of the andoperation construction/decommissioning the with a slightly different approach to approach assessment to different a slightly The connection betweenWDA the and the three consented wind farms necessitates ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo 2 per foundation perfoundation

existing oil and gas infrastructure in the Moray Firth. in the Moray Firth. and oil gasinfrastructure existing Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray Wind farm structures in place for 25 years for25years inplace Wind farmstructures period year five for ongoing activities Construction Wind farm structures in place for 25 years for25years inplace Wind farmstructures period year five for ongoing activities Construction Total footprint of three wind farm sites 5.99 km 5.99 sites farm wind three of footprint Total Total footprint of3.52 km nsiders the cumulative effects associated associated effects cumulative nsiders the nsented windfarms, beforeassessing the , as the effects aris effects ,as the be added to the “worst case”scenario the“worst beadded to r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r 2

ing from the “worst ing from the “worst 2

5.7-25 5.7-25

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.7-8 Summary of MORL WDA Worst Case Parameters

Worst Case Parameters Scenario Assessed

Installation of 100 turbines and one AC OSP with gravity base foundations and associated scour protection

130 km inter-array cables with trench width of 3 m Total footprint 1.20 km2 Cable protection required up to 50 m distance from turbine Construction activities ongoing for two year period Maximum 2 year construction window Wind farm structures in place for 25 years Operational lifetime of 25 years Maximum operation and maintenance schedule

Other Developments 5.7.3.14 In relation to other remaining projects and activities (i.e. the SHE-T HVDC reinforcement and possible exploration of licensed oil and gas blocks), parameters remain unconfirmed and the cumulative assessment has therefore taken a more qualitative approach in defining potential effects based on available information. Cumulative Assessment Construction / Decommissioning Effects on Offshore Wind Farm Projects 5.7.3.15 The modified OfTI is an essential component of the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms. As such the projects are complimentary and there will be no significant cumulative effect. 5.7.3.16 The modified OfTI and the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms, together with the other offshore projects proposed within the Moray Firth are seen to be complimentary rather than conflicting and all are proposed in order to meet renewable energy targets in Scotland and the wider UK. Relationships and communication between all offshore developers are considered to be good. Continued sharing of plans with regard to construction schedules and methodologies will ensure all construction works, including those for the whole project are undertaken safely and as a result no significant cumulative effect is predicted. Effects on Military Activity 5.7.3.17 The modified OfTI will be constructed concurrently with the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms, with construction scheduled to take place from 2017 – 2021. Construction activity has the potential to disrupt and interfere with military practice and exercise area (PEXA) activities. The MoD considers proposals on a case-by-case basis and to date has no outstanding objections to the consented Telford, Stevenson and MacColl offshore wind farms. Consultation responses to date indicate that there will be no significant cumulative effect on PEXA in the Moray Firth. 5.7.3.18 There is potential for the construction of the whole project (modified OfTI and the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms), BOWL projects and the SHE- T HVDC cable, to run concurrently. Construction activity has the potential to disrupt and interfere with military practice and exercise area (PEXA) activities. Whilst MORL, BOWL and SHE-T projects overlap in particular locations with military PEXA, the MoD considers proposals on a case-by-case basis and to date has no outstanding objections to the consented MORL Telford, Stevenson and MacColl offshore wind farms or the BOWL Project. MORL is unaware of the outcome of any consultation with the MoD undertaken by SHE-T. Consultation responses to date indicate that there will be no significant cumulative effect on PEXA in the Moray Firth. The WDA does not overlap with any PEXA.

5.7-26 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.7.3.20 Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.3.21 Table 5.7-9OilandGasLicenceBlocksOverlappingProjectsActivities 5.7.3.19 and onOilandGasActivity Infrastructure Effects

Suncor (12/26b and 12/27)Suncor (12/26b Over Sendero (12/21b) Operator (LicenceBlocks)

projects /activities areshown in Table 5.7-9 below. and Stevenson Telford, the Oil and gas licence blocks overlapping with the whole(modified project OfTI and therefore be of been assessed asmedium and the sensitivity low. Thecumulative effect will ongoing consultation between MORL and licence the holders, magnitude the has blocks, andnot the entire blocks, and due to the potential for directional drilling and the three consented wind farm projects o and OfTI modified basis the Onthe that activities. byconstruction restricted be also an Drilling be employed. may techniques is asurvey ofwhen in terms of flexibility purposes forthe isassumed It zones). safety activity would be excluded from the construction locations(and the associated and th modified OfTI ofthe construction licence holders undertakeexploratory surveyswithin licence their blocks during the if However, by Suncorin and 2014 2015. activity planned after the place take will 2021) – (2017 farms wind consented andthethree OfTI of themodified Construction relating plannedto activity in 2014 and 2015 in Block 12/27) arecurrently unknown. their exploration plans (beyond communicated those verbally MORLto by Suncor ofoperators these blocks have yet to explore the potential of licence the blocks and overlap with the licenced blocks 12/21b, 12/26b and 12/27(see Table 5.7-9). The the proposedproj be excluded from the construction locations(and the associated safety zones) of exploratory surveys within their licence blocks; ifthis is the case, survey activity would As described above, it is possible that the licence holders may wish to undertake Stev Telford, and the OfTI The modified adverse significance and the sensitivity low, therefore the potential effect is deemed beofto developers and the licence holders, magnitude the has been assessed asmedium between the ongoing consultation andassumed drilling for directional potential blocks, licenced proportion ofthe andnot the blocks,entire anddue the to the basis that the whole MORL project and the other projects occupy only a placement ofinfrastructure would also berestricted by constructionactivities. On andthe Drilling employed. be may techniques ofsurvey a variety and that is undertaken in ofwhenasurvey terms of is flexibility a degree there that assessment ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo minor adversesignificance. ects in the Moray Firth. Itis . MacColl consented wind farms) and anumber ofother Proposed SHE-T HVDC cable HVDC cable SHE-T Proposed cable telecommunications SHEFA-2 MORL WDA offshore and MacColl wind farms Stevenson MORL Telford, Modified OfTI MORL WDA offshore and MacColl wind farms Stevenson MORL Telford, Modified OfTI Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray lapping Projects and Activities lapping Projects and Activities enson and MacColl consented enson wind farms and MacCollconsented undertaken and a that ofsurvey variety d the placement of infrastructure would would ofinfrastructure placement d the ccupy only a proportion ofthelicenced aproportion ccupy only

ofthisassessment that there isadegree e three consented wind farms, survey windfarms,survey consented e three r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r assumed for thepurposes of this minor 5.7-27 5.7-27

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Damage to Subsea Cables 5.7.3.22 The modified OfTI export cables may need to cross the existing SHEFA-2 telecommunications cable and the proposed SHE-T cable. There are no cable crossings required within the sites of the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms (Figure 5.7-1), therefore the cumulative effect will remain as already assessed for the modified OfTI alone, minor adverse significance. 5.7.3.23 As shown in Figure 5.7-1, the BOWL export cable corridor overlaps with the landfall end of the proposed SHE-T cable. Therefore, the proposed SHE-T cable may need to cross/be crossed by both the modified OfTI export cable and the BOWL export cable. The BOWL export cable corridor also transits through the WDA. The unmitigated cumulative effect will be of moderate adverse significance and following the implementation of standard mitigation measures as described earlier in the chapter, the residual effect will be of minor adverse significance. Health and Safety Risk Associated with Unexploded Ordnance 5.7.3.24 There is potential for UXO associated with historic and current military activity to be encountered on the seabed in the area of all proposed offshore projects in the Moray Firth. During construction, activities which will have contact with the seabed, either directly (e.g. jack-up vessel) or via the placement of material (e.g. foundations or scour protection), run the risk of disturbing UXO with potentially damaging and dangerous effects to both employees and equipment. However, there is an obligation on those responsible for intrusive works to ensure that a comprehensive threat assessment is undertaken and risk mitigation measures are implemented with regard to all hazards on site. 5.7.3.25 It is assumed that MORL will adhere to this obligation during the construction of the modified OfTI project and the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms. The cumulative effect will therefore be of minor adverse significance. 5.7.3.26 It is also assumed that MORL, BOWL and SHETL will adhere to this obligation and as such any cumulative effect will be of minor adverse significance. Operation Effects on Offshore Wind Farm Projects 5.7.3.27 Activity associated with the operation of the modified OfTI and the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms will be significantly reduced relative to the construction/decommissioning phases. Monitoring and maintenance vessels will require access, with any exceptional maintenance activity likely to require a temporary 500 m exclusion zone around the structure undergoing maintenance. As the modified OfTI is an essential component of the three consented wind farm projects, it is assumed that maintenance works for both would be coordinated and mutually beneficial. The cumulative effect of maintenance works carried out on these projects will therefore be not significant. 5.7.3.28 Activity associated with the operation of the whole MORL project, BOWL wind farm sites and other potential developments that may be installed within a similar timeframe (i.e. the SHE-T cable) will be significantly reduced relative to the construction / decommissioning phases. Monitoring and maintenance vessels will require access, with any exceptional maintenance activity likely to have a temporary 500 m exclusion zone imposed around the relevant structure. It is theoretically possible for there to be a temporal overlap between temporary exclusion zones associated with the wind farm sites and cables. The potential for two or more exceptional maintenance events occurring concurrently is considered to be unlikely and in light of established and ongoing coordination of works by MORL, BOWL and SHE-T, no significant cumulative effect is predicted.

5.7-28 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.7.3.36 Ordnance Unexploded Associated and with Risk Safety Health 5.7.3.34 5.7.3.33 Cables Subsea to Damage 5.7.3.35 Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter 5.7.3.32 5.7.3.31 5.7.3.30 and onOilandGasActivity Infrastructure Effects 5.7.3.29 Effects on Military Activity

consented wind farms, and the other offshore other farms,and the consented wind MacColl and Stevenson Telford, andthe OfTI modified of the construction the been previously have UXOAny seabed will project alone. project thecumulative effectbe will the deployment ofanchors. Itis expected foundation and cable repair work which could entail the use of jack-up vessels and the potential for disturbance to subsea cables from maintenance activities, suchas During operationalthe phase of the whole MORL project and BOWL project, there is crossings required within the sites of the telecommunications cable and the proposed SHE-T cable. As there are nocable SHEFA-2 existing cross mayneed the cables to export OfTI The modified the same principles and agreements asestablished under construction. The likelihood fordamage to existing ca result the likely cumulative effect will be of a of be will effect cumulative likely the result the and therefore, telecommunications to low. Damage to submarine cables is expensive to repair and cancause disruption therefore remote and consequently magnitude the of effect is considered beto cumulative effect will be of be will effect cumulative The low. sensitivity the and medium as assessed been has magnitude the holders, and ongoingconsultation assumed drilling licenced blocks, and not the entire blocks, anddue to the potential for directional minor adversesignificance been assessed as medium and the sensitivity low. Thecumulative effect will be of ongoing consultation between MORL and licence the holders, magnitude the has blocks, andnot the entire blocks, and due to the potential for directional drilling and project andproject other the offshore windfarmpr farms and their associated transmission infrastructure. Onthe basis that the whole placementinfrastructure of wouldrestricted alsobe by thepresence wind of the presence of turbines and platforms and any associated safety zones. Drilling and the expected that activities such as seismic survey will be spatially restricted by the project, BOWL project, and potentially the SHE-T cable, areoperational, is it Should licence holders seek to commence o windfarmsinfrastructure consented three andthe OfTI modified the basis that On the OfTI. modified thanthe rather farms wind wind farms,the greatest effect arises from the construction of the three consented consented footprint three of greater the the Due to and modifiedOfTIinfrastructure. ofwindfarm presence by the restricted be also would of infrastructure placement presence of turbines and platforms and any associated safety zones. Drilling and the expected that activities such as seismic survey will be spatially restricted by the and Telford,the Stevenson and MacColl consented wind farms are operational, is it commence seek to holders licence Should are currently unknown. As detailed above, longer the term intentions of oil and gas block licence holders effect consultation responses to dateindicate that there willbe Asper the textabove relating to ‘c on PEXA in the Moray Firth. onPEXAintheMorayFirth. ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo

. minor adverse significance minor adverse not significant Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray three consented windfarms(Figure 5.7-1), onstruction /decommissioning’ effects, between the developers and the licence block exploration on exploration block block exploration once the modified OfTI OfTI once the modified exploration block identified and the risk mitigated prior and risk to the mitigated identified bles duringsuch maintenance work is ccupy only a proportion of aproportion ccupy only the licenced that any such activity will be subject to willbesubject activity any suchthat minor adversesignificance value and sensitivity will be high.Asa be will and sensitivity value ojects occupy only a proportion ofthe aproportion occupy only ojects wind farm projects and their offshore and offshore wind farmprojects their , as assessed for the modified OfTI OfTI modified ,as assessed forthe r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r . no significant cumulative ce theMORL whole . 5.7-29 5.7-29

CHAPTER 5.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Offshore Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

transmission infrastructure. The potential for UXO encounter during operation and maintenance activities would be managed by adherence to the good practice measures described earlier in this chapter. Cumulative effects will not be significant during operation.

5.7.4 References 6 Alpha Associates (2011). Unexploded Ordnance Threat and Risk Assessment with Risk Mitigation BOWL (2012). Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Environmental Statement. British Geological Survey and The Crown Estate (2014). CO2 Stored website. Accessed June 2014 at: http://www.co2stored.co.uk/home.php CDA (2014). UKOilandGasData website. Accessed June 2014 at: https://www.ukoilandgasdata.com/dp/jsp/PleaseLogin.jsp DECC (2014a) Oil and gas licensing rounds information webpage. Accessed June 2014 at: https://www.gov.uk/oil-and-gas-licensing-rounds DECC (2014b). 28th Seaward Licensing Round - Other Regulatory Issues. DTI (2004). Existing Users and Management Initiatives Relevant to SEA 5. Faroese Telecom (2014). SHEFA website. Accessed June 2014 at: http://www.shefa.fo/cable/ International Cable Protection Committee (2007a). ICPC Recommendation No.2. Recommended Routing and Reporting Criteria for Cables in Proximity to Others. ICPC Ltd. International Cable Protection Committee (2007b). ICPC Recommendation No.3. Criteria to be Applied to Proposed Crossings Between Submarine Telecommunications Cables and Pipelines/Power Cables. ICPC Ltd. International Cable Protection Committee (2010). ICPC Recommendation No.13. Proximity of Wind Farm Developments and Submarine Cables. ICPC Ltd. Kingfisher Information Service (2014). Kingfisher Information Service - Offshore Renewable & Cable Awareness project (KIS-ORCA) website. Accessed June 2014 at: http://www.kis- orca.eu/map Marine Scotland (2011). Blue Seas – Green Energy, A Sectoral Marine Plan for Offshore Wind Energy in Scottish Territorial Waters (Part A, The Plan). Marine Scotland (2012a). Offshore Wind Energy in Scottish Waters - Draft Regional Locational Guidance. Marine Scotland (2012b). Wave and Tidal Regional Locational Guidance. Marine Scotland (2013a). Offshore Wind Initial Plan Framework (Draft Plan Options). Marine Scotland (2013b). Planning Scotland’s Seas – Scotland's National Marine Plan Consultation Draft. Marine Scotland (2013b). Wave and Tidal Initial Plan Framework (Draft Plan Options). Marine Scotland (2014). Potential Scottish Test Sites for Deep Water Floating Wind Technologies - Draft Regional Locational Guidance. MeyGen (2014). Inner Sound Tidal Array project webpage. Accessed June 2014 at: http://www.meygen.com/the-project/ MORL (2012). Environmental Statement - Telford, Stevenson, MacColl Wind Farms and Associated Transmission Infrastructure. Norecor (2014). Significant discovery P1889. Accessed June 2014 at: http://www.noreco.com/en/Our-business/Exploration1/P1889-Niobe/

5.7-30 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.7 – Other Human Activities Activities 5.7 Human –Other Chapter activities/ http://www.thecrownestate.co.uk/energy-infr The Crown Estate(2014b). Wave and tidal webpage. Accessed June 2014 at: us/leasing-rounds/round-3/ http://www.thecrownestate.co.uk/energy-infras The Crown Estate(2014a). Offshore November and December monthly update. The Crown Estate(2010). Oil &Gas – A Critical Interface. Offshore wind strategic workstreams. Strategy. 3 Round – Zone1, Firth Moray (Radar Modelling). Propagation Spaven Consulting(undated). MORL Environm Reference; Spaven Consulting Report No. P1492D003). Wind and(Beatrice MorayOffshore Farms Spaven Consulting(undated). MORLEnvironmental Statement -Technical Appendix 5.3 B 10/283/MOR/4). No. Report Consulting Firth Offshore wind Aviation farm:Initial Spaven Consulting(2010). MORL Environmental Statement - Technical Appendix 5.3(Moray A ts/SSETransmissionJan14.pdf http://www.ssepd.co.uk/uploadedFiles/Controls/ SHE Transmission(2014). Major Transmission Projects Update January 2014. Accessed at: orca.eu/media/28854/SHEFA_Final_17122013.pdf Seafish(2013). SHEFA-2 Cable Awareness Chart. Accessed June 2014 at: http://www.kis- Installations & SubmarineCable SCUK(2012). Subsea Cables UK Guideline No 6 – The Proximity of Offshore Renewable Energy at: http://www.scottishpowerrenewables.com/pages/ness_of_duncansby.asp (2014). Renewables ScottishPower NessofDunc Roadmap forScotland. A – Storage and Capture Carbon 2010. Enterprise. adScottish Government Scottish http://www.sccs.org.uk/ Scottish Carbon Capture and Storage(SCCS) website(2014). Accessed June 2014 at: SCCS (2011). Progressing Scotland launches-new-uk-offshore-wind-supp http://www.renewableuk.com/en/news/press- RenewableUK(2014). Pressrelease webpage. Accessed at: Pager Power(2009). High MORL Level Screening Assessment. February 2009. Notice Airmento No. B0238/12 –Danger Ar ModifiedTransmission Offshore Infrastructure fo Infrastructure inUK waters.Infrastructure ’s CO2 Storage Opportunities. ly-chain-review-to-create-jobs ly-chain-review-to-create-jobs Offshore WindFebruary 2011. Farm. ea D807 Moray Firth Completely Withdrawn. Withdrawn. Completely MorayFirth D807 ea Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray wind webpage. AccessedJune 2014 at: Assessment Report; November 2010, Spaven astructure/wave-and-tidal/objectives-and- releases.cfm/2014-06-11-energy-minister- ansby project webpage.ansby project ental Statement - Technical Appendix 5.3 C Appendix5.3 -Technical Statement ental tructure/offshore-wind-energy/working-with- Helicopter Impact Assessment: Document Document Assessment: Impact Helicopter Lists/Transmission/Project_updates/Documen r Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms MacColl Telford, Stevenson and r AccessedJune 2014 5.7-31 5.7-31

CHAPTER 5.7 Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – 5.6.1.2 5.6.1.1 Introduction 5.6.1 5.6 5 5.6.1.5 5.6.1.4 Consultations 5.6.1.3

Human Environment

Traffic andTransport

Baseline Information Baseline Information     The chapter is supported by aseries (the Council). restricted to the surrounding road network maintained by Aberdeenshire Council is and proximity the to assessment therefore of OnTI the area the modified in close operation and construction, decommissionin on public roadnetworkduring the traffic ofincreased on effects focuses the Transmis modified with Onshore the associated like assessment of the chapterThis details with the AIL officers of the Council as noted in Technical Appendix 5.6 C. TechnicalAppendix 5.6 Councilinof the as notedAIL officers with the Indivisible Load(AIL) route for the transformers and associated substation components Furtherconsultation with the Council was undertakenon thesuitability of theAbnormal various points was a summarisedinto scopingletterandcopied TS. to form ofameetingdiscuss to the scope an (TS)and TransportScotland inlate May 2 Scoping discussions, summarisedin Table detailed assessment of the new infrastructure and location of the modified OnTI. OnTI. modified of the andlocation infrastructure new of the assessment detailed the Accordingly, only. AC infrastructure (AC)to Current infrastructure (DC) /Alternating Current fromDirect modified been from Fraserburgh to Inverboyndie. The export cable and onshore substations have Peterhead to NewDeer and export the cable landfall location has been altered onshore substations has been changed(See Chapter 2.2(Project Description)) from and is set out in the MORL(MORL, ES 2012). Since that time the location of the A previous assessment of the potential effe potential the of assessment previous A

Appendix 5.6 A: Transport Assessment; Assessment; A:Transport 5.6 Appendix Appendix 5.6 B: Construction Traffic Method Statement; Statement; TrafficMethod B:Construction 5.6 Appendix Appendix 5.6 C: Construction Traffic Management Plan; TrafficManagement and C:Construction 5.6 Appendix Appendix 5.6 D: Route Survey Report. Report. Survey Route D: 5.6 Appendix Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray of Technical Appendices, namely: 014. Discussions withDiscussions the014. Council the took ly significant transport andaccess ly significant transport effects impact assessment in this isa Chapter in this assessment impact d study parameters. Confirmation of of the Confirmation parameters. d study 5.6-1 were undertaken with the Council cts of the previous OnTI was carriedout g.Such effects aremost pronounced sion Infrastructure (OnTI). Thischapter sion Infrastructure

5.6-1 5.6-1

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.6 -1 Scoping Consultees

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

Aberdeenshire Council Satisfied with the proposed Development of detailed technical methodology. Principally concerned appendices 5.6 B, 5.6 C and 5.6 D. with traffic management measures rather than the likely traffic impact.

Transport Scotland No response from TS. Transport Assessment (Technical Appendix 5.6 A) undertaken in accordance with available TS guidance.

Baseline Characteristics

5.6.1.6 The study area relating to transport issues is localised to those roads located either on the modified onshore export cable route corridor of the OnTI, near the OnTI or those providing access for the construction, operation or decommissioning of the OnTI.

5.6.1.7 The Transport Assessment Technical Appendix 5.6 A provides greater detail on the road network and its characteristics. The study area network is summarised as follows:  A98: The primary east-west route through the northern coast of Aberdeenshire running between the A96 at Fochabers and Fraserburgh. The road is single carriageway along its entirety;  A97: A distributor road route running from Banff south to Huntly and the A96. The road is single carriageway along its entirety;  A947: A distributor road route running from Banff south through Turriff before joining the A96 south of Dyce. The road is single carriageway along its entirety;  A948: A distributor road running from New Deer to Ellon and the A90. The road is single carriageway along its entirety;  A981: A distributor road running from Fraserburgh to New Deer and the A948. The road is single carriageway along its entirety;  B9105: A rural distributor road running from the A98 at Cook through Fintry to the A947 north of Turriff. The road is single carriageway along its entirety;  B9170: A rural distributor road running from the A947 south of Turriff through Cuminestown and New Deer before proceeding south to Inverurie;  B9121: A rural distributor road running between Whitehills and the A97 at Tipperty. A further section continues south from the A97 joining the B9025 at Slack of Scotston. The section of road within the study area is wide single track without passing places;  The C9s: A minor rural road providing local access functions;  The C7s: A minor rural road providing local access functions;  The C29s: A minor rural road providing local access functions; and  The C121B: A minor rural road providing local access functions.

5.6.1.8 The trunk road network is remote to the location of the OnTI and there are no rail facilities available that will be of practical use for the OnTI. As such, the vast majority of all transport associated with the OnTI will be focussed on road transport.

5.6.1.9 Port facilities for the import of AIL equipment are available at Peterhead to the east of the indicative location of the substations.

5.6-2 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – A947of theB992 south A947of Turriff north Fintry of south B9105 C7S westof Gorrachie Foulzie east of C9S Keilhill A947 near B9121 of south A97 Cars/Light B9038 of the west A98 Period Time Fiskaidly of south B9121 A98 west of Boyndie BaselineTrafficFlows Location Survey Table 5.6-2 5.6.1.12 5.6.1.11 SpecificSite Surveys 5.6.1.10 Desktop Studies

A summary of vehicle flows is provided in Table 5.6-2, Baseline Traffic Flows. TrafficFlows. inTable 5.6-2, Baseline flowsisprovided ofvehicle A summary Assessment (Technical Appendix 5.6 A). A). 5.6 Appendix (Technical Assessment Transport in the are provided details andfull direction foreach and speed assessment. Thesecounts collected re data repr obtain to month) (neutral patterns week in amonth where flows are considered free of unusual occurrences or a full over Traffic (ATC) Counters were undertaken Automatic using surveys traffic availa wasnot andspeed data Traffic flow (Technical Appendix5.6 D)andTransport statistics. The results of these studies are presented in the AIL Route Survey Review accident of and roadtraffic collection deliveries the relating to AIL constraints weight ofpotential identification the to restricted been have studies Desktop Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson 4Hus 9 8 78 24 18 24 1072 7543 Hours 6471 59 24 2551427 Hours 1217 24 Hours 37167 Hours 130 24 24 1072 7543 Hours 6471 24 2231411 Hours 1189 24 1003 7478 Hours 6475 24 58337 Hours 279 9895163 Hours 4174 2Hus 8 6 64 12 12 16 725 4216 Hours 3491 12 9076103 Hours 5196 48 12 2231227 Hours 1004 12 Hours 31 140 Hours 109 12 12 9076103 Hours 5196 12 215 1219 Hours 1003 12 874 6217 Hours 5342 12 50278 Hours 227 8564322 Hours 3466 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray Assessments(Technical Appendix 5.6 A). ble from public sources and assuch new sources ble frompublic esentative traffic flows for use in the foruse flows traffic esentative Vehicles Vehicles lating to vehicle flow, class of vehicle Vehicles (HGV) Vehicles (HGV) Heavy Goods Goods Heavy Total Vehicles Total Vehicles

5.6-3 5.6-3

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Survey Location Time Period Cars / Light Heavy Goods Total Vehicles Vehicles Vehicles (HGV)

24 Hours 4588 895 5482

A98 east of the B9027 12 Hours 2576 735 3311

24 Hours 3029 838 3867

B9170 west of Cuminestown 12 Hours 1515 377 1892

24 Hours 1870 438 2308

C29S south of Cuminestown 12 Hours 327 73 401

24 Hours 416 87 503

C121B west of C29S 12 Hours 190 43 233

24 Hours 234 51 285

B9170 west of New Deer 12 Hours 1232 354 1587

24 Hours 1552 409 1962

A948 west of the B9028 12 Hours 826 188 1013

24 Hours 1094 225 1319

A981 west of the B9028 12 Hours 2241 393 2634

24 Hours 2865 465 3320

Legislative and Planning Framework

5.6.1.13 The assessment of traffic impact and consideration of access issues has been undertaken in line with the following policy statements and guidance:  Scottish Planning Policy 2010;  Draft Scottish Planning Policy document, published in 2013;  Planning Advice Note 75 - Planning for Transport;  Nestrans Regional Transport Strategy;  Aberdeenshire Council Local Transport Strategy 2012; and  Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEMA); Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic, 1993.

5.6.1.14 Full details of the planning and guidance notes are provided in the Transport Assessment (Technical Appendix 5.6 A) accompanying this ES.

5.6.2 Impact Assessment Summary of Effects and Mitigation

5.6.2.1 The assessment presents the potential effects of construction traffic, and identifies those which are likely to be significant enough in EIA terms to require further assessment, namely:

5.6-4 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – 5.6.2.2 5.6.2.3 5.6.2.7 5.6.2.6 5.6.2.5 5.6.2.4 5.6.2.12 Proposed Mitigation Measures 5.6.2.11 Summary ofEffects 5.6.2.10 5.6.2.9 5.6.2.8

These effectsconsideredare of be to by road itself. created the roadoraphysical barrier trafficked crossing aheavily a majortraffic by separated becomes it when Severance – severance is perceivedthe division that can occur within acommunity system. These effects are considered to be of network surrounding the development is already at,or close to, the capacity of the on the traffic the when to besignificant only delays are likely delay – these Driver Accidents and safety – the implications of implications – the and safety Accidents andintimidation, orfear ofdanger, levels Fear and intimidation – there are no commonly agreed thresholds for estimating for threshold a tentative that suggest for the guidelines – the amenity Pedestrian minor significance close to the capacity of the system. These effects are considered beto of at, or only is likely delay, driver with as pedestrians, to delay – the delay Pedestrian significance elevate or lessen risks of accidents. These effects are considered to be of For reference,effect has this doubled. These effects are considered be ofto (or or ishalved lorry component) flow be where its traffic would amenity pedestrian Assessment (Technical Appendix 5.6 A) A) 5.6 Appendix (Technical Assessment Transport inthe asdetailed made hasbeen consideration nofurther such are of such a low level that they do not meet the IEMA assessment criteria and as tra operational hasgiven to consideration No to mitigation. areas. These effects are considered to be of anddirt– Dust the increased construction phase and construction consequently anya removed of will being material volumes decommissioning phase will consider similar measures at that time, however the Mitigation measures have been considered for constructionthe phase. The of with the construction of the OnTI. Following mitigation the effect is considered to be considered bemoderatedue to tothelargescale materialmovements associated is which andDirt ofDust exception the with minor be to considered are effects All A. 5.6 Appendix Technical in supplied Assessment Transport the in contained inTa ispresented The summary ofeffects included inTechnical Appendix 5.6 C. TrafficManagement in aConstruction The mitigation measures for the various effects have been reviewed and areset out minor significance ; and ; and

; Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson . andResidualEffects been combinedintoSeverance; risk of dust ordirt on the public roadorsurrounding Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray minor significance from known traffic and physical conditions. conditions. andphysical traffic from known Plan (CTMP), a framework document is document framework a (CTMP), Plan judging the significance ofchanges in significance the judging be lessthanassociated thosewith the environmental assessment of road traffic ofroadtraffic assessment environmental ble 5.6-3 and is based upon the detail ssociated impactsssociated willbereduced. local circumstances, which orfactors ffic as the likely traffic generation levels generation ffic as traffic the likely minor significance; artery resulting from the difficulty of of difficulty from the resulting artery minor significance moderate significanceprior ;

; minor

5.6-5 5.6-5

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.6.2.13 No consideration of the operational phase has been provided given the very low levels of traffic associated with the operation of the substation, maintenance of the landing point and associated cable maintenance.

5.6.2.14 Mitigation measures by design have been considered, for example the routing of construction traffic away from sensitive areas such as village centres, schools, etc. Given that the construction period is short lived and transitory, the principal mitigation measure is the provision of a CTMP to control construction traffic activities. The activities proposed are illustrated in greater detail in the CTMP, attached as Technical Appendix 5.6 C.

5.6.2.15 With the proposed mitigation measures in place, no significant residual effects are predicted. Table 5.6-3 Impact Assessment Summary

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect

Construction & Decommissioning

Severance & Links: B9105/B9121/C7s/C29s/C121B Minor None Minor Intimidation Settlements: Fintry and Cuminestown

Driver / Links: B9105/B9121/C7s/C29s/C121B Minor None Minor Pedestrian Delay Settlements: Fintry and Cuminestown

Pedestrian Links: B9105/B9121/C7s/C29s/C121B Minor Construction Traffic Minor Amenity Management Plan Settlements: Fintry and Cuminestown

Accidents & Links: B9105/B9121/C7s/C29s/C121B Minor Construction Traffic Minor Safety Management Plan & Settlements: Fintry and Abnormal Load Cuminestown Route Review

Dust & Dirt Links: B9105/B9121/C7s/C29s/C121B Moderate Construction Traffic Minor Management Plan Settlements: Fintry and Cuminestown

Operation

N/A

Introduction to Impact Assessment

5.6.2.16 The full Transport Assessment is provided as separate Technical Appendix 5.6 A. The approach taken to estimate the effect of the modified OnTI has considered the construction, operational and decommissioning phases of the project on the surrounding road network.

5.6.2.17 The installation of the modified OnTI will require materials to be transported to site by road and, in addition to the above, the provision of construction compounds, storage facilities and laydown areas during construction phases. These will include the movement of AIL traffic associated with the substation elements.

5.6-6 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – 5.6.2.20 5.6.2.19 5.6.2.18 5.6.2.26 5.6.2.25 5.6.2.24 5.6.2.23 5.6.2.22 5.6.2.21 Details ofImpactAssessment

magnitude of any effects and the need and imposition ofconstruction of the result (the pe assessment impact The percentage considered in percentage term movements has of been traffic construction these Theeffect period. construction construction programme(Technical Appendix 5.6 A) developed to identify the peak and a hasbeen estimated element for each required The of numbers vehicles Vehicles(LGVs).Goods such ascarsandLight wi anddecommissioning periods maintenance co the commutingduring and operatives cable route sites. These will be delivered concrete, pipes, blockwork, etc.) both steel, the substations to andmodified export There will also be aneed to bring constr the purposes of this assessment would assessment this purposes of the to be lower than that predicted forconstruction and any baseline data collected for equipment numberand However, the materials. ofvehicle ismovements anticipated road network due to the movements of HGVsassociated with the removal of At end development’sthe of operational the life, theremay beaneffect local on the andrepairs. maintenance with potentially occasional HGVmoveme vehicles type 4x4 using mainly trips andmaintenance with service mainly associated be would isoperational site once the trafficgenerated arise. The to unlikely are phase operational the during movements traffic to related effects Significant the percentage im flows comp been have traffic Construction stage. application becomecommitted betweenplan the flexib provides more sufficient than factors transporteffect and thatshould beincluded schemesin planni the aware ofanyother have been granted planning permission. TheCouncil has advised that it are not fl traffic forcommitted development allows appr This in time. point that network at and approach inassessing traffic flows the (NRTF) fact High Growth Traffic Forecast Road National using levels 2018 the to factored been have flows traffic Existing is May2018. forconstruction peak month indicative The OnTI. modified assessment. It therefore provides for arobust worst case assessment of wholethe flow hasbeen used basis to formthe and this estimated hasbeen flow apeak designtraffic parameters, indicative Using A98 /A947 / B9105 /B9170 /B9121 / C92S /C7S / C295. / A97 the include traffic byconstruction site to route likely asformingthe identified roads site. The accessing the traffic andoperational byconstruction be used could that roadnetwork public of the parts the comprises network area The study Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson pact reviewed. s against afuture base year.s against Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray not be relevant so far in the future. future. in the sofar be relevant not oach has beenapprovedoach and bytheCouncil traffic) is then used to determine the determine used to isthen traffic) uction plant and materials (cableplant andmaterialsuction drums, of all assessmentscontainedinthe the ility to account for any schemes that mayschemes that for any account ility to nstruction, commissioning, operation and commissioning,nstruction, operation ared against the factored base flows flows and base factored the ared against by standard HGVs. Construction workers by standardHGVs. Construction ng system that have asignificant ng system would that likely effect of development flowson the ofdevelopment effect likely ors. This approach provides arobustors. Thisapproachprovides ows associated with other schemes schemes that other ows associated with in Theuse an assessment. of HighNRTF likely formofanynecessary mitigation. rcentage increase of as increase traffic flows a rcentage nts to access the site for heavier ning in principle and detailed anddetailed ning inprinciple ll also generate light–vehicle traffic, traffic, light–vehicle generate also ll

5.6-7 5.6-7

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.6.2.27 In addition to the assessment of the increase in vehicular traffic, the issues relating to the movement of AIL traffic, creation of access junctions and traffic management issues have all been assessed. No significant detrimental effects have been identified in any of these subjects and all the relevant reports are contained in Technical Appendices 5.6 A, 5.6 B, 5.6 C and 5.6 D. Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment

5.6.2.28 The modified OnTI scheme has been split into component parts to enable an estimate of the construction traffic potential to be calculated. A worst case scenario has been presented to provide a robust assessment. The principal design parameters that affect the traffic generation are summarised below in Table 5.6-4.

Table 5.6-4 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Relevant to the Onshore Transport Impact Assessment

Potential Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Construction & Decommissioning

Changes to Construction A minimum construction period of 37 months has been assessed. Extending the Programme programme would reduce the trips per day on the network, therefore a robust assessment has been undertaken. It has been assumed that 5.5 days per week construction is undertaken in line with normal practices of a scheme of this size.

Changes to the Size and The assessment includes AIL components of a weight of 108 tonne by 7.8 m in Number of AIL Components length and a width of 3.75 m. This represents a maximum envelope to provide for a robust assessment.

Changes to Construction The assessment assumes a worst case of excavating all cable trenches and Methodology removing any excess excavated material to provide a worst case flow of HGV trips on the road network.

Operation

N / A N / A

5.6.2.29 The assessment is based upon construction traffic estimates derived over the estimated 37 month construction period for all three elements of the modified OnTI (Transmission Owner substation, MORL substation and export cables). The estimated construction traffic movements are provided in full in the Transport Assessment and are summarised in Table 5.6-5. Traffic flows have been assigned to the road network using the likely supply of construction materials and supply of labour.

5.6-8 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – A981west of theB9028 A948west of theB9028 Deer B9170 westofNew C121BC295 westof of Cuminestown C29S south of Cuminestown west B9170 B9027 the east of A98 A947of theB992 south A947of Turriff north Fintry of south B9105 C7s westof Gorrachie of Foulzie C92S east Keilhill A947 near B9121 of south A97 B9038 of the west A98 Fiskaidly of south B9121 A98 west of Boyndie ConstructionTrafficFlows Location Survey Table 5.6-5

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson Time Period 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 24 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours 12 Hours Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

Cars /Lights Vehicles 21 23 23 21 10 16 23 23 10 16 2 3 0 2 3 0 0 9 4 0 6 3 3 0 0 0 9 4 0 6 3 3 0 0

HGV 13 26 42 13 26 54 68 30 92 28 27 50 42 34 77 54 68 30 92 28 27 50 34 77 0 8 0 7 7 0 0 7 7 8

Total Vehicles

5.6-9 5.6-9 14 29 62 14 29 54 77 34 98 31 30 50 30 30 62 43 94 54 77 34 98 31 30 50 30 30 43 94 0 8 0 0 0 8

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

EIA Methodology

5.6.2.30 The assessment has been undertaken in accordance with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) ‘Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic’ (1993). The IEMA guidelines include details on how the sensitivity of receptors should be assessed. Using that as a base, professional judgement was used to develop a classification of sensitivity for various receptors. The guidelines also identify the key effects that are most important when assessing the significance of traffic effects from an individual development: Table 2.2 of Volume 11, Section 2, Part 5 of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) entitled ‘Assessment and Management of Environmental Effects’ sets out four levels against which the magnitude of these effects should be assessed – major, moderate, minor and negligible.

5.6.2.31 The receptors that may be subject to any traffic effects arising from the construction of the OnTI are likely to be settlements along the construction traffic route and construction traffic routes. These settlements are classified by size, function, presence of school and community facilities, traffic calming or traffic management measures, vehicle speed limits and position on the roads hierarchy, using the criteria identified in Table 5.6-6. This classification is based upon professional judgement and relative sensitivity to the potential traffic effects of the modified OnTI.

5.6.2.32 Identification of receptor sensitivity requires the definition of both baseline conditions and estimation of conditions for the appropriate year of assessment. Each receptor will have a different value and level of sensitivity to change. Quantification of environmental effects is easier for some receptors than others. Traffic noise has been extensively researched and methods of measurement developed. Other effects such as severance are more subjective as there are no current proven or reliable techniques for study. Table 5.6-6 provides descriptions of receptor sensitivity based on DMRB guidelines HA 205/08 ‘Assessment and Magnitude of Environmental Effects’.

5.6.2.33 For many effects there are no simple rules or formulae which define thresholds of significance and there is, therefore, a need for interpretation and judgement on the part of the assessor, backed up by data or quantified information where possible.

5.6.2.34 The IEMA guidelines identify general thresholds for traffic flow increases of 10 % and 30%. The guidelines also suggest that 30 %, 60 % and 90 % changes in traffic levels should be considered as “slight, moderate and substantial” effects respectively with regard to severance and intimidation. It is also generally considered that traffic flow increases of less than 10% are negligible, given that daily variation in background traffic flow may vary by this amount. Based on these guidelines and perceptions, the magnitude of the effect can be estimated for the traffic based effects using the criteria in Table 5.6-7.

5.6.2.35 To determine the overall significance of the effects, the results from the receptor sensitivity and impact magnitude classifications are correlated and classified using the scale summarised in Table 5.6-8. For the purposes of this assessment effects of Moderate or above are significant under the EIA Regulations.

5.6-10 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – 5.6.2.36 Construction Impact Assessment MatrixforDeterminationofSignificanceEffect Table 5.6-8 ImpactMagnitude Table 5.6-7 ReceptorSensitivity Table 5.6-6 Negligible Low Medium High Magnitude Sensitivity >90% increase intraffic High Negligible Low Medium High Sensitivity

network. Table 5.6-9 illustrates the percentage increases in flows. im percentage the determine flows to traffic has beencompar The construction traffic

High io elgbe elgbe Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Minor Negligible Minor Moderate Negligible Minor Moderate Minor Major Moderate Major Major 60% - 90% increase in traffic increasein - 90% 60% Medium

be little affected by additional traffic. additional by affected little be would thatadjacent trunk roadsormotorways settlements new strategic including withTypically receptors importance little with andrarity.To roads no include significantaccommodate composition. HGV to roads, trunk constructed and orA-class traffic measures management or traffic calming orno facilities orservices,with little areas orpublic community sitethe orneighbouring settlements site).To smallrural with include few (on- scale onalocal rarity and medium importance with or low receptors Typically use byHGV ofregular traffic.capable orBclass roads, A local measures and trafficmanagement or trafficsome calming withsettlements facilities areas andservices, orpublic community containing some rural sized intermediate include To substitution. for potential limited with and medium im with or high receptors Typically frequent usebyHGV. accommodate to roads,constructed not rural measuresandminor calming facilities,traffic signals,withwaiting areas control restrictions, andloading traffic settlementshighnumber services containing and ofcommunity a andpublic rural large include To substitution. for potential limited with and scale national with receptorsTypically importance high andrarity and onaninternational Description Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Medium Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

30% - 60% increase in traffic increasein - 60% 30% Low

ed against ed theagainst futurebase(2018) year pact on construction traffic on the road onthe pact traffic on construction

Low portance and rarity on a regional scale scale onaregional rarity and portance

0%- 30% increase intraffic Negligible Negligible

5.6-11

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.6-9 Construction Traffic Peak Month Percentage Impact (Average Weekday)

Survey Location Time Period Cars / Light HGV % Total Vehicles Vehicles % Increase % Increase Increase

A98 west of Boyndie 12 Hours 0% 5.48% 1.08%

24 Hours 0% 4.74% 0.91%

B9121 south of Fiskaidly 12 Hours 1.24% 50.94% 10.10%

24 Hours 1.01% 43.55% 8.33%

A98 west of the B9038 12 Hours 0.28% 8.25% 1.42%

24 Hours 0.23% 7.20% 1.18%

A97 south of B9121 12 Hours 0.28% 12.23% 2.38%

24 Hours 0.24% 11.76% 2.06%

A947 near Keilhill 12 Hours 0.11% 9.50% 1.50%

24 Hours 0.09% 8.04% 1.22%

C92S east of Foulzie 12 Hours 0% 0% 0%

24 Hours 0% 0% 0%

C7s west of Gorrachie 12 Hours 3.45% 90.91% 22.82%

24 Hours 2.88% 76.92% 19.10%

B9105 south of Fintry 12 Hours 0.84% 28.57% 5.88%

24 Hours 0.69% 25.00% 5.06%

A947 north of Turriff 12 Hours 0.18% 3.51% 0.66%

24 Hours 0.14% 2.97% 0.53%

A947 south of the B992 12 Hours 0% 1.03% 0.18%

24 Hours 0% 0.84% 0.14%

A98 east of the B9027 12 Hours 0% 6.89% 1.53%

24 Hours 0% 6.04% 1.31%

B9170 west of Cuminestown 12 Hours 0.19% 6.47% 1.44%

24 Hours 0.15% 5.57% 1.18%

C29S south of Cuminestown 12 Hours 0.57% 16.67% 3.27%

24 Hours 0.45% 13.98% 2.62%

C121B west of C295 12 Hours 10.34% 91.30% 24.90%

24 Hours 8.40% 77.78% 20.39%

B9170 west of New Deer 12 Hours 1.75% 1.85% 1.77%

24 Hours 1.39% 1.61% 1.43%

A948 west of the B9028 12 Hours 2.61% 3.49% 2.78%

24 Hours 1.97% 2.92% 2.13%

A981 west of the B9028 12 Hours 0% 0% 0%

24 Hours 0% 0% 0%

5.6-12 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.6.2.41 Delay Driver /Pedestrian 5.6.2.43 Amenity Pedestrian 5.6.2.42 5.6.2.45 5.6.2.44 Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – 5.6.2.38 5.6.2.37 5.6.2.39 5.6.2.40 Severance

works areongoing areas.the affected at isshort Thiseffect traffic. of overall along theaccessroutewithin and FintryCuminestownand due low tothe volumes to accommodate the safe movement ofconstr movement safe the accommodate to road network although localised improvements may beintroduced where required due to the limited passing opportunities along the narrow sections of the B/C Class There is the potential for limited driver delay during the peak construction phases and temporary only when construction worksare ongoing in theimmediate areas. amenity hasnotamenity beenreached in any lo summarised in the Transport Assessment, th Therefore, based on the estimated two-way percentage increases in HGV traffic of the threshold described in the Manual for Environmental Assessment(MEA). The magnitude of impact the onpedestrian amenity has been considered in terms alongtheroute. receptors capacity spare alon issignificant There although the increase in HGV movements on the B9170 is lower at 6.47%. considered to beclose to the threshold. pedestrian delayimpact is therefore estimatedbeof to the local vicinity. considered lived only short and temporary islikely of to be With mitigation measures in place through the CTMP the pedestrian amenity impact footwa Pedestrian demand. pedestrian There arecurrently no pedestrian facilities along C7sthe and C121B and limited is considered low when spread over the over the whenspread low is considered The maximum number of additional HGV movements per day is92 on the A947. This whichare andC29s B0105 with along above than 30% on B9121 /C7s / C121B. The critical links are therefore considered be to the increase by to predicted not are flows traffic total guidelines, IEMA tothe reference With more than 30% on any link although HGV levels will increase by more equates to approximately 11 movements per hour. environmental criteria identified by the IEMA identified criteria environmental fo carried hasbeen out evaluation A route 5.6-3 foreaseofreference. and intimidation effect is estimated to be of /fear severance daily total flows, the traffic A).Basedon two-way average 5.6 the of 8.3 is inTable C121B summarised the / / / C7s C29s /B9121 B9105 along the receptors affecting flow in increase The traffic be anticipated. capacity issues associ network andnolink is si there that indicates capacities link of theroad network. Thecomparison of the low number of trips Thisreflects C121B. / / C7s / C29s /B9121 B9105 by the in assessment the represented roadnetwork the impact of that greatest the indicate and the results conditions for weekday was impact undertaken review The Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson minor significance construction traffic will be on the B/C Class sections of on B/CClass sections be the will traffic construction Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray lived and temporary only when construction when construction only and lived temporary at theat receptors route alongand the is gnificant spare capacity on the local road road on local the capacity gnificant spare Transport Assessment(Technical Appendix course ofadayon anAClass roadand development traffic flows with theoretical with flows traffic development theoretical cations although the C7s and C121B are and particular HGV trips on these sections sections on these HGVtrips and particular g the links assessed and the driver / driver and the assessed links g the ys are available within Cuminestown withinCuminestown available ys are r the minor road netw r theminor ated with the construction traffic would traffic would construction ated with the occurring during construction periodsin occurring duringconstruction e threshold forchanges to pedestrian guidelines. This is summarised in Table inTable Thisissummarised guidelines. considered to be sensitive locations. sensitive locations. be to considered minor significance uction Thise traffic. uction minor significance ork against thekey against ork ffect is short lived lived isshort ffect at the receptors receptors the at at the the at

5.6-13

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Accidents and Safety

5.6.2.46 Accident data was analysed along the B9105 / B9121 / C7s / C29s / C121B with the overall number of accidents considered to be low.

5.6.2.47 Due to the width of the route it will be necessary for construction vehicles to maintain a low speed along the minor road network. Construction working will also be limited to daytime working with the aim of further reducing the accident risk. With mitigation measures in place the accidents and safety impact is therefore estimated to be of minor significance at the receptors along the route. This effect is short lived and temporary only when construction works are ongoing at the affected areas. Dust and Dirt

5.6.2.48 There are no specific guidelines to determine magnitude of effect of dust and dirt although its impact is likely to be limited to the immediate vicinity of the site access junctions, with mitigation proposed to ensure that the effect is of minor significance. This effect is short lived and temporary only when construction works are ongoing at the affected areas.

Operation

5.6.2.49 No operational traffic measures have been assessed due to the very low levels of traffic associated with this phase.

Decommissioning

5.6.2.50 The decommissioning phase is not considered as disruptive as the construction phase and as such no separate assessment has been undertaken.

Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation Construction

5.6.2.51 All mitigation measures are detailed in the Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) and AIL Route Survey Report (RSR) contained in Technical Appendices 5.6 C and 5.6 D).

5.6.2.52 The proposed access strategy has been designed to minimise the effect of construction traffic on rural C and U Class roads. Where possible, access junctions relating to the modified onshore export cable route will be positioned on the A and B class road network.

5.6.2.53 During the construction period the applicant will maintain a website containing the latest information relating to traffic movements associated with vehicles accessing the site. This will be agreed with the local roads authority.

5.6.2.54 The following measures are recommended in terms of site operation and maintenance during the construction phase:  All materials delivery lorries (dry materials) will be sheeted to reduce dust and stop spillage on public roads; and  Specific training and disciplinary measures will be established to ensure the highest standards are maintained to prevent construction vehicles from carrying mud and debris onto the carriageway, wheel wash facilities will be established at the site entrance.

5.6-14 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.6.3.4 5.6.3.3 Chapter 5.6 – Traffic and Transport and Traffic 5.6 Chapter – 5.6.3.2 5.6.3.1 Summary 5.6.3 5.6.2.61 Decommissioning 5.6.2.60 Operation 5.6.2.59 5.6.2.58 5.6.2.57 5.6.2.56 5.6.2.55

Cumulative Impact Assessment Assessment Cumulative Impact Cumulative issues relating to the operat the to relating issues Cumulative significant. not be will effects cumulative the thus are not accounted for by the use of High NRTF factors in the future year flows and No committed developments are located within the vicinity of study the area that effects at identified receptors. receptors. identified at effects highly unlikely that anycumulative transport issues wouldresult changes to the Development Areas, beundertaken at samethe time as the OnTI it is considered undertaken withrespect to theMORL threeconsented wind farmsor MORL Western Should any construction wor assessment ofcumulative effects isde and onshore developments foreseeable inconj OnTI modified arisingfromthe effects This section presents the results of assessment of the potential cumulative transport Impact Assessment. time.that Similar measures to the construction phase are proposed and will be investigated at No mitigation measures areconsidered necessary. through the CTMP to mitigateagainst airpollution. Wherever possible, contractors will be encouraged useto lowemissions vehicles free running. close siteto accessjunctions ensureto thethat roadnetworkiskept clean and on deployed be also would A roadsweeper supply clauses in the principalcontractor’s contract. Cuminestown, NewDeer and NewBlyth during peakschool hours through the use of from trav isdiscouraged traffic construction In order to mitigate against pedestrian be required to pass through sensitive areas at low speed. will and drivers issues specific orcausing may be any speeding that vehicles identify id fitted with be will vehicles Construction speed. and excessive The CTMP sets out measures to be put in place to reduce the effects of noise,dust Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

ks associated with other developments,including those Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ional phase are not considered significant. considered not are phase ional amenity impacts, it is recommended that that isrecommended impacts, it amenity entification numbers to allow the public to to public the allow to numbers entification scribed inChapter 1.3: Environmental elling through settlements such as Fintry, asFintry, settlementssuch through elling unction with other existing or reasonably orreasonably existing other with unction the various sections of the roadnetwork of the sections various the activities. MORL’s approach to the

5.6-15

CHAPTER 5.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.6.4 References Aberdeenshire Council (2012) Local Transport Strategy 2012. The Highways Agency, Scottish Government, Welsh Assembly Government Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru and the Department for Regional Development Northern Ireland. Volume 11, Section 2, Part 5 of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) ‘Assessment and Management of Environmental Effects’. Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEMA) (1993). Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic. Nestrans (2013) Regional Transport Strategy. The Scottish Government (2005) Planning Advice Note 75: Planning for Transport. The Scottish Government (2010) Scottish Planning Policy 2010. The Scottish Government (2013) Draft Scottish Planning Policy.

5.6-16 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.5.1.4 Consultations 5.5.1.3 5.5.1.2 Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics MORLApproach 1 Planning Policy and ConsultationResponse Marine Scotland Organisation Table 5.5-1SummaryofConsultationResponses 5.5.1.1 Introduction 5.5.1 5.5 5 up in production.” up inproduction.” the and produced and services goods of value the between difference between output and output between difference

Gross Value Added isdefined Value Added by theGross Office forNational

Human Environment

Socio-Economics

Baseline Information Baseline Information    Table 5.5-1Table summarises below consultati the route and theonshore two substations be sited to at NewDeer. the modifiedexport cable landfallat Inverboyndie, the modifiedonshore export cable whole is also considered. For the tourism analysis,the focus is on the potential effect of a as Scotland on impact economic likely the investment, of scale the given although smaller geographical areas.Effects beyond for provided been has detail more available, is it where data, some For data. providing Localauthority areas are used because they provide the mostcommon basisfor related businesses and potential supply chain. corridor. Aberdeen City and Highlands arerelevant given numberthe of energy- route cable modifiedexport the to authorities closest are the Aberdeenshire Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City Local Authority areas(Figure 5.5-1). Moray and used in(2012) the MORL ES and isdefined ascovering the Moray, Highlands, The analysis uses several geographic areas. The main study areais samethe aswas socio-economics: baseline ofsocio-economic baseline This section describes the existing socio-economic environment and sets out a

and anddeprivation; prices, education house suchaspopulation, indicators Social Tourism indicators including the number of visitors and profile. andprofile. of visitors number including the indicators Tourism Economic indicators including empl including indicators Economic demonstrated. Ditto regarding economic multipliers. additionally, displacement and leakage should also be of concepts the of anduse consideration Clear useful. be would structure employment and structure industry the on information Background area. marketcatchment labour the of definition clear a see to helpful be would it that, geographica range scales. ofappropriate Towith assist decommissioning also beThey should phases. reported at and O&M construction, the for separately presented gross andnet GVA impacts. Boththese be ofshould andnetemployment thegross include the impacts, and satisfactory. summary,we would In expectthe ESto The socio-economic aspects ofthis scoping report are Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson intermediate consumption

indicators. These relate to: to: relate These indicators. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray oyment and Gross Value Added (GVA) andValueoyment Gross Added for any given sector/industry. That is the difference istheThat difference sector/industry. given forany cost of raw materials and other inputs which are used which areused other inputs and materials ofraw cost Statistics(2007) inits Productivity Handbook as“the the study area are likely to be weaker, weaker, to be likely are area study the on responsesreceived with regards to informationbaseline 5.5.1. market structure isincluded inthe Section 5.5.2.Data onthe labour economic Impact Assessment multipliers are discussed inthe and leakage Displacement, supported bythe investment. gross employment and GVA the as presented are assessments Results ofthe economic 1 ; 5.5-1

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

Aberdeenshire This part of Aberdeenshire has a very different tourism The assessment provides a more Council market to that of the Highlands/Inverness and for the detailed review of tourism assets terrestrial element of the EIA it would not be appropriate to within Aberdeenshire, although use a baseline based on data covering the Highlands. Both tourism numbers are only available Sandend and Inverboyndie are very popular and well used at a regional level. by people for walking, surfing etc. The most significant impact is likely to be disturbance/closure during Assessment recognises that construction and the installation of the cable and this Inverboyndie is well used and should be addressed as part of the mitigation. considers the impact of disturbance/closure.

Baseline Characteristics

5.5.1.5 The study area includes the cities of Aberdeen and Inverness with a series of smaller towns along the Aberdeenshire and Moray coast where the export cable comes onshore (Figure 5.5-1). The nearest town on the Moray coast is Buckie (population 8,100). The cable lands in Aberdeenshire at Inverboyndie a beach, close to Banff (population 3,900) and Macduff (3,700). Close to Inverboyndie beach, to the west, is Whitehills, a small fishing village with a population of around 1,000. The largest settlement further east is Fraserburgh (12,500). Inland, the closest town to the modified onshore export cable route corridor is Turriff (4,800), with a number of much smaller villages such as Cuminestown and Aberchirder close by.

5.5.1.6 Aberdeenshire Council and Aberdeen City Council areas are characterised by high levels of income (well above the Scottish average), higher house prices and higher proportions of the population working in oil and gas-related jobs. Banff and the Banffshire coast are designated as a priority regeneration area in the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2012.

5.5.1.7 Aberdeenshire has a particularly fast rate of population growth. Incomes are lower in the Highland and Moray although unemployment rates in all four local authorities have been below the Scottish average since 2004.

Desktop-Based Studies

5.5.1.8 All the baseline data has been updated from that described within the MORL ES (MORL, 2012). Data is the most up to date available although in some cases this can be several years old. Population

5.5.1.9 Across the study area the total population was 806,300 in 2012, whilst the number of working age people (aged 16 to 64) stood at 529,000 (Office for National Statistics, 2013). This represented 66% of the study area population, slightly higher than the equivalent figure for Scotland as a whole (65%). Aberdeen City had the highest proportion of working age residents (71%) across the study area, whilst Aberdeenshire (65%) was in line with the Scottish average and the Highlands and Moray were below (63% and 63% respectively). In these latter two authorities, the proportion of the population over 65 is slightly above the national average.

5.5-2 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment

Chapter 5.5 –Socio-Economics UnemploymentRateswithintheStudy Area Plate 5.5-1 2014c) Statistics, (Office ofNational Source: 5.5.1.10 Unemployment

for recent years suggests that unem that suggests years for recent increaserecession the pronounced wasless steadilyfell between 2004 and2008,afterand thoughrose they theof onset the authorities have been below the Scottish average.Unemployment rates generally local four in rates all unemployment Since2004, 1997. until average Scottish the than higher consistently was unemployment where Highland is exception The 2014c). average since 1994, asdepicted in Plate 5.5-1 (Officebelow of National Statistics, Scottish the below been generally have area study in the rates Unemployment Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl for Farms Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ployment isonceagain ployment falling. than acrossScotland as a whole. Data 5.5-3

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Gross Value Added (GVA)

5.5.1.11 There is a large difference in the GVA per head generated in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire compared with the more rural Moray and Highland areas, as shown in Plate 5.5-2 below (Office of National Statistics, 2012b). This mostly reflects the very high value added of the oil and gas sector. GVA per head in Caithness & Sutherland and Ross & Cromarty is under half that of Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire, at a level below the figure for Scotland as a whole. GVA per head in Inverness & Nairn and Moray, Badenoch & Strathspey is also below the average for Scotland as a whole.

Source: ONS (2012b) Regional Accounts Plate 5.5-2 GVA per Head (NUTS2 3 Geographies within the Study Area)

Individual Median Earnings

5.5.1.12 Nationally, earnings increased steadily between 2002 and 2009, followed by a period to 2012 when they remained broadly stable, as shown in Plate 5.5-3 below (Office of National Statistics, 2014b). In Aberdeen, earnings increased in all years between 2002 and 2013, whereas Aberdeenshire suffered a fall in earnings between 2009 and 2011, with the Highlands also experiencing a small dip in earnings in 2010. In Moray, earnings fell between 2006 and 2008. Nationally and across all local authorities in the study area, earnings once again rose in 2013. The strength of the oil and gas sector has been important in maintaining both employment and earnings in the north east.

2 Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics – this is the system of geo-coding adopted for EU countries

5.5-4 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5 –Socio-Economics 5.5.1.14 House Prices IndividualMedianAnnualGrossPay2002-2013 Plate 5.5-3 analysis -resident ofHoursandEarnings Survey (2014b)Source: Annual ONS 5.5.1.13

and earnings had aslightly lower median house (£130,000).price were also well above themedian of £130,050. in Prices Aberdeen City(£160,000) national and in(£140,000) Highland figure. Moray,around Aberdeen. The median of £188,000 was well above the Scottish national with lower levels ofAberdeenshire, from where high earners commu GVA per head beforeMoray. Aberdeenshireand Aberdeensawpric prices prolonged and Highlands in being most the fall the area, with study in the authorities local four all across slightly decreased subsequently prices House recession. started be just in2008 onwards, peaking 2003 picture(Registers to of Scotland, 2013).There were sharp increases in house prices from riseThe pattern of house prices in the study area has closely followed the national again. The highest median prices in 2012 were in Median earnings inAberdeenare ar below. significantly Morayare Scottish Highland and particularly the median, while In absolute terms, median earnings in Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl for Farms Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ound 29%higher than in Moray. Aberdeen andAberdeenshire are wellabove fore the financial crisis and subsequent financialcrisisandsubsequent fore the es dipforonlyasingleyear,in 2009, te to oil and gas related jobsinand oiland te gasrelated to 5.5-5

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Education

5.5.1.15 Table 5.5-2 below sets out the highest level qualifications among the working age population, for each of the local authorities in the study area (Office for National Statistics, 2014a). Aberdeen City is the only local authority to have a higher proportion of its working age population (aged 16-64) educated to NVQ 4+, though every local authority with the exception of Moray have a greater proportion educated to NVQ 3+. All the areas are above the national average for qualifications equivalent to NVQ 2+ and NVQ 1+, and all have a lower proportion of people with no qualifications compared with the national average.

Table 5.5-2 Qualifications Jan 2013 – Dec 2013 by Local Authority area (% of pop aged 16-64)

Aberdeen City Aberdeenshire Highland Moray Scotland

NVQ 4+ 45.5 39.3 38.7 32.6 39.4

NVQ 3+ 64.9 61.9 62.1 55.2 59.3

NVQ 2+ 79.3 75.1 76.2 75.0 73.7

NVQ 1+ 85.6 86.0 87.4 86.9 83.4

None 7.1 7.9 6.6 7.3 10.3

Source: ONS (2014a) Annual Population Survey

Deprivation

5.5.1.16 One of the key measures of quality of life is captured by the indices of deprivation. Though not directly comparable, each index is based on the concept that dimensions of deprivation such as income, employment, education and health can be identified and measured separately. These dimensions, sometimes referred to as 'domains', are then aggregated to provide an overall measure of deprivation for each individual area. It should be noted that in more rural areas such as the Highlands, these scores are often not considered to be as accurate or reflective measures of deprivation as they are for urban areas.

5.5.1.17 Plate 5.5-4, below, shows that quality of life in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire compares positively with the Scottish benchmark (Scottish Government, 2012). Forty- one per cent of the neighbourhoods in Aberdeen are in the best 20% in Scotland and 13% in the worst 20%, whilst the figures for Aberdeenshire are 35% and 2% respectively. Whilst Highland and Moray have fewer deprived neighbourhoods than the Scottish benchmark, only 9% of neighbourhoods in Highland and 13% of neighbourhoods in Moray are in the best 20% in Scotland. Every local authority, nevertheless, has a higher proportion of neighbourhoods that are in the best 20% in Scotland than neighbourhoods that are in the worst 20% in Scotland.

5.5-6 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.5.1.19 Employment Chapter 5.5 –Socio-Economics 5.5.1.18 Proportionofneighbourhoodsinthe bestandworst20%inScottishIMDrankingsby Local Authority Plate 5.5-4 2012 Deprivation of (2012)Index Multiple Scottish Government Source: Scottish

changing status ofRAFKinloss.changing status and the decommissioningofDounreay of the asaresult isdeclining of by both these supported employment However, decade. last this activity employment/economic Highland and RAFairbasesthe inMoray) ha some of the local towns and villages. Equally several large employers(Dounreay in sectors, suchasfishing and isrela tourism employment is above the Scottish average. Although the number of jobsin some Moray, of inhe proportion employment the is import more tourism while Aberdeenshire, Moray and 5.5-3. inboth isamajoremployer and drink production Food National (Office for areas inboth important are occupations andtechnical scientific professional, whilst Aberdeenshire, Oil and gas-related employment is import line with the national average(55%) (Scottish Household Survey, 2012). 55% nationally),with (66%) asdoHighland indicators,Aberdeenshire scores well above the Scottish average(67% compared neighbourhood asa“verygood”place to neighbourhood andreports the percentage ofresidents that rate their Separately,the Scottish Hous Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl for Farms Stevenson

ehold Survey 2012 collects residents’ views of their of their views residents’ collects 2012 Survey ehold Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray tively low, these are important jobs within and Moray (66%). Aberdeen City scoresin City (66%).Aberdeen and Moray alth and education (mostly public sector) sector) public (mostly education and alth ant inAberdeen aand lesser to extent ve been crucial in maintaining levels of levels in maintaining crucial been ve ant in Highlands. Highlandthe andIn Statistics, 2012a). This is shown in Table ThisisshowninTable 2012a). Statistics, live. In common with many of the 5.5-7

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Table 5.5-3 Employment by Sector for the Study Area and for Scotland (BRES data 2012)

Industry Aberdeen City Aberdeenshire Highland Moray Scotland Agriculture, Forestry & 100 2,900 2,000 700 82,400 fishing Mining & Quarrying (Oil & 23,900 3,900 400 100 32,600 Gas Production)

Manufacturing 12,800 12,200 7,100 5,700 183,400

Electricity & Gas Supply 200 300 400 - 14,600

Water Supply & Waste 400 500 1,700 200 17,600

Construction 5,600 8,800 6,100 2,500 125,000

Retail 20,100 14,600 15,800 5,700 354,400

Transport & Storage 7,400 3,500 5,300 1,200 96,300

Accommodation & Food 11,900 6,100 11,800 2,400 167,100 Services Information & 3,300 900 2,000 200 58,100 Communication

Financial Services 2,000 900 1,300 400 91,300

Real Estate 2,000 1,000 1,500 400 33,300

Professional, Scientific & 24,900 10,100 5,100 1,000 172,500 Technical Business Administration & 15,600 9,900 5,800 1,400 182,700 Support Services Public Administration & 7,700 3,800 5,700 2,400 145,500 Defence

Education 9,700 7,200 7,800 3,000 179,700

Health & Social Work 25,300 9,800 18,100 5,400 376,200

Arts, Entertainment, Recreation & Other 6,000 4,600 5,000 1,700 113,200 Services

Column Total 176,800 101,000 102,800 34,500 2,425,900

Source: ONS Business Register and Employment Survey (2012a) Note: Data Rounded to 100

5.5.1.20 Employment categorised as “professional, scientific and technical services” is also important in Aberdeen, much of this relates to the oil and gas sector. It includes, for example, engineers, chemists, technicians, designers and architects.

5.5.1.21 Plate 5.5-5 below uses four digit Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) data to show the key sectors in the study area and their importance relative with Scotland as a whole. It shows the importance of the oil and gas sectors and engineering, driven by Aberdeen, and the significance of tourism, which is largely in the Highlands.

5.5.1.22 Employment in Aberdeen City in support of activities for petroleum and natural gas extraction, engineering activities and related technical consultancy and extraction of crude petroleum comes to approximately 37,000, just over a fifth of the workforce. There is a similar pattern in Aberdeenshire with a high proportion of employment in engineering and oil and gas support.

5.5-8 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5 –Socio-Economics KeySectorsintheStudyAreaRelativetoScotland Plate 5.5-5 RegisterSource: ONSBusiness 5.5.1.23

food manufacture, distilling, primary and secondary education. andsecondary education. primary food manufacture, distilling, the hazardous waste treatment at Dounreay. In Moray the dominant activities are in hospital activities. Highland In there isahighproportion of hotel employment and in ofemployment a high proportion have three all though Aberdeen, to different importantis note It that to theemployment and Employment Survey (2012a) (2012a) Survey and Employment Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl for Farms Stevenson Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray structure in Highland and Moray is quite 5.5-9

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Supply Chain

5.5.1.24 This section considers some of the recent activity in the supply chain in Scotland.

5.5.1.25 A study carried out by Scottish Renewables (Scottish Renewables, 2013) estimates that there were a total of 11,695 full time equivalent posts in renewable energy in Scotland in 2013. Of these, 1,842 work on offshore wind projects.

5.5.1.26 A report into the UK offshore wind supply chain (BVGA, 2014) notes several examples of recent supply chain activity in Scotland. For example, David Brown Wind UK has plans for a gearbox assembly facility close to Samsung Heavy Industries’ proposed facility at Methil, in Fife. The Wind Towers Scotland operating tower manufacturing facilities in Campbeltown is one of only two sites in the UK, whilst Tata Steel has supplied steel plate for turbine towers from its facilities in Motherwell.

5.5.1.27 For the modified TI components the BVGA (2014) report describes the current capacity of the UK (not Scotland) supply chain.  Subsea export cables – there has been no UK supply of subsea export cables to offshore wind to date;  HVAC substations - most HVAC substations installed in the UK have been designed and built in the UK; and  Subsea cable installation - a small number of vessels have been made in the UK and some vessel modification has been undertaken in the UK. The UK has world- class expertise in cable installation equipment and there are competitive operators.

5.5.1.28 Scotland also has a number of programmes that aim to support the supply chain. In 2013, Scottish Enterprise (SE) launched its Scottish Innovative Foundation Technologies (SIFT) fund, a £15m programme to support the demonstration of foundations for water depths of 30 m or more in return for an assurance that manufacturers will set up production facilities in Scotland. There is also support available for demonstrating new turbines, including the £35m Prototyping for Offshore Wind Energy Renewables Scotland (POWERS) fund to target inward investment for offshore wind turbine manufacturers. The Scottish Government, furthermore, is introducing new Renewable Obligation Certificate (ROC) bands to support offshore test and demonstration sites deploying innovative turbines or floating turbines.

5.5.1.29 Scottish Development International is working to try and secure inward investment in related manufacturing in Scotland. This will take time to establish the production facilities and then to demonstrate to the market that products are reliable. For the construction phase, Scottish-based firms appear well placed given the strong engineering base and oil and gas experience in the North Sea, however, the availability of suitable vessels and logistics could be a constraint. One of the largest interventions to support the supply chain has been the projects identified in the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan (Scottish Enterprise and Highlands & Islands Enterprise, 2010). This is supported by a £70m National Renewable Infrastructure Fund (N-RIF) within the SE area and with a commitment of support for specific investments in the Highlands and Islands.

5.5.1.30 As well as a number of announcements relating to potential inward investment to support offshore wind, there are a number of other related activities. Glasgow has been chosen as the location for the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult centre and the Green Investment Bank is in Edinburgh. Two potential suppliers, offshore engineering firms Technip and Subsea 7, have established renewable divisions in Aberdeen.

5.5-10 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.1.38 5.5.1.37 Skills Development 5.5.1.36 5.5.1.35 5.5.1.34 5.5.1.33 5.5.1.32 Supply Chain Development -MORL Activities 5.5.1.31

facilities to support the offshoreactivities associated with project delivery. servic engineering activities, and fabrication understanding to facilitate discussions about the use of NiggEnergy Parkfor assembly In April Ener MORLand Global 2014, engineering and energy related jobs. relevant subjects and there are about 3,000 new apprenticeship starts each year in postgraduates, while Scotland’s Colleges su around 8,000 undergraduates in related subject areas along with 3,000 are there that estimates It qualifications. 3 level ofNVQ equivalent the jobs require project management, welders, turbine technicians and divers. Themajority of these an structural (marine, civil, structural, requirements for thesector and reported that the main skills gapsare in engineering Development Scotland, 2011). This isbeing updated in 2014. describes It mainthe An action plan for energy hasbeen developed by Skills Development Scotland(Skills overlaps with oilthe and gasindustry. engineers, planners, welders, divers, technicians and vessel crew. There are major consultants, from environmental ofdevelopment, phases different across the skills. right with ofpeople the availability chain be the supply in Scotland will of the effectiveness of the part A related Aberdeenshire. been signed with local ports which are suitable for these purposes, including onein the summer MORLwill announce otherthat memoranda of understanding have long-term operations and maintenance of the Consideration hasalso beengivento the the appropriate entry point to the supply chain. focussed inawaywhich willallow localco isintended it information-sharing Through HIE andSE. by provided services support business other access to forenabling aforum provided put local companies in direct contact with a range of likely tier 1suppliers and at companies local 300 than More MORL. events in Aberdeen, InvernessWick, and organised by HIE and SEon behalf of engage recently,this Most existing localenterpri with commercial aspects other and various and project development timescale sh has involved Scotland. This bring to newmarkets inthe compete to necessary actions the andtake diversify to enterprises existing enable to which isintended in andSE orde HIE MORL isworkingwith raisingevents. asawareness aswell Audits Manufacturing launched the OffshoreWind Expert promote the opportunities fromoffshore developed supply chaindatabases to better number of other initiatives supportto the supply chain. Both agencies have More generally, SEandHighlands and Isla Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ses through collaboration with HIE andSE. ment included a series of supply chain engagement Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray d mechanical) leadersh aring information about contracting strategy, strategy, contracting about aring information The jobs created will require a range of skills ofskills arange will require jobscreated The r to deliverr aprogrammeto of engagement tended, and the events enabled MORL to enabled events tended, andthe that supply chain development can be Help programme and Offshore WindHelp programme andOffshore gy Group signed amemorandumof gy Groupsigned es, onshore provide to andport useof the wind and other renewables. SE has has SE renewables. other and wind pportaround 25,000 to30,000 learnersin nds Enterprise (HIE)nds Enterprise have undertaken a mpanies to participate competitively at competitively participate to mpanies use oflocalportsandharbours forthe understand where gapsareandthe to which offshorewinddevelopment will facility, and it is expected that over over that is expected andit facility, ip and management, 5.5-11

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Tourism

5.5.1.39 Tourism is an important part of the Scottish economy. The tourism sector contributes approximately £3 billion in GVA and employs over 180,000 people in over 13,000 tourism-related businesses across the country (Scottish Government, 2014). Despite difficult economic conditions and significant international competition, the industry has proved resilient and is playing an important role in supporting the economic recovery.

5.5.1.40 Using a different methodology, a recent Deloitte & Oxford economic report (Deloitte and Oxford Economics, 2013) on the 'tourism economy' estimates that, in Scotland, the sector accounted for around £11.6 billion GVA (10.3% of Scotland’s GVA) and 292,000 jobs (10.9% of the workforce) in 2013.

5.5.1.41 There are several factors that differentiate tourism from other industries, which make it particularly important in relation to wind farm developments. The first is that it is often disproportionately important in rural and more remote parts of the country. It is one of a few industries that help retain population and income in these areas. The second is that many of the jobs it supports require fewer technical skills and qualifications.

5.5.1.42 Its importance to Scotland means that the tourism sector is one of a number of priority industries identified by the Scottish Government, SE and HIE. The national tourism aims are set out in “Tourism Scotland 2020” (The Scottish Tourism Alliance, 2013), which aims to grow annual overnight visitor spend to £6.5bn.

5.5.1.43 In the study area, the baseline employment data indicates that tourism is of greater importance in Moray and Highland, where the hotel and restaurant sectors comprise a higher proportion of the businesses and employment. Each of the areas has its own characteristics, but the coast is a major part of the tourism offer for Aberdeenshire in particular.

5.5.1.44 The impact of the modified TI construction and operation is an important effect to consider, particularly for the areas immediately located around the onshore substations and the modified export cable route corridor. There is no research on the potential effects of transmission infrastructure on its own; it is usually linked to the potential effects of wind farms. However, a report for the Welsh Government (Regeneris, 2014) notes that in relation to infrastructure; “Wind farm specific studies as well as more general tourism research have found that wind farms tend to be ranked fairly low amongst the factors that could detract from tourism experience. However, electricity pylons tend to be ranked more highly than wind farms as having a negative effect on landscape value”.

5.5.1.45 The Regeneris study like several studies for VisitScotland (2012) finds that the majority of tourists are neutral about wind farms and do not expect their future visiting behaviour to be affected. The proportions reporting that they were less likely to visit as a consequence of a wind farm development are typically small.

5.5.1.46 In 2013 (the most recent data) Scotland attracted just under 15 million visitors a year of which 12 million were from within the UK (6.3 million were from within Scotland). Visitors in total spent nearly 63 million nights in Scotland and spent just over £4.6 billion (VisitScotland, 2014).

5.5.1.47 Although tourism is less important in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire than in the Highlands overall, in particular areas – and for specific communities – it can be a major source of income and employment. The most recent tourism figures from VisitScotland for the relevant areas are shown in Table 5.5-4 (VisitScotland, 2013).

5.5-12 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.1.49 5.5.1.48 Source: GBTSandIPSdata2012SourcedfromVisitScotland(2013b) Scotland &Grampian Aberdeen Highland Highland,Aberdeen&GrampianTourismData(2012) Table 5.5-4 5.5.1.53 5.5.1.52 5.5.1.51 5.5.1.50 Tourism characteristicsoftheImmediate Study Area

special scientific interest. interest. scientific special one of whichone connects the townnearby to marina with 47 berths. It holds an annual regatta. It also offers a number of walks, (13%) Francesecond(11%). with Overseas vi The strongest markets for overseas visitors to Aberdeen & Grampian are the USA a of3.4total forScotland. Great anaverage of2.5 Britain stay nights nightscompared with Aberdeen and Grampian where Visitors is 5.7.this from within Site of Special Scientific (SSSI).Site ofSpecial Scientific Interest other the Melrose Whitehills to from coast The come cable will export offshore The modified mainattrac inland while the coast The north of Aberdeenshire combines fishing towns, villages and beaches on the electricity, 20stances for tents or to Behind the beach is the Banff Links Caravan Park which has 38 touring stances with as apopularbeach whichattracts walker recommended by the Marine Conservation Soci Whitehills. and Banff between which lies domestic visitors are fromScotland. are domestic visitors Scotland as awhole,whereas in Aberdeen & Grampian over three-quarters of divided fairlyevenly are tourists Domestic Tourism Partnership(2014). from are adapted descriptions following The

Overseas Visitors Overseas Visitors Overseas Visitors Total Visitors (GB) Domestic Total Visitors (GB) Domestic Total Visitors (GB) Domestic Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

tions are castles and distilleries. anddistilleries. castles tions are Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray uring andanon-site caravans shop. Whitehills has aredeve between English and Scottish visitors across across visitors andScottish English between inAberdeen& Grampian compared with Inverboyndie isaBlue Flag beach and Number Nights Number Expenditure sitors Scotland anaverage to of7.9 stay 14.98m 60.82m £4,292m 12.75m 43.32m £2,891m VisitScotland and Banffshirethe Coast Banffalong foreshore asitethe – of 2.23m 17.5m £1,401m 0.28m 1.59m £133m 0.39m 1.43m £116m 1.71m 5.2m £392m 1.43m 3.61m £259m 2.26m 8.27m £509m 1.87m 6.84m £393m ashore at Inverboyndie (Boyndie Bay) at ashore Inverboyndie side of Banff and Macduff is listed asa is listed Macduff ofBanffand side s, swimmers, surfersand windsurfers. ety. It is described by VisitScotland by isdescribed It ety. loped, village-owned loped, village-owned 5.5-13

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

5.5.1.54 Banff is a Georgian town which attracted Robert Burns in the 1700s. Highlights include Banff Castle and Duff House (home to a permanent collection of art from the National Galleries of Scotland). It is possible to take a guided tour around Banff which takes in many architectural highlights, and the town’s old harbour has recently been developed as a marina. There is an annual arts festival held in Banff in May and several walks nearby.

5.5.1.55 West of Banff lies Macduff, where commercial fishing vessels continue to come in and out of port and land their catch on the quayside. There is always a significant amount of activity at the local shipyard, where boats undergo construction or repair on the slipway. The town is also home to the award-winning Macduff Marine Aquarium. Further east of Macduff, lie Gardenstown, Crovie and Pennan – three picturesque villages – and the nearby RSPB bird reserve at Troup Head. Seabird City at Troup Head, is home to tens of thousands of birds – gannets, puffins, shags, kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills.

5.5.1.56 Further inland and just south of the modified onshore export cable route corridor is Turriff, home to one of Scotland’s best-known annual agricultural shows attended by up to 40,000 people. Just a few miles outside of Turriff lies Delgatie Castle.

5.5.1.57 Portsoy, west of Inverboyndie, stages the annual Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Traditional Boat Festival, which attracts up to 16,000 people each year – one of the region’s biggest events. Nearby there is Glenglassaugh Distillery as well as Findlater Castle. Dolphin tourism

5.5.1.58 According to the Banffshire Coast Tourism Partnership Programme, the Moray Firth is home to a population of around 130 bottlenose dolphins which is a draw for UK and international tourists. There are around ten identified popular viewing points to see the dolphins, one of which is located at Inverboyndie Beach in Boyndie Bay, where the modified TI will come onland. Sixteen different species of cetaceans – whales, dolphins and porpoises – and other marine life have been recorded in the stretch of water.

5.5.1.59 In 2010, The Moray Firth Partnership commissioned Aberdeen Centre for Environmental Sustainability (ACES) to undertake a study to Value the Tourism Expenditure related to the East of Scotland Bottlenose Dolphin Population (Aberdeen Centre for Environmental Sustainability, 2010). The study estimated that the total direct expenditures related to the bottlenose dolphin population was at least £10.4 million, but around a third would potentially be spent elsewhere in Scotland even in the absence of opportunities to see these dolphins. It estimates that the additional tourism expenditure that depends on the presence of the east of Scotland bottlenose dolphin population was at least £4 million, supporting approximately 202 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) jobs. The study found 33% considered seeing dolphins as the main reason for their visit. Estimates were based on a 526 person survey of visitors to recognised dolphin viewing locations and centres around principally the Moray Firth. The bulk of dolphin tourist expenditure is received by general tourist providers around the Moray Firth region, particularly Highland (61%) and Moray (14%).

5.5.1.60 There are approximately 12 dolphin and wildlife watching boats and cruises operating around the Moray Firth, some of which sail from Banff, Macduff and Buckie. The tours allow tourists to get close enough to the dolphins – albeit at a safe distance – to take photographs. Visits to see the marine life along the Banffshire coast are often accompanied by the WDCS Wildlife Centre in Spey Bay and the Macduff Marine Aquarium.

5.5-14 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.1.62 Surfing 5.5.1.61 Sailing 5.5.1.68 5.5.1.67 5.5.1.66 5.5.1.65 5.5.1.64 Legislation andPlanning Framework 5.5.1.63 Walking and Cycling

Note (2008). development would also qualify asaNational Project under the proposed NPF3. The Energy”. Renewable Scotland’s Future: a Renewable “Securing statement grow the Scottish economy and, more particularly, with the published policy Scottish Planning Policy(2014). This fits with the priority of the Scottish Government to a result of, forexample changes in the electricity market. of oraccount anyloss employment economic would be associated or supportedThe economic element of this assessment focuses on the scale of employment that by the MORL Modified TI. This does not take into Additionality Enterprise’s and Scottish Partnerships (now Homes the and Communities Agency) Additionality Guide(2008) economic impact published by agencies including HM Treasury Green Book, English The methodology usedheredrawsong weight significant “attach should system The Scottish Planning Policy Consultation(2014) Draft considers thethat planning The concept of economic benefit is explic recognising andresponding economic an to asa development material consideration, throughout throughout the year, although Inverboy to the west at Lossiemouth. There areno estimates of the number of surfers the north east coast”. There are also surfing beaches further east at Fraserburgh and described by website the ‘Welcome Scotland’ to as“one of the best surfing spots on popular on souththe sideof the Moray is Against “surfing Sewage that fromSurfers aquote reports Scotland, 2011) (Marine There are a number of sites on the south side of Moraythe coast. Marine Scotland more detailin Chapter 5.2: ShippingandNavigation. relaterisks thatAssessment of types andthe Data on recreational craft use was collecte was accepted in support of the consente The methodology here is the same as was used for MORLthe (MORL, ES which 2012) impacts, or in guidelines statutory nospecific are There any other stat corridor. cable modified fromFyvi route and acircular path coastal Tourism Pa Coast Banffshire bythe described addition to In cablecorridor. are the modified the walking routes, routes sixcycling and east from Gardenstown, and Crovie are more There ofAlvah. Bridge and the popular circularroute inwhich takes the Wh walk fromBanffto coastal the corridor are crossorcome prox The walks to close that Banffshire coast. There is nodata on the number of people walking these routes. id TourismPartnership The Banffshire Coast Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson utory or advisory guidanceon utory oradvisory the preparation ofEIAs. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ndie is one of the most popular.ndie isoneofthemost & Economic Impact Guidance Assessment d windfarms andOfTI to Fraserburgh. imity modifiedthe ofonshore cable export grounds of Duff House, the RiverDeveron the grounds ofDuffHouse, Pennan, these arefurther but away from coastal walks to the west, around Cullen Cullen around west, the walksto coastal entifies over 30 walking routes 30 walking along the over entifies e to Turriff via Cuminestown will cross the will Cuminestown via Turriff to e for the assessment of socio-economic for assessment the d as part of the Shipping and Navigation itly confirmed in the draft consolidated draft consolidated in the confirmed itly d financial conditions” (paragraph 17). d financial conditions” to economic benefit of proposed ofproposed benefit economic to ood practice guidance for assessing particularly particularly the creation of newjobs, rtnership.Of these theroute alongthe to recreational use are considered in Firth”. Thebeach at Inverboyndie is itehills. Away from the coast, there is a is a coast, Away from there the itehills. activity that mayoccur elsewhereas 5.5-15

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

5.5.1.69 The scope of the economic element of the assessment is to estimate the significance of the employment and GVA that would be associated with the expenditure made in relation to the construction, operation and decommissioning of the modified TI investment. This is subsequently referred to as the economic impact.

5.5.2 Impact Assessment Summary of Effects and Mitigation

5.5.2.1 The socio-economic effect of the modified TI is limited to the construction, operation and decommissioning of the:  Supply and installation of 2 Offshore Substation Platforms (OSPs);  Supply and installation of offshore export cables; and  Supply and installation of onshore cables and substations.

5.5.2.2 The total number of jobs supported at its peak in the study area is anticipated to be between 40 and 220 and, in Scotland, between 160 and 250 during construction. This employment is relatively short term lasting up to five years.

5.5.2.3 While both the Base Case and High Case results are shown for employment and GVA, the assessment is undertaken using the Base Case results, given their higher degree of certainty than those associated with the High Case.

5.5.2.4 During construction the employment and GVA effects are considered to be major positive, while there is a minor negative effect on tourism and recreational walking as a result of the temporary construction close to the shore at Inverboyndie.

5.5.2.5 During operation the effects on employment and GVA are considered to be minor positive while the other effects are negligible. During decommissioning the effects are the same as for construction. Proposed Mitigation Measures and Residual Effects

5.5.2.6 As there are no significant negative effects identified in the assessment, there are no mitigation measures and the residual effects are as the assessment conclusions. Table 5.5-5 below summarises the impact assessment. Table 5.5-5 Impact Assessment Summary

Effect Receptor Pre-Mitigation Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect Effect

Construction

GVA Businesses Major (+) None Major (+)

Employment Residents/businesses Major (+) None Major (+)

Leisure Tourism Visitors/businesses Minor None Minor

Business Tourism Visitors/businesses Negligible None Negligible

Walking Residents/visitors Minor None Minor

Surfing & Sea Kayaking Residents/visitors Negligible None Negligible

Operations

5.5-16 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.5.2.11 5.5.2.10 5.5.2.9 Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics Negligible Minor(+) Negligible None Negligible None None Minor(+) 5.5.2.8 Negligible None Minor(+) Negligible None Negligible 5.5.2.7 Minor(+) ImpactIntroduction to Assessment Residents/visitors Visitors/businesses Negligible Minor(+) Surfing &Sea Kayaking Visitors/businesses Negligible Businesses Residents/businesses Walking Residents/visitors None Negligible None Business Tourism None Minor(+) Negligible None Leisure Tourism Minor(+) Negligible None Employment Negligible GVA Minor(+) Minor Residents/visitors Decommissioning Visitors/businesses Surfing &Sea Kayaking None Visitors/businesses Businesses Residents/businesses Walking Residents/visitors Business Tourism Minor Leisure Tourism Employment GVA Minor Pre-Mitigation Receptor Effect None Minor

     employment that could be suppo could employment that representsIt the“best estimates”, thisat time, ranges of the of expenditure and The modified TI elements considered in this assessment are: assessment inthis considered elements TI The modified and Navigation. Commercial Fisheries. Recreational sailin inChapter4.2: discussed fully fishing are potential recreational aspects related to fis Recreation includes the effects onsurfing, seakayaking and walking. There arealso may not reflect the actual procurement decisions when they are made. should be successful (Aberdeen,Aberdeenshire, Moray and It is not possible or isnot possible It have will TI modified the that effects of significance used the estimate to methodology details of the This section provides

The approach assessingto effect ofthe project expenditure; and Supply and installation of 2OSPs; The approach to assessing the effect on tourism and recreation. Supply and installation of Supply and installation of on

considered as indicative of pattern the of expenditure anticipated, but contractors might be or where they they where or be might contractors

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson appropriate forthisanalysis to offshore export cables;and offshore export shore cables and substations. rted. This chapter is presented in two parts covering: covering: parts two presentedin is chapter This rted. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

on the economies that make up the study areastudy make upthe economiesthat on the

Highlands) andonScotland asa whole. Fish and Shellfish Ecology and Chapter 5.1: and Fish andShellfish Ecology Chapter g is discussed in Chapter 5.2: inChapter Shipping g is discussed Effect Effect hing and sailing. The effects onfishand effects The hing andsailing. might be based. The assessment assessment The bebased. might provide an indication of who the ofwhothe anindication provide Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect Effect 5.5-17

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

5.5.2.12 This chapter contains relevant information on the modified TI to allow Aberdeenshire Council and Marine Scotland to make decisions on the applications for consent.

5.5.2.13 The Socio-Economics, Recreation and Tourism assessment interacts with assessments for the following receptors and where relevant linkages have been made within the assessment:  Chapters 3.1: Hydrodynamics Sedimentary and Coastal Processes;  Chapters 4.3: Marine Mammals;  Chapters 5.1: Commercial Fisheries;  Chapters 5.2: Shipping and Navigation; and  Chapters 5.3: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Assessment. Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment

5.5.2.14 Relevant parameters defining the ‘Rochdale Envelope’ for Socio-Economics, Recreation and Tourism are presented in Table 5.5-6 below. The maximum foreseeable adverse scenario for Socio-Economics relates to the minimum predicted expenditure in transmission infrastructure to export energy from the three consented windfarms. Therefore these parameters are based on an indicative layout and outputs from financial models carried out by MORL which are available at the time of writing this assessment.

5.5.2.15 Tourism impacts relate to the maximum predicted seascape, landscape and visual effect and for recreation the maximum number of structures / longest modified export cable route option. Table 5.5-6 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Relevant to the Socio-Economics, Recreation and Tourism Impact Assessment

Potential Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Construction, Operation & Decommissioning

Employment and GVA For employment and GVA impacts, uses the minimum predicted expenditure, in the local area and Scotland, to transport energy from the three consented wind farms. This provides the minimum jobs and GVA supported in these areas:  Maximum of 2 OSPs;  Two onshore substations with the following dimensions (280 m x 180 m and 290 m x 170 m by 12.5 m high);  Screening to be agreed;  Both unmanned;  Modified offshore export cable route corridor of 52 km from the three consented wind farms to landing;  Cable Trench width 4 m;  Target depth 1 m;  Maximum working width 60 m; and  Inverboyndie (length from shore to onshore substations at New Deer) 33 km.

Tourism and Recreation For tourism and recreation uses, maximum predicted seascape, landscape and visual effect/maximum number of substructures/longest modified export cable route options.

5.5-18 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.2.21 Impact Assessment MatrixofSignificanceEffect Table 5.5-7 5.5.2.20 EffectMagnitude of 5.5.2.19 Sensitivity of Receptor 5.5.2.18 Significance Criteria 5.5.2.17 SignificanceCriteria Assessment of 5.5.2.16 EIA Methodology

Sensitivity High High Medium Low

are not included aspart of the modified considered to be inseparable from the three consented wind farms. Therefore they VisualLandscape and Impact Assessme are included here, the visual effects of OSPs the areconsidered by the Seascape, OSPs of the expenditure the with associated and GVA employment the Although negligible, orhighandthe low, medium orguidance number isnospecific There low, medium or high, the scaleanddurati is of negligible, magnitude effect the whether as to assessment anoverall To determine lengthof time that theeffect will last. project’sthatby the wouldbesupported ex assessed directly from the estimates of number the of jobsand the value of GVA is effect Insome cases the of effects. andduration scale the primarily factors, The magnitudeof the effectwithin study the dependarea willnumber on a of the levelsofunemployment, skillsand business capacity. using professional judgement based on overviewthe of the economy, forexample, defined is Sensitivity changes. to are receptors sensitive how considers criterion This duration). These effects canbecharacte (i.e.receptor the economy) with the magnitude of the predicted effects(scale and on isbased ofsignificance assessment The terms. inEIA assignificant orabove isregarded effect moderate 5.1-7. asshowninTable significance overall The assessment combines conclusions on sensitivity and magnitude produce anto scopedescription of the 8.6.5 ofChapter 8.6: Socio-Economics, Re The methodology adopted is the same asoutlined in the (2012)MORL ES (Section

Magnitude Negligible Moderate Major Major Major Major Moderate Negligible Major Moderate Minor Negligible High Medium Negligible Moderate Minor Minor Low Negligible Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

and limitations analysis. ofthe

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray conclusion is a professional judgement. isaprofessional conclusion on of effect are considered together. considered together. are of effect on TI assessment for tourism and recreation. for tourism assessment TI rised as positive, negative orneutral. that defines whether the magnitude is magnitude the whether defines that combining the degree of sensitivity ofthe ofsensitivity degree combining the nt (SLVIA) (seent Chapter5.3) andare creation and Tourism). This includes the the includes This andTourism). creation For the purposes of this assessment a assessment of this the purposes For penditure. relates Theduration to the 5.5-19

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

5.5.2.22 In order to assess the employment and GVA that could be generated in Scotland and in the Study Area, estimates of expenditure were made by MORL, based on the best knowledge to date of the likely expenditure on each of the components of the modified TI investment. Given the uncertainties involved, this was done under two scenarios:  Base Case - the total value of contracts that have been delivered, or are expected to be delivered, from within each geography, assuming the current supply chain.  High Case – the total value of contracts that could be secured by firms based in Scotland (and the study area) with a stronger supply chain. This assumes that where Scottish-based firms are not currently in a position to tender for work, (but there is good reason to expect them to be in the future), they are successful.

5.5.2.23 Despite Base Case and High Case results being shown for employment and GVA, the assessment is undertaken using Base Case results given the higher degree of uncertainty associated with the High Case. Displacement, Leakage and Multipliers

5.5.2.24 Displacement occurs where the new or supported economic activity created is at the expense of economic activity somewhere else. For example, if the new jobs and GVA created by constructing the modified TI were to reduce employment and GVA in other businesses at a local level, the economic activities supported through the investment are likely to be new and additional. The potential for displacement to result from supply bottlenecks, for example where several projects are developed at the same time, is considered in the Cumulative Impacts section.

5.5.2.25 Leakage occurs when the benefits of the investment do not accrue within the study area. For example where the investment supports jobs elsewhere. The analysis has been careful to use information from MORL about their expenditure with specific business sites from where goods and services would be delivered and not simply the companies that they may use. This means that the local employment and GVA should occur at these sites and should therefore exclude any leakage.

5.5.2.26 In addition to the direct employment effects, it is also important to consider the indirect and induced multiplier effects that the development investment will generate.  Indirect effects – as suppliers increase output to meet the additional demand for their goods and services, there will also be a resultant increase in demand on their own suppliers and so on down the supply chain.  Induced effects – as a result of the direct and indirect effects, household incomes will increase in line with the increased employment created by the development directly and throughout the supply chain. A proportion of this increased income will be re-spent on other goods and services creating employment.

5.5.2.27 Both the employment and GVA estimates include multiplier effects. The Scottish Input-Output Tables (Scottish Government) have been used to produce ratios of turnover to GVA for the different industries that would be likely to be contracted to carry out this work. Details of the calculations and the multipliers used are set out in the MORL ES (2012) (Section 8.6.6 Socioeconomics, Recreation and Tourism).

5.5.2.28 The assessment does not include land lease payments or compensation that may be made to landowners.

5.5-20 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.5.2.33 Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics Sensitivity EmploymentEffectSummaryduringConstructionofModifiedTI Table 5.5-9 5.5.2.32 5.5.2.31 EmploymentEffectsinJobYearsforModifiedTransmissionInfrastructure Table 5.5-8 5.5.2.30 5.5.2.29 during Co Employment Effects Construction Study Area) Base Case Scotland (Including Study Area High Case High Case Base Case

activities are expected to besourced from either therest of the UK oroverseas. area rising to218 under theHigh Case. In Case,Base there areestimated arou be to multiplier the including year, peak In the of the substation work is expected to come Scotland asawhole this is from 560to 920.Under Basethe case, while aproportion of jobyears isanticipated be aroundto total area,the Base study Case, under number For the TI the modified expenditure. Table 5.1-8 below summarises the projected employment associated with the Base Case supports around 162jobs and HighCase 251.the employment are therefore considered be of to high sensitivity. for the economic healthof unemployment and availabilitythe ofempl attached importance ratesto of empl Employment is acoremeasure of soci employment employment under eachofthescenarios. through the construction period, although it is substantial. Table 5.1-9 shows the peak supplyand the to inrelation Employment substations. offsho ofOSPs, installation and supply the described. TI modified of the elements three The employment effects relate to the jobs associated with the expenditure on the

Study Area Scotland Scotland Study Area Direct Indirect Direct + High Case High Case High Case High Case Base Case 510 280 790 580 340 510 280 920 90 50 140 310 240 560 Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson nstruction of Modified TI induced induced communities, the Study Area Study the communities, Construction Phase (Peak Employment in 2018) in (PeakConstruction Phase Employment Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray Total Direct Total Direct Indirect + iet niet+idcd Total Indirect +induced Direct (indirect and induced effects), under the under effects), andinduced (indirect re and onshore export 140,and 790 under the High Case. For oyment and unemployment. Levels of of Levels andunemployment. oyment 140 78 218 158 93 251 Scotland(including study the area) the oyment opportunities are very important are opportunities oyment very important 26 14 40 26 14 90 72 162 o-economic activity, in reflected the installation of the modified TI lasts only only TIlasts modified ofthe installation Employment will be supported through supported be will Employment from within Scotland, other installation installation Scotland, from other within nd jobsfrom40 within study the local andScotland. Changes in induced induced andonshorecables Total 5.5-21

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Magnitude

5.5.2.34 Within the study area the assessment suggests that employment associated with the modified TI, under the Base Case, is more short term than that supported by the operation of the wind farms. The employment effects from construction last only until 2021. Even so, there is the potential for a relatively large number of jobs to be supported depending on the contracts that are secured by businesses in Scotland.

5.5.2.35 At both the level of the Study Area and in Scotland, these levels of employment in the Base Case are considered to be of medium magnitude. Significance

5.5.2.36 Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments, the employment associated with the modified TI in the Base Case is considered a major positive effect and is therefore significant in terms of the EIA. GVA Effects during Construction of Modified TI

5.5.2.37 Table 5.1-10 provides a summary of the GVA effects for the Study Area, Scotland and the rest of the UK under the Base and High Cases. For the study area, it is estimated that the modified TI will generate £15 million in GVA under the Base Case and £71 million under the High Case, including the multiplier effects.

5.5.2.38 In Scotland the modified TI would generate GVA of between £56 million and £81 million, including the multiplier effects. The difference reflects the potential levels of local and national supply. Table 5.5-10 GVA Effects in £ Millions (2014 prices) during Construction of Modified TI

Study Area Scotland

Direct Indirect + Total Direct Indirect + Total Induced Induced

Base Case 10 5 15 33 23 56

High Case 48 23 71 53 28 81

Sensitivity

5.5.2.39 GVA represents the difference between the value of goods and services produced and the cost of raw materials, from which is paid wages, salaries and profits. It is therefore a core measure of economic wealth. Wages, salaries and income are all important elements in determining quality of life for residents in the study area and in Scotland. Sensitivity to changes in GVA is therefore considered to be high. Magnitude

5.5.2.40 The magnitude of the GVA generated by the modified TI in the Base Case, both at the Study Area level and in Scotland, is judged to be medium. The figure of £15 million is signficant although a relatively small proportion of the overall GVA for the local area.

5.5-22 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.5.2.41 5.5.2.43 5.5.2.42 Leisure Tourism during Construction of Modified TI Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.2.44 Significance 5.5.2.46 5.5.2.45 5.5.2.48 5.5.2.47

  considered to be of expenditure of with onconstruction the Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments, GVA the effect associated the EIA. EIA. the The analysis distinguishes between two types of effect: ofeffect: types two between analysis distinguishes The and recreation. for tourism assessment TI modified ofthe aspart included also not are Therefore they (seeconsented windfarms Chapter 5.3 Seas Landscape Visualand Impact Assessment(SLVIA) be to inseparable from the three excludes any visual impacts from the OSPs which were considered by the Seascape, volume and value of tourists visiting the study area and Scotland. The assessment on the of TI modified effect the considers the analysis ofthe The tourism element onshore substations will or will be permanent, onshore substations the cable laying will be temporary(lasting access to the sea and/or areas of land during construction.While impactsthe of There is potential for exportthe cable laying activity offshore, and onshore, limit to users of the Whitehills marina. The number and nearby staying those users, beach on impact to likely are temporary effects diversions for walking routes,noise and from the construction workitself. These the beach, and close to shorethe while cables are laid. There will require to be disruption for visitors. These are likely be to cable route will not cause permanent changes to these assets but some temporary of construction The andwhisky. cycling coast, castles, walking, the wildlife, environment, areits unspoilt Aberdeenshire offe tourism of the mainstrengths The of this ES,and this has not been considered as part of the tourism assessment. Assessment Visual and Landscape Seascape, 5.3: Chapter in is provided receptors visual A full assessment of the visual effects of the modified TI on seascape, landscape and effects are predicted on dolphin tourism. tourism. ondolphin are predicted effects nosignificant andtherefore (Chapter ofES) Mammals this Marine 4.3: TI modified the predicted on bottlenosethe MorayFirth dolphin population from ofthe construction th mammal assessment states marine The screeningwill mean that theireffect on tourismwillbe limited. very are The onshoresubstations ofyeartheworkwilltime bedone.

Indirect effects removalor the of those assets. factorssuch as closure include This could way, paths,scenic areas and soon) which the new development may cause. Direct effects watching) during construction, operation or decommissioning of the modified TI. ofthe ordecommissioning operation construction, during watching) ormari coastal terrestrial,or injuryto land and seascapes. Therecould also be to changes in amenity through the permanent or temporary modification of onlocaltourism‘assets’(e.g. physicalchanges public to rights of Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson on local tourism assets. In this ca major positive permanent constructions,ho Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

significance, and therefore significant in terms of in terms significant and therefore significance, at least for the lifetime of the project. of project. for the the lifetime least at the modified offshore and onshore export export andonshore offshore modified the only during theconstruction phase),the direct effects, direct limiting access parts ofto of people of people this will the modified TI in the Base Case Case is Base TIinthe modified the r on Banffshirecoast the and North at no significant long term effects are are effects term long significant at no cape,Visual Landscape& Assessment). ne wildlife interests (e.g. for wildlife wildlife (e.g. for interests ne wildlife or diversion ofaccess tourismto assets effects asaresult of anydisturbance se, indirect effects mainly relate mainly relate effects se,indirect wever their location and wever theirlocation affect depends on the depends affect 5.5-23

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

5.5.2.49 Tourist sensitivity will be low when laying the cable further offshore. Nearer to the shore, construction will have a temporary impact on tourists visiting the coast, walking, staying in the caravan park or using the beach and marina. Sensitivity of tourists to the construction is considered to be medium.

5.5.2.50 The magnitude of the effect (which takes into account the level of effect, its duration and the number of people that are affected) relative to the study area is likely to be low as the effects will be temporary and the number of tourists affected small, relative to the overall tourism numbers in the study area as a whole. Together this indicates minor significance. Business Tourism during Construction of Modified TI

5.5.2.51 The construction of the modified TI will generate some new trade for tourism related businesses locally. This would include accommodation, bar and restaurant services. The level of business tourism activity locally will be sensitive to the business that this would create, although the magnitude of the effect is considered to be negligible. This indicates negligible significance.

5.5.2.52 A summary of the effects on tourism during construction of the modified TI is shown in Table 5.5-11.

Table 5.5-11 Tourism Effect Significance during Construction of Modified TI

Sensitivity Magnitude Significance

Leisure Tourism Medium Low Minor

Business Tourism Medium Negligible Negligible

Walking during Construction

5.5.2.53 The proposed route crosses the coastal walk between Whitehills and Banff and access may be limited for a short period during the export cable laying. The route will be used mainly by local day visitors along with tourists in the summer. Inland the construction of the substations will cause some disruption around New Deer, although it does not affect the Formatine and Buchan long distance routes which pass through Maud.

5.5.2.54 Sensitivity to the construction phase is medium for walkers using the coastal route, but the temporary nature of the work means that the magnitude is low and the significance is considered to be minor. Surfing and Sea Kayaking during Construction

5.5.2.55 For surfers, the surfing wave quality is critical to the attraction of a location. The landfall point near a surf spot could interfere with the waves and installation of the export cables could restrict access. Sea kayaking, like surfing, also requires access and appropriate sea conditions. Any effect would be at Inverboyndie beach where the export cable comes ashore, but would be a temporary effect. The sensitivity of surfers and other recreational sea users during construction would be medium, but the magnitude of the effect would be negligible given the short duration and relatively small number participating. Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments, the recreation effect associated with the modified TI is considered to be negligible.

5.5-24 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.2.57 Employment Effects during Modified TI Operation Operation TourismEffectSignificanceduringConstructionofModifiedTI Table 5.5-12 5.5.2.56 5.5.2.60 5.5.2.59 Tourism Effectsduring modifiedOperation TI 5.5.2.58 5.5.2.61 Business Tourism Effects during Modified TI Operation Surfing, Sea Kayaking Kayaking Surfing, Sea Walking

Table 5.5-12 below. shown in are TI ofmodified construction during effects recreation A summary of the considered tobe employment as part of a maintenance and security contract. There is therefore and its maintenance essentially TI, whichis the modifed ofoperating costs onthe data expenditure is noseparate oper the and modified TI, ofthe maintenance The employment effectsrelateassociated thejobs to operations with the and effect is assessed as being of asbeing isassessed effect export cables will be buried and therefore have no effect on leisure tourism. The the operation area.During study in the of on tourists number the an effect have and th of tourists significantnumbers attracts be the onshoresubs will on tourism effect an have could that TI modified of the element only The buried. condition,where reasonably practicable, and onshore the export cables will be Inve at landingpoint the inoperation Once area andScotland. study the visiting of tourists andvalue volume consid The tourism analysis ofthe element considered tobe the expenditure and GVA associated with construction. There is therefore to low relative be will this although GVA, support whichwill services ofthese provision for tendered becontracts will there that islikely it inoperation, once TI modified separate expenditure data available for the maintenance and security of the The effect onGVA during operation is similar to employment. Although isthere no would be operation during effect of the significance The TI. modified the with associated expected During operation isnot there in Table 5.5-13. negligible Medium Negligible Minor Negligible Low Medium Sensitivity Magnitude Sensitivity Significance minor positive minor positive Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson tations. The onshore substations tations. Theonshoresubstations . Asummary of the tourism effects during operation areshown

negligible significance for both significance forboth employment. significance forGVA under the Base Case. security. This is likely to Thisis likely security. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray significance. significance. ers the effect of the modified TI on the TI modified of the effect the ers beanyrelatedto business tourism rboyndie will be returned to its previous previous to its returned be rboyndie will ation of the onshore substations. There There substations. onshore of the ation erefore it is not considered that it will it will itthat is considered not erefore are not located in an area that support a support small amount of

5.5-25

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Table 5.5-13 Tourism Effect Significance during Modified TI Operation

Sensitivity Magnitude Significance

Leisure Tourism Medium Negligible Negligible

Business Tourism Medium Negligible Negligible

Walking

5.5.2.62 A direct effect on walking would occur where the modified TI would limit access or use of paths. During operation, the export cables will be buried and have no effect on access to walking routes. The onshore substations are not located where they would impact on recreational walking routes and the magnitude of the effect would be low. This indicates a minor significance. Surfing & Sea Kayaking

5.5.2.63 During operation, the offshore export cables would be buried and would have no significant effect on waves (see Chapter 3.1: Hydrodynamics, Sedimentary and Coastal Processes) and surfing activity. The effect is considered to be negligible.

5.5.2.64 A summary of the recreation effects is shown in Table 5.5-14.

Table 5.5-14 Recreation Effect Summary during Operation of Modified TI

Sensitivity Magnitude Significance

Walking Medium Low Minor

Surfing, Sea Kayaking Medium Negligible Negligible

Decommissioning Employment and GVA Effects during Modified TI Decommissioning

5.5.2.65 The employment effects relate to the jobs associated with the decommissioning of the modified TI. There are no separate estimates of the employment of this part of the decommissioning work which would take place alongside the decommissioning of the three consented wind farms. The estimate for the full decommissioning is included in the wind farms impact assessment described in the MORL ES (2012) (Chapter 8.6: Socio-Economics, Recreation and Tourism). However, it should be noted that, although not quantified, a small proportion of these jobs could be attributed to the modified TI, and therefore this is considered to be of minor positive significance for both employment and GVA under the Base case. Tourism Effects during Modified TI Decommissioning

5.5.2.66 As was covered in the construction phase, the tourism element of the analysis considers the effect of the modified TI decommissioning on the level of tourists visiting the study area and Scotland. As was identified in the construction phase there is the potential for the removal of the onshore export cables and substations to limit access to the areas of land (and sea shore).

5.5-26 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Surfing &SeaKayaking 5.5.2.69 Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics Walking TourismEffectSignificanceduringModifiedTIDecommissioning Table 5.5-15 5.5.2.67 5.5.2.72 5.5.2.71 5.5.2.70 5.5.2.68 Business Tourism during Modified TI Decommissioning 5.5.2.73 Business Tourism Leisure Tourism

operation are shown in Table 5.5-15. A summaryof decommissioningthe wouldtourism during benegligible. effects of during Thesignificance be the limited. effect to beexpected would TI with modified the associated tourism business related decommissioning any During together this indicates a some diversions for users. The magnitude of the effect would therefore be low. Taken medium. be would work this to sensitivity accessing parts of route the temporarily. Forusers, or potential users of walk, the and Banffand decommissionin the Whitehills wo route cable export onshore modified TI would limit access or use of paths. As described for the construction phase, the occur would onwalking effect A direct considered to be negligible. Combined negligible. to be considered the work and relativelythe small number of tourists means that the magnitude is path and potentially some limitations to boat use. However the temporary nature of There is likely to be temporary disruption to access to part of the seashore, coastal associated with the modified TI is considered to be be to isconsidered modified with TI the associated effect recreation the assessments, magnitude and sensitivity the Combining negligible. be would magnitude the that in the st population of proportion the small time. Forbothsurfing and sea-kayaking, the temporary nature of the work and the is beach although the case this In affected. magnitude of effect the relates its to scale,its duration and numberpeople the of The medium. be decommissioning to TI isconsidered modified the to Sensitivity sea conditions which couldbe disrupted temporarily. Seabeach isrestricted. kayaking, likesur quickly the work can be completed, the time of year and how much access to the onand only of part the beach. Themagn decommissioning, although temporary, wo The modified export cable route will come ashore at Inverboyndie and shown in Table 5.5-16. during effects A summary recreation of the EIA. of the terms

Medium Negligible Negligible Medium Negligible Negligible Sensitivity Magnitude Sensitivity Significance Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson minor significance. significance. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

, significance is considered to be be to , isconsidered significance where the decommissioning of the modified modified decommissioningof the the where The effect would be temporary and require andrequire betemporary would effect The fing, alsorequires access and appropriate udy area that would be affected indicate indicate affected be that would area udy decommissioning of the modified TI are TI modified decommissioningof the well used, the impacts will be for a short beforashort will impacts used, the well itude will of dependonhow the effect uld impactuld on access forashort time, g work could directly prevent users from prevent directly g workcould uld cross the coastal path between pathbetween uld crossthe coastal negligible and not significant in andnot significant negligible 5.5-27 .

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Table 5.5-16 Recreation Effect Summary during Decommissioning of Modified TI

Sensitivity Magnitude Significance

Walking Medium Low Minor

Surfing, Sea Kayaking Medium Negligible Negligible

Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

5.5.2.74 From the assessment above there are no negative effects of moderate or greater significance and therefore no significant adverse effects have been identified. Accordingly, no mitigation is required.

5.5.3 Cumulative Impact Assessment Summary

5.5.3.1 This section presents the results of assessment of potential cumulative Socio- economic effects arising from the modified TI in conjunction with other existing or reasonably foreseeable marine coastal and onshore developments and activities. MORL’s approach to the assessment of cumulative effects is described in Chapter 1.3: Environmental Impact Assessment.

5.5.3.2 The developments and activities considered in detail within this assessment are listed below.  MORL three consented wind farms;  MORL Western Development Area (WDA);  BOWL wind farm and TI; and  SHE – T reinforcement (cable from Caithness to Blackhillock, coming onshore at Portgordon).

5.5.3.3 In relation to the employment and GVA cumulative effects, the timing of expenditure and the supply chain are important. If the development of the modified TI coincides with other demands for similar resources, it could lead to supply bottlenecks with more elements of the development being contracted from outside Scotland.

5.5.3.4 In the case of the modified TI, the supply chain is fairly specialised. There are not likely to be supply constraints caused by work on the main elements of the wind farm construction. The Base Case assumes a relatively small proportion of the TI construction would be sourced locally so this should not be constrained further by supply.

5.5.3.5 Considered cumulatively with the other TI construction (Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm (BOWL) TI and SHE-T) there may be slightly more chance of supply constraints as these projects require many of the same resources. Any effect is unlikely to be significantly large to change the conclusions for the modified TI. Cumulatively the significance for GVA and employment therefore remains major positive during construction and minor positive during operation.

5.5.3.6 For tourism, the projects considered in the assessment of cumulative effects include the three consented MORL wind farms and BOWL and the MORL Western Development Area (WDA). Given the distance between the wind farm sites and visible TI aspects there are no additional or exacerbated visual effects likely to impact on tourism (Chapter 5.3: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Assessment) and so these are not considered.

5.5-28 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.3.8 5.5.3.7 5.5.3.12 5.5.3.11 5.5.3.10 5.5.3.9

The onshore substations for the modified TI for the onshore substations The affected would and of the number tourists more disruption if projectsthe proceeded together, they would still be short term this would impact on the tourism experience. Although there is scope for slightly accesswould disrupt to beaches,the the ne export cable construction together with the BOWLTI and SHE-T reinforcement. These considering the modified when effects cumulative may besome However, there the cumulative significance on tourism remains remains significanceon tourism cumulative the As aresult, MORLTI. modified forthe effect cumulative benosignificant will there substation Blackhillock at where the BOWL cable and SHE-T reinforcement meet and area. study negligible on recreation on the south sideof the Mo For recreation, wind the farms are considered to be too distant to have any impact 5.5.17Table out setsprojects thekeycumulative and the impacts. in operation. remains significance onrecreation the cumulative result As a area. study of inthe tourism in context the small would be affected wouldbe short still and however, of this term the number tourists Together there is scope for moredisruption if theprojects proceeded together, simultaneously, orseparately. (MORL TI, cables TI and BOWL modified recreation forresidentsand visitors. It a short period of time the cumulative effect would be to further limit the options for kayaking sea andfor for surfing, walking. For of beaches use the the affecting path, inaccess disruption exacerbate This would of disruption. and SHE-T reinforcement, which would either exacerbate orextend the periods effects when considering exportthe cable construction together with the BOWL TI somecumulative maybe there However, associated TI. with modified impact the once in operation onceinoperation Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray minor is arguable whether the work on the three three work on the the whether is arguable during construction during to the beaches,to nearshoreandcoastal ray Firthandso will have no cumulative be small in the context of tourism in the in the of tourism context in the small be will be approximately 30 miles from the miles from 30 the approximately will be SHE-T) would be better be SHE-T)taking place would ar shore and coastal paths. Together paths. ar shoreandcoastal minor during construction during

and negligible once

5.5-29 and

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Table 5.5-17 Cumulative Impact Summary

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole Project Assessment: Mitigation Significance Level Method for Modified TI Modified TI + Stevenson, Telford and MacColl Wind Farms

Construction

Employment Major (+) Major (+) None

Total Cumulative Impact Effect remains major positive as development generates new employment. Capacity Assessment constraints from cumulative effects are unlikely to significantly change level of use of anticipated Scottish supply.

GVA Major (+) Major (+) None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Effect remains major positive as development generates new GVA. Capacity (Whole Project plus those constraints from cumulative effects are unlikely to significantly change level of use of developments listed in anticipated Scottish supply. Section 5.5.3.13)

Leisure Tourism Minor Minor None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Cumulatively with the construction of the BOWL export cable route there could be (Whole Project plus those slightly greater limitations, temporarily, on access to the coast. And this could cause developments listed in additional disruption for tourists. However, this would not be sufficient to change the Section 5.5.3.13) assessment of significance.

Business Tourism Negligible Negligible None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Considered together with the other projects, the modified TI will not contribute to any (Whole Project plus those changes in business tourism or availability of services e.g. accommodation. developments listed in Section 5.5.3.13)

Walking Minor Minor None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment The BOWL TI is situated 15 miles further west (onshore distance) and together with the (Whole Project plus those MORL modified TI may cause additional temporary disruption on the coastal paths, but developments listed in the significance will remain minor. Section 5.5.3.13)

Surfing, Sea Kayaking Negligible Negligible None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment The cumulative effects would be most likely if the BOWL TI was developed at the same (Whole Project plus those time. This could reduce options for sea-based recreation slightly, but the temporary developments listed in nature of both projects and the relatively low number affected indicates that the Section 5.5.3.13) significance would remain negligible.

Operation

Employment Minor (+) Minor (+) None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment During operation there will be no supply chain issues as a result of considering the (Whole Project plus those projects cumulatively and the significance remains minor positive. developments listed in Section 5.5.3.13)

GVA Minor (+) Minor (+) None

5.5-30 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics Leisure tourism Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact GVA Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact Employment Decommissioning Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact Surfing, Sea Kayaking Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact Walking Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact Business tourism Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact Leisure tourism Section 5.5.3.13) in developments listed plus those (Whole Project Assessment Total CumulativeImpact Residual Effect/Receptor

elgbe Negligible Negligible (+) Minor (+) Minor (+) Minor (+) Minor Negligible Negligible Minor Minor Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible TI Modified for Level Significance Once operating there are no additional cumulative effects. cumulative additional areno there operating Once Scottish suppliers. constraints from cumulative effects are unlikely to significantly change level of use of Effectminor positive as remains decommissioning generates newGVA. Capacity are to unlikely significantly ofuse change ofScottish level suppliers. Significance remainsminorpositive. Capaci effects. cumulative additional areno there operating Once accommodation. Effects arewill negligible not and oftourism impactonsupply facilities suchas effects. cumulative additional no are There substations. the of presence the through be would impact potential only the operating Once andtheprojects cumulatively significance remainsminorpositive. will beDuring nosupplychainissues there operation asaresult ofconsideringthe Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray Wind Farms andMacColl Telford +Stevenson, Modified TI Whole ProjectAssessment:

ty constraints from the cumulative effects effects cumulative the from constraints ty

None None None None None None Method Mitigation None

5.5-31

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole Project Assessment: Mitigation Significance Level Method for Modified TI Modified TI + Stevenson, Telford and MacColl Wind Farms

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Cumulatively with the decommissioning of the BOWL export cable route there could (Whole Project plus those be slightly greater limitations, temporarily, on access to the coast. And this could developments listed in cause additional disruption for tourists. However, this would not be sufficient to Section 5.5.3.13) change the assessment of significance.

Business tourism Negligible Negligible None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Considered together with the other projects, the modified TI will not contribute to any (Whole Project plus those changes in business tourism or availability of services e.g. accommodation. developments listed in Section 5.5.3.13)

Walking Minor Minor None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment The BOWL TI is situated 15 miles further west (onshore distance) and together with the (Whole Project plus those MORL modified TI may cause additional temporary disruption on the coastal paths developments listed in during decommissioning, but significance remains negligible. Section 5.5.3.13)

Surfing, Sea Kayaking Negligible Negligible None

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment The cumulative effects would be most likely with the BOWL TI if both were (Whole Project plus those decommissioned together. This would reduce options for sea-based recreation developments listed in slightly, but the temporary nature of both projects and the relatively low number Section 5.5.3.13) affected indicates that that the significance would remain negligible.

Assessment of Cumulative Effects

5.5.3.13 The developments and activities considered in detail within this assessment are listed below.  MORL three consented wind farms;  MORL WDA;  BOWL wind farm;  BOWL TI; and  SHE – T reinforcement (cable from Caithness to Blackhillock, coming onshore at Portgordon). Methodology

5.5.3.14 The assessment methodology considers the same core receptors as the main assessment. Each of these has been assessed cumulatively with the projects set out above. The receptors identified for consideration in this cumulative assessment are:  Employment;  GVA;  Tourism; and  Recreation.

5.5-32 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics 5.5.3.20 GVA 5.5.3.17 Other Developments 5.5.3.16 5.5.3.15 5.5.3.19 5.5.3.18 Employment Assessment Cumulative

of significance whichremains of significance of work. Thisisno content the and Scottish local which reduced the constraints supply were there if reduced could be effect positive The employment. to pattern a similar follow to decommissioning islikely during construction and remains significance the isconcluded that it cumulatively considered of supplyWhile constraints. may it suppliers is relatively modest under the Base Case which would reduce the likelihood (BOWL TIand SHE-T). Even then, scale the of the work to be delivered by Scottish scope for supply constraints wouldscope forsupply constraints occur in construction of the substations and part of the export cable installation. The main mo involve which elements the practice through expenditure onthe local supplythe of services and components. In GVA isgenerated assumes that TI modified for the Case Base the employment, Like as and gasactivity well majo as other from come just not would suppliers Scottish We also note that for employment and GVA the potential constraints on supply from substations on tourismand recreation. andonshore andSHE-T) BOWL TI (MORL TI, routes modified cable the three to impact on tourism. The assessment therefore considers the cumulative effect of sites and visible TI aspects there are no additional or exacerbated visual effects likely farms and WDA.the MORL However, given the distance between the wind farm and BOWL wind MORL consented include the effects cumulative the For tourism to change the level of signficance ofsignficance which remains change level to the ofthe content andScottish local the reduced which further constraints supply were if there reduced could be effect employment decommissioning is likely to follow a similar pattern to construction. The positive during construction and considered cumulatively it is concluded that the significance remains significance the isconcluded that it cumulatively considered the scope forsupply constraints.While it reduce would Caseand this Base the under modest relatively is suppliers Scottish by cable (BOWLprojects TIand SHE-T). Even then, the scale of the work to be delivered Scope for supply constraints would be more likely to occur in relation to theother interact with constructi to likely andisless work isspecialised of TI scale the modified However, the demand. time as the other projects it could reduce the capacity of these suppliers to meet substations and some of the export cable installation. If this took place at the same of the andconstruction supply are the content local most involve that elements expenditure onlocalsupply of services the and components. Inpractice the through isgenerated employment assumes that TI forthe modified Case Base The determine if this could reduce the positive effects for the local economy. economy. local for the effects positive the could reduce this if determine must consider the amount and type of local content anticipated by these projects to to less local content than anticipated in th simultaneously. This could limit ability ofthe local businesses demand meet to and lead impacts relate to supply constraints from cumulative potential andemployment GVA, the receptors, twoof these first For the Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson on ofthe wind farms. minor positive minor positive minor positive. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray r infrastructure proj r infrastructure during operation. The cumulative effect of during operation. The cumulative effect of have some small negative effect when effect negative small some have may have a small negative effect when t likely to be sufficient to change the level level the change to sufficient be to likely t e modified TI assessment. Theassessment TI e modified local businesses if the projects proceed projects if the businesses local

st ar local content offshore wind projects, from butalso oil relation to the other cable projects work. This is not likely to be sufficient sufficient be to likely is not work. This minor positive. ects in Scotland.ects in

e the supply and major positive major positive 5.5-33

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Tourism

5.5.3.21 For tourism, the cumulative effects include the consented MORL and BOWL wind farms and the MORL WDA. Given the distance between the three consented wind farm sites and visible TI aspects there are no additional or exacerbated visual effects likely to impact on tourism.

5.5.3.22 Cumulative effects could result from more severe access limits to the coast and beaches if both BOWL and SHE-T cable routes are constructed at the same time as the MORL modified TI. In this case the cumulative effect could detract from the tourist experience. It is arguable whether it would be better or worse for the projects to take place simultaneously or in series, over a longer period of time. Although the cumulative disruptive effect of constructing three cable routes together would be greater than constructing one, it may be less than would be caused by three, one after the other.

5.5.3.23 Inland, the BOWL export cable will come ashore at PortGordon, 16 miles west of Inverboyndie. It continues onshore 20 km to Blackhillock, near Keith. This is a sufficient distance to mean that the construction of the BOWL export cable route is unlikely to add to the cumulative impact of modified TI in this assessment, even if construction was undertaken at the same time. The SHE-T cable also comes onshore at Portgordon and crosses the modified MORL TI offshore. The onshore substations for the modified TI will be approximately 30 miles from the substation at Blackhillock and there will be no significant visual cumulative effect.

5.5.3.24 Whether the cable constructions happen simultaneously (in which case there would be a shorter period of greater disruption), or separately, the construction work will be short term and the effects felt by a relatively small number of tourists relative to tourism in the study area as a whole. Consideration of cumulative effects therefore does not change the original conclusion that the effect would be of minor significance for leisure tourism and negligible for business tourism during construction and negligible for both during operation

5.5.3.25 Cumulatively decommissioning will cause similar effects to construction, and similar arguments apply. This may for a short period exacerbate the disruption if undertaken at the same time as the decommissioning work for the other considered projects, but it is arguable whether this is better or worse than decommissioning separately. The conclusion therefore remains that significance for decommissioning is negligible for both leisure and business tourism. Recreation

5.5.3.26 For recreation, the three consented wind farms are considered to be too far away to have any impact on recreation (walking, surfing and sea-kayaking) on the south side of the Moray Firth and so there is no additional cumulative impact associated with the modified TI. However, there may be some cumulative effect when considering the export cable laying activities together with the BOWL TI and SHE-T reinforcement, which would extent the periods of disruption.

5.5.3.27 For walking, with the construction of the BOWL TI to the west and the SHE-T reinforcement there may be some additional temporary disruption on the coastal paths, but significance remains minor given it is short term and will effect relatively few people. During operation the main issue effect on walking remains minor.

5.5-34 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.5Chapter –Socio-Economics Banffshire TourismCoast Partnership(2014) (2010)AEA Energy Industry forecasts market 2009-2014. Scottish Enterprise. Aberdeen Business School. Expenditure related to theEast of Scotland Bottlenose Dolphin Population. University of Aberdeen Centre for Environmental Sustainability(ACES) (2010) Value the Tourism 5.5.4 5.5.3.28 Scottish Household Survey(2012) Neighbourhoods asaplace to live. Scottish Government(2014) Growth Sector Statistics Database. Scottish Government(2012).Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2012. Scottish Government(2011) 2020 Route Map for Renewable Energy in Scotland. Scottish Enterprise(2008) Additionality &Economic Impact Assessment Guidance Note. Infrastructure PlanStage 2. Scottish Enterprise and Highlands &Islands Enterprise(2010). . National Renewables Renewable (2011)UK Wind Offshore Forecasts of future costs and benefits. Pricesdata. House Official (2013) ofScotland Registers Welsh Sector. Tourism on the Grid Infrastructure (2014)Regeneris Study into the Potential Econ Office forNational Statistics initsProductivity Handbook(2007) (2014c) Statistics Office ofNational Claimant count. (2014b) Statistics Office ofNational ( Statistics Office ofNational (2013)Office forNational Statistics Mid-2012Population Estimates. (2012b) StatisticsOffice ofNational RegionalAccounts. Office forNational Statistics(2012a) Busi Energy inScottish Waters:territorial and Costs Marine Scotland(2011) Economic Assessment of Short the Term Options forWind Offshore HM Treasury (2011). Green Book. English Partnerships(now theHomes and Communities Agency)(2008) Additionality Guide the UK. Deloitte and Oxford(2013) Economics TheEconomic Contribution of Tourismthe Economy to Skills. and Innovation Business BVGA(2014) UK offshore wind supply chain: capabilities and opportunities. Department for accessed June 2014.

References References negligible considered change to conclusionsthe which remain extended periodsofdisruption of beasaresult would effect cumulative the As fortourism, andaccess. disruption cumulati potential main decommissioning the would remain affe number low relatively projects andthe areasaccess to two restricted was at It couldalso reduce options forsea-base for surfingandsea-kayaking. negligible Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson 2014a) AnnualPopulation Survey. Annual Survey ofHoursand Earnings. duringconstruction and operation. During ness Register and Employment Survey. but given the relatively short time periods this is not Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray Benefits to Other MarineUsersBenefits and to Interests. omic Impact of Windomic Impact of Farms and Associated http://www.banffshirecoast.com/ once) but the temporarynatureboth of d recreation, surfing and sea-kayaking (ifd recreation, surfingandsea-kayaking cted indicates that that the significance the that that indicates cted ve effect is in through any increase effect ve minor for walking and walking for – website –website 5.5-35

CHAPTER 5.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms Infrastructure

Scottish Renewables (2013) Employment in Renewable Energy in Scotland. Scottish Government (2014) Draft Scottish Planning Policy. Scottish Government (2014) Draft National Project 3. Skills Development Scotland (2011) Skills Investment Plan for the Energy Sector. SQW (2011) Maximising employment and skills in the offshore wind supply chain, UK Commission for Employment and Skills. The Scottish Tourism Alliance (2013) Tourism Scotland 2020. Tourism Resources Company (2010) Value of Sailing Tourism in Scotland. Scottish Enterprise. VisitScotland (2014) Tourism in Scotland 2013. VisitScotland (2012) Wind Farm Consumer Research. VisitScotland (2013) Tourism in Scotland’s Regions 2012.

5.5-36 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology and 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.1.3 Consultations 5.4.1.2 5.4.1.1 Introduction 5.4.1 5.4 5

Human Environment

Archaeology andCulturalHeritage

Baseline Information Baseline Information • • • The following consultation responses relevant (ASAs)areas include: been defined.have These study archaeological Two Archaeology). Onshore and Offshore of Review Baseline Work EIA: A –Transmission 5.4 Appendix (Technical heritage cultural and archaeology offshore and intertidal onshore, of review byabaseline informed is chapter The infrastructu transmission onshore and modified (OfTI) of modified the TI (modifiedinfrastructure onshore elements offshore transmission heritage and cultural uponarchaeology (TI) Infrastructure Transmission modified ofthe effects ofthe an assessment is This chapter the approach to pre-constructiongeophysical andgeotechnical assessment. methodologyof the cultural heritageimpact assessment presented in thischapter, and and approach modified the TI, of the nature 2014) May discussthe (20th to Scotland washeld Historic with meeting consultation (Junea further 2014).In addition, (HS) Scotland and Aberdeenshire(AC) Council Marine Historic Scotland, from cultural heritagerelating to Responses werereceived Chapter 1.3(Environmental Impact Assessment) of this ES forfull scoping consultations). and,setting and cumulative effects, together with mitigation.

which have been cross-referred here where applicable: The chapter also has direct linkageswith The OnTI; and and MacColl) in relation to the OSPs; OfTI,The inclusive of the three consented windareas farm (Telford, Stevenson o o

Chapter 5.3:Seascape, Landsc Chapter 3.1: Hydrodynamics, Sedime Cultural Heritage 5.4-1 5.4-1 Heritage Cultural

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

ape and VisualapeAssessment. and

receptors. It covers both offshore and and offshore both covers It receptors. ntary andCoastalProcesses; and re (OnTI)) and dealswi (OnTI)) and re to cultural heritage were received (see werereceived culturalheritage to as part of the formal Scoping Opinion Opinion Scoping formal the of part as the following ES Chapters, details of Chapters, following details ES the

th direct, indirect direct, indirect th

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.4-1 Summary of Consultation Responses

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

th Marine Scotland Consultation dated 13 June 2014: Requirement for Suggested Guidance and ES focussing upon marine historic environment. Methodology has been Reiterated the Scottish Planning Policy including incorporated into the that Scheduled Monuments should be preserved in methodology for the modified situ within an appropriate setting; listed buildings OnTI and modified OfTI Cultural and their settings to be preserved. Heritage assessment

Historic Scotland (HS) General agreement with methodology, with the Amendments made to following points: methodology and legislation considered. The majority of sites in the (Sites and Monuments Record) SMR are recorded rather than scheduled; Scottish Planning Policy 23: Planning and the Historic Environment has been superseded by the consolidated Scottish Planning Policy. Consultation dated 20th May 2014: It was highlighted that in terms of the archaeological assessment of marine geophysical data, there is a preference to include the results in the main consent submission. Given the timeframes for the acquisition of data for review however it was acknowledged that this may be included as a post- consent condition; or prior to the formal HS response to Marine Scotland if practicable.

Aberdeenshire Council Having reviewed Section 5.3.9 ‘Archaeology and Amendments made to Archaeology Cultural Heritage’ of the submitted scoping report, it methodology and legislation is confirmed that an EIA will be required for the considered. historic environment given the scale, type and location of the proposed works and the potential that they have to impact upon archaeological remains. The recommended methodology as detailed within Section 5.3.9 is agreed however note the following comment: Page 149 – List of ‘Best Practice Guidance’ – replace Planning Advice Note 42 with the more up- to-date Planning Advice Note 2/2011

Baseline Characteristics

Inter-tidal Cultural Heritage Receptors – Modified OfTI ASA

5.4.1.4 Baseline review has established that there no known cultural heritage receptors within the inter-tidal area of the modified OfTI at the Inverboyndie landfall (see Technical Appendix 5.4 A: Cultural Heritage; and Figures 1 and 2 as per technical figures).

Offshore Cultural Heritage Receptors – Modified OfTI ASA

5.4.1.5 There are eight documented wrecks (WA 2000-2007), and an aircraft loss (WA 2008) in the modified OfTI ASA offshore export cable route corridor outwith the area of the three consented wind farms (Figure 1 within Technical Appendix 5.4 A). These are based upon UKHO and NMRS records with substantial positional uncertainties and are WA 2000 – 2007 are noted as ‘Dead’ wrecks by the UKHO.

5.4.1.6 There are a further two geophysical anomalies identified from a previous assessment (Chapter 5.5 Archaeology, and Visual Receptors MORL 2012).

5.4-2 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology and 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.1.11 5.4.1.10 5.4.1.9 Submerged Prehistory 5.4.1.8 Potential for Further Unknown CulturalHe 5.4.1.7 5.4.1.13 5.4.1.12 Maritime

consented wind farms, the findings wind provide the farms, consented Although this assessment did not include the modifiedOfTI ASAoutwith the three to inundated coastal geomorphology that was exploitable by past human groups. (Chapter 5.5areas and TechnicalAppendix identifiedfine-grained sedimentsor and (2012) of datasets. This marine assessment geotechnical includedThe MORL the ES wind review consented farms.Thebaseline cultural heritage receptors within the modifiedOfTI outwith the area of the three At present it is not possible to establish the location, extent,and characteristics of all po archaeological of medium anomalies of anomalies three identified assessment the consented windfarm area.In addition, the archaeologicalgeophysical 2012). 5.5MORL ES, (Chapter of Thebaseline farms wind three consented for the review baseline of the aspart outlined previously Cultural heritage receptors within the th and the palaeogeographical co palaeogeographical and the archaeologicalinterest for establishing palaeoenvironmental characterof the area andassociated features landscape palaeo- inundated addition, In rarity. its to due value archaeological high of is which period Mesolithic particularly prehistory, early encountering for potential is there offshore further to zone intertidal From assessin to approach precautionary prehistorysubmerged are sparse currently baseline datasets regardingrelative sea-level and the potential for encountering archives andmaterial palaeoenvironmental potential have features Palaeo-landscape geotechnicalbespoke geophysical and modifieddatasets for the OfTI. OfTI. modified in the within indicated the potential for three main typesof receptor that may be encountered very limited. prehistoricremains to beencountered within modified OfTI is also low, although the possibility cannot be discounted in either case. case. in either discounted be cannot possibility the although low, also is OfTI modified in the wrecks elsewhere for encountering potential the that suggests data available furtherabout potential at these locations,other than that it is probably low. The sayanything to data isinsufficient there However, landfall. Inverboyndie the at offshore zoneorjust intertidal within the could bepresent wrecks century and 19th from 18th wreck material that suggest to some evidence is beenidentified. There wrecks have modArchaeological evidencein the byperiod beendomi throughout associated with the oil andgas industry. However, the maritime historyof the Firth has mainly with the Cromarty Firth and other anchoragesand commercial activity More ther years. recently several thousand least at back dates probably resource as a and fortransport Firth Moray The useofthe Cultural Heritage 5.4-3 5.4-3 Heritage Cultural Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson nated by fishing. by nated ritage Receptors–Modified OfTI ASA ntext forEarly Prehistory. ntext Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray g submerged prehistory receptors. receptors. prehistory g submerged ree consented wind farms area have been wind areahave farms ree consented ganic sediments in nearshore and coastal and coastal nearshore in sediments ganic archaeology, including artefacts and sites andsites archaeology, includingartefacts e hasbeensignificant naval use associated presented inpresented Technical AppendixA 5.4 has sedimentary sequences are of high sequences are ofhigh sedimentary general context prior to the assessment of for preserving submerged archaeological submergedfor preserving 5.5 Aof MORLES,2012) which may relate review identified four known wrecks within identifiedreview four knownwreckswithin the windfarmarea wasconsidered the be to or lackingfor the areanecessitating a high archaeological potential and 17 17 and potential archaeological high tential. The potential for submerged submerged for potential The tential. of archaeological interest. Accurate Accurate interest. of archaeological ified OfTI is sparse or entirely lacking.or entirely No ified OfTIis sparse

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Aviation

5.4.1.14 The Moray Firth became a centre of air activity during the Second World War, when a number of mainly training and Coastal Command bases were established. Aircraft wreckage has been recovered from the Firth and there are anecdotal reports of wreckage being washed up. However, no aircraft wrecks have been identified in the modified OfTI and although there is one relevant casualty record, it is based only upon a very approximate position of loss. Whilst the possibility cannot be discounted, particularly inshore, the potential for aircraft wreckage or debris within the modified OfTI is likely to be low.

Onshore Cultural Heritage Receptors

5.4.1.15 Overall there are 190 known Cultural Heritage Assets within the modified OnTI ASA (Technical Appendix 5.4 A, Figures 2-5); with potential for encountering unknown cultural heritage assets of prehistoric or more recent date. Within the application boundary, there are a range of Cultural Heritage Assets which have been considered for assessment in relation to potential direct physical impacts, these comprise: • Lower Inchdrewer (WA 1008, B-listed); • St Brandon’s Church, Inverboyndie (WA 1041, B-listed); • Hill of Alvah, cairns 1350m WSW of Mill of Alvah (WA 1035, Scheduled Monument); • Boyndie Old Kirk, church 200m NW of Boyndie Bridge (WA 1040, Scheduled Monument); • Hills of Boyndie, barrows & enclosures 700m SW of Mill of Boyndie (WA 1010, Scheduled Monument); and • 76 undesignated Cultural Heritage Assets located within the Application Area; ranging from possible prehistoric cropmark features to post-medieval agricultural sites. These sites are listed in Technical Appendix 5.4 A, Appendix VI.

5.4.1.16 There are six designated cultural heritage assets within the visual envelope of the substation area which have been considered for indirect effects to their setting; the recumbent Stone circle at Auchmaliddie (WA 1184), the scheduled remains of Gight Castle (WA 1168) and doocot (WA 1164), the Designed Landscapes of Fyvie Castle (WA 1108) and Hatton Castle (WA 1102), and the Battle of Fyvie battlefield (WA 1110).

Potential for Further Unknown Cultural Heritage Receptors – Modified OnTI ASA

5.4.1.17 There is potential for encountering unknown Cultural Heritage Assets of any archaeological period within the modified OnTI ASA, ranging from Early Prehistory, Mesolithic archaeology, and more recent periods to the 20th century.

5.4-4 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology and 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.1.22 SpecificSite Surveys 5.4.1.18 Desktop Studies 5.4.1.23 Legislative and Planning Framework 5.4.1.21 5.4.1.20 5.4.1.19

• • • • • • • Site visits and walkover surveys were un were surveys walkover and visits Site modifiedbuffered 500m, to OnTIcentreline of the iteration arebasedreview onan baselineThe ASAsfor data searchesfor the were visited and assessed for setting effects. effects. for setting and assessed were visited andall designated Cultural Heritage Assets within 5km of the proposedsubstation site intertidalof modifiedInverboyndie at zoneportionof the OfTI wasachieved the Bay enhanc to selected areaswere accessible acce survey ofwalkover time the at crop May and 28th majority27th modified thevast of 2014.Dueto the under OnTIbeing co cableroute modifiedonshore export A). 5.4 Appendix Technical within 1 (Figure included be to approximately known adjace assets enabled heritage a buffer of around the modifiedOfTI outwith the area corridor. The modified OfTI ASA is based on an onshoresubstations includeswhich the Appendix I of the Technical Appendix 5.4 A): Appendix Technical of I Appendix the relation themodified to OfTImodified and andplanning documents have been considered In addition to the consultation responses, the following legislation, charters,conventions effects. direct potential to mitigation effective (WSI) providing project forthe Schemeof Investigation Written will be reported pre-construction, resultsthe of which will be compiled into the for TI the modified dataacquired ofgeophysical survey assessment Archaeological survey. walkover modified OnTI of the part whichformed landfall the at zone tidal inter- the bydesk-top excepting review; OfTIwasinvestigated The modified survey. by awalk-over followed bydesk-top review was investigated OnTI The modified The modifiedon following OfTI the relied andmodifieddatasets: review OnTI baseline review. for the context or in area fromamuchwider was sought NewDeer.Background information at substation Inverboyndie onshore landfall the to in ASA OnTI modified The zone. intertidal Mean HighWater(MHWS) Springs modifiedthe at landfall, includingcable export the of The modified OfTI part includes ASA that

Other readily available publishedsources. readilyavailable Other and Beatrice Offshore Wind(2012); FarmES and Relevant available archaeological assessments, including the MORL(2012) ES Maps held by the National LibraryScotland; of assetsheldDatabases ofdesignated Scotland; byHistoric The Aberdeenshire Council Historic Environment(HER); Record and MonumentsAncient (RCAHMS); Historic The National Monuments Reco WrecksThe and Obstructions database held by the UKHO; Cultural Heritage 5.4-5 5.4-5 Heritage Cultural Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray rd Scotland (NMRS) Commissionon rd ScotlandbyRoyal held dertaken by Wessex Archaeology across the the across WessexArchaeology by dertaken rridor whereaccesswaspossible,between e the desk-based assessment. Full coverage coverage assessment. Full desk-based e the cludes the modifiedcludes the theMHWS TIfromat of the three consented wind farms. The use windfarms. Theuse consented three of the incorporating the area of the modified OnTI of modifiedincorporating the OnTI area the the modified OfTI including a wide area modifieda wide the OfTIincludingarea d modified onshore export cable route d modifiedcable route onshore export the modified TI extending offshore from offshore extending modified the TI der to provide anational andregional nt to the ASA or whose location is only is only location or whose ASA to the nt ss was restricted, intervening publically- intervening wasrestricted, ss OnTI (further details are provided in

in the preparation of this chapter in in chapter this of preparation in the

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

International Frameworks • The Valetta Convention, 1992 – this defines archaeological heritage and requires the state to develop and maintain inventories of on and offshore cultural heritage assets and to legislate for its protection; • The ICOMOS Charter on the protection and management of underwater cultural heritage, 1996 - this charter aims to provide decision-makers, such as curators and archaeologists, with criteria for assessing and managing marine archaeological projects; and • The UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, 2001 - this convention provides that a States Party shall use the best practicable means to prevent or mitigate any adverse effects that might arise from activities under its jurisdiction incidentally affecting underwater cultural heritage sites.

UK Legislation and Planning Policy • Protection of Military Remains Act 1986 (PMRA 1986) – this provides protection for the wreckage of military aircraft and designated military vessels of any nationality; • The Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (MSA 1995) – this regulates the ownership and disposal of underwater finds considered to be ‘wreck’; • The UK Marine Policy Statement (UKMPS) 2011 - the only marine policy document currently in place for this geographical area. It provides the framework for preparing Marine Plans and taking decisions affecting the marine environment; and • Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 (AMAA 1979) – this provides legal protection for heritage assets of national importance. AMAA 1979 primarily deals with terrestrial sites but there is provision to designate sites in territorial waters as Scheduled Monuments. Scottish Legislation and Planning Policy • Scottish Historic Environment Policy 2011 (SHEP) - this sets out Scottish Ministers’ policies, providing direction for HS and a policy framework that informs the work of a wide range of public sector organisations; • Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 - this provides for the establishment of national and regional marine plans and for offshore sites of national importance to be designated as a Historic Marine Protected Areas (Historic MPAs); • Historic Environment (Amendment) (Scotland) Act, 2011 – the Act amends and harmonises existing legislation relating to the management of historic environment including the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953, the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 and Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997. Planning Advice Note (PAN) 2/2011: Planning and Archaeology – this provides advice to planning authorities and developers on dealing with archaeological remains with an emphasis which is proportionate to the relative value of the remains and of the developments under consideration; and

5.4-6 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology and 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.2.2 5.4.2.1 Summary of Effects -Modified OfTI 5.4.2 Local PlanningPolicy 5.4.2.7 5.4.2.6 5.4.2.5 5.4.2.4 5.4.2.3

Impact Assessment • • • There are eight documented wrecks( There areeight Of modified ofthe effects decommissioning and operation construction, andindirect direct andpotential predicted The summarisedin Table 5.4-2 below. one reported aircraft crash site ( site crash aircraft one reported OfTI outwith the area of the three consented wind consented farms. three of the thearea OfTI outwith mitigation strategies for unknown cultural heritage receptors identified in the modified data willgeotechnical bereviewed pre-cons Following consultation with HS,it was agreed that the assessment of geophysical and increasing protective sediment cover. cover. sediment increasing protective from increases in suspended sediment may sediment suspended in increases from Proc andCoastal Sedimentary Hydrodynamics, Cult upon effects adverse induce may which beenNo significant have effects id indirect located within the three consentedwind farm No indirect setting effects have been identifiedin relation to the two OSPs to be Technical Appendix Technical A5.5 of MORL 2012). ES, be to Receptors Heritage OSPsonCultural the of effects setting indirect potential concluded area turbine in the OSPs the installing of to reducing Receptors, Heritage Unmitigated, the installation ofOSPs could induce (Chapter 5.5windarea Appendix andTechnicalfarm MORL Aof 5.5 ES, 2012). Prehistoric, Maritime and Aviation receptor consented wind farms(modifiedarea OfTI). subsequently been amendedfrom eight OSPs to two OSPs, located within the three MORL of ES assessed the aspart previously Cultural heritage receptors within the th

impacts to these cultural heritage re monuments. Thepoliciesfocusonco landscapes; and, Enviro SGHistoric Conservation Areas; Historic Environment SG 3:Historic gardens and designed guidance - Environment1:SG Historic Listed Aberdeenshire LocalDevelopment(2012) Plan policies and supplementary adverseimpacts these to cultur and Designed Landscapes, with the focus on conservation, and avoidance of andAncien Env\19: Sites Archaeological Aberdeenshire LocalPlan(2008) policies – mitigation in relation to marine development. enhancing designatedand statements oncultural heritage(GEN 13) with afocus onprotecting and allma will apply to policies that marine is currently available in consultation Scotland’s Draft National Marine Plan(due to be issued at the end of 2014) – this Cultural Heritage 5.4-7 5.4-7 Heritage Cultural Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson WA 2008) negligible significance negligible undesignated heritage, andmethodsof suitable Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray al resources; heritage and WA 2000-2007 (Technical Appendix A:Figure5.4 1). ree consented wind farms area have been wind areahave farms ree consented sources throughthe s were assessed previously for the consented consented forthe previously s wereassessed entified from changes to seabed processes processes seabed to changes from entified draft and a provides draft numberof general (2012). The OfTI Rochdale Envelope has(2012). The OfTIRochdaleEnvelope nservation, ofadverse andavoidance nments 4: Archaeological sitesnments 4: and Archaeological ural Heritage Receptors (see Chapter 3.1 3.1 (see Chapter Receptors ural Heritage rine development prop development rine s area. Previously effects for the scenario s area.the Previously for effects TI upon cultural heritage receptors are are receptors heritage TI uponcultural benefit Cultural Heritage Receptors Cultural by benefit t Monuments,t Env\20: Historic Gardens truction inorder to preciselydefine Buildings; SG Historic Environment 2: 2: Buildings; SGHistoricEnvironment esses). In fact minor positive effects effects positive minor fact In esses). particularly Env\18: Listed Buildings,

) within the modified OfTI ASA, and not significant major adverse effects adverse major following mitigation. planning process.

(Chapter 5.5 and osals. It includes includes It osals. on Cultural on Cultural

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Summary of Effects – Modified OnTI

5.4.2.8 The predicted and potential construction, operation and decommissioning effects of the modified OnTI upon cultural heritage receptors are summarised in Table 5.4-3 below.

5.4.2.9 There are a number of Cultural Heritage Receptors within the modified onshore export cable route corridor which have the potential to experience direct physical effects during the construction phase. Indirect physical effects from vehicles and other construction machinery may also be induced along the modified OnTI export cable route corridor. • Lower Inchdrewer (WA 1008, B-listed); • St Brandon’s Church, Inverboyndie (WA 1041, B-listed); • Hill of Alvah, cairns 1350m WSW of Mill of Alvah (WA 1035, Scheduled Monument); • Boyndie Old Kirk, church 200m NW of Boyndie Bridge (WA 1040, Scheduled Monument); • Hills of Boyndie, barrows & enclosures 700m SW of Mill of Boyndie (WA 1010, Scheduled Monument); and • 76 undesignated Cultural Heritage Receptors located within the Application Area comprising possibly prehistoric cropmark features to post-medieval agricultural sites (Technical Appendix 5.4 A, Appendix VI, Figures 2-5).

5.4.2.10 There are six designated cultural heritage assets within the wider onshore study area around the proposed substations area which have been considered for indirect effects to their setting; • The recumbent Stone circle at Auchmaliddie (WA1184); • The scheduled remains of Gight Castle (WA1168) and doocot (WA1164); • The Designed Landscapes of Fyvie Castle (WA1108) and Hatton Castle (WA1102); and • The Battle of Fyvie battlefield (WA1110).

Proposed Mitigation Measures and Residual Effects

5.4.2.11 Proposed mitigation measures and residual effects are set out in Table 5.4-3 below.

5.4.2.12 As regards "unknown" heritage, a realistic worst case approach has been adopted in assessing the possible magnitude and sensitivity of effects. A package of mitigation has then been proposed which ensures that there will be no significant effects on such assets (even on that worst case basis). It is proposed that geotechnical and geophysical survey work will be carried out pre-construction to finalise the appropriate mitigation from the package of options identified.

5.4-8 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology and 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter vessel construction Direct effect by of offshore cables fromburial resulting Direct effect of offshore cables from burial resulting Direct effect cables of inter-tidal from burial resulting Direct effect installation ofOSPs resulting from Direct effect of OSP result ofinstallation Directeffect as a Construction Effect ImpactAssessmentSummary–ModifiedOfTI Table 5.4-2

heritage assets heritage cultural Unknown heritage assets heritage cultural Unknown assets heritage cultural Recorded assets heritage cultural Unknown assets heritage cultural Recorded Receptor heritage assets heritage cultural Recorded

Cultural Heritage 5.4-9 5.4-9 Heritage Cultural Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

receptor sensitivity upon depending Minor-major, receptor sensitivity upon depending Minor-major, Major receptor sensitivity upon depending Minor-major, No effect Effect Pre-mitigation Major

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

of archaeological interestof archaeological Reporting forfinds protocol WSI assessment and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical assessment and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical interestof archaeological Reporting forfinds protocol WSI assessment and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical interestof archaeological Reporting forfinds protocol WSI assessment. and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical Mitigation Identification (WSI) Identification of Scheme Written assessment and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical

Minor / Negligible Minor / Minor / Negligible Minor / Minor / Negligible Minor / Negligible Minor / No effect Minor / Negligible Minor / Effect Post-mitigation

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect

Direct effect by Unknown cultural Minor-major, Minor / Negligible construction vessel heritage assets depending upon Avoidance of effect receptor sensitivity through Exclusion Zones or offsetting through the recovery/preservation by record (depending upon WSI provisions)

WSI

Reporting protocol for finds of archaeological interest

Indirect effect from Recorded cultural Major Avoidance/micro-siting Minor / Negligible construction heritage assets vehicles and other machinery Programme of (inter-tidal) Archaeological Works

Indirect effect from Unrecorded Major Programme of Minor / Negligible construction cultural heritage Archaeological Works vehicles and other assets machinery (inter-tidal)

Operation

Direct effect by IMR Recorded cultural Major Geophysical and Minor / Negligible (Inspection, heritage assets geotechnical assessment Maintenance and facilitating micrositing Repair) vessel and/or geoarchaeological assessment Direct effect by IMR Unknown cultural Minor-major, Minor / Negligible (Inspection, heritage assets depending upon Maintenance and receptor sensitivity Avoidance of effect Repair) vessel through Exclusion Zones or offsetting through the Indirect effect due Recorded cultural No effect recovery/preservation by No effect to changes in scour heritage assets record (depending upon and sedimentation WSI provisions)

Indirect effect due Unknown cultural Unknown (minor- Minor / Negligible WSI to changes in scour heritage assets major, depending and sedimentation upon receptor sensitivity) Reporting protocol for finds of archaeological interest

Indirect effect due Recorded cultural Minor-major, Micro-siting, screening Minor / Negligible to changes to the heritage assets depending upon setting of magnitude of Effect removed on designated Cultural effect decommissioning Heritage Receptors

Decommissioning

As construction phase, but effects are considered to already have occurred if similar construction footprint is applied.

5.4-10 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter No predicted decommissioning effe phase. construction Effects arising ofthedecommissioning modified fromthe OfTI Decommissioning Receptors Heritage Cultural designated setting of the to changes to due effect Indirect Operation other machinery and vehicles construction Indirect effect from machinery andother vehicles construction Indirect effect from infrastructure and buildings associated and substation of construction resulting from Direct effect cables of onshore fromburial resulting Direct effect cables of onshore fromburial resulting Direct effect Construction Effect ImpactAssessmentSummary–ModifiedOnTI Table 5.4-3

assets heritage cultural Unrecorded assets heritage cultural Recorded assets heritage cultural Unknown assets heritage cultural Unknown assets heritage Known cultural Receptor heritage assets heritage cultural Recorded

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-11 5.4-11 Heritage ltural cts are predictedthe deco from

Major Major receptor sensitivity upon depending Minor-major, receptor sensitivity upon depending Minor-major, receptor sensitivity upon depending Minor-major, Effect Pre-mitigation effect magnitude of upon depending Minor-major,

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray are asthosetothe considered arisinginthe same be

WSI WSI siting micro- through Avoidance works Archaeological of Programme WSI assessment and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical works Archaeological of Programme WSI works Archaeological of Programme WSI assessment and/or geoarchaeological facilitating micrositing geotechnical assessment andGeophysical Mitigation decommissioning on Effect removed Micro-siting, screening mmissioning of themmissioning modified of OnTI

Minor / Negligible Minor / Negligible Minor / Negligible Minor / Negligible Minor / Minor / Negligible Minor / Minor / Negligible Minor / Effect Post-mitigation .

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Introduction to Impact Assessment

Relevant Guidance in relation to Cultural Heritage – Modified OfTI and Modified OnTI

5.4.2.13 The following relevant guidance documents have informed the EIA of the modified OfTI and modified OnTI: • The Code of Practice for Seabed Development (The Joint Nautical Archaeology Policy Committee, 2008); • Collaborative Offshore Wind Research Into the Environment (COWRIE), Historic Environment Guidance for the Renewable Energy Sector (Wessex Archaeology, 2007); • COWRIE Guidance for Assessment of Cumulative Impact on the Historic Environment from Offshore Renewable Energy (Oxford Archaeology, 2008); • Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries: Offshore Renewables Projects (The Crown Estate/Wessex Archaeology, 2010b); • Model Clauses for Archaeological Written Schemes of Investigation: Offshore Renewables Projects (The Crown Estate/Wessex Archaeology, 2010a); • Offshore Geotechnical Investigations and Historic Environment Analysis: Guidance for the Renewable Energy Sector (Leather & Gribble/COWRIE 2011); • Managing Change in the Historic Environment: Setting (HS, 2010); and • Standard and Guidance for Desk Based Assessment (Institute for Archaeologists, revised 2011).

5.4.2.14 Effects on known and potential receptors during all construction, operation and decommissioning activities identified by MORL have been considered. Three types of effects have been assessed: direct and indirect physical effects; and indirect setting effects.

5.4.2.15 A key factor in the assessment of physical impacts on Cultural Heritage Receptors is the extent of ground disturbance. All physical damage or removal of archaeological sites or material is effectively permanent and recovery is limited to stabilisation or re-burial, to limit further effects. Therefore, direct physical effects on Cultural Heritage Receptors are likely to induce high magnitude effects.

5.4.2.16 Recovery from indirect setting impacts is possible after decommissioning, where a development is removed and no longer visible from a receptor.

Details of Impact Assessment

5.4.2.17 This section considers the source and nature of the effects on the cultural heritage resource and the degree to which archaeological receptors are exposed to and affected by the modified OfTI and modified OnTI export cable route corridor and substations footprint. The impact assessment is considered in relation to the construction, operation and decommissioning of the cable corridor. The impact assessment is summarised in Table 5.4-2 and Table 5.4-3 above.

5.4-12 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter RochdaleEnvelopeParametersRelevanttotheImpactAssessment Table 5.4-4 5.4.2.19 5.4.2.18 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered inthe Assessment export cables andoffshore inter-tidal onshore, of ofburial aresult effect as Direct installation ofOSP of aresult effect as Direct Construction &Decommissioning Effect Potential

• • • • • • that ofconstruction. wi decommissioning The summaryassumesthat parame The details ofRochdaleEnvelope the involves: design Chapter. assessedinthis effects potential scenario’ indicated‘worst intheDesign case Envelope and arespecific the to On modified the of phases decommissioning potential to affect cultural heritage duringthe construction,operation and whichof arepresente details the scenarios, The Rochdale Envelope considersall the potential modified TIparametersand

infrastructure andfacilities. infrastructure The greatest extent of proposed substation buildings,access and other The andmaximum width depthofonshoreand landfall trenching; and The maximumnumber of cable trenchesand transitionpits at the landfall; sediments; ofdisturbed volume greatest The The maximum numberof locations at which that occurs;contact The greatest areaofcontact with the seafloor;

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-13 5.4-13 Heritage ltural of 6 m (inof 6m bundled) by3mmaximumdepth. width a by trench each of the length tobe likely is trench each for effect direct of therefore and disturbance seabed areaof maximum case Worst Landfall:. required. width trench m 6 used, trenches 2 If trenches. wide m 4 – corridor wide Onshore: route. 33km target 1m de burial per cable. not separate possible. bundles Cable water by4x depth.Trench footprint 6m target depth, burial mattressing orrock 1m wind farms. consented three the of theboundary from corridor length cable of 52kmexport and amaximum wind farms; consented three the of boundary to andcablingthe up Offshore: forinter-platform cables 70kmofcable drillingor directional Damage and/ordisplacement ofcultural trench. cable Damage and/ordisplacement ofcultural be uptoScour footprintwill anadditi diameter suctionwitha maximumdepth(pinof effect caissons; 60 m of piles). Worstcase scenarioinvolves aneffect footprintof 3mdiameter or20m pinpiles footprint. ofcultural displacement Damage and/or footprint. Damage heritage and/ordisplacement assets ofcultural within construction piling orsuction caissons. Damage and/ordisplacementheritage ofcultural assetswithin footprint pin of Assessed Scenario Rochdale Envelope

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray trenching attrenching landfall.

Thismodified agreed assumesthat TI the d inChapter 2.2: Project Description.The TI and modified OfTI are based upon the uponthe arebased andmodifiedOfTI TI ters are summarised in Table 5.4-4 below. below. 5.4-4 Table in summarised are ters ll have asimilarRochdale have Envelope to ll

onal 20 suctionm diameteronal for caissons.

emplacement for sections where burial where burial forsections emplacement

heritage assetswithin footprint of heritage assetswithin footprint of

pth. Up to four trenches within a 60 m m within a60 trenches Upto four pth. heritage assetswithin scourprotection

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Potential Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Direct effect as a result of Damage and/or displacement of cultural heritage assets within footprint of groundworks and construction of substation and associated buildings and infrastructure. substation and associated buildings and infrastructure The MORL Onshore Substation area is 270 x 135 m, covering an area of 45,900 m2, the additional substation area is 270 x 135 m, covering an area of 36,450 m2. Additional lay down areas, screening, landscaping and access, and other groundworks for sewerage or a septic tank. The depth of the foundations is unknown but is likely to require the removal of topsoil.

Direct effect by construction Damage and/or displacement of cultural heritage assets within footprint of jack- vessel or vehicle/machinery up spud cans during OSP installation. (cable corridor and substation footprint) Damage and/or displacement of cultural heritage assets within construction vessel anchor pattern (caused by contact with anchors and/or their cables) during OSP and cable installation and general marine activities associated with construction. Damage and/or displacement of cultural heritage assets within footprint of construction vehicles and machinery such as mechanical excavators, Cable Plough, Direction Drilling rig and other attending vehicles (e.g. 4x4 vehicles transporting personnel and transport vehicles). Offshore: The spud cans of the four or six jack-up legs of the construction vessel will be in contact with the seabed and will penetrate 1-4 m. The worst case area of effect will be m2 per vessel placement. Onshore: The onshore construction footprint around the cable trench and substation such as lay down areas is unknown at present but the construction footprint assessed here incorporates a trench width of 6 m and assumes a route located anywhere within the area of the modified OnTI to accommodate the footprint of the Cable Plough or vehicles involved in trenching.

5.4-14 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.2.22 5.4.2.21 Indirect PhysicalEffects 5.4.2.20 EffectsDirect Physical EIA Methodology Heritage Receptors Heritage the setting ofdesignatedCultural duetoIndirect effect changes to scour andsedimentation duetoIndirect effect changes in Repair) vessel and Maintenance Direct effect (Inspection,by IMR Operation Effect Potential

only partially understood. understood. only partially currently is assets heritage uponcultural complex andtheir predict difficult effect to canprotect sedimentation whereas receptor, andde rapid leadsto often example scour For ornegative. canbeeither positive effects around These anearby receptor. or sedimentation scour produce then which location that at flow incurrent changes to can lead OSP of an construction the example, For uponreceptors. an effect They typicallyoccur when activities lead tochanges in the environment that then have consideredare for modified primarily the OfTIASA. areprocessesthat effects physical Indirect damaged. be severelylikely to subject receptor a adopted: been therefore remains poorly understood.A common sense attitude to the scale of effect has contexts of direct in context.effects heritage Theeffect development or cultural relationshipsbetween receptors and their widerenvironment, i.e. their physical setting effect a significant canhave effects Direct landsurface orintertidal surface, seabed fr result cantherefore effects seabed. Direct on the exposed lying be ormay buried features, may beupstanding Receptors

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-15 5.4-15 Heritage ltural Damage and/or displacement of cultural he ofcultural displacement Damage and/or Assessed Scenario Rochdale Envelope thearea substations maybe required aspartof landscaping. themaximum heightof structures is13m.Upto 60acreswithin of‘disturbance’ substationthe 270x135m, of36,450 additional covering is anarea area m area m is270x135 area The Onshore m, of45,900 an MORL Substation covering the landscape. in substations proposed the of presence HeritagesettingChangesthe Cultural of designated Receptors in caused by findings 3.1: ofChapter Hydrodynamics, Sedimentary andCoastal Processes. and the characteristics of the chosen Worstcase areaofeffect will designof the the substructure final depend upon mattresses. orconcrete rockplacement by protected offshore cables of sections the OSPsand of presence nearby the by induced sedimentation heritage by assets caused of cultural environment inpreservation Changes protected mattresses. or concrete byrockplacement the of presence the nearby induced by Damage and/ordisplacement ofcultur will be a multiple ofthe installation figures. Although that it islikely willworstthere be some case co-location, areaofeffect their cables). with and/or anchors (caused bycontact anchor pattern Damage and/ordisplacementheritage ofcultural assetswithin vessel IMR work. IMR up spudcansduring Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray or the water column immediately above it. it. columnimmediately above water or the upon both the receptor itself and upon the anduponthe itself receptor the upon both involve a chain reaction; and in this case case inthis and achainreaction; involve om any activity that disturbs the ground

structive changes in the condition of a of condition the changesin structive to to pin piling for ortrenching example is it by burying it. Indirect effects are are effects Indirect it. byburying it location.with inconjunction Assessed

al heritage assets caused byscour heritage assets caused al OSPs and sections offshoreOSPs cables of

ritage assetswithin footprint ofjack-

2 . The . The

2,

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.4.2.23 Damage caused by direct and indirect effects is normally permanent and recovery is limited to stabilisation and the prevention of further effects.

Effects on the Setting of Cultural Heritage Receptors

5.4.2.24 Setting effects on cultural heritage receptors are often considered to be indirect; and in this case are particularly considered for designated receptors within the modified OnTI ASA within the vicinity of the proposed substation.

5.4.2.25 These occur when the visible elements of a development’s infrastructure or the effects upon the land- or seascape caused by its presence are inter-visible with cultural heritage receptors. Setting includes the way in which the surroundings of a historic asset or place contribute to how it is experienced, understood and appreciated and setting effects are not therefore limited to visual changes. Assessing setting effects and particularly the magnitude of their effect is therefore a complex process that depends upon more than proximity. Setting effects have only been considered for the operational phase of the modified OfTI, as effects during construction and decommissioning are considered to be very short term only.

5.4.2.26 The methodology for assessment of setting effects upon the cultural heritage significance of the selected receptors has been undertaken in line with Managing Change in the Historic Environment: Setting (HS, 2010). The approach taken is to: • Identify the cultural heritage assets that might be affected; • Define the setting of each of these receptors without reference to the development; and • Assess how the development will affect this defined setting.

5.4.2.27 The setting assessment included in this chapter has been carried out to identify where changes in setting have a potential to affect the cultural heritage significance of assets as distinct from the aesthetic land and seascapes. Therefore there is no direct correlation between the magnitude and significance of setting effects identified in other chapters of this EIA (Chapter 5.3: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Assessment).

Impact Assessment Criteria

5.4.2.28 Where the importance (or sensitivity as it is defined here) of a cultural heritage receptor has been assessed, this is based upon an analysis of the archaeological and historical evidence available. Sensitivity is defined spatially in local, regional, national and international terms. A very wide range of contributing factors is typically considered, including: the receptor’s age; what type of asset it is; how rare or alternatively how representative of a type or other group it is; how much of it survives; what condition it is in; its vulnerability; whether it is associated with non-archaeological evidence; what its associations are; and what its potential is, for example in terms of research or public interest and outreach.

5.4.2.29 Offshore, with the exception of assets that are automatically protected such as crashed military aircraft, statutory protection is only usually given to assets that are nationally important and often only when this is combined with other factors, most typically vulnerability. The principle reason appears to be lack of data. However, the UK Marine Policy Statement makes it clear that nationally important non-designated assets are to be considered subject to the same planning policies as designated assets.

5.4-16 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter ReceptorSensitivity Table 5.4-5 5.4.2.30 Sensitivity Defining Receptor Negligible Low Medium High Sensitivity

used to assess the importance or sensitivity of receptors. receptors. of or sensitivity importance the assess used to been have definitions Table5.4-5 in assessment, the the impact purposesof this For the

Includes wrecks of ships and aircraft that do not have statutory protection or equivalent, but have or equivalent,have but protection statutory wrecks not have ofshipsandaircraftthat do Includes Included plus C-listed buildings as-yet undesignated ofequivalentarethat demonstrably sites thiswithin Onshorewith category. sites importance. alocal local with demonstrable a Receptors or outreach. / and understanding and to knowledge tocontribute or low potential and/ example average Below palaeoenvironment. Prehistoric depositswith moderate potential importance. regional andinvestigation(‘BULSI’survival withWessex system, 2011a-d). sites Onshore a Archaeology assessmenttheirmoderate basedof build, importanceof terms onformal use, potential in loss, value. heritage Includes B-listed buildings as-yet plus undesignatedthat sites are demonstrably ofequivalent cultural rare arebewithin likely comparatively toto considered this category. fall those or importance their to dimension regional demonstrable a with Receptors outreach. or / and and understanding toknowledge tocontribute potential and/ormoderate example Average possibly material, aspartpalaeoenvironmental ofaprehistoric siteor landscape. and/or artefactual to include potential withdemonstrable features Palaeogeographic value. heritage cultural ofequivalent demonstrably sitesthat are as-yet plus undesignated Areas) Conservation listedBuildings,Scheduled Monuments, Gardens andDesigned Battlefields, Inventory Landscapes, AreasMonuments orthe Remainsof Military Protection andArchaeological Act Act 1979 1986, A- (i.e.withSites protection statutory (Scotland)those protectedthe Marine under Act 2010, Ancient importancethose tobe considered or rare their to dimension ornational international with ademonstrable Receptors and /oroutreach. Above average example and / or high potential to contributeto knowledge and understanding Definition outreach. Assets that are not considered to be rare with little or no surviving archaeological interest. with archaeological ornosurviving beoutreach. rare little to that Assetsnotconsidered are and /or understanding and to knowledge tocontribute ornopotential and /orlittle Poor example Prehistoric depositswith low potential tocontribu build, use, loss, andinvestigation survival (‘BULSI’ system,Wessex 2011a,b). Archaeology significance, low but potential have assessment based on aformal their importanceterms of inof wrecks Also, statutorythat ofships andaircraftdo not have Includes protection orequivalent heritage value. cultural

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-17 5.4-17 Heritage ltural

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray are likely to arewithin likely fall this category. to contribute to an understanding of the of toan understanding to contribute te to an understanding of the palaeoenvironment. the of understanding an to te dimension totheir importance are to likely fall

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Defining Magnitude of Effect

5.4.2.31 The definitions in the Table 5.4-6 have been used to assess the magnitude of effect upon receptors.

Table 5.4-6 Magnitude of Effects

Magnitude Definition

Total loss or major alteration to key elements / features of the existing baseline (pre-development) conditions such that post-development character / distinctiveness / composition / attributes will be High fundamentally changed and may be lost from the site altogether. Includes permanent/irreversible changes to existing baseline conditions.

Loss or alteration to one or more key elements / features of the existing baseline conditions such that Moderate post-development character / distinctiveness / composition / attributes of the baseline will be partially but considerably changed. Includes permanent/irreversible changes to existing baseline conditions.

Minor shift away from existing baseline conditions. Change arising from the loss / alteration will be discernible but underlying character / distinctiveness / composition / attributes of baseline condition Low will be similar to pre-development circumstances / patterns. Includes temporary (throughout project duration) changes.

Very slight change from existing baseline conditions. Change barely distinguishable, approximating Negligible to the ‘no change’ situation or temporary (for part of the project duration) change.

Defining Significance of Effects

5.4.2.32 In line with standard EIA practice, sensitivity and magnitude of effect have been cross referenced to determine the significance of effects on cultural heritage receptors indicated in Table 5.4-7 below.

Table 5.4-7 Significance of Effects

Magnitude

Sensitivity High Moderate Low Negligible No change

High Major Major Moderate Minor No impact

Medium Major Moderate Minor Negligible No impact

Low Moderate Minor Minor Negligible No impact

Negligible Minor Negligible Negligible Negligible No impact

5.4-18 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.2.34 Table 5.4-8DefinitionofSignificance 5.4.2.33

No impact Negligible Minor Moderate Major Significance

• • should be applied if at the time ofdecision-making: time the if at applied should be principle this that states 2007) Archaeology (Wessex Sector RenewableEnergy the guidance, assessment. Available impact to is oftendifficult or impossible. Asresult ‘Precautionary athe Principle’is normally applied pr maylocate surveys sea bed.Geophysical incompletenessofinformation inherent often There is a high level of uncertainty often applied to cultural heritage assets,due to the Significance canbedefined as follows in 5.4-8. Table

decision-making. inform to confidence withrisk cannot assessed be sufficient such that conseque the about of uncertainty level The and effects; harmful There is good reason to believe that historicthe environment may be subject to No change in receptor condition. The effect is deemed not significant in EIA terms. EIA in significant not deemed is effect The condition. receptor in No change No discernible change inreceptor significant terms. inEIA Such changesare to unlikely be important in effect Minor adverse benefits. some environmental or condition, adverse receptor changein Small deemed significant terms. inEIA to important con bean likely are and concern Mo environment. the to gain some provide may Intermediate change inreceptor of legislation andgive riseto seriousconcern. Such effects aredeemed significantEIA in terms. breaches or / and objectives statutory exceeding in result could effects adverse Major environment. objectives orlocal regional national, achieving importantconsiderations atregional a ordistrict level.Major beneficial effects may contributeto Very large or largechange in receptor condition,adverse or beneficial, which are likelyto be Definition

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-19 5.4-19 Heritage ltural

condition, adverse or beneficial condition. The condition. effect isdeemed not significant terms. inEIA Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray the decision process making and arenot deemed in providing a significant positive gaintothe positive a significant in providing sideration at a local Sucheffectssiderationlevel. a local at are COWRIE: Guidance Historic for Environment beneficial. effects Minorbeneficial mayhave eviously unknown wrecks but eviously identification unknown wrecksbut derateeffects adverse give rise may to some associated with them, particularly on the on the particularly them, with associated s may be undesirable,s maybe butconcern. oflimited nces or likelihood of these effects is . beneficial effects Moderate

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Offshore Impact Assessment – Modified OfTI

Construction Introduction

5.4.2.35 Potential direct and indirect effects within the modified OfTI ASA comprise direct damage to archaeological deposits and material and the disturbance or destruction of relationships between deposits and material and their wider surroundings; and indirect effects through changes in scour and sedimentation, which can be seen as both positive and negative.

5.4.2.36 Potential direct and indirect effects during construction comprise damage, disturbance or destruction of submerged prehistoric archaeology, shipwrecks and crashed aircraft from a number of identified activities. These have been assessed independently below.

5.4.2.37 It is noted that indirect effects relating to changes in scour and sedimentation are considered to be not significant with regard to the construction phase. Installation of OSPs

5.4.2.38 Cultural heritage receptors within the three consented wind farms area have been previously assessed as part of the MORL ES (2012). The OfTI Rochdale Envelope has subsequently been amended from eight OSPs to two OSPs, located within the three consented wind farms area (modified OfTI).

5.4.2.39 The jacket design to be used for the OSPs requires either the drilling of pin piles, which will destroy receptors within the footprint of the pile, or suction caissons, which will destroy or damage receptors within their footprint. Both will require the laying of scour protection, which may damage or destroy receptors within its footprint’ depending upon their depth of burial. This is a direct, short term (construction), permanent and adverse effect.

5.4.2.40 Previously Prehistoric, Maritime and Aviation receptors were assessed (Chapter 5.5 and Technical Appendix 5.5 A of MORL ES, 2012). Unmitigated, the installation of OSPs could induce major adverse effects on Cultural Heritage Receptors, reducing to minor to negligible significance following mitigation. Installation of Inter-tidal and Offshore Export Cables

5.4.2.41 The cable installation method has not yet been finalised. The cable will be buried by trenching where possible. Trenching options for the landfall are dredging, back-hoe dredging, mechanical rock cutter/excavator and direction drilling. Options for the rest of the offshore export cable are trenching, cable plough, jetting and mechanical rock cutter/excavator. Any receptors present within the area of effect are likely to be destroyed, damaged or displaced, regardless of the trenching method. This will be a direct, short term (construction), permanent and negative effect. Directional drilling, will likely affect receptors in the path of or immediately above or below the drill string.

5.4.2.42 There is potential for encountering submerged prehistory receptors within the modified OfTI ASA outwith the area of the three consented wind farms, both archaeological and palaeogeographical which are potentially of high sensitivity. Direct physical impacts to such receptors would induce high magnitude effects. The significance of effect in the absence of mitigation is major. Following mitigation (see Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation Section below) however, the significance of effect will be reduced to an acceptable level in terms of EIA, likely to be no more than minor.

5.4-20 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.2.44 5.4.2.43 5.4.2.50 Vessel during activity IMR (Inspection,Maintenance and Repair) Operation 5.4.2.49 5.4.2.48 5.4.2.47 5.4.2.46 Vessel activity during construction 5.4.2.45

for hookactivities. up modified inthe vessels ofsupport anchoring term (construction), permanent and negative to behigh tends material and archaeological cables their and anchors between Contact it. to is applied as tension arc in an possible and length its along effect an cause may itself cable This cable. its on is placed tension with those of construction. the if reduced be will of effect magnitude effects. Sensitivity and magnitude can be expected besimilar, to although installation,which will be direct, short term(operation), permanent and negative vessel during its operational life. These visits are likely replicateto the effects of OSP The worst-case scenario anticipates that each OSP will require five visitsup by ajack than of effect will is absence of mitigation therefore be reduced to anThe magnitudeany ofconsidered is be effect to acceptable level in terms ofEIA, likely to be no more an ofthe be linearassomemovement may causean effect. The effect will arise in anchors on manoeuvres that a vessel seabed. However, the with contact in gear have method.A Dynamic Positioning station will caused keeping cablelaying dependEffects by the vessel/s the upon (DP) vessel is unlikely to than more be no to EIA, likely cause an effect asit doeshowever, significance the of will effect level bereduced of in anacceptable to terms not significance of effect in the absence of mitigation is to impacts physical Direct uplegs. jack induced deposition presenceofsediment by the caused the or by effect indirect scour permanent andnegative effect. Itis conceivable that there mayalso be a short term (construction), term short adirect, be will This downwards. displaced or damaged or may bedestroyed areaof effect within the present Any receptors only. area wind(jackfarms consented up), platform within the three or by vessel aself-elevating beinstalled likely to OSPsare isAlthough available, the currently nomethod statement Documented wrecks ( wrecks Documented no effect inter-tidal be within modified theInverboyndie OfTI landfall. Therewill the at therefore there that hasestablished review Baseline acceptable level in terms of EIA, likely to benoto more ofEIA, than likely level in terms acceptable major considered to be high andin the absence ofmitigation the significance of effect is is effect of Magnitude high. as regarded is sensitivity their identification positive to be no more than than more beno to ofEIA,level in terms significance likely the acceptable reduced will ofeffect an to be significance the mitigation absence of of is effect ( loss aviation reported There isone sensitivity is regarded as regarded is sensitivity of the three consented wind farms. In the absence of positive identification the minor . Following mitigation the significance however, of will bereduced effect an to . . Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-21 5.4-21 Heritage ltural minor. WA 2000-2007 WA high

such receptors would induce induce would such receptors . Magnitude of is effect considered be to minor major . Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray WA 2008 WA . Following mitigation however, significance the ) are classified as ‘dead’. In the absence of absence )classified Inthe as‘dead’. are chor towards the vessel may occur when vessel mayoccurwhen the chor towards ) modified the within area OfTIoutwith the are no known cultural heritage receptors receptors heritage cultural known are no the footprint of each anchor, which may may which anchor, each of footprint the OfTI, including diving support vessels used vessels support diving including OfTI, footprint of the spud cans is co-located spudcansis co-located ofthe footprint effect. A similar effect may result from from result may effect A similar effect. ly destructive. It will be a direct, short will be It adirect, short destructive. ly high major . The significance of effect in the insignificanceeffect the of. The . Following mitigation however, minor high magnitude high major . . Following mitigation high effects. The and in the inthe and

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.4.2.51 The magnitude of any effect is considered to be high. The significance of effect in the absence of mitigation therefore is major. Following mitigation however, the significance of effect will be reduced to an acceptable level in terms of EIA, likely to be no more than minor to negligible. Changes in Scour and Sediment Deposition Patterns

5.4.2.52 In the event that the presence of the OSPs and any proposed export cable matressing causes erosion (scour) and sediment deposition in their vicinities, receptors within the footprint of these changes may be subject to indirect effects. Significant effects are likely to be complex and difficult to predict for Cultural Heritage Receptors. They will be long term (operational life of the wind farm), temporary and/or permanent and either positive (sediment deposition) or negative (erosion). The assessment of sensitivity and magnitude is the same as that for OSP construction and offshore export cable installation. The potential indirect effect through the construction of the OSPs may be reversed by the removal of the jacket during decommissioning and may therefore be temporary, although any negative effect may already have become permanent.

5.4.2.53 No significant indirect effects have been identified from changes to seabed processes which may induce adverse effects upon Cultural Heritage Receptors (see Chapter 3.1 Hydrodynamics, Sedimentary and Coastal Processes). In fact minor positive effects from increases in suspended sediment may benefit Cultural Heritage Receptors by increasing protective sediment cover. Indirect setting effects

5.4.2.54 In terms of the effects on the setting of onshore receptors, the OSPs have been considered as part of the MORL ES, 2012 (MORL ES Chapter 5.5 and Technical Appendix 5.5 A of MORL ES, 2012).

5.4.2.55 Due to distance offshore and the reduced number of OSPs, no significant effects from OSPs located in the consented wind farm areas have been identified.

Decommissioning

5.4.2.56 The effects of decommissioning will depend upon the methodology applied. It is assumed that they are at least equivalent to or lesser than the effects predicted for construction. Onshore Impact Assessment – Modified OnTI

Construction Installation of Onshore Cables

5.4.2.57 The cable installation method has not yet been finalised but may include cable plough or trenching. Any receptors present within the area of effect are likely to be destroyed, damaged or displaced, regardless of the trenching method. Additionally, each method has a footprint around the cable trench where direct physical impacts may occur. This will be a direct, short term (construction), permanent and negative effect. The visibility of archaeological receptors encountered using a cable plough may be significantly reduced and effective mitigation may require additional methodologies such as geophysical assessment.

5.4.2.58 The Scheduled Monuments, Boyndie Old Kirk (WA 1040), Hill of Alvah cairns (WA 1035) and The Hills of Boyndie Scheduled area around the prehistoric barrows and enclosures (WA 1010) are located in the area of the OnTI. As scheduled monuments these sites are considered of high value and would, in the absence of mitigation potentially be subject to direct physical impacts of high magnitude. The significance of effect in the absence of mitigation therefore is major adverse. Following mitigation, i.e. micrositing to avoid these receptors the significance of the effect will be reduced to no effect.

5.4-22 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.4.2.61 5.4.2.60 Groundworks and Construction of Substation and Associated Buildings and Infrastructure 5.4.2.62 Effects Setting Indirect Operation 5.4.2.63 Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.2.59

( negligible Following mitigation howeverthe significance of will effect the be reduced to is in absence therefore The significance of ofthe mitigation effect Environmenta by the highlighted importance, ( medium – i.e. local theyto importance andvary between arelikely regional but varies the footprint of the cable trenching,of encountered duringconstruction direct phys Where avoidanceroute. possible is not Avoidance where possible comprises inherent mitigation within the designof the cable corridor whichmay cableroute be export There are 76 undesignated Cultural Herita undesignated Cultural are 76 There negligible significance Following mitigation, post-mitigation arelikelyeffects bereduced to to of be arelikelyto receptors unknown to effects area, but there is potentialfor unknown receptors to be encountered. Direct physical Thereare no known cultural heritage receptorswithin thefootprint of the substation HeritageReceptors within the substation buildingfootprint. working within the construction footprint. receptors. It is assumed surfac ground the damage or groundworks that indirectThe phys constructionof the substation site andassociated structures whichrequire of an arable field (Photo-1060);of anarablefield striking sensitivity, unknown Views areopen, acrossrolling arable farmland. The existing overhead power line is towards the proposed substation site are to the west at a distance of around 4.5 km. was an impressive and distinctive monument falling prior to disrepair. into Views Landscapes of Fyvie ( Castle ( Castle scheduled remainsofGight Auchmaliddie( circle at Stone recumbent Archaeology); the Onshore Transmission5.45 of A: Appendix Technical substation area which have been considered for indirect effects to their setting(Figure There aresixdesignated heritage cultural Fyvie battlefield( within the recumbent stone circle at Auchmaliddie( (oneThe remaining twomegaliths probab judged representto effective mitigation. the effect will be reduced by screening proposed for substations the area, which are Following significance. adverse of moderate low magnitude. Therefore, is judged it effects that in theabsence of mitigation are of high sensitivity.change to the settingof Indirect this monument. effectsthe substation within the landscape, this distance, at judged is not to bealarge to the setting of thethedominant modernelement in the landscapeas viewedwest. the to The scaleof receptor are judged to be of WA1006 WA1063

)(and similar types offeatures) are likely to beregarded as ofregional ), and possible sub-surface prehistoric prehistoric sub-surface ),and possible sensitivity (reduced to an acceptable level in terms ofEIA). in terms level (reduced anacceptable to WA1110 . For example, the designed. landscapearound the Eden Forexample, House Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-23 5.4-23 Heritage ltural leading to unmitigated effects of . ). WA1108 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ) and Hatton Castle( WA1168 high magnitude quartzite stone suggesting the monument monument the suggesting stone quartzite ical effects from vehicles and machinery are are andmachinery fromvehicles ical effects As ascheduled ismonument, receptor the ge Receptors within the modified onshore onshore modified the within ge Receptors e may encounter unknown archaeological unknown encounter e may There are currently no known Cultural noknownCultural Therearecurrently Work EIA: BaselineReviewOffshore of and or previously unknown receptors are are receptors unknown orpreviously assets within the visual envelope of the ly the Recumbent Stone and aflanker) l Policies of the Aber ofl Policies the ical effects will occur to receptors within within receptors to will occur effects ical encountered by the cable trenching. cable bytrenching. the encountered mitigation however the significance however of the mitigation ) and doocot ( ) anddoocot cropmark features at Lower Inchdrewer Lower at features cropmark high magnitude WA1184 . The sensitivity of the receptors receptors the of sensitivity . The minor to major significance WA1102 WA1164 ) lie pronethe at edge deenshire LocalPlan. moderate ), and the Battle of ), Battle andthe toreceptors of ) the Designed Designed ) the WA1184 or minor or minor or low major ), the and . .

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.4.2.64 Gight Castle (WA1167, 1168) and Doocot (WA1164) are located to the south of the substation site at a distance of around 5 km. The receptor is located within the upper slopes of the River Ythan and with effective screening by the topography and mature trees (Photo-1065). Therefore, it is judged that there is no effect.

5.4.2.65 Fyvie Castle (WA1108) and the Battle of Fyvie battlefield (WA1110) are located to the southwest of the substation site at a distance of over 6 km (Photo-1072). Considering the combined influence of distance from the site, intervening topography and mature tree cover, it is judged that there is no effect.

5.4.2.66 The designed landscape of Hatton Castle is located to the west of the proposed substation site, at a distance of over 6 km. Considering the combined influence of distance from the site, intervening topography and mature tree cover, it is judged that there is no effect.

Decommissioning

5.4.2.67 The effects of decommissioning will depend upon the methodology applied. It is assumed that they are at least equivalent to or lesser than the effects predicted for construction. Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

Approach to Mitigation

5.4.2.68 The following measures are designed to mitigate the effect of the construction, operation and decommissioning phases upon known Cultural Heritage Receptors, and to establish the presence of, and appropriate mitigation for, unknown assets. The generic measures proposed here apply to offshore and inter-tidal elements of the modified OfTI and modified OnTI ASAs. Measures specific to the modified OfTI for each area is described in the relevant section below. The primary aim of the ‘Precautionary Principle’ is the prevention of damage to receptors by proactively putting in place protective measures, rather than attempting to repair damage (which may be irreversible) after it has occurred. Specific mitigation includes: • Avoidance of the Scheduled Monuments (WA 1010, 1035, 1040) by micrositing within the area of the modified OnTI; • Avoidance of known undesignated Cultural Heritage Assets by micrositing where possible within the modified OfTI and modified OnTI export cable route corridors; and • Mitigation in respect of previously identified geophysical anomalies (MORL 2012: HAID 40, 42) will depend upon whether they are re-located during the assessment of geophysical data – within the modified OfTI export cable corridor.

5.4.2.69 In addition, the following mitigation measures are proposed in addition to embedded mitigation within the modified OfTI and modified OnTI Rochdale Envelope.

5.4.2.70 No mitigation is proposed for the potential indirect effects of the operational phase of the modified OfTI.

5.4-24 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.2.73 5.4.2.72 Exclusion Zones 5.4.2.71 Geophysical andGeotechnical Assessment Modified OfTI 5.4.2.75 5.4.2.74

be placed around be placed In ofview their potential significance, archaeological exclusion development will zones appropriate. more with planning aschemelayout, implementationof may the sites around buffers be many In site. an archaeological of importance isoften it documented, poorly unknown and significance. As the marine historic environment in Scottish and UK waters is still largely offshore contexts to sites and anomalies withknown or potential archaeological development related activities within their extents andhave been widely appliedin discrete archaeological sites or more extensive areas identified within anEIA prohibit The preferred methodof mitigationis avoi pre-construction. 5.4.2.76 below).Themodified OfTI design,and mitigation on reported measureswill be (see Curators reference with ofWorks inconsultation an program agreed comprising assessmentenhanc archaeological to subject be will OfTI modified the for acquired being datasets geotechnical and Geophysical HS as outlined below. below. outlined HS as with agreed (WSI) ofInvestigation Scheme Written ina out set be will disturbance offset be requirements.survey If cannot effects project as the maybuffers, which evolve of these final account modified The documents.take OfTIwill including contract It is proposedto itsimplementation. that advantag wouldbe it work, ofsuch benefits all exclusion fieldwork. potential maximise to involvedsuch survey inInaddition, the order in to and may it beappropriate archaeologist zonesinterest archaeological potential of sites wi Vehicle(i.e. (ROV)), Operated seabed Remotely survey construction and any other it zone exclusion the refine further to order boundaries. within In their suchmaterial incorporate to buffersareexpected and the Wreck materialcan often be spread over awide areain the vicinity ofa wreck site (MORL ES, 2012). in wind cognisancearea consented farm data.TheWSI willalso set out Exclusion Zonesin relation to theOSPs located within the the presence or not of any remains through the assessment of the marine geophysical willaround beimpl receptors eachof these modified orburied withinfragmentary the ‘Dead’or have substantial positional uncertai Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-25 5.4-25 Heritage ltural WA 2000

- 2008 . Although these receptors have been classified as beenclassified have receptors these . Although Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray OfTI ASA. A minimum exclusion zone of 50 m m 50 of zone exclusion Aminimum ASA. OfTI ll be marked on the scheme masterplans, masterplans, scheme on the be marked ll avoided measures to reduce, remedy or or remedy reduce, to measures avoided dance. Exclusion Zones placed around all all Zonesplacedaround Exclusion dance. progresses subject to scheme design and and schemedesign to subject progresses are inspected by a suitably qualified qualified suitably a by areinspected is suggested that the results of any pre- any of results the that issuggested emented, pending further clarification on emented, clarification further pending eous to seek archaeological advice prior prior advice seekarchaeological eous to havequalified asuitablyarchaeologist(s) nties, remains may bepresent; still either instances, developers therefore, assist to not possible to fully assess the extent or or theextent to fully assess not possible ingtheWritten Scheme of Investigation with the baseline previously assessed assessed baseline previously the with

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI)

5.4.2.76 Following completion of geophysical and geotechnical assessment, a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) will be prepared in consultation with Aberdeenshire Council and Historic Scotland – reviewing and updating the existing WSI included as part of the 2012 MORL ES (Technical Appendix 1.3 A of MORL ES, 2012). This WSI will be compliant with existing archaeological guidance (specifically The Crown Estate/Wessex Archaeology 2010a) and should apply to all construction, operation and decommissioning activities with potential to have an effect upon cultural heritage receptors. It should be incorporated into the final environmental management plan for the modified OfTI and OnTI. The WSI will set out: • When, how, why and by whom archaeological mitigation measures are to be implemented (including archaeological exclusion zones and buffers and micro- siting allowances); and • Provide for the appointment of a retained archaeologist to carry out and/or co- ordinate archaeological mitigation activities and to monitor compliance with the WSI during construction. Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries (PAD)

5.4.2.77 All construction, operation and decommissioning activities will be subject to a scheme-specific protocol document for dealing with archaeological discoveries. This will be compliant with existing archaeological guidance (specifically The Crown Estate/Wessex Archaeology, 2010b) and incorporated into the WSI (in line with the draft WSI included within Technical Appendix 1.3 A of the MORL ES, 2012). Compliance with the protocol will be monitored by the retained archaeologist during construction and installation.

Modified OnTI Geophysical Assessment

5.4.2.78 The use of a Cable Plough during construction for the modified OnTI may preclude visual inspection of the subsurface. Therefore other methods of investigation, such as geophysical survey and assessment prior to cable installation, may be required to verify known sites or features of archaeological interest, and the potential for unknown receptors along the modified OnTI export cable corridor including the proposed substation site and associated buildings and infrastructure; particularly in relation to identified crop mark features. This will be discussed and agreed in consultation between MORL and the Aberdeenshire Council Archaeologist. Screening

5.4.2.79 Indirect effects which maybe induced by the substations will be mitigated through screening of the substation structures. Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI)

5.4.2.80 A WSI will be provided for the modified OnTI, outlining specific mitigation requirements identified by the Aberdeenshire Council Archaeologist, which will include the requirements for further investigation where necessary through a suitable programme of archaeological works.

5.4-26 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter 5.4.3.7 5.4.3.6 Methodology 5.4.3.5 5.4.3.4 5.4.3.3 5.4.3.2 Assessment of Cumulative Effects 5.4.3.1 Summary 5.4.3

Cumulative Impact Assessment Assessment Cumulative Impact • • • • by the strategies set outin this ES. cumulative effects unknownto CulturalReceptors Heritage willbeeffectively mitigated should the SHE-Tinteract with the modified OfTIthen it is considered that potential the potential geographical overlapwith the modified OfTIis also unknown. However, The preciselandfallcable corridorand for SH farms. wind consented three MORL BOWL, the for developed been already have receptors heritage cultural to relating strategies (MORLMitigation 2012). ES, Cumulative effects pertaining to BOWLwere previously assessed to be not significant and proposedthe development. receptor the between key views to noeffect have to arejudged Balquhindachy Auchmaliddie recumbent stone circle,WA 1184), closest, the the three turbines at between sites assessed potentially to 5.3: Seascape,Visual Landscapeand Asse Heritage Receptors and rangethe of wind turbines considered for CIA with Chapter of consideration Thisincludes OfTI. modified and OnTI modified within the identified been have effects cumulative significant No or planned offshore wind farms or other pl other or farms wind offshore or planned deve proposed of the as occur a result could which arethose effects cumulative assessment, of this purposes for the definedAs Assessment. Impact WindDevelopers GroupDiscussion Document presented in Chapter 1.3: Environmental The assessment methodology has followed that outlined in the Moray Firth Offshore remote. be to considered is Firth Moray been identified. Thelikelihoodof from effects cumulative developments outside of the likelyNo development other beof to significance has cumulative to assessment impact as follows: been have that developments The specific conceivable impact that might occur. occur. might that impact conceivable potentially significant effects rather th of assignificant. assessment is emphasis However, collectively onthe minor the but developmentsoractivities. Thes proposed or andconsented / existing, other by beincrementally to potential affected the have activities. Cumulative effects may therefore occur to cultural heritagereceptors that

SHE-T cable, Caithness – Moray HVDC link. Telford, StevensonWind and (threeMacColl Farms consented windfarms); WindBeatrice Offshore (BOWL) Farm and associated TI; SHEFA-2 cable; and Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-27 5.4-27 Heritage ltural

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray an on comprehensively cataloguing every comprehensively cataloguing every an on anned marine and coastal developments or anned marine developments and coastal e effects mayindividually beregarded as e effects lopment in conjunction with other, existing be subject to indirect effects (i.e. (i.e. effects indirect to subject be indirect effects to the setting of Cultural Cultural of setting the to effects indirect ssment. No development is intervisible isintervisible development No ssment. E-T is not currently known and therefore known currently and isnot therefore E-T considered within this assessment are are assessment this within considered

CHAPTER 5.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.4.3.8 Individual sites at specific locations represent both archaeological receptors in themselves, but are also part of the archaeological resource as a body of data and as collective heritage. Hence, not only is it necessary to consider the full range of other plans or projects across the region, not just those in close proximity, but it is also necessary to consider how a number of effects upon a specific aspect of the collective heritage may result in a significant cumulative impact.

Cumulative Assessment

5.4.3.9 Cumulative effects in relation to the three MORL consented wind farms and modified OfTI (Whole Project) are only likely to occur at cable crossings (offshore cable and inter- array). The significance of effect is considered to be of minor/negligible significance following mitigation.

5.4.3.10 There is no geographical overlap between the Whole Project and the Beatrice development but there is a potential for overlap with the SHEFA-2 landfall in Boyndie Bay. Therefore a cumulative impact with other offshore development is considered to be minor/negligible following mitigation.

5.4.3.11 There is however the potential for unknown cultural heritage receptors to be encountered in relation to the Project and at the Boyndie Bay landfall of SHEFA-2. While the sensitivity and magnitude of effects could potentially be high, the significance of effect in the absence of mitigation is major. Mitigation strategies relating to cultural heritage receptors have already been developed for the consented wind farm projects. As such the same mitigation will apply for the modified OfTI. It is unknown at this time the mitigation strategies set out for the SHE-T and SHEFA-2 cable schemes. Potential cumulative impacts from cable schemes (SHE-T and SHEFA-2) will be reduced by the mitigation methods set out in this document (Table 5.4-3). The significance of any potential post-mitigation effect is therefore considered to be of minor significance.

5.4.3.12 Setting effects on Cultural Heritage Receptors in relation to the onshore substations has been considered taking into account the range of wind turbines considered for CIA with Chapter 5.3: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Assessment. No development is intervisible between sites assessed to potentially be subject to indirect effects (i.e. Auchmaliddie recumbent stone circle, WA 1184), the closest, the three turbines at Balquhindachy are judged to have no effect to key views between the receptor and the proposed development.

5.4-28 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.4 – Archaeology andCu 5.4 –Archaeology Chapter Wessex(2011a) Archaeology Assessing an Boats Projects, TheCrownEstate. forArchae (2010b)Wessex Protocol Archaeology Offshore Renewables Proj Wessex(2010a) Archaeology ModelClauses for OffshoreRenewablesLtd. Report, Moray Tec Statement: Environmental Infrastructure (2012)MORL Telford, Stevenson,Wind MacColl Farmsand associated Transmission Consulting Ltd. BOWL(2012) BeatriceWind Offshore FarmEnvironmental Statement. Arcus Renewable Energy 5.4.4 Unpublished ref: report 76930.04. Wessex(2011b) Sc Characterising Archaeology report ref: 70861.04

References References ects, TheCrown Estate. Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson ltural Heritage 5.4-29 5.4-29 Heritage ltural Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray hnical Appendix 5.5A –ArchaeologyTechnical otland’s Marine Resource, Archaeological d Ships: Methodology Archaeological Schemes of Investigation: SchemesofInvestigation: Archaeological ological Discoveries: Offshore Renewables Renewables Offshore Discoveries: ological Report, Unpublished

CHAPTER 5.4 5.3.2.2 5.3.1.2 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.2.1 Platforms Substation Offshore (Modi Infrastructure Transmission Offshore Modified 5.3.1.1 5.3.1 5.3 5 5.3.2 5.3.2.3 5.3.1.3

RochdaleEnvelope ParametersConsidered in the Asse Introduction Assessment Impact Visual and Landscape Seascape, Human Environment Environment Human tower arrangement and painted yellow for navigation yellow and painted arrangement tower jack per legs 6 to up and m sides four have 50 will OSPs is structure topside the of height the and LAT s jacket visible of height (the level interface the S the for assumed visibl are foundations and Jacket LAT. 'box') above substation (the structure topside of height maximum The m. 70 of height platform and 10 of length platform maximum a have will OSPs Both when defining the character of seascape compared to differe slightly are that elements emphasises other physicalenvironment. Seascape character isanexte the experience and environment,this Firth, relationshipsthe Moraythat the of character seascape and Rece (SL&V) Visual Seascape, Landscape and term The .- ad r ietfe a OP (o h north-wes the (to scenario. worst-case the represent 1 OSP fa as identified wind are and consented 5.3-2 Rochdal SLVIA the three for assumed OSPs the the of within locations planned are OSPs assumed been have OSPs the of locations Indicative and Stevenson 2012). (MORL, ES MORL in the detail (Telford, farms wind consented three Sub SLVIA the to Onshore applies it as further described and is been and has parameters Corridor design the out Route setting Envelope Cable Export Onshore O modified Infrast Transmission Onshore and modified and Corridor; (OSPs) Platforms Substation Offshore Transmiss Offshore modified of consists TI infrastructure modified transmission modified the of (views) Assessmen and Impact character landscape and seascape Visual the on effect and Landscape Seascape, The types of vessel which will be visible during the OS the during visible be will which of vessel types i shown are vessels installation OSP of photographs movement vessel 40 const additional an the with over 2.2), Chapter required are days vessel 240 installation assumes suitable with constructed be will OSPs SLVIA Photomontages and Visualisations’. Visualisations’. and Photomontages SLVIA Offs Moray wr 4: ‘Volume the entitled document support A3 complete and ES this of section visualisation map / plan and photographs panoramic Photomontages, Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment fied OfTI) fied OfTI) tructures above water) is 20 m above above m 20 is water) above tructures P construction period. period. construction P they have with each other and theotherandeachwith theyhave in Section 5.3.2. The effects of the the of effects The 5.3.2. Section in t r oe motn a te coast, the at important more or nt et structure, supported in a lattice lattice a in supported structure, et ion Infrastructure (modified OfTI) - - OfTI) (modified Infrastructure ion ructure (modified OnTI) - modified modified - OnTI) (modified ructure vessels. The Rochdale Envelope Envelope Rochdale The vessels. n Figure 5.3-2 to demonstrate the demonstrate to 5.3-2 Figure n (modified TI) (Figure 5.3-1). The The 5.3-1). (Figure TI) (modified e jacket foundations / air gap, gap, air / foundations jacket e nsionoflandscape character, but itten SLVIA are bound into one one into bound are SLVIA itten . The jacket foundations for the the for foundations jacket The . t) and OSP 2 (to the south) to to south) the (to 2 OSP and t) landscape. al marking. marking. al 70 m is the total height of the the of height total the is m 70 s to and from port. Illustrative Illustrative port. from and to s e Envelope are shown Figure Figure shown are Envelope e 0 m, platform width of 100 m m 100 of width platform m, 0 LVIA. The SLVIA assumes that that assumes SLVIA The LVIA. ruction period (described in in (described period ruction o te LI; p o w AC two to up SLVIA; the for tr rfr t te landscape the to refers ptors omnte o pol who people of communities defined for the modified TI TI modified the for defined ffshore Export Cable Route Route Cable Export ffshore the effect on visual amenity amenity visual on effect the MacColl) were assessed in in assessed were MacColl) hore Wind Farm Modified TI Modified Farm Wind hore tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ssment rm sites. The indicative indicative The sites. rm figures, which form the the form which figures, t (SLVIA) considers the the considers (SLVIA) t stations. A Rochdale Rochdale A stations. tatement 5.3-1

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Modified Offshore Export Cable Route

5.3.2.4 The Rochdale Envelope for the SLVIA assumes that up to four offshore export cables will be installed in a cable trench in the sea bed, between the OSPs and the modified export cable landfall at Inverboyndie (approximately 52 km from the southern boundary of the three consented wind farms), within the modified offshore export cable route corridor shown in Figure 5.3-2. The Rochdale Envelope for the modified offshore export cable consists of up to four sub-sea trenches, which would not be visible, laid within the modified offshore export cable route corridor of maximum 1200 m width (as a result of each cable being spaced four times water depth apart).

5.3.2.5 The Rochdale Envelope for the SLVIA assumes that the modified offshore export cable route will be laid by a cable laying vessel, as described in Chapter 2.2 (Project Description), operating during the construction period. The assessment also assumes that there will be a maximum of 240 cable laying days over a two year period. Movements to and from port will be dependent on the port location, which has not yet been selected, but the Rochdale Envelope for the modified offshore export cable route is based on 40 vessel movements to and from the construction port and site. Illustrative photographs of cable laying vessels are shown in Figure 5.3-2 to illustrate the types of vessel which will be visible during the cable laying construction period.

Modified Onshore Transmission Infrastructure (Modified OnTI)

5.3.2.6 The Modified Onshore Transmission Infrastructure (Modified OnTI) consists of the modified export cable landfall (intertidal), up to four separately bundled onshore export cables and two onshore substations (the MORL substation and the regional Transmission Owner (TO) substation). The OnTI SLVIA Study Area is shown in Figure 5.3-3.

Modified Onshore Export Cable Route Corridor

5.3.2.7 The Rochdale Envelope for the SLVIA assumes that the export cables will be installed in four separate 4 m wide trenches (individual trenches for each trefoil circuit) within a 60 m working width corridor in the 500 m wide modified onshore export cable route corridor, between the modified export cable landfall at Inverboyndie and the onshore substations location (approximately 33 km) (Figure 5.3-3).

5.3.2.8 Several installation methods may be used for the underground onshore export cable installation: cable plough, directional drilling (landfall and water crossings) and open trench. A description of these installation methods is provided in Chapter 2.2 (Project Description).

5.3.2.9 The Rochdale Envelope for the SLVIA assumes that the modified export cable landfall at Inverboyndie beach will be installed in four separate 4m wide beach open pit trenches (one for each subsea cable circuit, each circuit comprising trefoil arrangement) extended down to the low tide level (with the sides of the trench typically temporarily supported). The installation method used for the modified export cable landfall installation is likely to be open trenching, or horizontal directional drilling (HDD). A description of these installation methods is provided in Chapter 2.2 (Project Description).

5.3-2 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.2.14 5.3.2.12 5.3.2.13 5.3.2.11 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.2.10 Substations Onshore

• • • • • • • • • n ae ecie i fl i Scin .. (Mitigat 5.3.4 Section in full 5.3-29. Figure in described are t and within proposed are substation works onshore screening and the Landscape that and infra-red) (passive t but required, be will substations the of Lighting The MORL substation Rochdale Envelope broadly consi broadly Envelope Rochdale substation MORL The The TO substation Rochdale Envelope broadly consist broadly Envelope Rochdale substation TO The buildings, which will be agreed with Aberdeenshire Aberdeenshire onsho of the impact visual the reduce help to stage with agreed be will of which indicative buildings, not are shown buil colours between The differentiate equipment. to and substation TO the b differentiate to solely used are Colours effects. photo the in modelling visual theref for basis the as used and area each substations the which in area the showing scenario, within buildings ma or the at structures modelled are part envelopes each The of 5.3-5). depth Figure and width several height, the using to modelled related been Fi has in shown substations is onshore substation TO and substation onshore dimens assumed the showing plan layout substation A niaiey ihn wdr sbttos ra that area’ ‘substations wider 5. Figure in shown indicatively is which screening, a within indicatively x 305m approximately of compound substation 5.3- single Figure in MO the include shown substations onshore the that as assumes Aberdeenshire, Deer, New of comp single a within co-located be Owner will substations Transmission and Substation) (MORL co network, substation grid onshore the to connect to required tw that assumes SLVIA the for Envelope Rochdale The

Various Electrical Equipment (7 – 12.65 m). m). (7 12.65 – Equipment Electrical Various Fenced Enclosure containing Electrical Equipment (4 Equipment Electrical containing Enclosure Fenced (4.7 m); Building Other (12.65 m); Building Switchgear GIS Various Electrical Equipment (7 – 8 m). m). (7 8 – Equipment Electrical Various and m); (712.5 & m Pylons m); (11.28 AutoTransformers x 4 (9m); Units Reactor x 2 (11.5m); Buildings Switchgear GIS x 2 Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment his is assumed to be passive lighting lighting passive be to assumed is his 3-29. 3-29. etween the MORL substation and and substation MORL the etween montages and the assessment of of assessment the and montages will be built. These envelopes are are envelopes These built. be will re substations. substations. re ound located to the south-west south-west the to located ound o) n idctvl son in shown indicatively and ion) s of the following: following: sof the RL and TO Substations within a within Substations TO and RL wl nt e emnnl lit. permanently be not will s gure 5.3-5. The layout of the the of layout The 5.3-5. gure Council at detailed planning planning detailed at Council dings and external electrical electrical external and dings nsisting of the MORL onshore onshore MORL the of nsisting sts of the following: following: of the sts nlds adcpn and landscaping includes ions and layout of the MORL MORL the of layout and ions the colour of the substation substation the of colour the o onshore substations will be be will substations onshore o f h sbtto (hw in (shown substation the of ore represent a worst-case worst-case a represent ore iu hih o te largest the of height ximum 270m (Figure 5.3-5), located located 5.3-5), (Figure 270m (TO) substation. These two two These substation. (TO) m); and m);and he onshore substation area area substation onshore he 3. The Rochdale Envelope Envelope Rochdale The 3. ‘development envelopes’ envelopes’ ‘development tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms tatement 5.3-3

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.3.3 Baseline Information Introduction

5.3.3.1 The SLVIA baseline covers both seascape/landscape character and visual amenity. The seascape/landscape baseline provides an understanding of the seascape/landscape in the area that may be affected – its constituent elements, its character, distinctiveness, condition and value, and the way this varies spatially. The visual baseline establishes the area in which the modified TI may be visible, the different groups of people who may experience views of the modified TI, the viewpoints where they will be affected and the nature of the views at those points.

5.3.3.2 The baseline describes aspects of the seascape/landscape and visual environment that may be significantly affected, as required by Schedule 4 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 and Schedule 3 of the Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2007 (together the EIA Regulations). Establishing the baseline will, when reviewed alongside the description of the modified TI, form the basis for the identification and description of the effects of the modified TI.

5.3.3.3 The baseline seascape/landscape character assessment from the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) has been used to define the baseline conditions. A coastal character methodology was applied to identify Coastal Character Areas (CCAs) informed by, and at a scale comparable to, the existing SNH Landscape Character Assessments (LCAs) (SNH, 1997 and 1998).

5.3.3.4 The baseline description of the SL&V receptors that may be affected is primarily determined by the physical footprint of the modified TI and their Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) (Figure 5.3-15). An overview of the seascape/landscape baseline is described and a scope assessment identifies receptors that may experience significant effects, which require to be assessed in full. A detailed description of the baseline for each seascape/landscape and visual receptor that may be significantly affected is provided in the Impact Assessment in Section 5.3.4.

5.3.3.5 The baseline also describes current pressures that may cause change in the landscape in the future, in particular drawing on information for wind energy developments that are not yet present in the landscape, but are at other stages in the consenting process (as requested in consultations with Aberdeenshire Council). Operational and under construction wind energy developments are regarded as part of the baseline landscape character of the area. Any changes resulting from the modified TI are assessed within this context in the assessment of landscape and visual effects.

Consultations

5.3.3.6 A brief narrative of consultation undertaken for the SLVIA, including scoping responses, is provided in Table 5.3-1. Full scoping responses are provided in Chapter 1.3.

5.3-4 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3-1 Consultation of Summary Responses Table Organisation 14 (SNH) Heritage Natural Scottish 23 Nature Committee (JNCC) Joint Conservation / (SNH) Heritage Natural Scottish th rd 2014May 2014May • • • OfTI • • OnTI ConsultationResponse

combination with the (consented) wind wind (consented) turbines. the with combination OSPsinproposed the of respect assessedin ES previously those from effect SL&V MORL different, baseline the the or additional, any consider to 2012) in (MORL, use assessment can character assessment This N wud ecm sm further some ofpartthe assessment for the welcome modified TI. as substations offshore the of consideration would SNH n h E spotn te eto 3 and 36 Section the marine licence applicationsfor the Project. supporting ES the in comprehensive a There was SLVIA provided eomne gvn strategic the in National PlanningFramework 3. 2.28 Moray Chapter the in proposed of as vicinity coast the in giving proposed or considerationto cableother plannedworks Recommended n vsa ipc o te rjc to project the of therefore impact AberdeenshireCouncil. visual and and landscape the of or assessment importance the deferred regional landscape of any be national would raise that not concerns the would (of impact OnTI) the that considered SNH Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment • • OfTI • OnTI MORLApproach tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms

epc o baseline ESMORL (MORL, 2012). of in from assessment character considered respect effects SL&V Additional/different ute cnieain of OSPs provided thisin ES. consideration Further Sots Government, 2014). transmission (Scottish high 3 NPF in identified network the of voltage effects enhancing cumulative likely the of not assessment an out has carry to design possible been it and parameters, schedules detailabout of tolack Due tatement 5.3-5

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

Aberdeenshire Council • A LVIA should be produced in accordance • LVIA produced in accordance with GLVIA Consultation Meeting with GLVIA (3rd Edition). (3 rd Edition). 16 th May 2014 • Sensitive viewpoints or receptors in the area • Viewpoint assessment Scoping Response 21 st of the modified TI should be assessed. May 2014 • The Culsh Monument, New Deer should be undertaken. used as a more strategic viewpoint for the • Culsh Monument included LVIA. in assessment. • The EIA should contribute to the site design • Landscape mitigation process, in terms of locating and designing proposals are proposed as the development to have minimal/no part of the design of the adverse effects on the landscape. modified TI. • The LVIA should consider other planning • LVIA focuses on potentially applications with significant visual significant cumulative implications for the area, particularly wind effects energy projects. • Onshore substation Study • The cumulative assessment can extend to Area defined as 6 km around 6km from the proposed radius area. development site. • Landscape proposal for • All elements of the modified TI should be onshore substation designed to have minimal impact on the includes woodland character of the area. screening and • Onshore substation buildings should be landscaping to minimise placed as low as possible, with screening potential adverse from sensitive local receptors to minimise landscape and visual effects. potential adverse visual effects. • Woodland screen planting • Quality design of buildings and landscape would assist assimilation of the onshore is based on native plants and woodland design substations into the location. appropriate to the area. • Measures to establish a development with • bespoke and positive aesthetics should be Landscape mitigation proposals include other considered. habitat enhancement • Elements of the development with adverse proposals including marshy effects should be screened with earthworks grassland and hedgerow and planting. establishment. • All earthworks should be designed to • Landscape maintenance appear organic and naturalistic. plan will be produced to • Screen planting should be based on the list address long-term of native plants appropriate to the Buchan management of the area. landscape scheme. • Existing woodland should be conserved and incorporated into the development. • Landscape proposals would be a major factor of mitigation across the development site. • The proposal should indicate the location of all proposed elements of landscape and related features. • Other habitat development (with biodiversity value) should be designed into the development proposal. • A landscape maintenance plan should address the long-term management of the landscape scheme.

5.3-6 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment SLVIA Study Area and Offshore Substation Platforms Platforms Substation Offshore and Area Study SLVIA 5.3.3.13 5.3.3.12 Cable Export Offshore Modified 5.3.3.11 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact Overview Baseline Seascape/Landscape 5.3.3.10 5.3.3.7 5.3.3.9 5.3.3.8

• • 5.3-8), which has the following key characteristics key following the has which 5.3-8), Aberd North 5: Unit Seascape National from offshore i corridor route cable export offshore modified The landscape characteristics. characteristics. landscape se the where where inland coast, further the and influence, along defining areas Character terrestrial Landscape in (CCAs). defined Areas Character Coastal 5.3-8. Figure in illustrated is Coastline route cable export Aberdeenshire a and Moray point the landfall of cable character export modified the trench and cable OSPs four to up th in that installed be assumes will SLVIA cables the for Envelope Rochdale The minimum distance of 46.4 km from the indicative loc indicative from the km of 46.4 distance minimum Aber loc and Moray indicative within CCAs and the Units/Types Seascape from km C 23.4 within of CCAs distance minimum and Units/Types Seascape National All ecie i Catr .. o te OL S MR, 20 (MORL, f ES MORL and the ES. this in TI modified the to relevant where characteristics of 5.4.3 key Chapter The in described 5.3-6. Figure in OSPs t within defined are (CCAs) Areas Character Coastal Aberdeenshire, and the southern edge of South Ronal ofSouth edge southern the and Aberdeenshire, coast adjacent its fro Firth, Moray area the radius covering farms, km 50 a covers Area Study SLVIA The ainl esae nt ad esae hrce type k character The seascape (MORL,2012). ES MORL of5.4 the Chapter and 5.3-6). units (Figure seascape Views national Sea Open Vie with Sea Open Coastline with Coastline Rocky defined 2: is Type coastline Character This A 5. North Unit the Seascape within National is coastline This point. closest km 40 approximately located Banff, and and Lossiemouth Aberdeenshire North the includes Area Study The e Ves Fgr 536. h Tlod n Stevenson and closes Telford their at Caithness, from km 22 approximately The 5.3-6). (Figure Views 3: Sea Type and Cliffs High Remote Ope 1: Type with of sections Coastline Rocky 2: Type Character Seascape sea. the Suthe and of Caithness East – 7 visibility Unit Seascape National of extent inland the define landsca Hills and Slopes Moorland inland the km and 30 Peatlands approximately to up extends and Brora, b coast Caithness the includes Area Study SLVIA The

Low cliffs / rocky coastline predominates; predominates; coastline / rocky cliffs Low Sea; North to views open with and headlands sm with coastline ‘straight’ generally North–facing Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment (OSPs) (OSPs) The coastline has been divided into 17 into divided been has coastline The : berdeenshire / Morayshire Coast Coast Morayshire / berdeenshire t points. points. t h Cihes osln i within is coastline Caithness The s principally located immediately immediately located principally s line in Caithness, Morayshire and and Morayshire Caithness, in line es in the sea bed, between the the between bed, sea the in es ation of OSP 2. 2. of OSP ation eoiin osln wt Open with Coastline Deposition a and coast do not define the the define not do coast and a he SLVIA Study Area around the the Areaaround Study SLVIA he mainly by National Seascape Seascape National by mainly rland, and is defined mainly by mainly defined is and rland, eenshire / Moray Coast (Figure (Figure Coast Moray / eenshire etween Duncansby Head and and Head Duncansby etween all indentations, few significant significant few indentations, all the sea or coast provide a a provide coast or sea the dsay in the Orkney Islands. Islands. Orkney the dsayin wind farm sites are located located are sites farm wind m the three consented wind wind consented three the m pe types of Caithness, which which Caithness, of types pe eatures of these CCAs are are CCAs these of eatures ation of OSP 1. All National National All 1. OSP of ation from the MacColl site, at its its at site, MacColl the from t Inverboyndie. The coastal coastal The Inverboyndie. t and encompasses the Flat Flat the encompasses and Morayshire coast between between coast Morayshire ey characteristics of these these of characteristics ey tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms e modified offshore export export offshore modified e near the modified offshore offshore modified the near deenshire are located at a at located are deenshire ws and Type 3: Deposition Deposition 3: Type and ws ihes r lctd t a at located are aithness 12) and described further further described and 12) n Sea Views, with smaller smaller with Views, Sea n s are described in full in in full in described are s Types (LCTs) are also also are (LCTs) Types tatement 5.3-7

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

• Farmland backs coast and this generally comprises a low lying gently rolling open plain with some Remnant heathland present in places; and • Small and widely spaced settlements clustered in the main at base of cliffs or inlets, many of these are of historic interest and all have a strong relationship to the coast.

5.3.3.14 The modified offshore export cable route corridor is located immediately offshore from the Rocky Coastline with Open Sea Views National Seascape Type covering the North Aberdeenshire coast (Figure 5.3-8), which has the following key characteristics: • Long straight stretches of coastline with cliffs rise to some 30 m height and often with a raised beach edge. • Few significant headlands, although geological differences create an indented coast with bays and inlets, arches and caves; • Harder volcanic rocks producing a more resistant coastline of promontories, low cliffs and rocky shoreline. • Compact fishing villages are located at the base of cliffs in small bays while castles and cliff top forts occur on headland locations, highlighted against the simple sea. • Settlements and built features appear to be spaced at even intervals and thus provide a visual rhythm of foci along the coast. • Views over the North Sea are generally wide and open. • Shipping is a common feature seen out to sea and some isolated industry occurs along the coast. • While these are exposed seascapes, their agricultural hinterland, the presence of settlement and nearby roads and also views of shipping and occasional industry, limits the sense of wildness likely to be experienced.

5.3.3.15 The modified offshore export cable is located immediately offshore from the Boyndie Bay CCA (Figure 5.3-8), within which the modified export cable landfall is located, which has the following key characteristics:

Maritime Influences

• Broad, concave bay with a mainly north-east orientation. • Smaller, local bays formed at Inverboyndie and Banff Bay, separated by craigs around Meave Point. • Shipping is a common feature seen out to sea. • Water based recreation and beach activities, e.g. surfing. • Harbours ar Banff and Macduff with fishing and maritime vessels. • Low level of shipping parallel to coast and some recreational sailing. • Views across the bays towards headlands and out to sea to the distant horizon.

Character of Coastal Edge

• Rocky, undulating coastline with elevated views along the coast and across the open expanse of sea. • Sea views framed in places by undulations in the landform and in bay areas.

5.3-8 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact Wildness / isolated Coast Coast / isolated Wildness Hinterland Immediate of Character 5.3.3.18 Character Landscape Terrestrial 5.3.3.17 Character Seascape 5.3.3.16 M (and Corridor Route Cable Export Onshore Modified

• • • • • • • • • hog arclua aes f af ad uhn thr Buchan, and Banff of areas agricultural through T LCA. Coast East South and North the of Cliffs the the which landfall within cable export modified onshore The located. Area, Study OnTI the within areas geographical 5.3-10 Figure corridor. route cable into export onshore subdivided c baseline the provide which (LCAs) areas subsequently character been have landscape as to referred assessment and mapped are The that tracts Area. Study OnTI modified the covers f assessment character SNH terrestrial existing The National Seascape Type and the Boyndie Bay CCA, as as CCA, 5.3-8. Figure in Bay shown Boyndie Coastl the and Rocky Type the Seascape National Coast, Moray / Aberdeenshire North wit lies landfall cable export onshore modified The along the route corridor. corridor. route the along tog field, the in route the of study walkover a and s top desk a by corrid informed constraints, route and receptors cable export onshore modified of route the to substations onshore proposed extends the and Beach) which expor modified export the 5.3-3, (including corridor route Figure m the encompasses defined Area in Study OnTI The east. Averchirde shown south, the to Fyvie coast, as Aberdeenshire Area Study has cable export onshore modified the for LVIA The

Sandy beaches at Inverboyndie Beach and Banff Beach Banff and Beach Inverboyndie at beaches Sandy Tumblers. st indentations, of number large includes Coastline lhuh t s xoe i pae, ul faue in features faces cliff vertical dueto inaccessible Someareas built places, in experienced. be exposed t limit area urban and is lines power / communications it Although present. still is house club e the to links golf by backed is beach Inverboyndie Park. Caravan a visitor and Inverboyndie areas play at park, car footpaths, beaches coastal sandy of use Recreational coastline. to parallel runs A98 road main The Deveron. River the and Bay of Banff side of areas urban by influenced heavily is Hinterland to adjacent hills coastal beaches. sandy contains form to rising Topography Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment odified Export Cable Landfall) Landfall) Cable Export odified ether with landowner consultations consultations landowner with ether identifies the landscape character character landscape the identifies or Banff and Buchan (SNH, 1997) 1997) (SNH, Buchan and Banff or hin the National Seascape Unit 5: Unit Seascape National the hin he remainder of the route passes passes route the of remainder he been undertaken within the OnTI OnTI the within undertaken been t cable landfall at Inverboyndie Inverboyndie at landfall cable t falls within The Coast LCT, within within LCT, Coast The within falls r to the west and Maud to the the to Maud and west the to r tudy of Ordnance Survey data data Survey Ordnance of tudy haracterisation of the modified modified the of haracterisation . . nhr epr cbe il be will cable export onshore character types (LCTs). These These (LCTs). types character facilities including Banff Links Links Banff including facilities or was influenced by known known by influenced was or south-west of New Deer. The The Deer. New of south-west Banff and Macduff on either either on Macduff and Banff odified onshore export cable cable export onshore odified divides the landscape into into landscape the divides ough the Western Coastal Coastal Western the ough acks and cliffs, such as the the as such cliffs, and acks ast - the blue roofed former former roofed blue the - ast he sense of wildness likely to likely wildness of sense he tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ine with Open Sea Views Views Sea Open with ine the vertical cliffs which which cliffs vertical the described previously and and previously described . . ly specific landscape landscape specific ly nd Banff Beach, with with Beach, Banff nd cluding main road, road, main cluding between the North North the between tatement 5.3-9

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Farmland LCA, before crossing the Deveron and Upper Ythan Valley LCA and then taking a route south-east through the Agricultural Heartlands LCA to the onshore substation area. The alignment of the onshore cable route through these LCAs is shown in Figure 5.3-10 and these LCAs are listed, along with a summary of their key characteristics in Table 5.3-2 below.

Table 5.3-2 Onshore Cable Route: Terrestrial Landscape Character

LCT Landscape Key Characteristics Character Area

The Coast Cliffs of the North Cliff edged headland, inlets occasional sandy bays and and South– notable blow holes. Overall impression of open, large scale landscape, wide expanses of merging sea and sky. East Coasts Vegetated slopes and frequent habitation, including ruined castles and mansion houses.

Coastal Farmland Western Coastal Large-scale landscape of coastal farmland, situated to the Farmland south of Portsoy, with shallow basins, broadly sweeping plains and infrequent rounded hills rising from the low ground to form gentle landmarks in the rolling terrain. The influence of the sea, which is glimpsed through the rolling landform, is a common element in determining the character.

River Valleys Deveron and Major river valley which is well settled, wooded and visually Upper Ythan Valley diverse. Incised through the surrounding agricultural plains, the Deveron and Upper Ythan rivers and their adjoining tributaries meander through predominantly shallow valleys, bounded by broad and rolling hill ridges to either side. Occasionally these valley sides become steeper as the River Deveron flows northwards where it joins the sea in Banff.

Agricultural Agricultural Agricultural land use over gently rolling landform. Open Heartland Heartland views over the surrounding, large scale landscape. Trees in shelterbelts, along ridges, around farms and in small coniferous blocks combine to provide some contrast and prevent a sense of bleakness. Field boundary types varied between fences and hedges to the south and east with some stone walls and consumption dykes to the north near Strichen.

Landscape Elements and Features

5.3.3.19 The land use within the modified onshore export cable route corridor varies somewhat between the four LCTs which characterise the route, but remains predominantly agricultural, with large arable and pastoral fields, relatively limited hedgerow cover and occasional semi-natural and plantation woodland. There are also areas of moss/wetter grassland and occasional surface water bodies in lower lying areas, but agricultural fields are extensively drained by a network of small burns around field boundaries.

5.3.3.20 The principal landscape elements within the modified onshore export cable route corridor are shown in Figures 5.3-18 – 5.3-22. Areas of woodland are identified as principal landscape elements that may be affected by the onshore cable route and are shown in these figures, including several areas of ancient woodland 1. Landscape elements are identified within each LCA in Table 5.3-3.

1 In Scotland, Ancient Woodland is defined as land that is currently wooded and has been continually wooded, at least since 1750.

5.3-10 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact Elements 5.3-3 Cable Landscape Onshore Route: Table Section4: AgriculturalHeartland (Agricultural Hea Section3: AgriculturalHeartland (Agricultural Hea SectionRiver2: Valley(Deveron and Upper Ythan Va Section1and Coastal 2: Farmland (Western Coastal SectionThe1: Coast (Cliffs the of North and South LandscapeElement eintrlacetwoln: None Ancient woodland: Semi-naturalancient woodland: None Fieldboundaries: Farmland: Other woodland: Ancient woodland: Semi-naturalancient woodland: Fieldboundaries: - RV6 Den of Inveric Farmland: Other woodland: Ancient woodland: Semi-naturalancient woodland: Fieldboundaries: None Farmland: Other woodland: Ancient woodland: Semi-naturalancient woodland: None Farmland: Fieldboundaries: Other woodland: Ancient woodland: Semi-naturalancient woodland: Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S East Coast andLCA BoyndieBay CCA) rtlandLCA) rtlandLCA) FarmlandLCA) Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS lleysLCA) Assessment Feature None / dykes consumption / fences wire occasional scrubhedgerows fieldand boundarytrees and Post Predominantlyarable AH3- Yonderton AH2Balmaud -of Mill AH1Wood-of Balchers / dykes consumption / fences wire occasional scrubhedgerows fieldand boundarytrees and Post / farming mixed grazing. some with arable, Predominantly - RV4 Inverichnie - RV3 Cormack’s Hillock - RV2 Berryton Cottage - RV1 Govel Hill - RV5 Lower Wanford / dykes consumption / fences wire occasional scrubhedgerows and Post Predominantlyarable CF1Cuttle- Rig CF5Claret- Brae CF4Alvah Hill - of CF3Coach- Brae CF2BoyndieHills- of PredominantlyArable andPost fences wire / consumption dykes BlackC2- HillocksShelterbelt BurnC1- of Boyndie None

hnie tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms tatement 5.3-11

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Landscape Element Feature

Other woodland: AH4 - Slackadale AH5 - Hill of Cotburn AH6 - Cairnhill AH7 - Waterside

Farmland: Predominantly arable

Field boundaries: Post and wire fences / consumption dykes / occasional scrub hedgerows and field boundary trees

Section 5: Agricultural Heartland (Agricultural Heartland LCA)

Semi-natural ancient woodland: None

Ancient woodland: None

Other woodland: AH8 - Castlehill AH9 - Boghead AH10 - Howe of Teuchar AH11 - Bridge of Swanford

Farmland: Predominantly arable

Field boundaries: Post and wire fences / consumption dykes / occasional scrub hedgerows and field boundary trees

Landscape Designations

5.3.3.21 The majority of the modified onshore export cable route corridor is not subject to landscape designation.

5.3.3.22 The Deveron and Upper Ythan Valley LCA and the Cliffs of the North and South–East Coasts LCA of the modified OnTI Study Area, are defined by Aberdeenshire Council as Areas of Increased Sensitivity (AIS) in their Landscape Character Advice for Small Scale Development (LCASSD) (Aberdeenshire Council, 2012) (Figure 5.3-11). These LCAs are considered to be of increased landscape sensitivity due to their inherent characteristics and are coincident with what were historically identified as Areas of Landscape Significance (ALS) by Aberdeenshire Council. The Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan (Aberdeenshire Council, 2012) does not designate such areas and instead uses a landscape character approach to guide development (Policy 12 of the LDP).

5.3.3.23 The modified export cable landfall at Inverboyndie is located within the Cliffs of the North and South–East Coasts LCA, which is characterised by ‘cliff-edged headlands, frequently fissured and bitten into by narrow inlets and, more rarely, hugging sheltered sandy bays such as those at Cruden and Sandend; although the overall impression is of an open, exposed, large-scale landscape, with wide expanses of sky and sea’. Specific relevant guidelines for this LCA in the LCASSD suggest that ‘hedgerows and stone dykes should be maintained and reinstated’ (LCASSD, Cliffs of the North and South East Coasts LCA section).

5.3.3.24 The modified onshore export cable landfall crosses the Deveron and Upper Ythan Valley LCA to the south of Bridge of Alvah, between Govel Hill, Inverichnie and Bridge of Denmill (Figure 5.3-11). The LCASSD advises that the Deveron and Upper Ythan Valley LCA is ‘an area of increased landscape sensitivity due to the qualities of the River Deveron Valley, including; the deciduous trees; river side trees; beech hedging and views along the river’. This area is coincident with what was historically identified as an Area of Landscape Significance.

5.3-12 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.3.25 5.3.3.29 5.3.3.28 5.3.3.27 5.3.3.26 Character Landscape Terrestrial Substations Onshore

e o a ig oeloig oln frln; n Cu and Z." letter the resembles farmland; rolling overlooking ridge a on set fine example of a planned village, set in the shelt the in set village, planned a of example fine L Byth. New as such hamlets small are as landscape, st occasional the fr are Farmsteads Strichen. near and north the dykesto east, and south the includin to vary, hedges boundaries Field plain. agricultural fe any prevent and landscape the enliven to combine occasiona more and, farms around hill-ridges, along pa of forms scattering frequent The plains. overhead broad the across clouds of movement the days clear t of views open allows landform rolling gently "The open flood plain of the river near its mouth at Ban at mouth its near river of the plain flood open Bridg the by spanned gorge river deep the and hills bank west stret the varied and long a on occupies landscape designed Set House. Duff 18th-cent mansion, late classical a is va architecture, GDL ornamental and parks walks, House woods, Duff Alvah. Deveron of the within Bridge located is which GDL, House Duff pa corridor route cable export onshore modified The by the variety of arable crops. crops. of arable variety bythe rollin the across pattern - type patchwork an - strong and fields extensiv out laid an geometrically by the with connected Along are dwellings and farms of larger the as well as These, landscape. the within provide buildings community and churches Scattered The Banff and Buchan landscape assessment describes assessment landscape Buchan and Banff The oe iest i cetd y lvto, adom an estates. wooded and woodlands landform elevation, by created is land diversity interior Some the by influenced be to tend they a and plains Agricultural areas. geographical different landscape Heartland Agricultural the Aberdeenshire 1997, Gui Consultants Resource Cobham Buchan, Landscape and Strategic Banff the in described Council’s and Agri character Aberdeenshire Landscape the within in located identified are substations onshore The td Ae dfnd y h Nrhr Rlig Lowlands Rolling Northern LCA. Farmland the by defined Area Study wes and wi LCA, Heartland northern Agricultural the by central, characterised the of majority The f Area. the encompasses which LCT, Heartland Agricultural is Area Study substations onshore The specifi consultation. project on based chosen been has assessment de The 5.3-13. Figure in shown as Area Study km 6 a lo indicative substations’ onshore the for LVIA The Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment cation has been undertaken within within undertaken been has cation ff to the north. north. the ffto settlements and the large numbers numbers large the and settlements he surrounding landscape, and on and landscape, surrounding he g landscape, which is emphasised emphasised is which landscape, g equent in this relatively well-settled well-settled relatively this in equent ered North Ugie valley; New Deer, Deer, New valley; Ugie North ered broad-leaved trees in shelterbelts shelterbelts in trees broad-leaved g fence-lines, beech and thorn thorn and beech fence-lines, g principally characterised by the the by characterised principally re the prominent characteristic characteristic prominent the re th the south-eastern parts of the the of parts south-eastern the th arger villages include Strichen, a Strichen, include villages arger finition of the Study Area for this this for Area Study the of finition ua patns tee rae a create these plantings, gular e of Alvah to the south, to the the to south, the to Alvah of e is extensive and covers several several covers and extensive is lued for its scenic qualities and and qualities scenic its for lued d the incidence of shelterbelt shelterbelt of incidence the d ietw, h pa o which of plan the minestown, scapes rather than the coast. coast. the than rather scapes sses to the west and south of of south and west the to sses lly, in small coniferous blocks, blocks, coniferous small in lly, ch of terrain ranging from the the from ranging terrain of ch tern parts of the Study Area Area Study the of parts tern features and gathering points points gathering and features ull onshore substations Study Study substations onshore ull the area as follows: follows: as area the eling of bleakness in this vast this in bleakness of eling aly bten af and Banff between Valley, s of the River Deveron, the the Deveron, River the of s one walls and consumption consumption and walls one ury designed landscape of of landscape designed ury cultural Heartlands LCA as as LCA Heartlands cultural C ad h Yhn Strath Ythan the and LCA c desk study, fieldwork and and fieldwork study, desk c dance SG Landscape 1: 1: Landscape SG dance tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms e network of minor roads. roads. minor of network e SNH Review No 37. Within Within 37. No Review SNH tterns of light and shade shade and light of tterns Character Assessment of of Assessment Character tatement 5.3-13

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.3.3.30 The settled landscape is crisscrossed by pole mounted transmission lines and the pylon mounted transmission line is a prominent feature in some locations. Views within the Agricultural Heartland landscape are confined in places to local areas with the rolling landform providing containment as well as vantage points where more distant views become available.

5.3.3.31 Although the land use of the onshore substation Study Area is predominantly agricultural, there is a pattern of scattered woodland shelterbelts, larger woodland blocks/plantations and semi-natural woodlands, particularly along the Deveron Valley to the west and the Braes of Gight to the south of the Study Area. The baseline woodland context of the area is illustrated in Figure 5.3-14. There is a frequent scattering of broad-leaved trees in shelterbelts along hill-ridges, around farms, and in small coniferous blocks, which combine to diversify the agricultural plain. There are few areas of extensive woodland in the area, with the most substantial being plantation woodlands, such as around the Howe of Teuchar and semi-natural woodlands within the Deveron Valley, such as the ancient woodlands of Gight, which represent some of the least disturbed native woodland in the Grampian lowlands. Comparatively more recent plantings are often associated with the estates, and include avenues, policies and shelterbelts. The existing woodland pattern evident in the landscape has informed the indicative landscape mitigation proposals for the onshore substations, described further in Section 5.3.4 and shown in Figures 5.3-28 and 5.3-29.

Landscape Elements and Features – Site Analysis

5.3.3.32 A site analysis of the substations area and surrounding local landscape has been undertaken and is illustrated in Figure 5.3-16. Key characteristics of the local landscape around the substations area are described as follows:

• Land use primarily arable farmland, interspersed with strong field boundaries of either coniferous planting, traditional drystone walls or post and wire fencing; • Large scale electrical pylons and overhead lines traverse the substation area between Mains of Asleid and East Swanford; • Field boundaries generally determined by hedgerows and post and wire fences with some drystone walls (consumption dykes) in varying conditions; • Range of vegetation, including woodland shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous woodland, particularly along the Burn of Alseid and adjacent to minor road on the eastern boundary; • Post and wire fences and drystone walls (consumption dykes) define fields within the site; • Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations, occasionally dropping more notably into burns; • The substation area is characterised by gently undulating landform with elevations generally between 100-110m AOD; • To the south and west the land gently slopes away more steeply towards the Burn of Asleid, with the steepest incline to the south where the level falls to approximately 95m AOD; • Areas of higher ground in the wider landscape can be found to the east, north- east, west and north-west of the site, on either side of the ‘Little Water’ river; • Scattered detached houses and farmsteads with large steadings, with a cluster of dwellings around the Maryhill crossroads;

5.3-14 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment SLVIA Study Area – Offshore Substation Platforms (O Platforms Substation Offshore – Area Study SLVIA 5.3.3.37 Roads 5.3.3.36 5.3.3.38 5.3.3.35 Settlements Visual Baseline Overview Overview Baseline Visual 5.3.3.33 Designations Landscape 5.3.3.34 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

• • • • • Morayshire/Aberdeenshire part of the StudyArea T areB876.and B874B870,including the Area Study the A9(T),A99, A882, A836 and proA897, with minor roads othersc while countryside. development,Themain road corridors within urbanthe Cai with associated Therenumerousarecorridorsroad traversing SL the located within the sheltered bays along this coast. this along bays sheltered the within located Findochty, Portgordon, at settlements smaller with Lossiemou include settlements main the development, co coasts Aberdeenshire and Morayshire the covering to are settlement The km). (46.6 Portknockie closest is 2 OSP of the location Aberdeenshire, / Moray In oae apoiaey 52 m et f h tre con three the of west km 25.2 Helmsdal A99, approximately the located is 1 OSP to road main closest The case) location of OSP 1. 1. OSP of case)location se large closest the is Wick and km) (23.7 st 1 OSP to town the Caithness, In Bay. Area; Wick of the sides Study both along is extends SLVIA the Wick of Keiss. Cait part o and Caithness with the Lybster crofts, Dunbeath, and along Helmsdale, farms scattered Settlement of Coasts. predominantly Aberdeenshire and E North of part large a covers Area Study SLVIA The located approximately 7 km to the south-west. south-west. the to km 7 approximately located sub onshore the of west the to km 6.5 approximately Designed and Garden Castle Hatton being nearest the onsh the within designations landscape no are There etrsatatos n h SVA td Ae ta r m that them Figu in shown and below briefly described fromare These views Area as TI, modified Study consisting the of SLVIA receptors, assessment the visual in of features/attractions number a are There

Network of B-roads and single track farm access lan access farm track single and of B-roads Network fr views in prominent most is of Balquhindachy Hill Thre landscape. the within turbines single Numerous ar in water ofSwanford e.g. Moss west/north-west the to ground surface occasional and mosses Localised fields; drains, field and watercourses numerous of Network skyline; distant on present Church Millbrex North Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment SPs) SPs) thnesspart of theStudy Area are the onnectingthe more remote parts of VIA Study Area, many of whichStudyArea,areVIAofmany

Portknockie, Portsoy and Whitehills Whitehills and Portsoy Portknockie, as to the south of the Study Area Area Study the of south the to as theA99, A941 andA942. ttlement to the indicative (worst- indicative the to ttlement Morayshire the and Caithness ast he main road corridorsthe withinroad main he re 5.3-7. 5.3-7. re Sarclet is the closest settlement settlement closest the is Sarclet om the site; and and site; omthe ore substations Study Area, with with Area, Study substations ore t Jh O Got, hc is which Groats, O’ John to e stations and Fyvie Castle GDL Castle Fyvie and stations ay be affected by the OSPs. OSPs. the by affected be ay ntain a substantial amount of of amount substantial a ntain equire consideration in the the in consideration equire es. th, Buckie, Cullen and Banff, Banff, and Cullen Buckie, th, (worst-case) indicative the ade te ie Wc and Wick River the raddles etd id am ie a its at sites farm wind sented ; ; of settlements, routes and and routes settlements, of ccasional villages such as as such villages ccasional e turbine wind farm on the the on farm wind turbine e tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms which drain the agricultural agricultural the drain which largest settlement in the the in settlement largest Landscape (GDL) located located (GDL) Landscape ie ces o h wider the to access vide eas of wetter, low-lying low-lying wetter, of eas hness coasts consists consists coasts hness tatement 5.3-15

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

closest point. The A9(T) is located approximately 34.2 km from OSP 1 at its closest point and the A882 is located 28 km from OSP 1. The A98 road corridor in Morayshire is located at a minimum distance of 47.9 km from OSP 2, with other road corridors in Morayshire located at greater distances.

Railways

5.3.3.39 The SLVIA Study Area includes one main railway line, running being Inverness to Wick and Thurso. The line follows the coast between Brora and Helmsdale before turning inland to a route along Strath of Kildonan outside the Study Area. The line re-enters the Study Area near Halkirk, where it branches north to Thurso and south east to Wick. The line is located over 33 km from OSP 1 at its closest point, but is generally located at longer distances.

Long distance Routes

5.3.3.40 National Cycle Route 1 (NCR1) traverses the northern part of the Study Area, shown in Figure 5.3-7, running along the north Caithness coast between John O’ Groats and Thurso. The coastline and settlements of Morayshire are linked by a waymarked coastal walking trail, the Moray Coast trail, of approximately 50 miles between Findhorn and Cullen. The Moray Trail takes in landscapes from rugged cliffs, caves and sheltered coves to fishertown harbours and sweeping stretches of sandy beaches. The Moray Firth is one of 12 national tourist routes, designed to provide the travelling holidaymaker with an alternative to the main trunk roads and motorways. The route has been selected because it is attractive in its own right but also to offer a variety of things to see and do on the way to a main destination.

Attractions and Visitor Facilities

5.3.3.41 Tourism and recreation in the area are addressed in Chapter 5.5: Socio-economics. There are features and resources of interest to visitors in the Study Area; John O' Groats is popular with tourists because it is one end of the longest distance between two inhabited points on the British mainland. The most northerly point in the British mainland is located nearby at Dunnet Head. Some of the coastal villages and harbours provide attractive locations to stay for tourist visitors, including Keiss, Dunbeath and Helmsdale. The natural and historic environment of the Caithness coast provides extensive interest to visitors. The Caithness landscape, and particularly the coastline, is rich with the remains of human occupation from the pre- historic era to the present day, and there are numerous sites where this history is interpreted for visitors. The underlying geology, harsh climate and long history of human occupation have shaped the distinctive natural heritage. The landscape incorporates both common and rare habitats and species, and Caithness provides a stronghold for many once common breeding species of interest. The Moray coastline has a string of sandy beaches and accessible coastal settlements such as Buckie, Lossiemouth, Findochty, Portknockie and Cullen, have long been popular for family holidays. For the walker there are extensive coastal walks in the Study Area, taking in cliffs, arches and stacks as well as sand and dunes.

Viewpoints

5.3.3.42 The assessment of SL&V effects is informed by a series of 24 viewpoints, which were selected to cover locations with specific receptors of importance within the ZTV (Figure 5.3-7) for the three consented wind farms and OfTI, as assessed in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) such as recognised viewpoints, designated landscapes, important routes and attractions. Viewpoints for the SLVIA were considered and agreed in consultation with The Highland Council, Moray Council, Aberdeenshire Council and

5.3-16 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.3.43 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

iwons s hw i Fgr 537 n te existin the and 7). Volume ES (MORL 8.4-36 to 8.4-13 Figures 5.3-7 5.4. Figure shown are viewpoint each from (Section farms in wind consented 2012) shown (MORL, is ES viewpoints MORL the in described bas the of description A location. OSP (worst-case) distan their and view the experiences that receptor infor provides and viewpoints the lists 5.3-4 Table still relevant. relevant. still v the (EDA), Area Development Eastern the in remain assesse originally the of part were that OSPs eight Viewpoints 2012). (MORL, th of terms in ES agreed were section this to pursuant MORL the of part as SNH Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment mation on their location, the type of of type the location, their on mation e three consented wind farms and and farms wind consented three e d OfTI. As the proposed two OSPs OSPs two proposed the As OfTI. d eline conditions in these views is is views these in conditions eline ce from the nearest indicative indicative nearest the from ce iewpoints agreed in 2012 are are 2012 in agreed iewpoints g views towards the three three the towards views g in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) 2012) (MORL, ES MORL the in that were agreed in 2012 2012 in agreed were that tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms 7). The location of these these of location The 7). tatement 5.3-17

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.3-4: Viewpoints - OSPs

ID Name Easting Northing Distance (km) from Receptors nearest OSP

1 Duncansby Head 340528 973247 46.3 km (OSP1) Walkers / birdwatchers

2 Keiss Pier 335055 960934 37.1 km (OSP1) Residents / tourist visitors

3 Sortat 328903 963016 42.2 km (OSP1) Residents

4 Wick Bay 336985 951027 27.8 km (OSP1) Residents

5 Sarclet (Sarclet Haven Info 334989 943334 23.7 km (OSP1) Residents / visitors Board)

6 Hill O' Many Stanes 329516 938430 26.1 km (OSP1) Walkers / tourist visitors

7 Lybster (end of Main Street) 324843 935082 29.6 km (OSP1) Residents

8 Latheron (A9) 319803 933152 34.2 km (OSP1) Residents / motorists

9 Dunbeath (nr Heritage 315957 929567 37.8 km (OSP1) Residents Centre)

10 Berriedale (A9) 313153 924611 40.8 km (OSP1) Residents / motorists

11 Morven 300482 928539 53.3 km (OSP1) Walkers

12 Navidale 303766 916161 51.6 km (OSP1) Residents

13 Catchory 325836 957348 39.9 km (OSP1) Residents

14 Minor Rd, south side of 319802 940395 35.9 km (OSP1) Motorists Stemster Hill

15 Whaligoe Steps 332051 940296 24.5 km (OSP1) Tourist visitors

16 Lossiemouth, Prospect Terrace 323397 870574 55.5km (OSP2) Residents (Info Point)

17 Buckie, Cliff Terrace 343091 865825 60 km (OSP2) Residents

18 Portnockie - Bow Fiddle Rock 349411 868741 46.5 km (OSP2) Walkers Info Point

19 Cullen, Viaduct & cycle path 350995 867102 47.9 km (OSP2) Residents / cyclists / walkers

20 Bin Hill 347989 864267 51.2 km (OSP2) Walkers

21 Findlater Castle 354169 867086 47.5 km (OSP2) Tourist visitors / walkers

22 Portsoy 359071 866382 48 km (OSP2) Residents

23 Ferry Route (Kirkwall to 388911 931385 34.7 km (OSP2) Ferry passengers Aberdeen) north

24 Ferry Route (Kirkwall to 382009 950868 35.8 km (OSP1) Ferry passengers Aberdeen) south

5.3-18 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.3.44 Cable Export Offshore Modified 5.3.3.48 5.3.3.47 5.3.3.46 E Modified (and Route Cable Export Onshore Modified 5.3.3.45 5.3.3.49

at Knock Head,caravan sites at Banff Links, Whiteh offshoreexport cable installation, including experInver may Boy people of of groups where section areas recreational closest This 1. Route Cycle National Inverboyndie,WhitehillsPortsoy;corroute andand includeareaThisBoyneBay.around and Boyndie Bay modifiedcoastlineoffshorethe exportrou cable to I 5.3-9. vie experiencedin Figure beinstallation maycableexport in illustrated those as such coast, the near routes recreational experience and be roads settlements, may vessels, support and laying cable export offshore modified the of Views Inverboyndie. OSPswithin thethree consented farmswind andthe installe be will cable export offshore modified The landscape features, including a number of castles. of castles. number a including features, landscape an House Duff beaches, including area, search cable a attractions visitor other and tourist of number A at onr f h ae. hr ae lo eea reg several also are cyclists. as well as walkers, There area. the of corner east reco le runs Trails) Great Scotland’s of (one Way Buchan officially sma no a although area, search are the in routes) There (walking Portsoy. to N across the and of part also from passing times, several is area search the through (which 1 Route Cycle National OnTI Study Area. Area. Study OnTI A947. l and A97 A98, are the of routes main settlements the including These properties. rural as scattered such villages to Banff of town coastal the from S OnTI the within settlements of number a are There viewpoint is illustrated in Figure 5.3-17. in 5.3-17. Figure illustrated is viewpoint setti l cable export modified the seascape to route cable offshore the illustrates modifie and the Bay Inverboyndie of assessment this A9 the on located is viewpoint This 25). (Viewpoint in included been has (MORL 12.3.4-36 to 12.3.4-13 Figures ES MORL the in toward route views cable export offshore modified the existing over farms The 2012). (MORL, ES MORL the vie these in conditions baseline the of description Aberdee (View North 21),Portsoy (Viewpoint Castle Findlater 20), ( / Cullen 18), (Viewpoint Portnockie 17), Moray (Viewpoint the along people by experienced along views of representative locations Viewpoint 27. Visual Receptors are identified within each LCA each within identified are Receptors Visual 27. det more at and 5.3.12 Figure in shown are corridor mo the of 1km within receptors visual principal The Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment xport Cable Landfall) Landfall) Cable xport boyndieandBanff Beach, picnic sites priua, h mdfe offshore modified the particular, n point 22) as shown in Figure 5.3-9. A 5.3-9. Figure in shown as 22) point re found within the onshore export export onshore the within found re ills and Portsoy. ws is described in Section 12.3.4 of of 12.3.4 Section in described is ws 8 layby near Banff which overlooks overlooks which Banff near layby 8 ridorsA98,B9139andincluding the te, between Portsoy and Macduff,Portsoybetweente,and i cbe rnhs ewe the between trenches cable in d in Table 5.3-5 below. below. 5.3-5 Table in ss than 500m away from the south south the from away 500m ssthan dified onshore export cable route cable export onshore dified andfall. The existing view from this this from view existing The andfall. ailed scale in Figures 5.3-23 to 5.3- to 5.3-23 Figures in scale ailed

tudy Area (Figure 5.3-12), ranging ranging 5.3-12), (Figure Area tudy ws from the closest section of the ofsection closest the from ws Viewpoint 19), Bin Hill (Viewpoint (Viewpoint Hill Bin 19), Viewpoint New Deer and Cuminestown to to Cuminestown and Deer New modifiedexport cable landfall at from each viewpoint are shown are viewpoint each from , 2012). An additional viewpoint viewpoint additional An 2012). , Maud to Turiff, then up to Banff Banff to up then Turiff, to Maud al isalto, ossig of consisting installation, cable ll section of The Formartine and Formartine The of section ll inked by a network of roads, roads, of network a by inked de a as icue several includes also Bay ndie ng of the closest parts of the the of parts closest the of ng ot Aedesie Moray / Aberdeenshire North No railways are present in the the in present are railways No s settlementsBanff,s Macduff,at ional footpath routes used by by used routes footpath ional this coastline, including Buckie Buckie including coastline, this gnised Long Distance Routes Routes Distance Long gnised d grounds (GDL) and historic historic and (GDL) grounds d s the three consented wind wind consented three the s orth Sea Cycle Route) runs runs Route) Cycle Sea orth ec ves f h modified the of views ience b pol i ves from views in people by d tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms T a Ivroni Bay Inverboyndie at TI d sie osln are coastline nshire tatement 5.3-19

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Table 5.3-5 Onshore Cable Route: Visual Receptors

Type of Receptor Visual Receptors

Section 1: The Coast (Cliffs of the North and South East Coast LCA and Boyndie Bay CCA)

Main settlements/villages: Banff, Inverboyndie, Whitehills

A and B Roads: A98, B9038, B9139

Long Distance Routes/Paths: NCN 1, Core Path - Banff Links, Core Path - Disused Railway

Recreation: Inverboyndie Beach, Banff Links Caravan Park

Section 1 and 2: Coastal Farmland (Western Coastal Farmland LCA)

Main settlements/villages: None

A and B Roads: A97, B9121

Long Distance Routes/Paths: None

Recreation: Limited, cycling/walking minor roads

Section 2: River Valley (Deveron and Upper Ythan Valley LCA)

Main settlements/villages: Kirktown of Alvah

A and B Roads: None

Long Distance Routes/Paths: NCN 1, Core Path – Montcoffer

Section 3: Agricultural Heartland (Agricultural Heartland LCA)

Main settlements/villages: Keilhill

A and B Roads: A947

Long Distance Routes/Paths: None

Recreation: Limited, cycling/walking minor roads

Section 4: Agricultural Heartland (Agricultural Heartland LCA)

Main settlements/villages: Fintry, Cuminestown

A and B Roads: B9105, B9170

Long Distance Routes/Paths: NCN 1, Core Path – Idoch Water

Recreation: Limited, cycling/walking minor roads

Section 5: Agricultural Heartland (Agricultural Heartland LCA)

Main settlements/villages: None

A and B Roads: None

Long Distance Routes/Paths: None

Recreation: Limited, cycling/walking minor roads

Onshore Substations

5.3.3.50 The LVIA for the onshore substations has been undertaken within a 6 km Study Area based on the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) (Figure 5.3-15), fieldwork and consultation. The theoretical visibility of the onshore substations is shown in the ZTV in Figure 5.3-15, which indicates the areas which have higher and lower visibility. The ZTV is based on the project envelope development model of the onshore

5.3-20 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.3.52 5.3.3.51 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.3.55 5.3.3.54 5.3.3.53

extensive network of minor roads, in addition to th numerousscatteredaswell ruralasproperties and villagesNewofDeer andCuminestown, smallto haml There area numberof small settlements located wit of the Study Area. Area. Study ofthe aroun Area l lower Study the of much and north-east; the to Deer New the of north-west of the west Hill; the Deer’s of majority the including Lit substations, will of Area Study ground the of lying parts Large lower east/north-east. the along ons are the substations Areas Swanford. around East and immediately Millbrex Asleid, land Burnside, agricultural the to substat onshore the which i within visibility, higher Muirtack/Upperton to to Gight of Braes Deer) the and north the in New Cuminestown of (south east the elevated between contained is it Broadly area. the co relatively is substations onshore the of ZTV The woodlands and buildings. buildings. and woodlands screen no with area, substations onshore the within subst onshore the of visibility theoretical maximum mod terrain m 5 OS an on 5.3-5) (Figure substations sd eeain aig o h ws, u i princip is but west, the to facing elevation side a the To woodland. intervening and Asleid of Burn the par is but views, facing south has and substations, interveni to located is Swanford East by properties. the within mitigated sometimes are views Ab although including substations, onshore Burnside, Upper Neuk, The House, Maryhill, Maryhill the towards views Bur the in properties residential several are There in indicated are direction view principal their location and The substations. onshore the of views have the within scattered farmsteads numerous are There south of New Deer (Viewpoint 7). (Viewpoint Deer of New south (Viewpoint B9170/Upperton the to Burnside connects po betwee are substation onshore the north of views Millbrex distant the North More between to west the road and 4); be minor (Viewpoint Alse also the of will along Mains substations travelling Upper onshore between The 2). road (Viewpoint minor the from and Hillhead and Burnside between area substations the roa minor the from substations onshore a the of substation views onshore the near location their to Due and Fyvie Castle GDL is 7 km to the south-west. south-west. the to km 7 is GDL Castle Fyvie and Garden Hatton - Area Study two the outwith just are located (GDL) There location. substations onshore 6 monument Culsh the and south the to km 5 Reserve) i note of those Area; Study the within significance tou few are There Trails). Great Scotland’s of (one T of part forms also route This nea Maud. to Area Auchnagatt Study the of edge northern the across runs a is (which 1 Route Cycle National the of section A Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment e A948, B9170 and B9005. ions will be most visible, is contained contained is visible, most be will ions nside area which have south facing facing south have which area nside the immediate north of the onshore onshore ofthe north immediate the tially screened due to its location in location its to due screened tially hin theStudy Area, ranging from the Burnside and Rosebank Cottage – – Cottage Rosebank and Burnside ntained by the rolling landform of landform rolling the by ntained farmsteads.an linkedbyareThese rist and other visitor attractions of attractions visitor other and rist nclude the Gight Woods (Nature (Nature Woods Gight the nclude the Site Analysis in Figure 5.3-16. 5.3-16. Figure in Analysis Site the have no visibility of the onshore onshore the of visibility no have ations in their indicative location location indicative their in ations ing from surface features such as as such features surface from ing earth, bare the represents and el of least visibility of the onshore onshore the of visibility least of Castle GDL is 6.5 km to the west the to km 6.5 is GDL Castle h Suy ra t te et of west the to Area, Study the he Formartine and Buchan Way Way Buchan and Formartine he lso part of the North Sea Cycle) Cycle) Sea North the of part lso ying ground of the southern part southern the of ground ying ground around Auchmaliddie in Auchmaliddie around ground ally oriented to the south, with with south, the to oriented ally agricultural landscape that may may that landscape agricultural etssuchasMillbrex andBurnside, east, Upper Mains of Asleid has has Asleid of Mains Upper east, d Cuminestown; areas around around areas Cuminestown; d the south. The principal area of area principal The south. the ssible from the minor road that that road minor the from ssible d passing the eastern edge of of edge eastern the passing d of these residential properties properties residential these of rea, there will be close range range close be will there rea, of Alseid (Viewpoint 1 and 3); and 1 (Viewpoint Alseid of l Wtr t te east/south- the to Water, tle visible, albeit less so, when when so, less albeit visible, 6) and from the B9170 to the the to B9170 the from and 6) and Swanford (Viewpoint 5). 5). (Viewpoint Swanford and Cmnson rnig from running Cuminestown, r ng woodland or vegetation vegetation or woodland ng km to the north-east of the the of north-east the to km and Designed Landscapes Landscapes Designed and tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms botshaugh, Cragganmore, Cragganmore, botshaugh, n the west; and between between and west; the n hore substations between between substations hore n Burnside and Muirtack Muirtack and Burnside n id and North Millbrex Millbrex North and id tatement 5.3-21

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

shelterbelt screening to the north. Mains of Asleid has south facing views, which are contained by woodland to the south of the property and to the north-west they are partially enclosed by a woodland shelterbelt along the minor road. Burnside of Millbrex is located to the immediate south of the onshore substations. The principal view from the property is to the south and there is substantial woodland screening to the north along the Burn of Asleid. Several other properties within the area will have slightly more distant, or oblique views of the onshore substations – Smiddybank Farm, Swanford, Rowan Brae, Bridge Valley, Little Swanford, North Millbrex and Oakwood/North Mains of Asleid.

5.3.3.56 A viewpoint assessment of the onshore substations has been undertaken to inform and illustrate the assessment of effects on views. Table 5.3-6 below lists the viewpoints for the onshore substations and provides information on their location, the type of receptor that experiences the view and their distance from the onshore substations.

Table 5.3-6: Viewpoints – Onshore Substations

ID Name Easting Northing Distance Receptors

1 Upper Mains of Asleid 383600 844428 282 m Residents, Motorists

2 Burnside of Millbrex 383071 843952 336 m Residents, Motorists

3 The Neuk 383121 845364 643 m Residents, Motorists

4 Upper Burnside 382729 845614 957 m Residents, Motorists

5 North Millbrex 382183 843638 1.13 km Residents, Motorists

6 Upperton 384186 846009 1.70 km Residents, Motorists

7 B9170 near New Deer 387929 845697 4.77 km Residents, Motorists

8 Culsh Hill 388099 848099 6.0 km Visitors (Culsh Monument / Cemetery)

5.3.3.57 A description of the baseline conditions in these views is described in the impact assessment in Section 5.3.4 so that they may be read together with the impact assessment. The locations of these viewpoints are shown in Figure 5.3-15. The existing view towards the onshore substations from each viewpoint are shown in the visualisations in Figures 5.3-30 to 5.3-37.

5.3.4 Impact Assessment

Summary of Effects and Mitigation

5.3.4.1 No significant effects have been identified on the seascape/landscape and visual receptors in relation to the OSPs or the modified offshore export cable route construction.

5.3.4.2 In relation to the Onshore Cable Route (and Landfall) construction significant , adverse, short-term and reversible, seascape/landscape effects are predicted to arise within localised areas of the cliff face and cliff top parts of the cliffs and North and South East Coast Landscape Character Area and Boyndie Bay Coastal Character Area. Elsewhere the landscape effects of the construction of the Onshore Cable Route would be not significant .

5.3.4.3 The visual effects of the construction of the Onshore Cable Route (and Landfall) may be significant , adverse, short-term and reversible in some views from Keilihll and Fintry. Views from other settlements would be not significant . There would also be 500

5.3-22 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.4.10 5.3.4.11 5.3.4.5 5.3.4.9 5.3.4.6 5.3.4.8 5.3.4.7 5.3.4.4 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

• • • at wnod Bakol Big o Safr ad Up immediat and roads minor the of users by obtained views Swanford of Bridge Blackpool, Swanford, East Asleid of Mains Upper of vicinity the in properties this effects on landscape character would be charactereffects would arise within approximately Agricultural Heartlands the Landscape C Swanford in Burnside between surrounds and substations area the Agriculturallandscapethethecharacter ofHeartla these effects would become become would effects these woo the of period establishment year 15 a Following uig t oeain n h iiil eid ot con post period initial for the potential in operation its During minor road visual receptors would also be be also would receptors visual road minor ons the of effects visual the area similar a Within Duringoperationits thereamay be effect would remain significant. significant. remain would effect Mitigation of the effects of the OnTI has included included has OnTI of the effects of the Mitigation of the sub-station sites. sites. sub-station ofthe s the to immediately roads minor the from views and Swanford, of Mill Bridge Blackpool, of Swanford, Burnside East Farm, Asleid, of Mains Upper of vicinity i specifically This construction. during reversible ewe Brsd, sed Bged Mlbe ad Swa substations. ofthe km 1 approximately within arise and landscap These Area. Millbrex Character Landscape Boghead, Heartlands Asleid, Burnside, between the in effects landscape reversible and short-term in relation to the operation of the Onshore Cable R Cable Onshore of the operation the to relation in seascap the on effects significant no be will There cable route. route. cable OSPs the of operation the to relation in receptors the on identified been have effects significant No During the construction of the onshore substations substations onshore the of construction the During term and reversible in the vicinity of the Onshore Onshore be would routes the ot on of construction during vicinity effects The the construction. in reversible and term long distance and local paths/cycle routes may also may routes paths/cycle local and distance long local from views on effect The construction. during views on effects reversible and short-term adverse, h B10 n h vcnt o te nhr Cbe Rout Cable Onshore the of vicinity the in B9170 the B91 B9038, A98, the of stretches localised km 2 – m

and hedgerow planting around the onshore substation onshore the around planting hedgerow and e through through effects visual and effects landscape of Reduction visual and landscape construction; following elements landscape of Remediation components; of the routing and re visual and landscape the on ofeffects Avoidance significant not significantnot Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S avre ln-em rvril efcs n iw f views on effects reversible long-term, adverse, , not significant significant not . . Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment significant except for the area of the site where the the where site the of area the for except not significant , adverse,, long-term, reversible effect on significant ncludes views from properties in the in properties from views ncludes the following: following: the hore substations on residential and residential on substations hore , North Millbrex, Smiddybank Farm, Smiddybank Millbrex, North ,

1 kmof1the substations andbeyond there may be be may there e/landscape and visual receptors receptors visual and e/landscape obtained by road users may arise arise may users road by obtained oute (and landfall). (andlandfall). oute brex, North Millbrex, Smiddybank Smiddybank Millbrex, North brex, and the modified offshore export export offshore modified the and nds Landscape Characterndsin Area her settlements and parts of the the of parts and settlements her 39, A97, B9121, A947, B9015 and and B9015 A947, B9121, A97, 39, seascape/landscape and visual visual and seascape/landscape ised stretches (500 m – 2 km) of of km) 2 – m (500 stretches ised outh, south-west, east and north north and east south-west, outh, aatr ra Tee landscape These Area.haracter substations area and surrounds surrounds and area substations ely to the south, south-west and south-west south, the to ely Upper Burnside and The Neuk Neuk The and Burnside Upper struction there would be the the be would there struction Ali, oha, ilrx and Millbrex Boghead, Asleid, , dland and hedgerow planting planting hedgerow and dland be be Cable Route Corridor during during Corridor Route Cable e Corridor where where Corridor e per Burnside. The effect on on effect The Burnside. per source through careful siting siting careful through source tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms avre sottr and short-term adverse, , caatr fet would effects character e . stablishment of woodland woodland of stablishment significant s. nford in the Agricultural Agricultural the in nford significant enttmn of reinstatement , adverse, short- short- adverse, , significant , adverse, adverse, , tatement 5.3-23 rom , ,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

east of the sub-station sites may also be significant , adverse, long-term and reversible. Beyond these areas the visual effects would be not significant .

5.3.4.12 Following 15 years of establishment of the woodland and hedgerow planting the effects of the operation of the onshore substations on the visual receptors would be not significant except for the effects on views from the residential properties in the vicinity of the Mains of Asleid, which may remain significant , adverse, long-term and reversible.

5.3-24 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact Assessment Summary Impact 5.3-7 Table route route exportcable modifiedoffshore Visual effect of route exportcable modifiedoffshore Visual effect of cableroute offshore export modified of seascape effect Landscape/ cableroute offshore export modified of seascape effect Landscape/ OSPs Visual effect of OSPs of seascape effect Landscape/ Construction&Decommissioning Effect and Boyndieand Bay Boynethe Bay thanother those in receptorsVisual Boyndieand Bay Boynethe Bay receptorsVisual in Areas CoastalCharacter Boyndieand Bay Boynethan Bay receptorsother character landscape Seascape/ CharacterAreas CoastalBay andBay Boyndie receptorsBoyne character landscape Seascape/ Short-term, receptorsVisual receptors character landscape Seascape/ Receptor Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S not significantnot neutral and reversible, Short-term, significantnot adverseand reversible, Short-term, significantnot neutral and reversible, Short-term, significantnot adverseand reversible, Short-term, significantnot neutral and reversible, significantnot neutral and reversible, Short-term, Effect Pre-mitigation Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment

o eurd Short-term, Short-term, requiredNot requiredNot Short-term, requiredNot Short-term, Short-term, requiredNot Short-term, requiredNot requiredNot Mitigation tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms and reversible,adverse and reversible,adverse and reversible,neutral and reversible,adverse and reversible,neutral and reversible,neutral Post-mitigationEffect not significantnot significantnot significantnot significantnot significantnot significantnot tatement 5.3-25

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect

Effects of The coast (Cliffs of Significant, Route of onshore export Not significant , modified onshore North and South adverse cable route modified to neutral, short-term, cable route (and East Coast LCA avoid physical effects on reversible effect on Landfall) on and Boyndie Bay characteristic woodlands woodland. seascape/ CCA) and the and consumption dykes

landscape constituent and/or use directional character and landscape drilling to bore export Not significant , elements elements of cable under woodland. neutral, short-term, beach, woodland, reversible effects on Reinstatement of beach, field field boundaries consumption dykes and boundaries (consumption arable land following dykes) and arable (consumption dykes) cable installation. farmland and farmland. Cable installation works

would result in the partial loss or alteration of the cliff Significant , adverse, face but loss would not be short-term reversible permanent and effects on localised restoration would be areas (cliff face and anticipated to occur cliff top) of the Cliffs within the medium term. and North and South East Coast LCA and Beach pit and any other Boyndie Bay CCA. excavations would be backfilled once the export Not significant , cables are installed and to adverse, short-term allow tides to wash over reversible effects on the excavations to character across all consolidate the backfill. other parts of the Cliffs of North and South East Coast LCA and Boyndie Bay CCA.

Effects of Coastal Farmland Significant, Route of onshore export Not significant , modified onshore (Western Coastal adverse cable route modified to adverse, short-term, cable route (and Farmland LCA) avoid physical effects on reversible. landfall) on and the characteristic woodlands, seascape/ constituent consumption dykes and landscape landscape scrub hedgerows and/or character and elements of use directional drilling to elements Ancient bore onshore cable under Woodland, other woodland. woodland, field

boundaries (consumption Reinstatement of dykes and scrub consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows), hedgerows and arable arable farmland land following cable installation.

5.3-26 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact amenity landfall)onvisual exportcable (and modifiedonshore Effectsof amenity landfall)onvisual exportcable (and modifiedonshore Effectsof amenity landfall)onvisual exportcable (and modifiedonshore Effectsof elements character and landscape seascape/ landfall)on cableroute(and modifiedonshore Effectsof elements character and landscape seascape/ landfall)on cableroute(and modifiedonshore Effectsof Effect Keilhill Keilhill Fintryand settlements of Residents of Cuminestown Inverboyndieand settlements of Residents of Alvah,Whitehills Banff,Kirktown of settlements of Residents of trees) boundaryfield hedgerowsand scrubdykes, (consumption boundaries farmland,field woodland, arable Woodland,other Ancient elements of landscape constituent theand HeartlandLCA) (Agricultural Heartland Agricultural boundarytrees) hedgerows,field scrubdykes, (consumption boundaries farmland,field woodland, Woodland,other Ancient Woodland, Ancientnatural elements of semi- landscape constituentthe ValleysLCA) and Upper Ythan (Deveron and River Valley Receptor Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S adverse Significant, adverse Significant adverse Significant adverse Significant required Not significantNot Effect Pre-mitigation Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment installation. followingcable trees arableand land hedgerows,field boundary consumption dykes, scrub Reinstatementof woodland. onshorecable under directionaldrilling to bore boundarytrees and/or use hedgerowsfieldand consumption dykes, scrub characteristic woodlands, avoid physicaleffects on cableroute modifiedto ofRouteonshore export installation. followingcable trees arableand land hedgerows,field boundary consumption dykes, scrub Reinstatementof woodland. onshorecable under directionaldrilling to bore boundarytrees and/or use hedgerowsfieldand consumption dykes, scrub characteristic woodlands, avoid physicaleffects on cableroute modifiedto ofRouteonshore export from settlements. from toreduce/prevent visibility exportcableroute corridor ofpartmodified onshore to route be sited within Onshore exportcable Cuminestown. from Inverboyndieand toreduce/prevent visibility exportcableroute corridor ofpartmodified onshore to route be sited within Onshore exportcable Mitigation tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms reversible shortadverse, term, significant Not reversible short-adverse, term significant Not short-term,reversible Significant reversible short-term,adverse, significant Not KirktownofAlvah. Whitehills,neutral AdverseBanff and term,reversible. significant Not Post-mitigationEffect , adverse, tatement , , , ,short- 5.3-27

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect

Effects of Motorists using A Significant Route of modified onshore Significant , adverse, modified onshore and B roads – A98, adverse in export cable realigned to short-term, reversible export cable (and B9038, B9139, A97, views from avoid physical effect on visual effects from landfall) on visual B9121, A947, B9015 short sections woodland and/or use 500 m -2 km amenity and B9170 of the routes directional drilling to bore stretches of the of up to 1 km export cable under Burn of routes. Not in length. Boyndie. significant from the majority of the

routes. Reinstatement of consumption dykes and farmland following cable installation.

Effects of Cyclists/walkers Significant Route of modified onshore Significant , adverse, modified onshore using long adverse in export cable realigned to short-term, reversible export cable (and distance routes views from avoid physical effect on visual effects from landfall) on visual and local paths short sections woodland and/or use 500 m - 2 km amenity of the routes directional drilling to bore stretches of the of up to 1 km export cable under Burn of routes. Not in length. Boyndie. significant from the majority of the

routes. Backfill beach pit excavations and restore cliff face following cable installation.

Reinstate consumption dykes and arable farmland following cable installation.

Effects of People taking part Significant Route of modified onshore Significant , adverse, modified onshore in other adverse export cable realigned to short-term and export cable (and recreational reduce/prevent visibility reversible. landfall) on visual activities – from Caravan Park. amenity Inverboyndie

beach users, Banff Links Caravan Park Backfill beach pit Visitors excavations and restore cliff face following cable installation.

Reinstate consumption dykes and arable farmland following cable installation.

Effects of onshore Agricultural Significant in Careful siting of substations Significant , adverse, substations on Heartlands LCA Area 1- within the landscape short-term, reversible landscape substations context. in Area 1- substations character and area and area and surrounds elements surrounds between Burnside, between Asleid, Boghead, Burnside, Millbrex and Asleid, Swanford. Boghead, Not significant , Millbrex and adverse/neutral, Swanford. short-term, reversible Not significant in all other parts of in all other the LCA parts of the LCA

5.3-28 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact route route exportcable modifiedoffshore Visual effect of cableroute offshore export modified of seascape effect Landscape/ OSPs Visual effect of OSPs of seascape effect Landscape/ Operation substations onshore Visual effect of Effect iulrcpos Long-term, receptorsVisual receptors character landscape Seascape/ Long-term, receptorsVisual receptors character landscape Seascape/ roads usersand of minor substationsites vicinitythe of properties thein Residential Receptor Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S not significantnot neutral and reversible, significantnot neutral and reversible, Long-term, significantnot neutral and reversible, significantnot neutral and reversible, Long-term, adverse Significant, Effect Pre-mitigation Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment

o eurd Long-term, Long-term, requiredNot Long-term, requiredNot Long-term, requiredNot requiredNot views. receptorsand their key relationin tovisual Careful siting of substations Mitigation tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms short-term,reversible. adverse/neutral, and reversible,neutral and reversible,neutral and reversible,neutral and reversible,neutral roads usersand of other other of properties Effectsonresidents substationsites. ofnorththe south-west,east and roadstothe south, sectionsofthe minor revsersibleeffects on short-term, Significant Neuk. Burnsideand The Swanford,Upper Blackpool,Bridge of Swanford,East SmiddybankFarm, North Millbrex, Burnsideof Millbrex, Asleid,Mainsof vicinity of Upper properties thein effect onviewsfrom short-term,reversible Significant Post-mitigationEffect not significantnot significantnot significantnot significantnot not significantnot , adverse, , adverse, tatement 5.3-29

,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect

Effects of Landscape/ Not significant Avoidance of woodland Not significant , modified onshore seascape adverse, long term removal. cable route (and character areas and reversible landfall) on along the cable seascape/ route and Reinstatement of ground landscape constituent cover and other character and landscape vegetation and elements elements of establishment of this over beach, woodland, initial period following field boundaries construction. (consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows and Sensitive siting of kiosks. field boundary trees) and farm land

Effects of Residents of Not significant Avoidance of woodland Not significant , modified onshore settlements, removal. adverse, long term export cable (and motorists using A and reversible

landfall) on visual and B roads, amenity walkers and Reinstatement of ground cyclists using long cover and other distance cycle vegetation and routes and paths establishment of this over initial period following construction.

Sensitive siting of kiosks.

Effects of Agricultural Significant in Careful siting of substations Prior to woodland modified onshore Heartlands LCA Area 1- in relation to visual and hedgerows substations on substations receptors and their key 15year establishment landscape area and views. -Significant , adverse, character and surrounds long-term, reversible

elements between in Area 1- substations Burnside, Establishment of extensive area and surrounds Asleid, woodland planting around between Burnside, Boghead, the site. Asleid, Boghead, Millbrex and Millbrex and Swanford. Swanford. Not significant in all other Not significant , parts of the adverse/ neutral, LCA long-term, reversible in all other parts of the LCA.

Post woodland and hedgerows 15 year establishment – Not significant , adverse/neutral, long-term, reversible in all parts of the LCA except for the site itself.

5.3-30 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.13 Assessment Impact to Introduction

substations onshore Visual effect of Effect

parameters set out in Section 5.3.2. 5.3.2. Section in out set parameters TI modified the of (views) amenity visual on effect and seascape the on effect the considers SLVIA The roads.minor ofusers local Viewsobtained by substations sites. vicinitythe of properties thein Viewsfrom Receptor Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S reversible. term, neutral, long- adverse/ significant roads ofusersother properties and distantmore residentsof Effectson sites. substation thearound roadsminor sectionsofthe ofusers effects on reversible term, adverse, long- Significant sites. substationsthe vicinitythe of properties in residentsof effects on reversible term, adverse Significant, Effect Pre-mitigation

not , , Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment long , , the site.the woodlandplanting around Establishmentof extensive views. receptorsand their key relationin tovisual Careful siting of substations Mitigation based on the Rochdale Envelope Envelope Rochdale the on based landscape character and the and character landscape tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms reversible. adverse long-term, significantnot usersandroads of other of properties Effectsonresidents Asleid.Mainsof vicinity of Upper properties thein effect onviewsfrom long-term,reversible Significant establishment – hedgerows15year Post andwoodland long-term,reversible. adverse/neutral, not usersandroads of other of properties Effectsonresidents sites. SubstationOnshore eastand ofthe south,south-west immediatelyto the minorthe roads obtained byusers of effects onviews long-term,reversible Significant Burnside. Swanford Upperand Blackpool,Bridge of Swanford,East SmiddybankFarm, North Millbrex, Asleid,Mainsof vicinity of Upper properties thein residentsofthe obtained by effect onviews long-term,reversible Significant – 15year establishment hedgerowsand toPrior woodland Post-mitigationEffect significant , adverse, , adverse, , adverse, tatement , , 5.3-31

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.3.4.14 The SLVIA methodology is described in full in Technical Appendix 5.3 A: SLVIA Methodology. The baseline SL&V receptors relating to the Offshore TI and Onshore TI is described in Section 5.3.3. The SLVIA is informed by photomontages, panoramic photographs and plan / map figures contained in Volume 4: Moray Offshore Wind Farm Modified TI SLVIA Figures.

5.3.4.15 The SLVIA covers the construction, operational phase and decommissioning of the OSPs, modified offshore export cable, onshore export cable (and modified export cable landfall) and onshore substations.

EIA Methodology

5.3.4.16 This section provides a summary of the methodology used to carry out the SLVIA, with the full methodology being described in Technical Appendix 5.3A: SLVIA Methodology. This methodology has been specifically devised by OPEN for SLVIA and it accords with the ‘Guidelines for the Assessment of Landscape and Visual Impacts: Third Edition’ (GLVIA3).

5.3.4.17 The objective of the assessment of the modified TI is to predict the significant effects on the SL&V resource. In accordance with the EIA Regulations, the LVIA effects are assessed to be either significant or not significant.

5.3.4.18 The significance of effects is assessed through a combination of two considerations – the sensitivity to change of the landscape or visual receptor and the magnitude of change that will result from the modified TI.

Sensitivity to Change

5.3.4.19 Sensitivity is an expression of the ability of a landscape or visual receptor to accommodate the modified TI. The sensitivity is determined through a combination of the value of the receptor, and the susceptibility to change of the receptor to the modified TI.

5.3.4.20 Levels of sensitivity - high, medium to high, medium, medium to low, low and negligible- are applied in order that the judgement used in the process of assessment is made clear. The criteria used to determine sensitivity differ for the effects on landscape receptors and visual receptors, as well as the cumulative effects on both. These criteria are explained in full in Technical Appendix 5.3 A.

Magnitude of Change

5.3.4.21 Magnitude of change is an expression of the extent of the effect on the landscape and visual receptors that will result from the introduction of the modified TI. The magnitude of change is assessed in terms of the size and scale of the effect and the geographical extent of the area influenced.

5.3.4.22 Levels of magnitude of change - high, medium to high, medium, medium to low and low - are applied in order that the judgement used in the process of assessment is made clear. The criteria used to determine magnitude of change differ for the effects on landscape receptors and visual receptors, as well as the cumulative effects on both. These criteria are explained in full in Technical Appendix 5.3 A.

5.3-32 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Significance of Effect Effect of Significance 5.3.4.25 Effect the of Nature 5.3.4.23 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.24 Significant of Effe IllustrativeMatrix 5.3-7 Table Low Medium-low Medium Medium-high High Sensitivity Magnitude

• • • ugmn i apid o h assmn o al effec all of assessment the to applied is judgement the following definitions: definitions: following the posit effects as classified are the Effects adverse. or whether neutral to refers effect of nature The permanent or reversible effects. effects. or reversible permanent short-ter as assessed are and duration, variable of case. each of findings the of respect in presented to give an understanding of the threshold at which which at threshold of the understanding an give to ri give can change of magnitude and sensitivity for illustra to included been has 5.3-7 Table requi in matrix methodology OPEN’s not is it Although GLVIA3, judgement. professional reasoned with accordance In n h seii fcos n efc ta i assessed is that effect GL and with accordance In receptor. visual or landscape factors specific the on signifi be may boxes grey light the within assessed EIA the of requirements the of terms in significant boxe grey dark the within assessed are that Effects

lo e eeiil a cn hi rpaeet ih m with replacement their is resource SL&V the alteration an constitutes it to because simply adverse change can A noticeable. so are hardly effects the where or as resource SL&V the from neither TI modified the where occur effects beneficial, Neutral be components; appropriate ele also existing undesirable of removal The int attributes. the or characteristics vi desirable and of landscape enhancement the to contribute effects Positive that are key in its positive characterisation. characterisation. positive its in key are that t weak or resource, SL&V the of characteristics or existing from detract contrast that elements of that introduction the through those are effects Adverse ih eimhg Mdu Mdu-o Lw Negligible Low Medium-low Medium Medium-high High significant not or Significant significant not or Significant Significant Significant Significant

Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S significant Not significant not or Significant significant not or Significant Significant Significant significant Not significant Not significant not or Significant significant not or Significant Significant Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment cts cts significant Not significant Not significant not or Significant significant not or Significant significant Not ive, neutral or adverse according to according adverse or neutral ive, Regulations. Those effects that are are that effects Those Regulations. te how combinations of the ratings ratings the of combinations how te cant, or not significant, depending depending significant, not or cant, m or long-term, and either result in in result either and long-term, or m se to significant effects, as well as well as effects, significant to se significant effects may arise. arise. may effects significant s in the matrix are assessed to be be to assessed are matrix the in s reliant on the use of a matrix, the the matrix, ofa use the on reliant The effects of the modified TI are TI modified the of effects The hrough the removal of elements elements of removal the hrough of the modified TI are positive, positive, are TI modified the of s n raoe jsiiain is justification reasoned and ts professional experienced VIA3, to the existing situation; and and situation; existing the to in a detrimental way with the with way detrimental a in ments or characteristics can can characteristics or ments in respect of a particular particular a of respect in contributes to nor detracts detracts nor to contributes tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms roduction of new, positive positive new, of roduction sual resource through the the through resource sual limited that the change is is change the that limited significant Not significant Not significant Not significant Not significant Not o cniee t be to considered not res the application of of application the res n h S& resource SL&V the en significant Not significant Not significant Not significant Not significant Not tatement 5.3-33 ore ore

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Assessment of Cumulative Effects

5.3.4.26 The objective of the Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (CLVIA) is to describe, visually represent and assess the ways in which the Modified TI will have additional effects when considered together with other existing, consented or proposed developments and to identify related significant cumulative effects arising from the modified TI. The guiding principle in preparing the CLVIA is to focus on the likely significant effects and in particular those which are likely to influence the outcome of the consenting process, in accordance with the EIA Regulations. The cumulative effect of the modified TI is considered in Section 5.3.5.

Embedded Mitigation Measures

Onshore Export Cable

5.3.4.27 Embedded mitigation has been applied in the design and routing of the modified onshore export cable route to minimise the effects of construction on specific landscape features, particularly valued landscapes or features, including SSSIs, GDLs, ancient woodland and areas of surface water. Valued landscape features were identified using GIS datasets for valued natural heritage features, designations, OS Vectormap landscape features, aerial imagery and field survey.

5.3.4.28 A route design workshop was held to consider sections of the modified onshore export cable route corridor in detail and identify key physical landscape features and visual receptors that the modified onshore export cable route corridor should avoid, whilst being routed within areas of suitable land option. An optimised modified onshore export cable route corridor was selected to avoid, in particular, Duff House GDL and ancient woodlands within the Deveron Valley. The modified onshore export cable route corridor has been designed to cross the Deveron Valley to the south to avoid Duff House GDL and associated woodlands, taking a route across the valley with the least amount of woodland present. The modified onshore export cable route corridor has been sited and designed with a strong presumption against removing areas of ancient semi-natural woodland or plantations on ancient woodland sites.

5.3.4.29 The assessment of residual effects of the modified onshore export cable route corridor assumes that the modified onshore export cable would be routed around areas of woodland to avoid physical effects on characteristic woodlands within the modified onshore export cable route corridor. Directional drilling will also be used selectively to bore the export cable under sensitive rivers/burns with associated woodlands, to avoid physical effects on characteristic woodlands.

5.3.4.30 The modified onshore export cable route will also be sited to avoid, where possible, consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows and field boundary trees. In certain areas where the modified onshore export cable route will not be able to avoid physical disturbance to linear features such as consumption dykes and scrub hedgerows, these features will be reinstated following cable installation.

5.3.4.31 The construction of the cable route will give due consideration to the following standards, recommendations and guidelines: • BS 5837: 2012. Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction; and • NJUG Publication Volume 4 (2007). Guidelines for the Planning, Installation and Maintenance of Utility Apparatus in Proximity to Trees.

5.3-34 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.32 Selection Site Substations Onshore 5.3.4.35 5.3.4.34 5.3.4.33 Proposal Mitigation Landscape

rvd sreig n cnanet f h osoe su onshore the gen of r closest ofthe of many orientation screening/main its containment and within screening provide substations onshore Burn the along particularly woodlands, shelterbelt the of has including which enclosure landform landscape, rolling the the fields; agricultural within hav location substations substation onshore indicative the for selected potenti aspects that several concluded review visual and landscape of included suitability review visual The and landscape process. selection site MORL’s pa as undertaken was Aberdeenshire in Deer New near pot of review selection site visual and landscape A elct cpe taiinly lne fr shelter. for p mitigation landscape the in proposed are woodland planted traditionally copses Agricult replicate the by integrated for be can LCASSD development new that the recommend in guidance specific to subs onshore the for proposals t mitigation Landscape and connec Asleid of ea the and at Burn boundaries field on shelterbelts the existing enhance along west to the to planting woodland tree native proposes ele on draws 5.3-29) (Figure proposal landscape The and a full woodland envelope. envelope. woodland full a and rip woodlands, shelterbelt including 5.3-28, Figure charact these on based site the for considered were Seve burns. and rivers along woodlands riparian shelterbelts, and includes basel which landscape, The surrounding shelter. for exis the identified which 5.3-14), (Figure reviewed planted sub traditionally the agricu copses within the within proposed substations onshore is the integrate planting woodland Native onshore substation area and the wider skyline. skyline. wider the area and loca substation onshore the influence which lines, overhead and si pylons is location substations indicative The east. and t hel which contour, m 110 the to up area, to substation slightly rises landform rolling The integrate landscape. and views screen to boundary help eastern will which the area, on road minor to adjacent interspe and t is reduce par landscape woodland, to coniferous of blocks and shelterbelts likely agricultural are The that substations. area substation of onshore baseli characteristics key landscape several the identified in analysis described and under 5.3-16 been has Figure landscape local surrounding and area t site A according LCA. Heartlands Agricultural sited the for LCASSD been have substations onshore The Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment ting pattern of woodland within the the within woodland of pattern ting stern edge of the substations area. area. substations the of edge stern he east/north-east of the onshore onshore the of east/north-east he arian woodland, woodland blocks blocks woodland woodland, arian ted next to large scale electrical electrical scale large to next ted of Asleid, which have potential to to potential have which Asleid, of the local landscape around the the around landscape local the esidential properties. properties. esidential analysis of the onshore substation substation onshore the of analysis ential sites for onshore substations substations onshore for sites ential the potential to provide some some provide to potential the p to contain views from the north north the from views contain to p Several main areas of native native of areas main Several al onshore substation sites. The The sites. substation onshore al ticularly along the Burn of Asleid of Burn the along ticularly tations are designed according according designed are tations ltural landscape and replicate replicate and landscape ltural the onshore substations in the the in substations onshore the ral woodland design concepts concepts design woodland ral woodland blocks/plantations blocks/plantations woodland eristic woodlands, as shown in shown as woodlands, eristic of the onshore substation area substation onshore the of ments of these concepts and and concepts these of ments rsed with several woodland woodland several with rsed l landscape character of the the of character landscape l roposals: roposals: e potential to integrate the the integrate to potential e ine woodland context was was context woodland ine ural Heartlands LCA, which which LCA, Heartlands ural cmaio o te likely the of comparison a ne (Section 5.3.3). The site site The 5.3.3). (Section ne rt of initial EIA work to inform to work EIA initial of rt o specific guidance in the the in guidance specific o tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms he effect of the onshore onshore the of effect he the large scale of the the of scale large the cnet ml sad of stands small connect o tle undulations; frequent frequent undulations; tle of the onshore substation substation onshore the of ae ad s lutae in illustrated is and taken sain; n te visual the and bstations; stations area to further further to area stations planting native trees to trees native planting t areas of shelterbelt shelterbelt of areas t tatement 5.3-35

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

• Northern side of overhead electrical line on slopes of Burn of Asleid to enhance areas of existing shelterbelt woodland along the Burn and provide screening in views from the north; • Western side of the onshore substations along the Burn of Asleid to connect and enhance areas of existing shelterbelt woodland along the Burn and provide screening in views from the west; • Southern and eastern sides of the onshore substations to form new characteristic shelterbelt woodlands around onshore substations and screen views from the south and east;

5.3.4.36 Further woodland shelterbelts are also proposed along the field boundaries to the north and south of the substations area to provide further screening and improve the integration of the onshore substations within the landscape. Woodland planting proposals will enhance the characteristic native woodland evident in the Agricultural Heartlands LCA and assist with improving the integration of the onshore substations within a natural envelope. Planting is proposed at high density, with both hardy native pioneer species, including Alder, Ash, Birch, Hazel and Poplar, together with slower growing species such as Oak and Beech and occasional Scots Pine, to provide some year-round screening and to replicate and expand woodland shelterbelts in the existing environment. Indicative visual representations of the woodland proposals at 15 years post construction, with an average tree height of 6 – 10m, are illustrated in the viewpoint figures (Figures 5.3-30 to 5.3-37) and these are used to inform the assessment of residual effects at 15 years post construction.

5.3.4.37 In addition to the main areas of woodland planting, mixed native deciduous hedgerow planting will be undertaken along the field boundaries of the substations areas to provide further screening in views from the local minor road network. Hedgerows also provide a habitat link to the larger woodland areas. Fields to the east and south of the substations area could be retained for agricultural use.

5.3.4.38 Areas of marshy grassland / moss are proposed to the west of the substations area at lower elevations along the Burn of Asleid, where the wetter ground conditions and appropriate land management may encourage wetter grassland habitats. Areas of moss and marshy grassland are present nearby at Moss of Swanford to the west along the Burn of Swanford/Burn of Asleid. Scattered riparian tree planting is proposed within these areas along the Burn of Asleid to enhance scattered existing riparian trees along the burn. A sustainable drainage system (SuDS) will be utilised at the site, with suitable methods to be subject to detailed design, but likely to include a retention system by providing storage within a SuDs pond/retention basin adjacent to the Burn of Asleid.

Impact Assessment – Modified OfTI

5.3.4.39 The Rochdale Envelope parameters considered in the OfTI SLVIA are described in Section 5.3.2. The OfTI SLVIA considers the effects of the construction, operation and decommissioning of the offshore substation platforms (OSPs) and offshore export cable on seascape/landscape character and visual amenity.

5.3.4.40 Marine Scotland’s Offshore Transmission Works Scoping Response (MORL ES, Technical Appendix 1.3 B) confirmed (page 34) that ‘ landscape and visual interests can be scoped out of the EIA for the offshore cable works’ – as indicated in Section 5-3-8 (page 135) of the Offshore Transmission Infrastructure Scoping Report (MORL, 2011). A summary assessment of the SL&V effects of the modified offshore export cable was nevertheless provided in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) in the interests of completeness and this approach is adopted for the assessment of the modified OfTI.

5.3-36 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.41 on (OSPs) Platforms Substation Offshore of Effects 5.3.4.42 Decommissioning and Construction 5.3.4.44 Operation 5.3.4.43 5.3.4.45 on (OSPs) Platforms Substation Offshore of Effects 5.3.4.47 Decommissioning and Construction 5.3.4.46

minimum distance of 46.4 km from Aber loc the assumed indicative and Moray indica assumed within CCAs the and Units/Types Seascape from km 23.4 of distance AllNational Seascape Units/Types andCCAs withinC t og itne ofhr fo al osa charact an farms wind consented three the amongst distance, coastal all sm relatively from a as appear will and types, offshore landscape distances long at charact seascape/landscape the of perception the on w effects the operation, During coastline. the from equi construction and vessels installation OSP from effects the decommissioning and construction During as being low-negligible and the effect of the OSPs OSPs the of effect neu reversible, long-term, as assessed is receptors the and resulting low-negligible being change as of base the in identified magnitude receptors seascape/landscape the operation, During 5.3.3) is assessed as being low-negligible and the the short-t and as significant. not assessed low-negligible is being receptors as seascape/landscape assessed is identi 5.3.3) receptors seascape/landscape all on OSPs the magnit the decommissioning, and construction During the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) and have the same dimensio same the have and 2012) (MORL, ES MORL the location assumed the as same the are OSPs two (Figur these effects SL&V of terms in vis scenario most worst-case their at be theoretically would they where an 1) (OSP Caithness nearest boundaries site the to in with sites, farm wind consented three the within t OSPs additi in (not 2012) two (MORL, ES MORL the in assessed only include will TI modified The sites. o context the in 11.4) Chapter ES, assessed (MORL OSPs eight 2012) (MORL, ES MORL the within SLVIA The lutaie htgah o OP ntlain vessel installation d visible be may which of vessel types the indicate OSP of and photographs construction Illustrative for used vessels installation OSP eff visual decommissioning, and construction During mat fo toe rvosy sesd n epc o respect di in reduced, farms. wind consented three of the assessed context any previously consider those from to impacts provided is as TI OSPs the modified of effect the of consideration Further Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment Seascape/Landscape Character Character Seascape/Landscape Visual Amenity Amenity Visual tral and not significant. significant. not and tral uring the OSP construction period. period. OSP construction the uring o replace the eight former OSPs OSPs former eight the replace o dicative locations assumed close close assumed locations dicative aithnessare located ata minimum on). The two OSPs will be located located be will OSPs two The on). pment located at long distance distance long at located pment ill result from the visibility of OSPs OSPs of visibility the from result ill s are shown in Figure 5.3-2 to to 5.3-2 Figure in shown are s all single object on the skyline at skyline the on object single all d Moray/Aberdeenshire (OSP 2), 2), (OSP Moray/Aberdeenshire d 532. niaie oain for locations Indicative 5.3-2). e f the three consented wind farm wind consented three the f tive location of OSP 2. ects are likely to arise from the the from arise to likely are ects part of the assessment for the the for assessment the of part decommissioning of the OSPs. OSPs. the of decommissioning be n teeoe ersn a represent therefore and ible will be reversible and will arise will and reversible be will d oil and gas platforms. platforms. gas and oil d line (Section 5.3.3) is assessed assessed is 5.3.3) (Section line ude of change resulting from resulting change of ude h efc o te diin of addition the of effect the f the proposed OSPs in the the in OSPs proposed the f fied in the baseline (Section (Section baseline the in fied r, eesbe nurl and neutral reversible, erm, to o OP . l National All 1. OSP of ation on all seascape/landscape seascape/landscape all on ns and colouring. colouring. and ns er receptors and terrestrial terrestrial and receptors er er, but the OSPs are located located are OSPs the but er, s for the two closest OSPs in in OSPs closest two the for s effect of the OSPs on all all on OSPs the of effect fferent or additional visual visual additional or fferent tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms enhr ae oae a a at located aredeenshire from the OSPs on all all on OSPs the from tatement 5.3-37

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.3.4.48 The effect of the installation of OSPs on visual receptors will be short-term and reversible during the construction period, resulting from views of the installation vessels constructing the OSPs at sea and movements to and from port. The construction of the OSPs will result in a slight increase in occurrence of vessel sightings at sea during the construction period, however OSP installation vessels constructing the OSPs will be located at long distances, with a minimum distance from the nearest point in Caithness to OSP 1 of 23.4km, and a minimum distance from the nearest point in Moray/Aberdeenshire to OSP 2 of 46.4 km. The visual effect of installation vessels is diminished at such long distance offshore from visual receptors on the coastline and terrestrial parts of Caithness and Moray/Aberdeenshire.

5.3.4.49 Views of the OSP installation vessels may occur at shorter range during vessel movements to and from port, but vessels will be seen within a seascape in which large sea-faring vessels are a common feature in the baseline SL&V environment of the Moray Firth.

5.3.4.50 During construction and decommissioning, the magnitude of change resulting from the OSPs on all views experienced from visual receptors identified in the visual baseline (Section 5.3.3) is assessed as being low-negligible and the effect of the OSPs on all visual receptors is assessed as short-term, reversible, neutral and not significant .

Operation

5.3.4.51 During operation, visual effects will result from the two OSPs, viewed at long distances offshore in the context of the proposed three consented wind farm sites 2. OSP 1 is located approximately 23.4 km from the nearest point of the Caithness/Sutherland coast and OSP 2 is located approximately 46.4 km from the nearest point of the Moray/Aberdeenshire coast.

5.3.4.52 The effect of the OSPs on all SL&V receptors during operation was assessed as not significant in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) primarily because the OSPs would be viewed at long distances offshore, in the context of the three consented wind farm sites and existing oil rigs which appear similar.

5.3.4.53 The principal change to the effects assessed in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012) results from the omission of six OSPs from within the three consented wind farms, constituting a reduced effect principally because less OSPs will be viewed within the three consented wind farms than considered in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012).

5.3.4.54 OSP 1 is likely to be visible in views from the Caithness/Sutherland coastline, however OSP 2 is unlikely to be visible at all from this coastline. OSP 2 is likely to be visible (in periods of excellent visibility) from the Moray/Aberdeenshire coastlines, however OSP 1 is unlikely to be visible at all from this coastline. In each case, the more distant OSP is unlikely to be visible in views due to the intervening distance, earth curvature and relative infrequency of excellent visibility conditions. Each OSP will therefore appear as a relatively small single object from each coastline, on the skyline at distance, amongst the three consented wind farms. The appearance of the three consented wind farms will be simpler and less complex with a single OSP visible amongst the array of offshore wind turbines within the three consented wind farms.

2 As per the MORL ES, the assessment does not consider the effect of adding the OSPs to the existing baseline on their own, without the three consented wind farm sites, as this would represent an unrealistic scenario.

5.3-38 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.4.62 5.3.4.61 5.3.4.60 5.3.4.59 5.3.4.58 Decommissioning and Construction 5.3.4.57 on Route Cable Export Offshore Modified of Effects 5.3.4.56 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.55

dniid n h bsln (eto 5333 i ass is 5.3.3.3) (Section decommissioning and sea construction the from resulting baseline other the all on in cable identified export offshore modified the construc the from resulting change of magnitude The h ofhr epr rue n h Bye a ad Boyn and adverse reversible, and short–term, Bay Boyne the on route export offshore the cons the Bay from resulting Boyne effect The the low. as on assessed cable export offshore modified the construc the from resulting change of magnitude The a reversible and relatively short duration during t during duration short relatively and reversible a c route cable export offshore modified the of areas vessel laying Cable th Bay. Boyne to and Bay Boyndie corridor from route cable export offshore operating modified when coastline the of character expo perceived offshore modified the for vessels laying Cable fsoe xot al wl b smlr o ag vess large character. to seascape similar be will dec cable and export construction offshore the for used vessels and seasc baseline Firth the in skyline the on feature common character. coastal existing the to laying changes cable notable the of visibility A distances, long and such Moray cable the from export offshore offshore distance modified considerable the of majority The decommissioning phases on the perceived character o character perceived the on phases decommissioning o vessels laying cable of visibility the from effects arise the decommissioning and construction During oae imdaey fsoe rm h Rcy Coastli Rocky the B Bay, Boyne Sandend the and Type Seascape National from offshore immediately located off modified the area, this In Bay. Inverboyndie at the near coast Moray/Aberdeenshire the to proximity ca export onshore modified The Moray/Aberdeenshire. Seasca National from distances long at located offsho also C modified the of within majority The corridor. CCAs route and m the from km 37.5 of distance Units/Types minimum a at located Seascape National All assessed as long-term, reversible, neutral and and neutral reversible, long-term, as assessed of effect the and low-negligible being as assessed the in identified receptors visual from resulting experienced change of magnitude the operation, During only be visible in relatively infrequent periods wi periods infrequent relatively in visible be only Due to the long distance of the OSPs offshore from from frequen offshore distance. visibility the in result also will offshore by OSPs diminished substantially the e is the ofoperation Moray/Aberdeenshire, distance and long Caithness/Sutherland the to Due Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment not significantnot Seascape/Landscape Character Character Seascape/Landscape cy being relatively low and the OSPs will will OSPs the and low relatively being cy not significant not th excellent visibility conditions. conditions. visibility excellent th perating during the construction and construction the during perating he construction period. period. construction he . . shore export cable route corridor is is corridor route cable export shore esl i ulkl t rsl i any in result to unlikely is vessels els that are part of the baseline baseline the of part are that els truction and decommissioning of decommissioning and truction the OSPs on all visual receptors is is receptors visual all on OSPs the essed as negligible. The effect effect The negligible. as essed re export cable route corridor is is corridor route cable export re visual baseline (Section 5.3.3) is is 5.3.3) (Section baseline visual orridor from the coast will be for be will coast the from orridor h ln dsac o te OSPs the of distance long The pe Units/Types and CCAs within within CCAs and Units/Types pe of the offshore export route on on route export offshore the of rt cable will only influence the the influence only will cable rt modified export cable landfall landfall cable export modified e coast, immediately offshore offshore immediately coast, e Large sea–faring vessels are a a are vessels sea–faring Large ommissioning of the modified modified the of ommissioning working days in these closest closest these in days working tion and decommissioning of of decommissioning and tion tion and decommissioning of of decommissioning and tion ape character of the Moray Moray the of character ape odified offshore export cable cable export offshore odified f the coast. coast. fthe route corridor is located at at located is corridor route from the OSPs on all views views all on OSPs the from die Bay CCAs is assessed as as assessed is CCAs Bay die will be reversible and may may and reversible be will scape/landscape receptors receptors scape/landscape ble route corridor is in closer closer in is corridor route ble ay and Boyndie Bay CCAs. CCAs. Bay Boyndie and ay in the closest areas of the the of areas closest the in edesie os ad at and coast berdeenshire and Boyndie Bay CCAs is is CCAs Bay Boyndie and tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ne with Open Sea Views Views Sea Open with ne ffect of the OSPs during during OSPs the of ffect . . ihesSteln are aithness/Sutherland visual receptors within within receptors visual tatement 5.3-39

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

all seascape/landscape receptors other than on the Boyne Bay and Boyndie Bay CCA is assessed as short–term, reversible, neutral and not significant . Operation

5.3.4.63 The modified offshore export cable between Inverboyndie Bay and the converter OSPs will be installed in trenches in the sea bed and will not be a visible element of the modified TI during the operational period. The operational effects of the modified offshore export cable will be limited to occasional maintenance visits from appropriate sea–faring maintenance vessels, which will be similar to large sea faring vessels in the baseline seascape and visual environment.

5.3.4.64 The magnitude of change resulting from modified offshore export cable on all seascape/landscape receptors is assessed as negligible during the operational period. The effect resulting from the operation of the modified offshore export cable on all seascape/landscape receptors is assessed as long-term (during the operational life of the three consented wind farm sites), reversible, neutral and not significant .

Effects of Modified Offshore Export Cable on Visual Amenity

Construction and Decommissioning

5.3.4.65 The SL&V effect of the modified offshore export cable installation will be caused by cable laying vessels operating during the construction and decommissioning phases. Cable laying vessels for the modified offshore export cable will be visible between Inverboyndie Bay and the OSPs within the three consented wind farm sites. The majority of the modified offshore export cable route corridor is located at considerable distance offshore from the Moray and Aberdeenshire coast. Cable laying vessels will be visible within the modified offshore export cable route corridor for up to 240 cable laying vessel working days over a two year period. Movements to and from port will be dependent on the port location, which has not yet been selected, but the Rochdale Envelope for the modified offshore export cable is based on 40 vessel movements of the main installation to and from the construction port and site, together with construction support vessel movements.

5.3.4.66 Large sea–faring vessels are a common feature on the skyline in the baseline seascape and visual environment of the Moray Firth. Vessels used for the construction and decommissioning of the modified offshore export cable will be similar to large sea faring vessels that are frequently visible in the baseline seascape and visual environment. Movements of cable laying vessels in Inverboyndie Bay during installation of the offshore export route modified export cable landfall will be more visible to receptors onshore, but will be viewed for a short duration.

5.3.4.67 The magnitude of change resulting from the construction and decommissioning of the modified offshore export cable on visual receptors within the Boyne Bay and Boyndie Bay areas is assessed as medium-low. The effect resulting from the construction and decommissioning of the offshore export route on views experienced from visual receptors in the Boyne Bay and Boyndie Bay areas is assessed as short–term, reversible, adverse and not significant .

5.3.4.68 The magnitude of change resulting from the construction and decommissioning of the modified offshore export cable on all other visual receptors identified in the visual baseline (Section 5.3.3.4) is assessed as low to negligible. The effect resulting from the construction and decommissioning of the modified offshore export cable on views experienced from all other visual receptors identified in the visual baseline is assessed as short–term, reversible, neutral and not significant .

5.3-40 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.4.73 5.3.4.72 Construction (and Route Cable Export Elements and Character Onshore Modified of Effects 5.3.4.71 OnTI Modified – Assessment Impact 5.3.4.70 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.69 Operation

ecito o tee ntlain ehd i provid is 5.3-4. Figure in shown are construction type methods this of photographs installation horizontal Illustrative Description). modi and these the trenching of for open description used be be will will installation that methods ty pit the installation of sides the (with level tide low the to tre into split th cable, subsea each for (one trenches that assumes in SLVIA installed be will beach the Inverboyndie at landfall for Envelope Rochdale The lmn ad h oeal hrce o ec LA s as measures. mitigation is LCA each residual of character the overall the and and element identified be are construction, measures cable export mitigation onshore the of the of effect assessment an and identified are section LCA main The 5.3-22). to 5.3-18 (Figures corridor route corridor route mo the along cable LCA each to according detail in export mapped onshore modified the of 5.3-8 Tables in assessed is elements and character expor onshore the of construction the of effect The and visual amenity. amenity. visual and s on substations onshore and landfall) cable export export onshore the th of decommissioning considers and SLVIA On operation OnTI modified modified the The 5.3.2. in Section considered Envelope Rochdale The consented wind farm sites), reversible, neutral and neutral sites), reversible, farm wind consented (duri long-term as assessed is receptors visual all of operation the from resulting effect The ne period. as assessed is receptors visual from experienced off modified from resulting change of magnitude The vessels in the baseline seascape and visual environ visual and seascape baseline the in vessels The w which vessels, maintenance sea–faring period. appropriate operational o to the limited be will cable export offshore during modified TI modified the a bed sea the in trenches in installed be will OSPs Inverboy between cable export offshore modified The Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment Landfall) on Seascape/Landscape Seascape/Landscape on Landfall) ng the operational life of the three three the of life operational the ng pically temporarily supported). The The supported). temporarily pically of modified export cable landfall landfall cable export modified of four separate 4 m wide beach pit beach wide m 4 separate four modified offshore export cable on cable export offshore modified

adcp eeet wti each within elements landscape foil arrangement) extended down down extended arrangement) foil nd will not be a visible element of of element visible a be not will nd ccasional maintenance visits from from visits maintenance ccasional not significantnot ment. ment. t cable on seascape/landscape seascape/landscape on cable t – 5.3-11 relating to each section section each to relating 5.3-11 – eascape/landscape character character eascape/landscape gligible during the operational operational the during gligible shore export cable on all views views all on cable export shore e effects of the construction, construction, the of effects e ill be similar to large sea faring faring sea large to similar be ill ir sensitivity and the potential potential the and sensitivity ir effect on each landscape landscape each on effect ed in Chapter 2.2 (Project (Project 2.2 Chapter in ed esd suig dpin of adoption assuming sessed ietoa diln (D) A (HDD). drilling directional fore mitigation. Appropriate Appropriate mitigation. fore ndie Bay and the converter converter the and Bay ndie Scin o te ot are route the of Sections . prtoa efcs f the of effects operational fied export cable landfall landfall cable export fied dified onshore export cable cable export onshore dified tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms cable (including modified modified (including cable e modified export cable cable export modified e I LI i dsrbd in described is SLVIA TI . . tatement 5.3-41

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Section 1: The Coast (Cliffs of the North and South East Coast LCA)

Table 5.3-8 Modified Onshore Export Cable Route Assessment: Landscape Character & Elements (Section 1)

Landscape Sensitivity to Potential Effect on Mitigation Measures Residual Significance of Element change Landscape Magnitude of Residual Effect 3 Element/Character Change

Section 1: The Coast (Cliffs of the North and South East Coast LCA and Boyndie Bay CCA)

Beach:

Inverboyndie Medium-low Medium or high Beach pit and any Medium Not significant , Beach (beach is magnitude and other excavations adverse, short- relatively potentially significant would be backfilled term, easy to due to physical effect once the export cables reversible. restore) resulting from are installed and allow disturbance to beach tides to wash over the resulting from modified excavations to export cable landfall consolidate the backfill. installation.

Woodland:

C1 - Burn of Medium- High magnitude and Modified onshore Negligible Not significant , Boyndie high potentially significant export cable route to neutral, short- C2 - Black due to physical effect avoid physical effect term, Hillocks resulting from loss of on woodland and/or reversible. characteristic use directional drilling to Shelterbelt deciduous riparian bore export cable woodland. under woodland wherever possible.

Field Boundaries:

Consumption Medium- High magnitude and Modified onshore Low Not significant , dykes high potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- due to physical effect avoid consumption term, resulting from loss of dykes and/or reinstate reversible characteristic following cable consumption dyke installation. features.

Farmland:

Arable farmland Low Medium-high Reinstate arable Medium Not significant , magnitude and farmland following adverse, short- potentially significant cable installation. term, due to physical effect reversible resulting from loss of characteristic arable farmland.

3 In tables 5.3.8 – 5.3.11, residual magnitude of change and significance of effect assume mitigation measures have been adopted.

5.3-42 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment oni Bay CCA Boyndie the CoastEast LCA South of and North Cliffs LandscapeCharacter: Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

ih eim r high or Medium High and magnitude High High nhr epr cable route. export onshore from and modifiedfor excavation resulting cliff the edge to alteration landfall installation to cable from export Beach modified from resulting Inverboyndie disturbance and resulting effect physical to due potentially magnitude of arable land. and dykes consumption loss woodlands, deciduous characteristic from resulting effects to due potentially Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

significant significant Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment

ihn h medium the term. occur within to be anticipated and would restoration permanent be not would loss but face cliff the of alteration or loss partial the in cable result would installation Cable installation. following land arable and dykes consumption Reinstate medium the term. occur within to be anticipated and would restoration permanent be not would loss but face cliff the of alteration or loss partial the to in result would installation Cable consolidatethe backfill. excavations the over wash to tides allow and installed are backfilled excavations cables export the once be any would and other pit Beach rlig o oe export cableunder woodland. bore to and drilling dykes directional use and/or characteristic consumption woodlands on effects onshore physical to avoid route cable export Modified tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms

farmland. across adjacent the low to medium and the beach across medium face top, cliff and cliff the of locale immediate withinthe high Medium- farmland. across adjacent the low to medium and the beach across medium face top, cliff and cliff the of locale immediate withinthe high Medium- effects. will significant undergo areas remaining the The works. construction of duration short- term the for top, cliff lasting and face cliff the including area localised a over effects reversible term, short- adverse, Significant effects. will significant undergo areas remaining the The works. construction of duration short- term the for top, cliff lasting and face cliff the including area localised a over effects reversible term, short- adverse, Significant tatement 5.3-43

, , not not

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Section 1 and 2: Coastal Farmland (Western Coastal Farmland LCA)

Table 5.3-9 Modified Onshore Export Cable Route Assessment: Landscape Character & Elements (Sections 1 & 2)

Landscape Sensitivity to Potential Effect Mitigation Measures Residual Significance of Element change Magnitude of Residual Effect Change Section 1 and 2: Coastal Farmland (Western Coastal Farmland LCA) Ancient Woodland: CF2 - Hills of High High magnitude and Modified onshore Negligible Not significant , Boyndie potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- CF3 - Coach due to physical effect avoid physical effect term, Brae resulting from loss of on woodland or use reversible. CF4 - Hill of ancient woodland. directional drilling to Alvah bore export cable CF5 - Claret under woodland. Brae Woodland: CF1 - Cuttle Rig Medium High magnitude and Modified onshore Negligible Not significant , potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- due to physical effect avoid physical effect term, resulting from loss of on woodland. reversible. characteristic deciduous scrub woodland. Field Boundaries: Consumption Medium- High magnitude and Modified onshore Low Not significant , dykes high potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- due to physical effect avoid consumption term, resulting from loss of dykes and/or reinstate reversible characteristic following cable consumption dyke installation. features. Scrub Medium-low High magnitude and Modified onshore Low Not significant , hedgerows potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- due to physical effect avoid scrub hedgerow term, resulting from loss of and/or reinstate reversible characteristic scrub following cable hedgerows. installation. Farmland: Arable farmland Low Medium-high Reinstate arable Medium Not significant , magnitude and farmland following adverse, short- potentially significant cable installation. term, due to physical effect reversible resulting from loss of characteristic arable farmland. Landscape Character: Western Coastal Medium High magnitude and Modified onshore Low Not significant , Farmland LCA potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- due to effects resulting avoid physical effects term, from loss of on characteristic reversible characteristic ancient woodlands, woodlands, scrub consumption dykes and hedgerows, scrub hedgerows consumption dykes and and/or use directional arable land. drilling to bore export cable under woodland. Reinstate consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows and arable land following cable installation.

5.3-44 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Element Landscape FieldBoundaries: Agriculture Mixed / Arable Farmland: - RV4 Inverichnie Hillock Cormack’s - RV3 Berryton Cottage - RV2 - RV1 Govel Hill Woodland: Lower - Wanford RV5 AncientWoodland: of Den Inverichnie - RV6 Semi-naturalAncient Woodland: Section2:River Valley (Deveron and Upper YthanVa trees boundary Field hedgerows Scrub dykes Consumption Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact (Section2) As Route 5.3-10 Cable Modified Export Onshore Table Section 2: River Valley (Deveron and Upper Ythan Va Ythan Upper and (Deveron Valley River 2: Section change to Sensitivity o Medium-high Low high Medium- and magnitude High High and magnitude High High high Medium- and magnitude High Medium-low high Medium- PotentialEffect hrceitc arable farmland. of loss characteristic from and resulting effect physical to due potentially magnitude of loss woodland. from resulting effect physical to due and potentially magnitude High of loss ancient woodland. from resulting effect physical to due potentially ancient woodland. of loss semi-natural from resulting effect physical to due potentially hrceitc field boundarytrees. of loss characteristic from resulting effect physical to due and potentially magnitude High scrub hedgerows. of loss characteristic from resulting effect physical to due potentially dyke features. consumption of loss characteristic from resulting effect physical to due and potentially magnitude High Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S significant significant significant significant significant significant significant lleys LCA)lleys Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment

sessment: Landscape Character Elements & Landscape sessment: MitigationMeasures amad following arable cable installation. farmland Reinstate cable export under woodland. to bore drilling use or directional woodland effect on onshore physical to avoid route cable export Modified cable export under woodland. to bore drilling use or directional woodland effect on onshore physical to avoid route cable export Modified cable export under woodland. to bore drilling use or directional woodland effect on onshore physical to avoid route cable export Modified olwn cable installation. reinstate following and/or boundary trees onshore field to avoid route cable cable export reinstate Modified installation. following and/or onshore hedgerow scrub to avoid route cable export cable Modified installation. following consumption reinstate and/or dykes onshore to avoid route cable export Modified lleys LCA) LCA) lleys tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Change of Magnitude Residual Medium Negligible Negligible Negligible Low Low Low ResidualEffect of Significance reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible. term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible. term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible. term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not tatement 5.3-45 , , , , , , ,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Landscape Character: Deveron and High High magnitude and Modified onshore Low Not significant , Upper Ythan potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- Valleys LCA due to effects resulting avoid physical effects term, from loss of on characteristic reversible characteristic ancient woodlands, woodlands, scrub consumption dykes hedgerows, field scrub hedgerows and boundary trees, field boundary trees consumption dykes and and/or use directional arable land. drilling to bore export cable under woodland. Reinstate consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows, field boundary trees and arable land following cable installation.

5.3-46 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Element Landscape dykes Consumption Fieldboundaries: Medium-high Low FarmlandArable Farmland: Swanford of Bridge - AH11 Teuchar of Howe - AH10 AH9Boghead- AH8Castlehill- AH7Waterside- - of AH6Cairnhill- Hill Cotburn - AH5 Slackadale AH4 of AH3- Yonderton Mill Balmaud - AH2 Woodland: Balchers of Wood - AH1 AncientWoodland: Sections3,4Agricultural &5: Heartland(Agricult trees boundary Field hedgerows Scrub Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 4 (Sections 5) & 4 3, As Route 5.3-11 Cable Modified Export Onshore Table Sections 3, 4 and 5: Agricultural Heartland (Agricu Heartland Agricultural 5: and 4 3, Sections Woodof Balchers aisForestry Commissioncommerci change to Sensitivity high Medium- - high Medium Low high Medium- and magnitude High Medium-low 4 hscl fet unlikely effect Physical PotentialEffect osmto dyke features. consumption of loss characteristic from resulting effect physical to due and potentially magnitude High of loss woodland. from resulting effect physical to due and potentially magnitude High hrceitc field boundarytrees. of loss characteristic from resulting effect physical to due and potentially magnitude High scrub hedgerows. of loss characteristic from resulting effect physical to due potentially omril felling activities. with commercial forest as a plantation is Balchers significant of Wood be to hrceitc arable farmland. of loss characteristic from and resulting effect physical to due potentially magnitude Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S ural HeartlandLCA) significant significant significant significant significant Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS al plantational Assessment

sessment: Landscape Character Elements & Landscape sessment: MitigationMeasures olwn cable installation. following consumption reinstate and/or dykes onshore to avoid route cable export Modified woodland cable wherever possible. export under to bore drilling use or directional woodland effect on onshore physical to avoid route cable export Modified olwn cable installation. reinstate following and/or boundary trees onshore field to avoid route cable cable export reinstate Modified installation. following and/or onshore hedgerow scrub to avoid route cable export Modified o eurd Low requiredNot amad following arable cable installation. farmland Reinstate ltural Heartland LCA) LCA) Heartland ltural tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Change of Magnitude Residual Low Negligible Low Low Medium ResidualEffect of Significance reversible. term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible. term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not tatement 5.3-47 , , , , , ,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Landscape Character: Agricultural Medium High magnitude and Modified onshore Low Not significant , Heartlands LCA potentially significant export cable route to adverse, short- effect within cable avoid physical effects term, route corridor. on consumption dykes revsersible. scrub hedgerows and field boundary trees. Reinstate consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows, field boundary trees and arable farmland following cable installation.

Summary of Cable Route Construction Effects on Landscape/Seascape Character

5.3.4.74 The Cliffs of the North and South-East Coast LCA and Boyndie Bay CCA in which the modified export cable landfall and Section 1 of the modified onshore export cable route corridor are located have a high sensitivity to change. This increased sensitivity is primarily due to distinctive and cohesive coastal landforms, which define its character, and the frequency of settlement and recreational use of these coastal landscapes. The sensitivity of the physical landscape of Inverboyndie Beach is assessed as medium to low as the beach is relatively easy to restore. The main effects of the modified export cable landfall will result from the disturbance to Inverboyndie Beach resulting from modified export cable landfall installation and the presence of machinery on and around the beach. The beach pit and any other excavations would be backfilled once the export cables are installed and tides will wash over the excavations to consolidate the backfill. The magnitude of change resulting from the modified export cable landfall is assessed as medium and the effect as not significant , adverse, short-term and reversible.

5.3.4.75 The modified onshore export cable route will result in the partial loss or alteration of the cliff face at the hinterland area of Inverboyndie Beach, during cable installation works, but loss would not be permanent and restoration would be anticipated to occur within the medium term. The magnitude of change on the immediate coastal character in this area is assessed as medium-high, within the immediate locale of the cliff face and cliff top and medium to low across the adjacent farmland. Significant , adverse, short-term, reversible effects will arise over a localised area lasting for the short-term duration of the construction works.

5.3.4.76 All other LCAs within the modified OnTI Study Area will not experience significant effects on landscape character, providing that suitable mitigation measures are employed to avoid physical effects on the principal landscape features within these LCAs. In particular, the modified onshore export cable route will be sited or installed to avoid physical effects on areas of woodland and ancient woodland. The modified onshore export cable route will also be sited or installed to avoid physical effects on consumption dykes, scrub hedgerows and hedgerow trees where possible, and/or these features will be reinstated following cable installation. Arable farmland will be reinstated following cable installation.

Operation

5.3.4.77 During the operational stage, there will be no further loss or alteration to the physical elements of the landscape as a result of the modified onshore export cable route. The onshore export cable will be buried up to 1.5 m deep on land therefore during operation there will be no physical effects as a result of the onshore export cable elements on any landscape elements.

5.3-48 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.4.79 Decommissioning 5.3.4.80 Construction (and Route Cable Export Onshore Modified of Effects Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.78

osbe o xrc te als eaiey aiy i easily, l relatively on decommiss during cable export onshore of the effect effect cables LCAs and limited elements landscape on change very of the magnitude with extract phase decommissioning to possible pre into inserted been la have cables physical Where on character. effect no in result will and in-situ the that anticipated is it decommissioning, During each visualreceptor is assessed assuming adoption ide aremeasures Appropriatemitigationmitigation. onshore the of effect potential the and sensitivity modifiedonshorec thebuffercableexportroute of se LCA each within effects visual main The 5.3-22). ro cable export onshore modified the along LCA each route the corridor.ofSections eachroutecable export to expor relating 5.3.14 onshore – 5.3.12 the Tables of in assessed construction the of effect The oiid nhr epr cbe il e elgbe an resulting negligible not be will operation during cable export onshore be change will cable of export magnitude onshore modified the context, this In Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment Landfall) on Visual Amenity Amenity on Visual Landfall) ndscape elements and landscape landscape and elements ndscape are mapped in detail accordingto detail in mappedare xot al cntuto, before construction, cable export significant of mitigation measures. eto o te oiid onshore modified the of section to ae dniid ihn 1 km 1 a within identified are ction orridor and an assessmenttheiroforridoran and onshore export cable will be left left be will cable export onshore ntified and the residual effect on effectresidual the and ntified ioning will be be will ioning d the effect of the modified modified the of effect the d cbe n iul mnt is amenity visual on cable t -installed ducts, it may prove prove may it ducts, -installed ute corridor (Figures 5.3-18 to 5.3-18 (Figures corridor ute from the operation of the the of operation the from tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms andscape receptors. The The receptors. andscape f required, during the the during required, f will be negligible and the the and negligible be will . . not significantnot tatement 5.3-49 . .

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Section 1: The Coast (Cliffs of the North and South East Coast LCA)

Table 5.3-12 Modified Onshore Export Cable Route Assessment: Visual Receptors (Section 1)

Visual Receptor Sensitivity to Potential Effect on Visual Mitigation Measures Residual Significance of change Amenity Magnitude of Residual Effect 5 Change

Section 1: The Coast (Cliffs of the North and South East Coast LCA and Boyndie Bay CCA)

Residents of main settlements/villages: Banff High Low magnitude and not Not required Low / Not significant , significant due to negligible adverse, short- intervening distance term, (800 m minimum) and reversible limited visibility of modified onshore export cable route from majority of Banff. Inverboyndie High Potentially high Onshore export cable Low Not significant , magnitude and route to be sited within adverse, short- significant due to views part of modified term, of cable installation onshore export cable reversible from residences in route corridor to Inverboyndie at close reduce/prevent visibility proximity. from Inverboyndie. Whitehills High Low magnitude and not Not required Low / Not significant , significant due to negligible adverse, short- intervening distance term, (550 m minimum) and reversible limited visibility of modified onshore export cable route from majority of Whitehills. Motorists using A and B Roads: A98 Medium Potentially high Modified onshore Medium- Significant , magnitude and export cable route to high over adverse, short- significant due to views avoid physical effect 500 m term, of cable installation on woodland and/or section of reversible over from A98 from short use directional drilling to the road 500 m section section of road bore export cable passing Burn of the road. between Banff, Mill of under Burn of Boyndie. of Boyndie / Not significant Boyndie and Ladybrae Black from majority Farm, and potential loss Hillocks. of the road. of deciduous woodland Low- in views over Burn of negligible Boyndie. from majority of the road. B9038 Medium Potentially high Reinstate consumption High over 1 Significant , magnitude and dykes and arable km section adverse, short- significant due to views farmland following of the road term, of cable installation cable installation. between reversible over from 1 km section of Kirkhill and 1 km section. B9038 between Kirkhill Mill of Not significant and Mill of Boyndie. Boyndie. from majority Low- of the road. negligible from majority of the road.

5 In tables 5.3.12 – 5.3.15, residual magnitude of change and significance of effect assume mitigation measures have been adopted.

5.3-50 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment VisualReceptor oe ah - Path Disused Railway Core Links Caravan Park and Banff Well Red between road Core sectionoff- Path / 1 NCN and Inverboyndie Kirkhill between road Core sectionon- Path / 1 NCN high Cyclists/walkers using routesdistancelong and loc Potentially Medium B9139 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact change to Sensitivity ih oetal high Potentially High high Potentially High high Potentially High Amenity Visual on Effect Potential junction. oe ah er il of Boyndie. Mill near path of core section installation m and 500 from cable of significant magnitude route.tothe Caravan coast Park Links Banff the 1 and Well Red between NCN along from cable route, export onshore on modifiedfor excavation the from resulting edge cliff to Beach alteration and Inverboyndie landfall installation cable export of views coast with the along and section route km 1 from significant magnitude and Inverboyndie. Kirkhill of between 1 section NCN installation km 1 and from cable of significant magnitude 93 na B9038 near of B9139 section installation m and 500 from cable of significant magnitude Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S t ls proximity close at u t views to due effect to due views to due u t views to due al paths: modified Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment of MitigationMeasures ihn h medium the term. occur within to be anticipated and would restoration permanent be not would loss but face cliff the of alteration or loss to partial the in result would installation Cable consolidatethe backfill. excavations the over wash to tides allow and installed are backfilled excavations cables export the once be any would and other pit Beach oe xot cable export Burnunder Boyndie. of bore and/or directionaluse drillingto woodland effect on onshore physical to avoid route cable export Modified following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate amad following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Change of Magnitude Residual junction. of the route.of majority from negligible Low- Banff Links. Well and Red between coast along route the of section km 1 over High Medium the route.of majority from negligible Low- . and Inverboyndie Kirkhill between road the of section km 1 over High of the road.of majority from negligible Low- B9038 near road between m of the section over 500 High ResidualEffect of Significance of the route.of majority from significant Not section.km1 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant of the route.of majority from significant Not m500section. over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant the route.of majority from significant Not section.km1 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant of the road.of majority from significant Not m500section. over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant tatement 5.3-51 , , , , 5

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

People taking part in other recreational activities: Inverboyndie High Potentially high Beach pit and any High Significant , Beach Users magnitude and other excavations adverse, short- significant due to views would be backfilled term, of modified export once the export cables reversible cable landfall are installed and allow installation on tides to wash over the Inverboyndie Beach excavations to and alteration to the consolidate the backfill. cliff edge resulting from Cable installation would excavation for modified result in the partial loss onshore export cable or alteration of the cliff route, at close face but loss would not proximity. be permanent and restoration would be anticipated to occur within the medium term. Banff Links High Potentially high Onshore export cable High Significant , Caravan Park magnitude and route to be sited within adverse, short- Visitors significant due to views part of modified term, of modified export onshore export cable reversible cable landfall route corridor to installation on reduce/prevent visibility Inverboyndie Beach from Caravan Park. and alteration to the Beach pit and any cliff edge resulting from other excavations excavation for modified would be backfilled onshore export cable once the export cables route, at close are installed and allow proximity. tides to wash over the excavations to consolidate the backfill. Cable installation would result in the partial loss or alteration of the cliff face but loss would not be permanent and restoration would be anticipated to occur within the medium term.

5.3-52 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section1and Coastal 2: Farmland (Western Coastal VisualReceptor 92 Mdu Ptnily high Potentially Medium high Potentially B9121 Medium A97 Motoristsusing A B Roads:and Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact As Route 5.3-13 Cable Modified Export Onshore Table Coastal (Western Farmland Coastal 2: and 1 Section change to Sensitivity Amenity Visual on Effect Potential ucin t close at junction between Mid Mid proximitytothe road. A97 and Culbeuchy B9121 between of section 2km from of installation and cable views intermittent significant magnitude Crow and Wood. of Hill Tipperty between of section A97 installation km 1 and from cable of significant magnitude Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

u to due views to due FarmlandLCA) Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment sessment: Visual (Section 2) Receptors & 1 Visual sessment: MitigationMeasures amad following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate Farmland LCA) LCA) Farmland tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Change of Magnitude Residual of the road.of majority from negligible Low- the road.of section km 2 over high Medium- the road.of majority from negligible Low- the road.of section km 1 over high Medium- ResidualEffect of Significance of the road.of majority from significant Not road.the section km of2 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant the road.of majority from significant Not road.the section km of1 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant tatement 5.3-53 , ,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Section 2: River Valley (Deveron and Upper Ythan Valleys LCA)

Table 5.3-14 Modified Onshore Export Cable Route Assessment: Visual Receptors (Section 2)

Visual Receptor Sensitivity to Potential Effect on Visual Mitigation Measures Residual Significance of change Amenity Magnitude of Residual Effect Change

Section 2: River Valley (Deveron and Upper Ythan Valleys LCA)

Residents of main settlements/villages: Kirktown of High Low/negligible due to Not required Low/ Not significant , Alvah intervening landform / negligible neutral, short- woodland screening. term, reversible Cyclists/walkers using long distance routes and local paths: NCN 1 / Core High Potentially high Reinstate consumption High over 2 Significant , Path magnitude and dykes and arable km section adverse, short- significant due to views farmland following of the route term, of cable installation cable installation. between reversible over from 2 km section of Lower 2 km section. NCN 1 / Core Path Wanford Not significant between Lower and Keilhill. from majority Wanford and Keilhill. Low- of the route. negligible from majority of the route.

5.3-54 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section3,and 4 Agricultural5: Heartland(Agricul VisualReceptor 90 Mdu Ptnily high Potentially Medium high B9105 Potentially Medium medium A947 high Motoristsusing A B Roads:and Potentially Potentially High high Cuminestown High Potentially Fintry High Keilhill Residents of mainsettlements/villages: ah Idoch Water high – Core Path / 1 NCN Cyclists/walkers using routesdistancelong and loc Potentially Medium B9170 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact As Route 5.3-14 Cable Modified Export Onshore Table Sections 3, 4 and 5: Agricultural Heartland (Agricu Heartland Agricultural 5: and 4 3, Sections change to Sensitivity ih oetal high Potentially High Amenity Visual on Effect Potential ot between and Auchry.Castleof Cuminestown route of installation section km and 1.5 from cable of significant magnitude 90 na Craigston CastleFintryand near of section B9105 installation km 2 and from cable of significant magnitude and Montbletton of Bogside between section A947 installation km 2 and from cable of significant magnitude at in distances over300 m. residences Cuminestown installation and from cable of significant magnitude closeat proximity. installation and Fintry in residences from cable of significant close magnitude at in proximity. residences Keilhill installation and from cable of significant magnitude 97 between and Auchry.Castleof Cuminestown B9170 of installation section km and 1.5 from cable of significant magnitude Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S u t views to due u t views to due views to due views to due views to due views to due u t views to due tural HeartlandLCA) al paths: Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment sessment: Visual (Section 5) & Receptors 4 3, Visual sessment: MitigationMeasures amad following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate amad following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate following arable cable installation. and farmland from dykes consumption Reinstate Cuminestown. modified visibility cable reduceto corridor route of export onshore part within sited be to route cable export Onshore modified fromvisibility Fintry. cable reduceto corridor route of export onshore part within sited be to route cable export Onshore modified fromvisibility Keilhill. cable reduceto corridor route of export onshore part within sited be to route cable export Onshore amad following arable cable installation. and farmland dykes consumption Reinstate ltural Heartland LCA) LCA) Heartland ltural tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Change of Magnitude Residual of the road.of majority from negligible Low- the road.of section km 1.5 over high Medium- of the road.of majority from negligible Low- the road.of section km 2 over high Medium- the road.of majority from negligible Low- the road.of section km 2 over high Medium- Low Medium Medium of the road.of majority from negligible Low- the road.of section km 1.5 over high Medium- ResidualEffect of Significance of the route.of majority from significant Not the route.of section km 1.5 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant of the road.of majority from significant Not road.the section km of2 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant the road.of majority from significant Not road.the section km of2 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant reversible term, short- adverse, significant Not reversible term, short- adverse, Significant reversible term, short- adverse, Significant of the road.of majority from significant Not the road.of section km 1.5 over reversible term, short- adverse, Significant tatement 5.3-55 , , , , , , ,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Summary of Cable Route Construction Effects on Visual Amenity

5.3.4.81 The coastal areas of Boyndie Bay in which the modified export cable landfall and Section 1 of the modified onshore export cable route corridor are located, have a higher concentration of visual receptors than the remaining predominantly agricultural sections of the modified onshore export cable route corridor. In this coastal area, the main visual effects of the modified export cable landfall will result from views of modified export cable landfall installation on Inverboyndie Beach and alteration to the cliff edge resulting from excavation for modified onshore export cable route, and the presence of machinery on the beach, which will include drill rigs and cable barges and which will appear large in scale.

5.3.4.82 The magnitude of change to views resulting from the modified export cable landfall and modified onshore export cable route installation is assessed as high on cyclists/walkers using short sections of NCN 1 and the core path alongside Inverboyndie Beach and for recreational users of Inverboyndie Beach and Banff Links Caravan Park. The visual effect of the modified export cable landfall and modified onshore export cable route installation is assessed as significant and adverse on these receptors, but of short-term duration and reversible. The beach pit and any other excavations would be backfilled once the export cables are installed and tides will wash over the excavations to consolidate the backfill. The modified onshore export cable route will result in the partial loss or alteration of the cliff face at the hinterland area of Inverboyndie Beach, during cable installation, but loss would not be permanent and restoration would be anticipated to occur within the medium term.

5.3.4.83 The visual effect of the modified export cable landfall and modified onshore export cable route installation is assessed as not significant on residents of Banff, Inverboyndie and Whitehills. Significant adverse but short-term and reversible visual effects will be experienced by residents of Keilhill and Fintry, due to the proximity of the modified onshore export cable route in views from these small villages in the agricultural heartlands.

5.3.4.84 Significant adverse but short-term and reversible visual effects will be experienced by motorists on short sections of several roads that pass through the modified onshore export cable route corridor, including the A97, A98, A947, B9038, B9105, B9121, B9139 and B9170. In all cases, the significant effects on views arising from the modified onshore export cable route installation will occur over short sections of these routes, typically from short localised sections of the roads which approach and pass through the 500 m modified onshore export cable route corridor, where there may be fleeting views of the cable installation at close range, and often on either side of the public road. The effect of the onshore export cable installation will be not significant from extensive sections of these A and B roads within the OnTI Study Area which generally will not allow motorists visibility of the modified onshore export cable route due to intervening landform and woodland screening in the landscape.

Operation

5.3.4.85 During the operational stage, the onshore export cable will be buried up to 1 m deep therefore during operation therefore there will be no further alteration to views as a result of the modified onshore export cable. In this context, the magnitude of change on views experienced from all visual receptors resulting from the operation of the modified onshore export cable will be negligible and the effect of the modified onshore export cable during operation will be not significant, neutral, long term and reversible .

5.3-56 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Agricultural Heartlands LCA Heartlands Agricultural 5.3.4.87 Effect of Onshore Substations on Landscape Characte on Landscape Substations Onshore of Effect Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.4.86 Decommissioning

the character of this LCA within the onshore substa onshore the LCA within of this character the Figures in them, from shown views existing the and located all are 8 – 1 Viewpoints height. in 75-80m consis generally landscape, Heartlands Agricultural t vis are Balquhindachy, turbines wind Further (>30m). of turbines farm Hill at cluster turbine three a a of consisting Area, Study substation onshore the e occasionally only are farmsteads scale large with Cuminestow and Deer New as such villages larger and and well-set hedges relatively this in frequent are Farmsteads fence-lines, including la vary, this in boundaries blocks, coniferous small in occasionally al shelterbelts in trees broad-leaved of scattering t Bennachie of skyline upland the to views distance enclosure. al provides also landform but rolling landscape, surrounding The pasture. and arable of predomi land is use land the which in Buchan, & Banff of the typifies unit Agric Heartland Agricultural The 5.3.3. the t in in described are located LCA this for is conditions baseline area substation onshore The il e elgbe n te fet f h osoe ex onshore the of effect the and negligible be will decommissioning be will o change of magnitude The decommis amenity. visual the on effect during required, if easily, prov relatively may it ducts, pre-installed into v inserted and been views on effect no in result will and in-situ the that anticipated is it decommissioning, During Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S not significantnot Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment , neutral, short-term and reversible. reversible. and short-term ,neutral, r and Elements Elements and r characteristic agricultural heartland heartland agricultural characteristic tled landscape, as are small hamlets hamlets small are as landscape, tled ible and characteristic in the wider the in characteristic and ible sa aeiy Wee als have cables Where amenity. isual single wind turbine at Cairnhill and Cairnhill at turbine wind single ong hill-ridges, around farms and, and, farms around hill-ridges, ong rge scale agricultural plain. Field Field plain. agricultural scale rge tion Study Area. Area. Study tion he landscape baseline in Section Section in baseline landscape he within the Agricultural Heartlands Heartlands Agricultural the within gte wt svrl ml scale small several with ogether onshore export cable will be left left be will cable export onshore ting of between 1 – 3 turbines of of turbines 3 – 1 between of ting e possible to extract the cables cables the extract to possible e 5.3-30 to 5.3-37 are indicative of indicative are 5.3-37 to 5.3-30 sioning phase with very limited limited very with phase sioning vident in the part of the LCA in in LCA the of part the in vident o the south. There is a frequent frequent a is There south. the o hr ae cainly longer occasionally are There os oe pn iw o the of views open some lows agricultural scale, large nantly n views and visual receptors receptors visual and views n the occasional stone dyke. dyke. stone occasional the ultural Heartlands LCA. The The LCA. Heartlands ultural n. Wind turbines associated associated turbines Wind n. tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ot al during cable port tatement 5.3-57

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Sensitivity to Change

5.3.4.88 The sensitivity of the Agricultural Heartland LCA to change resulting from the onshore substations is assessed in Table 5.3-15.

Table 5.3-15 Agricultural Heartlands LCA – Sensitivity to Change (Onshore Substations)

Agricultural Heartland LCA – Sensitivity to Change

Value: Medium

• Agricultural Heartlands LCA is not subject to any scenic landscape designation. • The innate character of the landscape has been subject to modification mainly through intensive farming, which influences the scenic and perceptual quality. • The Agricultural Heartlands cover an extensive area within Aberdeenshire and are not rare in the region, being representative of a wide area of intensive farmland. • The LCA is well settled with frequent farmsteads, but is not notably valued for recreation, although there is some local recreational use. • There are valued views of the upland skyline formed by Bennachie and its adjacent uplands to the south.

Susceptibility to change: Medium

Factors which increase susceptibility to change

• Landscape change on rolling landform could be visually prominent, where there are open views of the landscape, and influence the character of the LCA. • The LCA is well settled, with frequent farmsteads and small hamlets, but few larger village and settlements. • Electrical infrastructure and buildings within the onshore substations are likely to appear largely in conjunction with agricultural landscape patterns and features, in a rural landscape context. • The scale of the potential substations is large compared to existing development influences within this rural area.

Factors which decrease susceptibility to change

• Appropriately sited and designed development may appear to be accommodated within the broad, large scale rolling landform and may be contained by subtle undulations in landform. • Woodland shelterbelts increase enclosure in the landscape and reduce the likelihood to experience change as a result of the onshore substations. • Additional screening of the onshore substations through woodland planting would enhance key characteristic of the LCA. • Onshore substations are likely to appear in conjunction with large scale farm buildings, linear elements such as field boundaries and tracks, and existing electrical infrastructure such as the main 275kV electrical line/pylons. • The LCA has relatively few visual receptors that experience the landscape character, with very limited recreational activity and few main road routes. • Landscape change caused by onshore substations may have some associations with the existing wind energy generation characteristics of this landscape unit.

Sensitivity to change: Medium

5.3-58 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact LCA Magnitud – Heartlands Agricultural 5.3-16 Table 5.3.4.89 Magnitude of Change Change of Magnitude • • • • Area7 – YthanStrath Farmland Area6 – Northern RollingLowlands (Balquhindachyt AreaCuminestown,5 – HoweofTeuchar toFyvie tot AreaAllathan4 – toBalthangie tothe north AreaCairnbanno3 – to New Deertothe north-east AreaLittle2 – Water, tolow-lying thearea east AreaSubstations1 – area surroundsand between Bur size or assessed the followingwithin areas ofthe LCA: scale The change. no or limited experience of parts western the Broadly, 6km. within generally Cuminest between and west; the in Muirtack/Upperton a ground elevated to immediately extending Swanford; land and Millbrex agricultural the to contained is experi thatmay LCT the of area Geographically,the • AllathanArea- 3 toBalthangie tothe north • CairnbannoArea- 2 toAuchmaliddie to the north-ea • Magnitudeofchange (construction/decommissioning) Agricult the from Development the of visibility The Geographic Extent: AgriculturalHeartland LCAMagnitude – of Change • • and Swanfordand Bur between surrounds and area Substations - 1 Area

reduced influenceonthe character ofthis area. containmentofthe substations the in landscape. block woodland and land agricultural undulating The the landform aroundthe 105m contour. high the avoids location substations indicative The which forms a more identifiable part of the skyline the of part identifiable more a forms which h cntuto poess il eut n hne i changes in result will processes construction The occupied bythe substations, accesstracks siteand t within farmland arable the on effect physical The this this area. distance resultingdistance ainreduced influencethe chon thesubstconstructiononshore of the of visibility th on appearing substations onshore of construction h cntuto o te nhr sbttos results substations onshore the of construction The results substations onshore the of construction The results substations onshore the of construction The stockpilingofmaterials that neededbe will during reve andconstruction compoundthe to due character Asconstructedare they the builtformand electric fenced buildingsand electrical infrastructure. uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and compo buildings large development uncharacteristically the increase will forms built The

Heartland LCA is assessed in Table 5.3-16. 5.3-16. Table in LCA assessed is Heartland onshore the from resulting change of magnitude The Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S ations, due tointerveningscreeningi landformand due ations, o Braes o of Gight) h LT ihn h Suy ra t te et f Deer of west the to Area, Study the within LCT the rl erlns C i ilsrtd n h ZV n Fi in ZTV the in illustrated is LCA Heartlands ural Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS ence change as a result of visibility of the onshor the of visibility of result changea as ence he west Assessment nside,Asleid, Boghead, Millbrex Swanfordand st f h cag o te hrce o ti LA ais a varies LCA this of character the on change the of construction. in a small to moderate scale change on this area d area this on change scale moderate to small a in on te nhr sbttos ewe Brsd, Asl Burnside, between substations onshore the round al infrastructure appear will onthe open skyline. around Auchmaliddie in the east (south of New Deer New of (south east the in Auchmaliddie around nside, Asleid, Boghead, Millbrex Millbrex Boghead, Asleid, nside, aracterofthis area. the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the , instead being sited on the slightly lying western lying slightly the on sited being instead , in a small scale change on this area due to the lo the to due area this on change scale small a in infrastructure. r rud 10) o h es o te usain are substations the of east the to (110m) ground er gon cniin/rfls n te diin f th of addition the and conditions/profiles ground n e usain ae s otie t almtd footp limited a to contained is area substations he n mdrt t lre cl cag t te local the to change scale large to moderate a in e open skyline to the west, but at distance and wit and distance at but west, the to skyline open e w i te ot ad h Bas f ih t te sout the to Gight of Braes the and north the in own s, particularly within the Burn of Asleid, provide provide Asleid, of Burn the within particularly s, et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents rsible buildings, vehicles, machinery, cranes and t and machinery,cranesvehicles, buildings, rsible e of Change (Onshore Change of e Substations) substations on the Agricultural Agricultural the on substations tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Local Low Mediumto low Mediumtohigh

e substations e ue 5.3-15. gure

ncreased part of of part

Hill, will will Hill, tatement ture in ture some ue to ue wer 5.3-59 a h d is nd rint he eid, ) to ) a, e h,

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Agricultural Heartland LCA – Magnitude of Change

Area 4 - Northern Rolling Lowlands (Balquhindachy to Braes of Gight) Low

• The construction of the onshore substations results in a small scale change on this area due to the lower visibility of the construction of the onshore substations, due to intervening landform screening, the position of the substations below the skyline and increased distance resulting in a reduced influence on the character of this area.

Area 5 - Ythan Strath Farmland Low

• The construction of the onshore substations results in a small scale change on this area due to the lower visibility of the construction of the onshore substations, due to intervening landform screening, the position of the substations below the skyline and increased distance resulting in a reduced influence on the character of this area.

Area 6 - Little Water, low-lying area to the east Negligible (no visibility)

Area 7 - Cuminestown, Howe of Teuchar to Fyvie to the west Negligible (no visibility)

Area 8 - New Deer, Clush to Knaven Negligible (no visibility)

Magnitude of change (operation):

Area 1 - Substations area and surrounds between Burnside, Asleid, Boghead, Millbrex Medium to high and Swanford

• The operation of the onshore substations results in a moderate to large scale change to the local character due to the presence of large scale electrical buildings and infrastructure, which will increase the developed character of the local landscape through the introduction of large buildings and electrical infrastructure. • The principal change to the local character will result from the contrast of the electrical infrastructure and buildings within the onshore substations within the predominantly agricultural setting and the scale/complexity of built forms compared to existing development influences within the area. • The operation of the onshore substations will result in further changes to ground conditions/profiles, the addition of fences, access roads and a very slight increase in vehicular movement in the local area. • Woodland and hedgerows will have been planted as part of the landscape mitigation scheme, but will have limited effect as components of the landscape until they are at least 5 years old.

Area 2 - Cairnbanno to Auchmaliddie to the north-east Medium to low

• The operation of the onshore substations results in a small to moderate scale change on this area due to the onshore substation buildings and electrical infrastructure appearing on the open skyline to the west, but at distance and with a reduced influence on the character of this area.

Area 3 - Allathan to Balthangie to the north Low

• The operation of the onshore substations results in a small scale change on this area due to the lower visibility of the onshore substation buildings and electrical infrastructure, due to intervening landform screening and increased distance resulting in a reduced influence on the character of this area.

Area 4 - Northern Rolling Lowlands (Balquhindachy to Braes of Gight) Low

• The operation of the onshore substations results in a small scale change on this area due to the lower visibility of the onshore substation buildings and electrical infrastructure, due to intervening landform screening, the position of the substations below the skyline and increased distance resulting in a reduced influence on the character of this area.

Area 5 - Ythan Strath Farmland Low

• The operation of the onshore substations results in a small scale change on this area due to the lower visibility of the onshore substation buildings and electrical infrastructure, due to intervening landform screening, the position of the substations below the skyline and increased distance resulting in a reduced influence on the character of this area.

Area 6 - Little Water, low-lying area to the east Negligible (no visibility)

Area 7 - Cuminestown, Howe of Teuchar to Fyvie to the west Negligible (no visibility)

Area 8 - New Deer, Clush to Knaven Negligible (no visibility)

5.3-60 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

• • Area- 8 New Deer,toClush Knaven Cuminestown,Area- 7 Howe ofTeucharto Fyvie tot LittleArea- 6 Water, low-lying areatothe east • Area- 5 Ythan Strath Farmland • Area- 4 Northern Rolling Lowlands (Balquhindachyt • AllathanArea- 3 toBalthangie tothe north • CairnbannoArea- 2 toAuchmaliddie to the north-ea • Magnitudeofchange (operation 15 years– conspost AgriculturalHeartland LCAMagnitude – of Change • and Swanfordand Bur between surrounds and area Substations - 1 Area

Native woodland and hedgerows around the onshore su onshore the aroundhedgerows and woodland Native of the LCA,of increasing deciduous coverwoodland and the onshorethe substation buildings and electrical inf native shelterbeltswoodland thearound onshore sub The operation of the onshore substations, post a 15 substations, a onshorepostthe operation of The characterthe of local landscapethrough the introd andreduced with a influencethe characteron ofth electricalbuild scale large presenceof the to due h oeain f h osoe usain rsls in results substations onshore the of operation The in results substations onshore the of operation The in results substations onshore the of operation The infrastructureelectrical and buildings substation in results substations onshore the of operation The substationsin results onshore the of operation The The principal change to the local character will re will character local the to change principal The ulig wti te nhr sbttos ihn the within substations onshore the scale/complexityofbuilt forms comparedto existin within buildings influencethe characteron ofthis area. and th below substations buildings the of position substation the screening, onshore the of visibility influencethe characteron ofthis area. and th below substations buildings the of position substation the screening, onshore the of visibility and buildings substation screening and increaseddistance resulting ainred onshore the of visibility Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

o Braes o of Gight) he west Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment appearing on the open skyline to the west, but at d at but west, the to skyline open the on appearing st truction): rastructure. a moderate to large scale change to the local char local the tochange scale large tomoderate a ings and infrastructure, which will increase the de increasethe infrastructure, will and which ings nside, Asleid, Boghead, Millbrex Millbrex Boghead, Asleid, nside, year planting establishment period, will include m include plantingyearestablishment period,will gdevelopment influencesthe within area. sults from the contrast of the electrical infrastru electrical the of contrast the from sults uced influence onthe character ofthis area. sal cl cag o ti ra u t te onsho the to due area this on change scale small a e skyline and increased distance resulting in a red a in resulting distance increased and skyline e red a in resulting distance increased and skyline e uctionof buildings large electricaland infrastruc sal cl cag o ti ae de o h lower the to due area this on change scale small a lower the to due area this on change scale small a lower the to due area this on change scale small a is area. is lcrcl nrsrcue de o nevnn landf intervening to due infrastructure, electrical landf intervening to due infrastructure, electrical landf intervening to due infrastructure, electrical stations,visuallycontain which screenand will mu connecting areas of existingshelterbelt woodland. bstations would enhance these key characteristicskey these enhance would bstations rdmnnl arclua stig n the and setting agricultural predominantly

tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms Low Negligible(no visibility) Negligible(no visibility) Negligible(no visibility) Low Low Low within sitethe only) (high Medium

cture and cture veloped ture. istance aturing tatement acter uced uced chof orm orm orm 5.3-61

re

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Significance of Effect

5.3.4.90 The significance of effect on the Agricultural Heartlands LCA is summarised in Table 5.3-17.

Table 5.3-17 Agricultural Heartlands LCA – Significance of Effect (Onshore Substations)

Agricultural Heartland LCA – Significance of Effect

Significance of Effect (construction/decommissioning):

Area 1 - Substations area and surrounds between Burnside, Asleid, Significant , adverse, short-term, Boghead, Millbrex and Swanford reversible

Area 2 - Cairnbanno to Auchmaliddie to the north-east Not significant, adverse, short-term, Area 3 - Allathan to Balthangie to the north reversible Area 4 - Northern Rolling Lowlands (Balquhindachy to Braes of Gight) Area 5 - Ythan Strath Farmland

Area 6 - Little Water, low-lying area to the east Not significant , neutral, short-term, Area 7 - Cuminestown, Howe of Teuchar to Fyvie to the west reversible Area 8 - New Deer, Clush to Knaven

Significance of Effect (operation):

Area 1 - Substations area and surrounds between Burnside, Asleid, Significant , adverse, long-term, Boghead, Millbrex and Swanford reversible

Area 2 - Cairnbanno to Auchmaliddie to the north-east Not significant, adverse, long-term, reversible Area 3 - Allathan to Balthangie to the north Area 4 - Northern Rolling Lowlands (Balquhindachy to Braes of Gight) Area 5 - Ythan Strath Farmland

Area 6 - Little Water, low-lying area to the east Not significant , neutral, long-term, Area 7 - Cuminestown, Howe of Teuchar to Fyvie to the west reversible Area 8 - New Deer, Clush to Knaven

Significance of Effect (operation – 15 years post construction):

Area 1 - Substations area and surrounds between Burnside, Asleid, Significant , adverse, long-term, Boghead, Millbrex and Swanford reversible within the site. Not significant, adverse, long-term, reversible.

Area 2 - Cairnbanno to Auchmaliddie to the north-east Not significant, neutral, long-term, Area 3 - Allathan to Balthangie to the north reversible Area 4 - Northern Rolling Lowlands (Balquhindachy to Braes of Gight) Area 5 - Ythan Strath Farmland Area 6 - Little Water, low-lying area to the east Area 7 - Cuminestown, Howe of Teuchar to Fyvie to the west Area 8 - New Deer, Clush to Knaven

Effects of Onshore Substations on Visual Amenity

5.3.4.91 The effects of the onshore substations on visual amenity are assessed through a viewpoint assessment from eight representative viewpoints in the onshore substations Study Area. These viewpoints are primarily representative of the residential receptors and minor road network in the locality, with few other receptors in the local area. The sensitivity of each viewpoint is assessed based on the value of the view and the

5.3-62 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact of Asleid Mains Upper 1: Viewpoint 5.3-18 Table Viewpoint 1 Upper Mains of Asleid - Figure 5.3-30 5.3-30 Figure Asleid - of Mains Upper 1 Viewpoint the vicinitythe of UpperAsleid Mainsof and bymotori • • • Factors which increasesusceptibility: Susceptibilitytochange: • Value: Sensitivity to change Elevation:103 m • view:Existing represen is It Burnend. and Burnside of settlements the on located is viewpoint The location: Viewpoint View direction:282 reference: Grid 383600 844428 Baselineconditions Viewpoint Upper1: Mains of Asleid • • • • • • • • • •

The character of the landscape visible is not rare not is visible landscape the of character The Fieldboundaries generally determinedby post and w Land useLand primarily arable farmland. h ve i nt fral rcgie vepit no affordedparticular protection through planning viewpoint,pol recognised formally a not is view The Rural landscape. adcp, uh s hlebls woln bok an rel blocks rural/agriculturalcharacter that interest indicative ofis woodland and shelterbelts, as qualities such scenic landscape, some has view The ag o vgtto, nldn woln shelterbelt adjacenttothe BurnAlseid of alongandthe skylin woodland including vegetation, of Range The view The hassome local interesttothedue panoram The The largescale electrical pylonsand overhead line Aberdeenshire. Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations, with undulations, subtle of landform rolling Gently dropping steeplymore the into ofBurnAsleid toap accessible,although not will experiencedbe by lar The viewpoint is located on a minor road adjacent t adjacent road minor a on located is viewpoint The Networkofminor roads singleand track farm access East Swanford.East tr lines overhead and pylons electrical scale Large Swanford). Areas of higher ground in the wider landscape visib landscape wider the in ground higher of Areas Scattered detached houses and farmsteads (includingfarmsteadsand houses detached Scattered containingviews. viewpoints are assessed in Tables 5.3.18 – 5.3.25. 5.3.25. – 5.3.18 Tables in whe assessed are viewpoints effects The construction maturity. approaching post be years will proposals 15 operation during and construction/deco during assessed is scal viewpoint each and extent magnitu geographic The substations. onshore the the from resulting on based assessed is the experiencing people of change to susceptibility Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S ststravelling towardsnorth Burnside alongthe min tative of the view experienced by residents of the of residents by experienced view the of tative the Agriculturalthe Heartlands. Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment mnr odwihle t te at f h st, bet site, the of east the to lies which road minor e. elevations generally between 100-110m AOD, althoug AOD, 100-110m between generally elevations proximately AOD.95m averse the substation area between Mains of Asleid of Mains between area substation the averse genumbers of people. s traversewhich the view influence scenicits qual and such views are available across large parts of of parts large across available are views such and

icy. lanes. ic vista overtheic landscape.wide le in the distance, particularly to the west of the of west the to particularly distance, the in le ire fences,ire as as somewell consumption dykes. de i oelo a eintd adcp, o s no is so landscape, designated a overlook it does r Residents –High, Road users – medium Mediumto low Distance:282m o the properties at Upper Mains of Asleid so is eas is so Asleid of Mains Upper at properties the o large agricultural buildings at North Milbrex and NorthMilbrex at buildingsagricultural large ad lcs f oieos odad particularly woodland, coniferous of blocks and s tn t te atrs n faue vsbe n the in visible features and patterns the to ating ps ad ie il budre, s el s the as well as boundaries, field wire and post d de and significance of effect for effect of significance and de view. The magnitude of change change of magnitude The view. of the onshore substations on on substations onshore the of mmissioning, during operation operation during mmissioning, tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms n the woodland planting planting woodland the n e or size of the change change the of size or e or road. or properties in properties en the ween ities. tatement site, rural and East 5.3-63 ily h t

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 1: Upper Mains of Asleid

• The view will be experienced by residents in the vicinity of Upper Mains, although none of these properties have their main aspects towards the onshore substations they would have visibility from parts of the properties and external areas. • Views to the east are confined by a belt of woodland so that the only open views from this part of the minor route are towards the west. • The view is generally rural in character with some development characteristics.

Factors which decrease susceptibility:

• The view will be experienced for a short duration by road users, whose main attention may not be focused on their wider surroundings and will experience the site transiently at moderate speeds. • Upper Mains of Asleid is afforded screening to the west and north by existing shelterbelt woodland. • The view has some existing development characteristics and displays characteristics of a human influenced landscape.

Sensitivity to change: Residents – High to medium, Road users- medium-low

Magnitude of change (construction/decommissioning)

Duration: Short

Geographic extent: Short distance

• Onshore substations are visible at close range - approx. 200m-500m for approximately 1km of the minor road. • Range, direction and extent of visibility akin to residential properties as above.

Size or scale of change: Large

• The construction of the onshore substations results in a large scale change in the view due to the construction compound and temporary buildings, vehicles, machinery, cranes and the stockpiling of materials that will be needed during construction. • The access to the site and its use will extend the notable construction area to the east of the Onshore Substation Area to where it connects with the minor road. • The construction processes will result in changes in ground conditions/profiles and the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure. • Task and vehicle lighting may be used in the hours of darkness – but only during approved working hours. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • As they are constructed the built form and electrical infrastructure will obscure visibility of the rolling landscape beyond. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • Some separation of substations from minor road by open fields, maintaining the agricultural foreground.

Magnitude of change: High over short duration

Magnitude of change (operation)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: Short distance

• Onshore substations are visible at close range – approx. 200m-500m for approximately 1km of the minor road. • Range, direction and extent of visibility akin to residential properties as above.

Size or scale of change: Large

5.3-64 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • • 15 years post construction: Residents – – Residents years15 post construction: Operation: Construction/decommissioning: Significanceof effect Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of • Geographic extent: Magnitudeof change (operation 15 - yearspost cons Magnitudeofchange: • Viewpoint Upper1: Mains of Asleid • • • • • •

the generalthe landscapecharacter. The native woodland is characteristic of this lands this of characteristic is woodland native The this this area – however,these be will muchnotice less Someseparation substations of from minorroad byo this this area. Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe odad n hdeos il ae en lne bt w but planted been have landscapeuntil they atare leastyears5 old. will hedgerows and Woodland The operation of the onshore substations, post a 15 a post substations,onshore the of operation The ap – range close at visible are substations Onshore onshoreresulthesubstationsoperation of The will and theand native woodlandthatto be plantedis aroun in electrical and buildings of parts upper the only this from location. infrastructu electrical and buildings fenced the of Range, directionand extent of visibility akintor minor road.minor uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and buildings compo large uncharacteristically development the increase will forms built The The The buildingsand electrical infrastructure ob will Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and buildings compo large uncharacteristically development the increase will forms built The The The buildingsand electrical infrastructure plaand Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S esidential propertiesas above. s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (pass lighting passive be to assumed is this but s, s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (pass lighting passive be to assumed is this but s, scurevisibility the rollingof landscape beyond. Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment truction) t in changes in ground conditions/profileschangesground thein tin and ntingobscure will visibilityofthe rolling landsc able,particularly the trees/hedgeswhen are in lea cape within the wider area and so will not contrast not will so and area wider the within cape frastructure being visible above close range hedger range close above visible being frastructure re across approximately 34 degrees of the field of of field the of degrees 34 approximately across re the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the year planting establishment period, will result in result will period,establishment planting year lit. lit. penfields, maintaining the agricultural foreground dthe substation site, Significant, Significant, Medium Large Shortdistance overHigh durationlong Road users – – users Road reversible et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents rx 20-0m o apoiaey k o the of 1km approximately for 200m-500m prox. l hv ltl efc a cmoet o the of components as effect little have ill adverse, long-term, reversible adverse, short-term, reversible Significant, o significant, not tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms des, og em reversible, term, long adverse, des, og term, long adverse, ape ape beyond. ive infra-red) ive ive infra-red) ive views ofviews addition f. ture in ture ture in ture tatement . with with view ows 5.3-65

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 2 Burnside of Milbrex - Figure 5.3-31

Table 5.3-19 Viewpoint 2: Burnside of Milbrex

Viewpoint 2: Burnside of Milbrex

Baseline conditions

Grid reference: 383071 843952 Elevation: 102 m

View direction: 0 degrees Distance: 337 m

Viewpoint location: This viewpoint is located at the junction between Burnside of Milbrex access and the minor road running along the onshore substation areas southern boundary. It is representative of the view experienced by motorists travelling east along the minor road, residents coming and going from Burnside of Millbrex and also shows how the property at Burnside of Milbrex relates to the area.

• Existing view: • Rural landscape. • Land use primarily arable farmland and grazing land. • Field boundaries generally determined by post and wire fences. • Range of vegetation, including woodland shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous woodland, particularly adjacent to the Burn of Alseid, which lies just out of view in the middle ground valley. • Occasional scrubby/riparian trees along Burn of Asleid. • Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations contains views, with elevations generally between 100-110m AOD. View overlooks the Burn of Asleid’s valley, where the elevation drops to approximately 95m AOD. • Access route to Burnside of Millbrex with farmhouse and steading beyond. • Swanford visible on the distant skyline. • Large scale electrical pylons and overhead lines traverse the substation area and are visible across the skyline in much of the view.

Sensitivity to change

Value: Medium-low

• The view is not a formally recognised viewpoint, nor does it overlook a designated landscape, so is not afforded particular protection through planning policy. • Some local interest in the view for its open outlook towards Slacks of Cairnbanno and views of the Burn of Asleid when driving eastwards along the minor road. • The viewpoint is located on a minor road adjacent to the property at Burnside of Milbrex so is easily accessible, although will not be experienced by large numbers of people. • The fields are large and hedgerows have been removed so that the landscape has lost some of its defined pattern. • The constrained extent of the view and lack of hedgerows limits its scenic qualities. • The landscape of the view is not rare or remarkable in any way and it is representative of the rural/agricultural character that is indicative of the wide-spread Agricultural Heartlands. • The large scale electrical pylons and overhead lines which traverse the view influence its scenic qualities.

Susceptibility to change: Residents of farm – medium, Road users- medium-low

Factors which increase susceptibility:

• The view will be experienced by residents of Burnside of Millbrex as they approach and move around outside their property. Views from the farmhouse are obscured by intervening trees and buildings. • The view is generally rural in character with some development characteristics.

Factors which decrease susceptibility:

5.3-66 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • • • • • Size scaleSize or change: of • Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation) Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of • Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (construction/decommissioning) Sensitivitytochange: • Viewpoint Burnside2: of Milbrex • • •

landscape. The view has some existing development characteristdevelopmentexisting some has view The farm farm buildingsalongthe Burn Asleid. of Burnside of Milbrex is afforded screening to the no the to screening afforded is Milbrex of Burnside on their on widersurroundings andexperience will the Task Task vehicleand lighting bemay used thein hours buildings and electrical infrastructure. construction The processesresult changes will in i and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting Closer rangeCloser views available from accesstrack toB rangeCloser views available from accesstrack toB the minorthe road. vehi buildings, thatmaterials be will neededduring construction. temporary and compound construction minorthe road. Onshore substations are visible at close range - ap - range close at visible are substations Onshore results substations onshore the of construction The ap - range close at visible are substations Onshore b duration short a for experienced be will view The Asconstructedare they the builtformand electric uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and buildings large uncharacteristically h bit om wl ices te eeomn compo development the increase will forms built The minor roadminor and farmaccess. The open agricultural foreground and burn corridor burn and foreground agricultural open The this this area. Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (pass lighting passive be to assumed is this but s, Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment nground conditions/profiles theand thaddition of

al infrastructure appear will onthe open skyline. site transiently at moderatespeeds. ofdarkness only– but duringapproved working hour rth and east by existing shelterbelt woodland aroun woodland shelterbelt existing by east and rth the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the prox. 300m-500m intermittently for approximately 1k approximately for intermittently 300m-500m prox. 1k approximately for intermittently 300m-500m prox. urnsideof Millbrex. urnsideof Millbrex. y road users, whose main attention may not be focus be not may attention main whose users, road y lit. provide a separation between the substations and th and substations the between separation a provide n lre cl cag i te iw u t the to due view the in change scale large a in ics and displays characteristics of a human influenhuman a of characteristics displays and ics Large Shortdistance Longterm High Large Shortdistance Shortterm Residents –medium, Road users - medium-low et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents ls mciey cae ad h sokiig of stockpiling the and cranes machinery, cles, tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ive infra-red) ive

e fenced e tatement ture in in ture d the d s. m of m of m ced 5.3-67 ed e

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 2: Burnside of Milbrex

• The operation of the onshore substations will result in changes in ground conditions/profiles and the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure across approximately 34 degrees of the field of view from this location. • Woodland and hedgerows will have been planted but will have little effect as components of the landscape until they are at least 5 years old. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • The buildings and electrical infrastructure will be seen on the skyline. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • The open agricultural foreground and burn corridor provide a separation between the substations and the minor road and farm access.

Magnitude of change: High

Magnitude of change (operation – 15 years post construction)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: Short distance

• Onshore substations are visible at close range - approx. 300m-500m intermittently for approximately 1km of the minor road. • Closer range views available from access track to Burnside of Millbrex.

Size or scale of change: Large

• The operation of the onshore substations, post a 15 year planting establishment period, will result in views of only the upper parts of buildings and electrical infrastructure being visible on the skyline above the native woodland that is to be planted around the substation site, • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area – however, these will be much less noticeable, particularly when the trees/hedges are in leaf. • The native woodland is characteristic of this landscape within the wider area and so will not contrast with the general landscape character.

Magnitude of change: Medium

Significance of effect

Construction/decommissioning: Significant, adverse, short-term, reversible

Operation: Significant, adverse, long-term, reversible

Operation 15 years post construction Not significant, adverse, long-term, reversible

5.3-68 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact Neuk The 3: Viewpoint 5.3-20 Table Viewpoint 3 The Neuk Figure 5.3-32 5.3-32 Neuk The 3 Figure Viewpoint • • • • • • Ssetblt ocag: Residents of houses – me Factors decreasewhich susceptibility: • Factors which increasesusceptibility: Susceptibility tochange: • Value: Sensitivity to change Distance:644 m Elevation:107 m • view:Existing v the of th representative is It Burnend. on and Burnside located is viewpoint This location: Viewpoint View direction:180 degrees reference: Grid 383121 845364 Baselineconditions ViewpointThe 3: Neuk • • • • • • • • southernsides th ofThe Neuk property tolikelyis ob along Burnend towards south travelling motorists •

Large scaleLarge openfields. Turbinesat HaddoGordonstownand visible Hill tot Large scaleLarge electrical pylons overheadand trlines Scattereddetached houses farmsteadsand thein wid Fieldboundaries generally determinedby post and w Land useLand primarily arable farmland. Viewsfrom The Neuk tolikely be obscuredgarden by no viewpoint, recognised formally a not is view The Rural landscape. affordedparticular protection through planning pol and theand planting ofnon-native shelterbeltsalongsi The pattern of the landscape and its scenic quality scenic its andlandscape the of pattern The further influencescenic its qualities. The view represents some of the patterns and featur and patterns the of some represents view The ety oln lnfr o sbl udltos conta undulations subtle of landform rolling Gently AOD,droppingalthough more steeplythe Burninto o Burn ofBurnAlseid. bo field along characteristic shelterbelts Woodland The view The generallyis rural characterin some with Some local informalrecognition given is tothe vie High groundHigh locationaffords panoramic views overt numbersof peopleand there noare available stoppi The viewpoint is located on a minor road so is easi is so road minor a on located is viewpoint The h lre cl eetia pln, vred ie a lines overhead pylons, electrical scale large The south-west. Long-dis Heartlands. Agricultural the of indicative odad lcs n ps ad ie il boundaries, field wire and post and blocks woodland Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

scurevisibility thisin direction following constr iew that may be experienced by residents of The Neu The of residents by experienced be may that iew Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment mnr od hc rn t te at f h st, be site, the of east the to runs which road minor e e minor road. Boundary planting around the western western the around planting Boundary road. minor e developmentcharacteristics. w for openitsoutlook w towards the south. de thede road. aversethe view onthe skyline. he ofthe west site. ac ves vr h rlig amad r vsbe t visible are farmland rolling the over views tance ly accessible, although will not be experienced by by experienced be not will although accessible, ly have been reduced through the removal of hedgerows removalof the through reducedbeen have icy. undaries adjacent to the minor road and alongside t alongside and road minor the to adjacent undaries n ves wt eeain gnrly ewe 105-11 between generally elevations with views, ins d ueos id ubns hc itrut h skyli the interrupt which turbines wind numerous nd he landscape. boundary planting. ng points. f Asleidf toapproximately 100m AOD. es which are characteristic of the landscape, such landscape, the of characteristic are which es ire fences.ire de i oelo a eintd adcp, o s no is so landscape, designated a overlook it does r Low erview. s el s h rrlarclua caatr ht i that character rural/agricultural the as well as tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms dium, Road users-medium-low uction. k and by and k tatement the o large tween 5.3-69 0m and ne he as s t

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 3: The Neuk

• The view will be experienced for a short duration by road users, whose main attention may not be focused on their wider surroundings and will experience the site transiently at moderate speeds. • The view has some existing development characteristics and displays characteristics of a human influenced landscape. • The Neuk is afforded screening to the south by existing shelterbelt woodland. • The development will be part of wide panoramic views available from this location.

Sensitivity to change: Medium to low

Magnitude of change (construction/decommissioning)

Duration: Short term

Geographic extent: Short distance

• Views of the onshore substations intermittently from approx. 300m of minor road and potentially the residential property of The Neuk at a range of greater than 600m.

Size or scale of change: Moderate

• The construction of the onshore substations results in a moderate scale change in the view due to the construction compound and temporary buildings, vehicles, machinery, cranes and the stockpiling of materials that will be needed during construction. • The access to the site and its use will extend the construction area to the east of the Onshore Substation Area to where it connects with the minor road, although this will be partially obscured due to intervening vegetation. • The construction processes will result in the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure. • Task and vehicle lighting may be used in the hours of darkness – but only during approved working hours. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • As they are constructed the built form and electrical infrastructure will be apparent on the skyline. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • Some separation of substations from minor road by open fields, maintaining the agricultural foreground.

Magnitude of change: High

Magnitude of change (operation)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: Short distance

• Views of the onshore substations intermittently from approx. 300m of minor road and potentially the residential property of The Neuk at a range of greater than 600m.

Size or scale of change: Moderate

5.3-70 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • Operation15 years post construction Operation: Construction/decommissioning: Significanceof effect Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of • Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation years– 15 post cons Magnitudeofchange: • ViewpointThe 3: Neuk • • • • •

the generalthe landscapecharacter. lands this of characteristic is woodland native The this this area – however,these be will muchnotice less Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and compo buildings large development uncharacteristically the increase will forms built The residential propertyofThe Neuk aatrange ofgrea infrastructure acrossapproximately degrees19 t of woodlandthatto is be plantedaround the substatio 15 a post substations, onshore the of operation The fro intermittently substations onshore the of Views resul will substations onshore the of operation The only the upper parts of buildings and electrical in electrical and buildings of parts upper the only Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe landscapeuntil they atare leastyears5 old. odad n hdeos il ae en lne bt w but planted been have will hedgerows and Woodland The open agricultural foreground and burn corridor burn and foreground agricultural open The minor roadminor and property. this this area. The buildings and electrical infrastructure will be will infrastructure electrical and buildings The uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and compo buildings large development uncharacteristically the increase will forms built The intervening landform. Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (pass lightingpassive be to assumed is this but s, s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (pass lightingpassive be to assumed is this but s, Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment seen on the skyline but some lower parts are obscu are parts lower some but skyline the on seen truction) able,particularly the trees/hedgeswhen are in lea he fieldhe ofview fromthis location. frastructure being visible on the skyline above the above skyline the on visible being frastructure terthan 600m. cape within the wider area and so will not contrast not will so and area wider the within cape the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the i te diin f h fne bidns n elect and buildings fenced the of addition the in t year planting establishment period, will result in result will period, establishmentplanting year lit. lit. n site. n provide a separation between the substations and th and substations the between separation a provide apo. 0m f io ra ad oetal the potentially and road minor of 300m approx. m Not significant, Not significant, Not Significant, Low Small Shortdistance Longterm Medium et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents l hv ltl efc a cmoet o the of components as effect little have ill adverse, short-term, reversible adverse, long-term,reversible adverse, long-term,reversible tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ive infra-red) ive ive infra-red) ive views ofviews f. native red by red tatement ture in ture ture in ture with with rical 5.3-71 e

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 4 Upper Burnside - Figure 5.3-33

Table 5.3-21 Viewpoint 4: Upper Burnside

Viewpoint 4: Upper Burnside

Baseline conditions

Grid reference: 382729 845614 Elevation: 112 m

View direction: 162 Distance: 957 m

Viewpoint location: This viewpoint is located on the minor road which runs to the north of the site and is representative of the views experienced by residents living at Upper Burnside, Burnside, Rosebank Cottage, Maryhill House, Cragganmore and Maryhill, although some of the views are obscured by intervening vegetation. Broomfield Cottage and Little Swanford would gain slightly more distant but elevated views.

Existing view: • Rural character. • Land use primarily arable farmland. • Strong pattern of post and wire fence field boundaries with some limited remnant hedgerows. • Range of vegetation, including woodland shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous woodland, particularly adjacent to the Burn of Alseid and along the skyline and associated with properties. • Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations contains views, with elevations generally between 100-110m AOD, although dropping more steeply into the Burn of Asleid to approximately 95m AOD. • Areas of higher ground in the wider landscape visible to the south-east of the site and form distant skyline. • Scattered detached houses and farmsteads (East Swanford and Burnside). • Large and small scale electrical pylons and overhead lines traverse the substation area between Mains of Asleid and East Swanford, dominating the skyline. • Three turbine wind turbine cluster on the Hill of Balquhindachy to the south-east of the site is notable on the skyline.

Sensitivity to change

Value: Medium-low

• The view is not a formally recognised viewpoint, nor does it overlook a designated landscape, so is not afforded particular protection through planning policy. • Local interest in view due to its open outlook towards the south. • The viewpoint is located on a minor road adjacent to numerous properties around Burnside, therefore, easily accessible and will be experienced by limited numbers of people within the local area. • The view has some scenic qualities and interest relating to the patterns and features visible in the landscape, such as shelterbelts, woodland blocks and open patchwork of field; with the elevated landform of Balquhindachy Hill framing views to the south-east. • The removal of hedgerow boundaries has reduced the defined pattern of fields and scenic quality of the agricultural landscape. • The large and small scale electrical pylons, overhead lines and wind turbines which interrupt the skyline and influence its scenic qualities.

Susceptibility to change: High to medium

Factors which increase susceptibility:

• The view may be experienced by residents in the Burnside area. Views from many likely to be obscured by garden boundary planting. • The view is generally rural in character with some development characteristics.

Factors which decrease susceptibility:

5.3-72 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • • • • • • • Size scaleSize or change: of Viewssuch these as from approximately1km ofthe m Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation) Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of Viewssuch these as from approximately1km ofthe m Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (construction/decommissioning) Sensitivitytochange: • Viewpoint Upper4: Burnside

ground ofgroundviews. Task Task vehicleand lighting bemay used thein hours Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe The development The be will part of panoramicwide view h cntuto poess il eut n h addit the in result will processes construction The developmentcharacteristexisting some has view The which apparentwould be tothe east of and between landscape. The access to the site and its use will extend the extend will use its and site the to access The Asleid of Burn screeningtowards the site. the along woodland and Shelterbelts vegetation/landform. alth road, minor the with connects it where to Area Some separation of substations from minor road by o separation substationsroadby Some minor of from uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and buildings compo large uncharacteristically development the increase will forms built The this this area. h cntuto o te nhr sbttos results substations onshore the of construction The their on widersurroundings andexperience will the b duration short a for experienced be will view The osrcin opud n tmoay ulig, vehi buildings, thatmaterials be will neededduring construction. temporary and compound construction Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passlightingpassive be to assumed is this but s, Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment inor roadsinor around Burnside. roadsinor around Burnside.

o o te ecd ulig ad lcrcl infrastr electrical and buildings fenced the of ion site transiently at moderatespeeds. ofdarkness only– but duringapproved working hour construction area to the east of the Onshore Substa Onshore the of east the to area construction the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the y road users, whose main attention may not be focus be not may attention main whose users,road y n mdrt sae hne n h ve de o the to due view the in change scale moderate a in lit. ough this may be partially obscured due to interven to due obscured partially be may this ough pen fields, maintaining the agricultural fore and fields,foreagriculturalm and maintainingpen the ics and displays characteristics of a human influen a characteristicsdisplays of and ics Small Mediumdistance Longterm Medium Moderate Mediumdistance Shortterm toHigh medium savailablefrom this location. the intervening woodland/shelterbelts. et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents s el s eeain rud rpris provide properties around vegetation as well as ls mciey cae ad h sokiig of stockpiling the and cranes machinery, cles, tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ive infra-red) ive ucture, ture in ture tatement iddle s. ced tion 5.3-73 ing ed

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 4: Upper Burnside

• Approximate distance to the onshore substations is approximately 950m from the properties and minor road. • The operation of the onshore substations will result in theoretical visibility of the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure across approximately 15 degrees of the field of view from this location. However, existing woodland and shelterbelts markedly restrict this visibility even in the winter months. • Woodland and hedgerows will have been planted but will have little effect as components of the landscape until they are at least 5 years old. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • The buildings and electrical infrastructure will be seen on the skyline but some lower parts are obscured by intervening landform. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • The open agricultural foreground and burn corridor provide a separation between the substations and the minor road and properties.

Magnitude of change: Low

Magnitude of change (operation – 15 years post construction)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: Medium distance

Views such as these from approximately 1km of the minor roads around Burnside.

Size or scale of change: Small

• The operation of the onshore substations, post a 15 year planting establishment period, will result in views of only the upper parts of buildings and electrical infrastructure being visible on the skyline above the existing and proposed native woodland that is to be planted around the substation site. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • Where visible the largely obscured built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area – however, these will be much less noticeable, particularly when the trees/hedges are in leaf. • The native woodland is characteristic of this landscape within the wider area and so will not contrast with the general landscape character.

Magnitude of change: Low

Significance of effect

Construction/decommissioning: Significant, adverse, short-term, reversible

Operation: Not significant, adverse, long-term, reversible

Operation 15 years post construction Not significant, adverse, long-term, reversible

5.3-74 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact North 5: Viewpoint Millbrex 5.3-22 Table Viewpoint 5 North Millbrex - Figure 5.3-34 5.3-34 Figure - Millbrex North 5 Viewpoint • • • • • • • Susceptibility to change: High to High medium Factors decreasewhich susceptibility: • Factors which increasesusceptibility: Susceptibilitytochange: • Value: Sensitivity to change Elevation:116 m • view:Existing Viewsfromthe routeminor and properties tothe no travellingeast. clu small the at residents by experienced views the th from taken viewpointis This location: Viewpoint View direction:47 reference: Grid 382183 843638 Baselineconditions Viewpoint MillbrexNorth5: • • • • • •

oe itn i te et f h ve, hlt smalle whilst view, the between landtothe north of North Milbrex and Midd of left the in distant more Large scale electrical pylons and overhead lines tr lines overhead and pylons electrical scale Large ctee dtce hue ad amtas ped acr spread farmsteads and houses detached Scattered buildings at Abbotshaughbuildings at and Burnsideof Milbrex). of Carinbanno. of Network of minor roadsminor Network track of singleand farmaccess AOD, then rising to form a strong a skylinhorizontal to form AOD,rising then ety oln adomo sbl udltos conta undulations subtle of landform rolling Gently a feature a this view.of Range of vegetation, of Range of shelpatterns with woodland noticeable,especially adjacent Burntothe Alse of (consumptiondykes) varying in conditions. w and post by determined generally boundaries Field Land usesLand primarily arable farmland and pasture. The view The may be experiencedresidents by Northat M no affordedparticular protection through planning viewpoint,pol recognised formally a not is view The Rural landscape. The view The generallyis rural characterin some with t adjacent road minor a on located is viewpoint The although not will be experiencedby large numbers o confronted the viewwith they roundwhen the corner residentsthe local Cairnbanno of Slacksby towards Local interest in this view arises due to its sligh its to due arises view this in interest Local h lnsae f h ve i nt ae r remarkable or rare not is view the of landscape The scenic qualityofthe view. line overhead and pylons electrical scale large The adcp, uh s hlebls woln bok an of blocks indicative woodland is that shelterbelts, character rel rural/agricultural interest as and such qualities scenic landscape, some has view The egrw il budre hs a a ermna eff detrimental a had landscape. has boundaries field hedgerow Aberdeenshire. Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S

e T-junction in minor road at North Milbrex. It is is It Milbrex. North at road minor in T-junction e rth around Blackpool may also similar.be tly elevated location providing for moderately dist moderately for providing location elevated tly ster of properties at North Milbrex as well as mino as well as Milbrex North at properties of ster Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS e backdropAODat 130mSla e the approximately around Assessment developmentcharacteristics. id andid alongthe skyline. h Arclua Hatad. oee, h rmvl o removal the However, Heartlands. Agricultural the sae yos r se o te ih u t te skyl the to up right the on seen are pylons scale r icy. whose properties overlook it and by roadusers who by and properties overlookit whose averse the landscape in a line becoming progressive becoming line a in landscape the averse s which interrupt of the skyline to the east influe east the to skyline the of interrupt which s n ves wt lvtos eeal ewe 100-12 between generally elevations with views, ins lanes. The fenced the The route roadtothe lanes. minorof e terbeltsconiferous blocks and of woodlandparticul lemuir lemuir hill. f people. de i oelo a eintd adcp, o s no is so landscape, designated a overlook it does r . illbrex and propertiesaround Blackpool. Medium Distance:1127 m ire fences with some hedgerows and dry stone walls stone dry and hedgerows some with fences ire n i tpcl f h arclua lnsae acros landscape agricultural the of typical is and poete a Nrh ibe s i esl accessib easily is so Milbrex North at properties o tn t te atrs n faue vsbe n the in visible features and patterns the to ating c o te cnc ulte o te agricultural the of qualities scenic the on ect s te adcp (nldn lre agricultural large (including landscape the oss vros il budre; s el s the as well as boundaries; field various d tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms representativeof r road users road r ant views ant nce the nce tatement ast is are arly 5.3-75 cks 0m ine le, ly s t f

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 5: North Millbrex

• The view will be experienced for a short duration by road users, whose main attention may not be focused on their wider surroundings and will experience views towards the site transiently at moderate speeds. • Shelterbelts and woodland along the Burn of Asleid as well as some vegetation/buildings around properties provide some screening towards the site. • The view has some existing development characteristics and displays characteristics of a human influenced landscape. • The development will be part of wide panoramic views available from this location.

Sensitivity to change: High to medium

Magnitude of change (construction/decommissioning)

Duration: Short term

Geographic extent: Medium distance

Views such as these available for approximately 1.2km of minor road around North Millbrex and properties in the vicinity of North Millbrex and Blackpool.

Size or scale of change: Moderate

• The construction of the onshore substations results in a moderate scale change in the view due to the construction compound and temporary buildings, vehicles, machinery, cranes and the stockpiling of materials that will be needed during construction. • The construction processes will result in the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure, which would be apparent between the intervening woodland/shelterbelts. • Task and vehicle lighting may be used in the hours of darkness – but only during approved working hours. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • Some separation of substations from minor road by open fields, maintaining the agricultural fore and middle ground of views.

Magnitude of change: Medium

Magnitude of change (operation)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: Medium distance

Views such as these available for approximately 1.2km of minor road around North Millbrex and properties in the vicinity of North Millbrex and Blackpool.

Size or scale of change: Moderate to small

5.3-76 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • Operation15 years post construction Operation: Construction/decommissioning: Significanceof effect Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of 1.2 approximately for available these as such Views Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation years– 15 post cons Magnitudeofchange: • Viewpoint MillbrexNorth5: vicinity of North andMillbrex Blackpool. • • • • • •

the generalthe landscapecharacter. The native woodland is characteristic of this lands this of characteristic is woodland native The when the trees/hedgeswhen are leaf.in Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe adcp b te nrdcin f uncharacteristical area this in infrastructure electrical of of incidence will introduction forms the built by obscured landscape largely the visible Where The operation of the onshore substations, post a 15 a post substations,onshore the of operation The Approximate distancetothe onshore substations is existingand proposednative thatwoodland to is be in electrical and buildings of parts upper the only The open agricultural foreground and burn corridor burn and foreground agricultural open The minor roadsminor and properties. this this area. h oeain f h osoe usain wl resul will substations onshore the of operation The Lighting of the substations will be visible at time at visible be substationswill the of Lighting and theand onshore substations not will permanentlybe odad n hdeos il ae en lne bt w but planted been have landscapeuntil they atare leastyears5 old. will hedgerows and Woodland uncharacteristically large buildings and increasing and buildings compo large uncharacteristically development the increase will forms built The landscape. buildings electricaland infrastructure seebe will u t te lvto o te iwon, eetr wi receptors viewpoint, the of elevation the to Due buildings andbuildings electrical infrastructureacross appr However,existing woodland shelterbeltsand restric Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passlightingpassive be to assumed is this but s, s, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passlightingpassive be to assumed is this but s, km of minor road around North Millbrex and properti and Millbrex North around road minor of km n n thebelow skyline, back-clothedthe by more dista Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS – however, these will be much less noticeable, par noticeable, less much be will these however, – Assessment truction) oximately 13 degrees of the field13oximatelyview fromthe this of degrees of frastructure being visible below the skyline but ab but skyline the below visible being frastructure cape within the wider area and so will not contrast not will so and area wider the within cape tthis visibility even thein months.winter the density and incidence of electrical infrastruc electrical of incidence and density the 1.1 fromkmthe properties minorand roads. year planting establishment period, will result in result will period, establishmentplanting year lit. i tertcl iiiiy f h adto o the of addition the of visibility theoretical in t lit. planted around the substation site. provide a separation between the substations and th and substations the between separation a provide nrae h dvlpet opnns ihn the within components development the increase l e be o ok on n h sbttos n the and substations the on down look to able be ll Not significant, Not Significant, Significant, Low Small Mediumdistance Longterm Mediumto low y ag bidns n icesn te est and density the increasing and buildings large ly et wti te adcp b te nrdcin of introduction the by landscape the within nents l hv ltl efc a cmoet o the of components as effect little have ill adverse, long-term, reversible adverse, short-term, reversible adverse, long-term,reversible tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms ive infra-red) ive ive infra-red) ive location. views of views ntrolling ove the ove ticularly fenced es in the in es ture in ture tatement with with 5.3-77 e

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 6 Upperton Figure - 5.3-35

Table 5.3-23 Viewpoint 6: Upperton

Viewpoint 6: Upperton

Baseline conditions

Grid reference: 384186 846009 Elevation: 103 m

View direction: 216 Distance: 1699 m

Viewpoint location: This viewpoint is located on the minor road from Slacks of Cairnbanno to Burnside. The viewpoint is taken from the edge of a ridge so represents some of the first views towards the site experienced by a road users when travelling from New Deer to Burnside. It is also representative of properties in the vicinity and the minor road to the south of Upper Cairnbanno from where there would be similar views.

Existing view: • Rural landscape. • Land use primarily arable farmland, with some pastoral land. • Field boundaries generally determined by post and wire fences and scrubby hedgerows. • Range of vegetation, including woodland shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous woodland diversify the agricultural character of the view. • Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations, with areas of higher ground visible to the north-west, containing views. • Skyline formed by land near the overhead transmission line. • Scattered detached houses, farmsteads and outbuildings (Bridge Cottage, Abbotshaugh, Netherton of Greens, The Neuk, Cragganmore, Mill of Greens and Maryhill). • Large agricultural sheds at Abbotshaugh particularly noticeable. • Distinctive outline of North Millbrex Church present on distant skyline. • Large scale electrical pylons and overhead lines traverse the landscape and cross the skyline near the centre of the view. • Occasional single turbines visible on the skyline, including those on the Hill of Balquhindachy and at Skelmonae. • Network of minor roads and single-track, farm access lanes.

5.3-78 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • • Size scaleSize or change: of 2km approximately for Cairnbanno. Propertiesalongthese sections the of available these as such Views Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (construction/decommissioning) Sensitivitytochange: mediu to high - Residents • Factors decreasewhich susceptibility: • Factors which increasesusceptibility: Susceptibilitytochange: • Value: Sensitivity to change Viewpoint Upperton6: • • • • •

The development The be will part of panoramicwide view influenced landscape. The view has some view has scale developmentThe existing large Shelterbelts and woodland along the Burn of Asleid of Burn the along woodland and Shelterbelts well as some well vegetation/buildingsas aroundproperties neet s rvdd n h ve b is far-reachin its by view the in provided is Interest on their on widersurroundings andexperience will vie b duration short a for experienced be will view The experiencedresidentsbemayUpp around by view The no affordedparticular protection through planning viewpoint,pol recognised formally a not is view The petn s i esl acsil ad il e exper area.There noareformal stopping points along be the will and accessible easily is so Upperton, roadleading minor the on located viewpoint is The The scenic The qualities the viewof influencedare by residentialreceptors roadand users confroarewho The view The generallyis rural characterin some with and toandthe south ofUpper Cairnbanno. adcp, uh s hlebls woln bok an blocks woodland shelterbelts, rel rural/agriculturalcharacter that interest indicative ofis as and such qualities scenic landscape, some has view The nerp te kln ad h lre giutrl sh agricultural reducedthe pattern qualityand ofthe agricultural large the and skyline the interrupt The The landscape rarenotis remarkable or typiand is Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S minorroads may also havesuchviews. the Agriculturalthe Heartlands. Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment developmentcharacteristics. , aoai ves oad te ot-et available south-west the towards views panoramic g, thescale electricallarge pylons overheadand line ws towards ws the sitetransiently at moderate speeds. cal of large partsrural of Aberdeenshire. landscape. d a Abthuh Rmvl f egrw hs also has hedgerows of Removal Abbotshaugh. at eds y road users, whose main attention may not be focus be not may attention main whose users,road y road to encourageroad tostopusers thisin locat icy. nted nted the viewwith they descendwhen down the hill. from New Deer to Burnside, adjacent to the property the to Burnside,adjacent to Deer New from f io ra es o Upro ad ot o Upper of south and Upperton of east road minor of may providesome screening towards the site. ecd y iie nmes f epe ihn h loca the within people of numbers limited by ienced and the minor road between Burnside and Burnend as Burnend and Burnside between road minor the and characteristicsdisplaysand characteristics h a of de i oelo a eintd adcp, o s no is so landscape, designated a overlook it does r Small to Small moderate Mediumto distancelong Shortterm – users road minor medium, to mediumto low High – Residents to low Medium savailablefrom this location. erton and from the slightly more distantmore slightly fromthe properties and erton tn t te atrs n faue vsbe n the in visible features and patterns the to ating vros il budre, s el s the as well as boundaries, field various d tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms m, minor road users- medium users- road minor m, s s which

ion. ion. tatement uman

5.3-79 to ed at of t l l

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 6: Upperton

• The construction of the onshore substations results in a small to moderate scale change in the view due to the construction compound and temporary buildings, vehicles, machinery, cranes and the stockpiling of materials that will be needed during construction. • The construction processes will result in the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure, which would be apparent between the intervening woodland/shelterbelts on the skyline. • Task and vehicle lighting may be used in the hours of darkness – but only during approved working hours. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of further large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • Separation of substations from minor roads and properties by open fields, maintaining the agricultural fore and middle ground of views.

Magnitude of change: Medium to low

Magnitude of change (operation)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: Medium to long distance

Views such as these available for approximately 2km of minor road east of Upperton and south of Upper Cairnbanno. Properties along these sections of the minor roads may also have such views.

Size or scale of change: Small

• Approximate distance to the onshore substations is more than 1.7 km from the properties and minor roads. • The operation of the onshore substations will result in theoretical visibility of the addition of the fenced buildings and electrical infrastructure across approximately 9 degrees of the field of view from this location. • Woodland and hedgerows will have been planted but will have little effect as components of the landscape until they are at least 5 years old. • Lighting of the substations will be visible at times, but this is assumed to be passive lighting (passive infra-red) and the onshore substations will not be permanently lit. • The proposed buildings and electrical infrastructure will be seen on the skyline, however the lower parts of some structures will be partially hidden by the intervening landform. • The built forms will increase the development components within the landscape by the introduction of further large buildings and increasing the density and incidence of electrical infrastructure in this area. • The open agricultural foreground and the valley of the Little Water provide a separation between the substations and the minor roads and properties.

Magnitude of change: Low

Magnitude of change (operation – 15 years post construction)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: medium to long distance

Views such as these available for approximately 2km of minor road east of Upperton and south of Upper Cairnbanno. Properties along these sections of the minor roads may also have such views.

5.3-80 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact New near B9170 7: Deer Viewpoint 5.3-24 Table Viewpoint 7 B9170 near New Deer - Figure 5.3-36 5.3-36 Figure - Deer New near B9170 7 Viewpoint ut eoe h jnto ih h mnr od which road minor the with junction the before just • • • • • • • • • • properties thein vicinity. va identifiedareassouth the to Bennachieuplands the along travelling motorists by experienced views Value: Sensitivity to change Elevation:121 m • view:Existing th on located is viewpoint This location: Viewpoint View direction:250 reference: Grid 387929 845697 Baselineconditions Viewpoint B91707: near Deer New Operation15 years post construction Operation: Construction/decommissioning: Significanceof effect Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of Viewpoint Upperton6: • •

the generalthe landscapecharacter. The native woodland is characteristic of this lands this of characteristic is woodland native The when the trees/hedgeswhen are leaf.in Areas of roughAreas of grassland/scrub the viewpoint in for adcp b te nrdcin f uncharacteristical area this in infrastructure electrical of of incidence will introduction forms the built by obscured landscape largely the visible Where Large scale scale electricalpylonstroverheadand Large lines proposed native thatwoodland to be plantedis arou Scattereddetached houses, farmsteads outbuildiand Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations, with undulations, subtle of landform rolling Gently containingviews. Fieldboundaries generally determinedby post and w Security lighting be will indistinguishablefrom ot the settingwoodland addand complexitytothe oft Range of vegetation, including woodland shelterbelt woodland including vegetation, of Range lines arelines also visible adjacent tothe road network Land usesLand primarily arable farmland, grazing land a Rural Rural landscape. 15 a post substations,onshore the of operation The ny h upr at o bidns n eetia in electrical and buildings of parts upper the only view. Network of B-roads, minor roads and single track fa track single and roads minor B-roads, of Network Occasionalsingle turbines wind visible. Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S e B9170 road south-west of New Deer. It is taken lo taken is It Deer. New of south-west road B9170 e herrural sources of light. lued views in the Aberdeenshire also theThereis LDP.views lued in B9170 from New Deer to South Balquhindachy. Views Balquhindachy. South to Deer New from B9170 Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS ed t Cinan. hs iwon i representati is viewpoint This Cairnbanno. to leads – however, these will be much less noticeable, par noticeable, less much be will these however, – Assessment

the Bennachie range visible to the south-west of t of south-west the to visible range Bennachie the averse the landscape. Smaller pole mountedpolethe averse transmislandscape.Smaller eground. cape within the wider area and so will not contrast not will so and area wider the within cape nd pastures.

year planting establishment period, will result in result will period, establishmentplanting year rm access lanes. The B9170 is a key characteristic key a is B9170 The lanes. access rm his view.his nrae h dvlpet opnns ihn the within components development the increase rsrcue en vsbe bv te kln ad th and skyline the above visible being frastructure ndthe substation site. ire fencesire scrubbyand hedgerows. s and blocks of coniferous woodland, which diversif which woodland, coniferous of blocks and s ngs. Medium-high Distance:4767 m significant, Not significant, Not significant, Not Low Small y ag bidns n icesn te est and density the increasing and buildings large ly adverse, long-term,reversible adverse, long-term,reversible adverse, short-term, reversible tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms a number ofnumber a oking west, west, oking views of views e f the of ve ticularly he site, he tatement of this of with with f the of sion 5.3-81 e e y

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 7: B9170 near New Deer

• Views of the Bennachie Uplands from the B9170 New Deer to Methlick Road are recognised as valued views in the Aberdeenshire LDP so are afforded protection through planning policy. This viewpoint is representative of these views. • In addition local interest is provided by its far-reaching and panoramic views available to road users and local residents. • The view is located on the B9170 road leading from New Deer to South Balquhindachy, so is easily accessible and will be experienced by moderate numbers of people within the local area. • The particular scenic qualities of the view relate to landscape patterns and features visible in the landscape (such as shelterbelts, woodland blocks and dispersed farmsteads) and the framed views towards the south- west and Bennachie Uplands, defined within the hill slopes lying either side of the B9170. • The scenic qualities of the view are influenced by large and small scale pylon and pole mounted transmission lines which are seen across the view and skyline.

Susceptibility to change: Medium to low

Factors which increase susceptibility:

• The view may be experienced by residents around Myre of Bedlam. • The view is generally rural in character with some development characteristics.

Factors which decrease susceptibility:

• The view will be experienced for a short duration by road users, whose main attention may not be focused on their wider surroundings and will experience views towards the site transiently at moderate speeds. • There are few stopping points along the road so views will be experienced transiently. • Shelterbelts and woodland as well as some vegetation/buildings around properties break up the agricultural landscape and may provide some limited screening towards the site which is at some distance from this location. • The view has some large scale existing development characteristics and displays characteristics of a human influenced landscape. • The development will be part of wide panoramic views available from this location.

Sensitivity to change: Medium

Magnitude of change (construction/decommissioning)

Duration: Short term

Geographic extent: Long distance

The proposed onshore substations would be theoretically visible from approximately 2km of minor road in the vicinity of the viewpoint and a small number of residences in the surrounding countryside.

Size or scale of change: Small

• The incidence of machinery and cranes may be visible on the site which is located below the skyline. • As the buildings and electrical infrastructure are constructed the movement, changes in landcover and activity of the construction process may draw attention to this new development. • At this range the detail of the proposals will be difficult to distinguish due to their location against a land backdrop.

Magnitude of change: Low

Magnitude of change (operation)

Duration: Long term

Geographic extent: long distance

The proposed onshore substations would be theoretically visible from approximately 2km of minor road in the vicinity of the viewpoint and a small number of residences in the surrounding countryside.

Size or scale of change: Small

5.3-82 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact • • • • Operation15 years post construction Operation: Construction/decommissioning: Significanceof effect Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of vicinitythe viewpointof aandsmall numberofres theoretic be would substations onshore proposed The Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation years– 15 post cons Magnitudeofchange: • Viewpoint B91707: near Deer New • • • • •

adcp b te nrdcin f ag bidns an buildings will large forms of introduction built the by obscured landscape largely the visible Where are Suchleaf.in visibility occurwill over onlya b thesewill however, – area this in infrastructure the generalthe landscapecharacter. The native woodland is characteristic of this lands this of characteristic is woodland native The Security lighting be will indistinguishablefrom ot The open agricultural fore and middle ground providgroundopenforeagriculturalmiddleand The The operation of the onshore substations, post a 15 a post substations,onshore the of operation The Approximate distancetothe onshore substations is ny h upr at o bidns n eetia in electrical and buildings of parts upper the only woodlandthatto is be plantedaround the substatio h oeain f h osoe usain wl resul will substations onshore the of operation The a small a partofthe view. Thepart the viewof affe increas and buildings further large of introduction h bit om wl mrial ices te develo the increase marginally will forms built The minor roadsminor and properties. The proposed buildings and electrical infrastructur electrical and buildings proposed The some structures will be partially hidden by theint by partiallyhidden be structures somewill onshoresubstations difficultbe will to discern, p buildings and electrical infrastructureacross appr Security lighting be will indistinguishablefrom ot odad n hdeos il ae en lne bt w but planted been have landscapeuntil they atare leastyears5 old. will hedgerows and Woodland Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S idencesthe surrounding in countryside. verysmall verticaland horizontal ofextentthe v artlydue totheir backdrop ofthe landscape beyond herrural sources of light. herrural sources of light. Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS e much less noticeable, particularly when the trees the when particularlynoticeable, less much e Assessment ervening landform. At this range the detail of the detail of the range Atthis landform.ervening cted has existing pylons. truction) oximately4 degrees ofthe field of view from this ing the density and incidence of electricalinfrast of incidence and densitythe ing cape within the wider area and so will not contrast not will so and area wider the within cape e will be seen below the skyline, and the lower par lower the and skyline, the below seen be will e ly iil fo apoiaey k o mnr od i road minor of 2km approximately from visible ally more thanmore 4.7fromkmthe properties and roadminor year planting establishment period, will result in result will period, establishmentplanting year i tertcl iiiiy f h adto o the of addition the of visibility theoretical in t n site. n rsrcue en vsbe bv te rpsd nativ proposed the above visible being frastructure e a strong separation between the substationst strongseparationthebetweenand a e nrae h dvlpet opnns ihn the within components development the increase icesn te est ad niec o electrica of incidence and density the increasing d Not significant, Not significant, Not significant, Not Low Small Longdistance Longterm Low mn cmoet wti te adcp b the by landscape the within components pment l hv ltl efc a cmoet o the of components as effect little have ill adverse, long-term,reversible adverse, long-term,reversible adverse, short-term, reversible tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms iew. location. proposed ructure in in ructure views of views /hedges . fenced tatement with with ts of ts the n s. 5.3-83 he e l l

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Viewpoint 8 Culsh Hill (near Culsh Monument) - Figure 5.3-37

Table 5.3-25 Viewpoint 8: Culsh Hill (near Culsh Monument)

Viewpoint 8: Culsh Hill (near Culsh Monument)

Baseline conditions

Grid reference: 388099 848099 Elevation: 142 m

View direction: 232 degrees Distance: 5998 m

Viewpoint location: This viewpoint is taken from Culsh Hill, near to the Hill of Culsh Monument (also known as the Dingwall Fordyce Monument). The monument was designed by James Matthews and erected in 1877 in honour of William Dingwall Fordyce M.P (1836-1875). The 24m high granite structure encompasses a Gibbs style steeple and spiral staircase, and was designated as a Category B building by Historic Scotland in 1971. Although there is no public access within the monument, it is an important local landmark. As views from the Monument to the site are obstructed by shelterbelt planting, this viewpoint has been taken from the road to the south-west of the cemetery, on Culsh Hill. This viewpoint is therefore representative of the route visitors to the monument and Commonwealth war graves at the cemetery may take.

Existing view: • Land uses primarily arable farmland and grazing land. • Field boundaries generally determined by post and wire fences and some limited hedgerows. Fields are large and open • Range of vegetation, including woodland shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous woodland. • Gently rolling landform of subtle undulations in the local proximity, with far-reaching views to the distinctive Bennachie range beyond. • Settlement of New Deer visible with its two distinctive spires, as well as detached houses, large-scale farmsteads and outbuildings scattered throughout the landscape. • Large scale electrical pylons and overhead lines visible on the skyline. Smaller scale pylons are also visible, clustered particularly around New Deer’s road network. • Occasional single turbines scattered across the wider landscape.

Sensitivity to change

Value: Medium-high

• This viewpoint is located near to the Culsh Monument, which is identified on OS maps as a panoramic view. This monument is visually identifiable as a local landmark, and is well-known at a local level as having a particular panoramic view. • The panorama from the Culsh Monument is to the east and views to the south of the monument are screened by woodland in the immediate setting. • The viewpoint has been sited on the nearby public road, near the entrance to the cemetery, so is not afforded protection through planning policy, but has informal recognition for its panoramic views westwards towards the Bennachie Uplands. • The viewpoint is easily accessible and will be experienced by moderate numbers of people within the local area, including visitors to the Hill of Culsh Monument and Cemetery. • The particular character of the view relates to landscape patterns and features visible in the landscape (such as shelterbelts and woodland blocks); an elevated perspective over features in New Deer and an appreciation of the wider setting of the settlement within the landscape; and the views towards the Bennachie Uplands. • Several large scale electrical pylons and wind turbines interrupt the skyline but are far enough away from the viewpoint to not influence its scenic qualities.

Susceptibility to change: Low

Factors which increase susceptibility:

• Location from where broad, panoramic views over a rural landscape are expected from this elevated location.

Factors which decrease susceptibility:

5.3-84 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

Operation 15 years post construction No change No change No Operation15 years post construction Operation: Construction/decommissioning: Significanceof effect Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of changeNo viewsfromin this viewpointor the area Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation years– 15 post cons Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of changeNo viewsfromin this viewpointor the area Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (operation) Magnitudeofchange: • scaleSize or change: of changeNo viewsfromin this viewpointor the area Geographic extent: Duration: Magnitudeof change (construction/decommissioning) Sensitivitytochange: • ViewpointCulsh 8: (near Hill Culsh Monument)

No changeNo changeNo changeNo visibilityNo ofthe proposed onshore substations. Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S around it. around it. around it. Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment truction) No changeNo changeNo changeNo distancelong Longterm changeNo changeNo distancelong Longterm changeNo changeNo distancelong Shortterm Medium tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms tatement 5.3-85

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.3.5 Cumulative Impact Assessment

Assessment of Cumulative Effects

Introduction

5.3.5.1 The objective of the Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) is to describe, visually represent and assess the ways in which the modified TI will have additional effects on SL&V receptors when considered together with other existing, consented or proposed and reasonably foreseeable developments and to identify related significant cumulative effects arising from the modified TI. The guiding principle in preparing the CIA of SL&V receptors is to focus on the likely significant effects and in particular those which are likely to influence the outcome of the consenting process, in accordance with the EIA Regulations.

5.3.5.2 The ‘main’ SLVIA (Section 5.3.4) assesses the effect of the modified TI in addition to developments already present in the landscape. This scenario involves the assessment of the addition of the modified TI to the existing baseline, which includes operational wind energy developments.

5.3.5.3 A whole project assessment has been undertaken to assess the likely significant cumulative effects of the modified TI in conjunction with the three wind farms as consented (i.e. 186 turbines as opposed to the 339 turbines assessed in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012).

5.3.5.4 An assessment of the likely significant cumulative effects of the whole project (as described above) with consented projects and the Western Development Area (WDA) has also been undertaken, including the following developments: • Beatrice Offshore Windfarm Limited (BOWL) (including the offshore generation station and associated TI) as consented (i.e. 140 turbines as opposed to the 277 assessed in the BOWL ES (BOWL, 2012); • WDA; and • Other consented onshore wind energy developments within the OnTI Study Area (identified in Figure 5.3.38).

5.3.5.5 Consideration of onshore wind energy developments was specifically requested in Aberdeenshire Council's scoping response (Table 5.3-1). Based on consultation with Aberdeenshire Council, this CIA therefore focuses on the potential cumulative effect of the modified TI with onshore wind energy developments as the main 'relevant projects' in the assessment of the modified OnTI.

5.3.5.6 An application stage assessment of the likely significant cumulative effects of the whole project with unconsented planning applications has also been undertaken, which includes application stage onshore wind energy developments in the modified OnTI study area (identified in Figure 5.3-38).

5.3.5.7 A total cumulative assessment of the likely significant cumulative effects for the whole project with all other relevant projects has also been undertaken.

5.3.5.8 The cumulative effect assessed is the additional effect of the modified TI with the other project(s) or development(s).

5.3.5.9 An updated national development focusing on enhancing the high voltage transmission network is identified in National Planning Framework 3 (Scottish

5.3-86 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Modified Offshore Export Cable Route Corridor Corridor Route Cable Export Offshore Modified 5.3.5.14 5.3.5.13 5.3.5.12 5.3.5.11 5.3.5.10 (CIA) Assessment Impact Cumulative Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact

osne wn frs cnetd rjcs te D a WDA below. considered are the which landfall, cable export projects, t in outlined receptor those of consented exception the with projects, SL&V farms, all wind m on consented negligible effects a cumulative in result significant ope will cable and export offshore construction/decommissioning The e operation. visible a be not will and bed sea the in trenches offshore modified the period operational the During diinl fet f h cntuto o te modifi projects. other to the relation the in significant of construction the of effect additional chara seascape baseline the of feature common a are th install to used vessels sea-faring large because l the to recep from corridor route cable export offshore the due is Moray/Aberde This in receptors from farms wind significant. consented not and t magnitude the p stage to application and relation WDA the in projects, consented receptors SL&V on cable export cumulati The ES. this of 5.3.4 Section in assessed receptors was cable export offshore modified the of construction the of level significance residual The significant on SL&V receptors. receptors. SL&V on significant of effect cumulative the and OfTI modified the for proje stage application and BOWL re WDA, in the receptors projects, SL&V on OSPs modified the of O effect of number the in reduction the to Due OSPs. eight MOR the in assessed were projects stage application c to relation in OSPs the of effects cumulative The assessed in Section 5.3.4 of this Chapter. Chapter. the ofthis 5.3.4 Section in assessed with combination in effect their as assessment, on effects cumulative additional no in result will construction/decommission The scenario. unrealistic si farm wind consented three the without own, their th of adding effect the consider not did assessment in assessment main the in sites farm wind consented asse were receptors SL&V on OSPs the of effects The oiid I n t ass aes r set o te m significant. be the wher of developments, proposed aspects other or with areas interactions a assess to as and arise TI may modified that effects cumulative significant CI the of part as undertaken been has assessment An shipping and navigation and oil and gas activities. gas and oil and navigation and shipping Electri Scottish-Hydro the antic as such Firth, Moray the other some or developments lik future the anticipated of assessment an out carry to possible been schedules (such as detail of lack to Due Scotland. renewabl increased facilitate to 2014), Government, Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment SL&V receptors in the whole project project whole the in receptors SL&V c Transmission Limited (SHE-T) cable, cable, (SHE-T) Limited Transmission c he inshore area near the modified modified the near area inshore he ve effect of the modified offshore offshore modified the of effect ve and design parameters), it has not not has it parameters), design and

/decommissioning and operation operation and /decommissioning e modified offshore export cable cable export offshore modified e onsented projects, the WDA and and WDA the projects, onsented the OSPs is assessed as being not being as assessed is OSPs the e OSPs to the existing baseline on on baseline existing OSPs the e to tors in Caithness/Sutherland, and and Caithness/Sutherland, in tors lement of the modified TI during TI modified the of lement Section 5.3.4 of this chapter. The The chapter. this of 5.3.4 Section ed offshore export cable is not not is cable export offshore ed export cable will be installed in installed be will cable export three consented wind farms is is farms wind consented three ely cumulative effects of these these of effects cumulative ely ing and operation of the OSPs OSPs the of operation and ing ssed in the context of the three three the of context the in ssed agnitude of change and not not and change of agnitude tes, as this would represent an an represent would this as tes, L ES (MORL, 2012) in regards of of regards in 2012) (MORL, ES L e electricity generation across across generation electricity e lation to the three consented consented three the to lation A to determine the potentially potentially the determine to A SPs proposed, the cumulative cumulative the proposed, SPs result of the addition of the the of addition the of result as not significant on all SL&V SL&V all on significant not as hree consented wind farms, farms, wind consented hree cmltv efcs il not will effects cumulative e cts will reduce in magnitude magnitude in reduce will cts odified TI with limited or no no or limited with TI odified ipated proposals located in in located proposals ipated s, in relation to the three three the to relation in s, enshire, the long distance of distance long the enshire, ong distance of the three three the of distance ong rojects is assessed as low in in low as assessed is rojects tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms cter of the Moray Firth. The The Firth. Moray the of cter ration of the modified modified the of ration nd application stage stage application nd tatement 5.3-87

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Modified Onshore Export Cable Route Corridor (and Landfall)

5.3.5.15 Potential cumulative effects during construction/decommissioning may also arise as a result of the construction of the modified onshore export cable landfall, occurring concurrently with the construction of the three consented wind farms, other consented projects, the WDA and application stage projects, in views from coastal areas of Boyndie Bay.

5.3.5.16 The residual significance levels of the construction/decommissioning and operation of these aspects of the modified TI are assessed separately in Section 5.3.4 of this chapter. Additional cumulative effects may arise as a result of the interactions of these aspects of the modified TI with the three consented wind farms, other consented projects, the WDA and application stage projects, influencing the coastal character of the Boyndie Bay CCA and the Cliffs of the North and South East Coast LCA and views from recreational areas around Inverboyndie Beach. The magnitude of these additional cumulative effects are assessed as low and not significant, primarily due to the long distance between the construction of the three consented wind farms, other consented projects, the WDA, application stage projects and the modified onshore export cable (and construction activities in the location of the cable landfall). Other factors include the temporary nature and relative ease of restoring cable landfall excavations as part of the export cables installation and because large sea-faring vessels used for the modified offshore export cable installation are a common feature of the baseline seascape character of the Moray Firth.

5.3.5.17 The residual significance level of the construction/decommissioning and operation of the modified onshore export cable was assessed as not significant on terrestrial landscape character (Western Coastland Farmland, Deveron and Upper Ythan Valley and Agricultural Heartlands LCAs) in Section 5.3.4 of this chapter. During the operational period the modified onshore export cable will be installed in trenches below ground and will not form an element of landscape character. During construction/decommissioning, there will be very limited/no interaction between the terrestrial landscape character areas within which the onshore export cable route is located and the three consented wind farms, BOWL or the WDA which are located at long distance offshore in the Moray Firth, beyond intervening terrestrial and coastal areas. The construction/decommissioning of the modified onshore export cable will result in a negligible magnitude of change and not significant cumulative effects on these terrestrial landscape character areas. Potential cumulative effects of the onshore export cable route during construction are likely to be confined to the coastal areas in Boyndie Bay around the modified export cable landfall, which are described above in relation to the cable landfall area.

5.3.5.18 During the operational period the modified onshore export cable will be concealed in trenches below ground and will not be a visible element of the modified TI. There are no cumulative effects predicted as a result of the modified onshore export cable during operation on visual receptors.

5.3.5.19 The visual effects of the construction/decommissioning of the modified onshore export cable route were assessed as likely to be significant in views from the hamlets of Keilhill and Fintry. There would also be 500 m – 2 km localised stretches of several A and B road routes in the vicinity of the modified onshore export route corridor where temporary significant effects on views experienced by road users may arise during the construction period. During construction/decommissioning, there will be very limited or no interaction between these settlements and roads in terrestrial areas in the vicinity of the modified onshore export cable route and the three consented wind farms, BOWL or the WDA which are located at a long distance offshore in the

5.3-88 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.3.5.20 Section5.3–Seascape, Landscape Visualand Impact 5.3.5.22 5.3.5.21 Substations Onshore

osrcin f h mdfe osoe xot al a cable export onshore a modified short-term localised, be to likely are developments amenity the visual of and construction character landscape construction on their of effects timing the of uncertainty and thes for methods construction the about information i amenity visual and Wood, character landscape on Balchers effects nature and The stage). (consented) (application Extension Auchry Cairnhill of Castle and B Colleonard, South including corridor, route proximit cable close in or within either e located wind are that several with combination in construc locally occur to the landscape on onshore to effects stage construction cumulative modified proximity (Figure developments close energy the wind stage application in of and construction concurrently the of ma result construction during effects cumulative Potential in relation to the cable landfall area. area. landfall cable coa the to relation in co landfa be cable export modified the to around and Bay Boyndie likely are construction during route terrestrial cable vis cumulative Potential receptors. visual these intervening on a negligible in result will assessed projects beyond other onshor modified the of Firth, construction/decommissioning Moray onshore substations with consented and application application and consented with developments. substations a onshore as Area aris Study substation effects onshore the cumulative in receptors significant no be therefore substation onshore substati onshore the of south the the to km 5.5 located Wardfo outwith is development north, energy wind stage the application to km ons the 7.1 of Mains vicinity Oldwhat is development energy the wind consented as within projects c energy arising no are wind There significant. not receptors and o low develop as energy assessed wind the SL&V stage application of and on consented operation and effects construction/decommissioning cumulative The neatos ewe tee opnns f h modifi the of components area. the in developments these between d BOWL, interactions and thes WDA and substations the onshore the between farms, separation wind consented three the ari effects cumulative as Area Study substations onshore the significant in receptors no be will There Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS Assessment nd not significant cumulative effects effects cumulative significant not nd and not significant. significant. not and y to the modified offshore export export offshore modified the to y of such cumulative construction construction cumulative such of ual effects of the onshore export export onshore the of effects ual a result of the modified OnTI with OnTI modified the of result a on area (Figure 5.3-38). There will will There 5.3-38). (Figure area on ackhill of Yonderton, Slackadale Slackadale Yonderton, of ackhill sing on landscape and visual visual and landscape on sing programmes. Any cumulative cumulative Any programmes. netd r plcto stage application or onsented fnd o h catl ra in areas coastal the to nfined ing on landscape and visual visual and landscape on ing result of the operation of the the of operation the of result nergy development proposals proposals development nergy s uncertain due to the lack of of lack the to due uncertain s e wind energy developments developments energy wind e character and visual amenity amenity visual and character a as temporarily arise also y e export cable, together with together cable, export e hore substations. The closest closest The substations. hore ll, which are described above above described are which ll, e projects, which results in no no in results which projects, e .-8. hr i ptnil for potential is There 5.3-38). rd Farm single wind turbine turbine wind single Farm rd tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms single wind turbine located turbine wind single Study Area. The closest closest The Area. Study ments (Figure 5.3-38) are are 5.3-38) (Figure ments in f osne and consented of tion rising as a result of the the of result a as rising export cable occurring occurring cable export nshore substations with with substations nshore nd these wind energy energy wind these nd ed Project and other other and Project ed Knock Thunder Farm, Farm, Thunder Knock ue to the geographic geographic the to ue stage wind energy energy wind stage a result of the the of result a stal areas. The The areas. stal tatement 5.3-89

CHAPTER 5.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.3.6 References

Aberdeenshire Council, 2012, Aberdeenshire Local Plan;

Aberdeenshire Council, 2012, Planning Advice 12/2012 Landscape Character Advice for Small Scale Development;

BS 5837: 2012. Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction;

Countryside Commission for Scotland, 1970, 1977, Beaches of Caithness and Beaches of Northeast Scotland;

CCW, 2001, Guide to Best Practice in Seascape Assessment;

DEFRA (2009). Protecting Our Water, Soil and Air: Code of Good Agricultural Practice for farmers, growers and land managers.

DTI, 2005, Guidance on the Assessment of the Impact of Offshore Wind farms: Seascape and Visual Impact Report;

Landscape Institute, 2013, Guidelines for the Assessment of Landscape and Visual Impacts: Third Edition;

Landscape Institute, 2011, Use of Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Note 01 / 11;

NJUG Publication Volume 4 (2007). Guidelines for the Planning, Installation and Maintenance of Utility Apparatus in Proximity to Trees;

Scottish Government, 2014, Scotland’s Third National Planning Framework;

SNH, 1997, Banff and Buchan LCA;

SNH, 1998, Caithness and Sutherland LCA;

SNH, 1998, Moray and Nairn LCA;

SNH, 2002, Visual Assessment of Wind farms: Best Practice;

SNH, 2005, An Assessment of the Sensitivity and Capacity of the Scottish Seascape in Relation to Wind Farms.

SNH, 2005, Cumulative Effects of Windfarms (Version 2).

SNH, 2006, Visual Representation of Wind farms Good Practice Guidance;

SNH, 2014, Siting and Designing Wind Farms in the Landscape (Version 2);

SNH, 2008, Guidance on Landscape / Seascape Capacity for Aquaculture; and SNH, 2012, Assessing the Cumulative Effects of Onshore Wind Energy Developments.

5.3-90 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.2.1.5 5.2.1.4 Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - Table 5.2-1SummaryofModifiedTransmissionInfrastructureResponses 5.2.1.3 Consultations 5.2.1.2 5.2.1.1 Introduction 5.2.1 5.2 5 Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB) Board (NLB) Lighthouse Northern Marine Scotland (MCA) Marine andCoastguardAgency Organisation

HumanEnvironment

ShippingandNavigation

Baseline Information Baseline Information section summarises the key comments from comments summarises key the section Transmis modified MORLESandforthis the A summary of responses related to the modified OfTI is presented in Table 5.2-1. inTable ispresented to related OfTI the modified ofresponses A summary 5.2-1. Fullscoping consultations are provided in Chapter 1.3. in presented Table TI,to are the modified responses,A summary relevant of previous Consultation onnaviga Consultation bodieswas and non-statutory undertaken. the baseline navigational activity. Furthermore,consultation with relevant statutory sightings/surveillance data and shipping survey data in the area was used to identify In carrying out the assessment, recreational sailing data, maritime incidents,fishing ofScotland. oncoast northeast the landfall the to (modified OfTI) Infrastructure cablecorridorwhichfo export offshore of the proposed MORLOffshore vicinity This section summarises baseline vessel activity andnavigational features in the

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson minimised. are user the marine to posed application, to ensure that hazards be requiredalso aspartof the Navigational Risk Assessment will works. A andlandfall laying offshore sub-station structures, cable include detailsshould ofany this partof the application, and form should Statement Method A threshold. location likely to infringe onthe 5% Assessmentwill be requiredany for Risk Navigational A and NLB. agreed, inwriting, with MS, MCA chart otherwise unless datum than ofstated altered bymore 5% be not must depth navigable The associated traffic. proximity to the Port of Macduff and the original proposal, noting its assessed to the extent required by revised route, it provided isrisk No objection to inprinciple the Consultation Response tional issues has been carried carried hasbeen issues tional Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

Substation Platforms (OSPs) modified and Platforms Substation stakeholders on the modified OfTI. OfTI. on modified the stakeholders rm the modified offshore Transmission offshore modified rm the sion Infrastructure (modified TI) ES. This This ES. TI) (modified sion Infrastructure Statement. the Environmental within presented hazards are Results andimpacts. key the identify to corridor the of out risk assessmentA has been carried NLB. discussed with boththe MCA and will assessmentbe and presented the of The results cable. the bury isto intention The depths. navigable will inform routeof thethe finalised determined, then the risk assessment is route the finalised Once areanchoring. where vessels area to the adjacent requirements depth burial to becarriedout determine will port ofMacduffisnoted. BPI study A the to proximity The provided. is route cable themodified for assessment An MORL Approach MORL out with stakeholders during

5.2-1

CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Organisation Consultation Response MORL Approach

Cruising Association (CA) It is most important that the cable Finalised cable route and associated landing when in depths less than risk assessment pre construction will 10m presents a smooth bottom and consider the impacts and mitigations that any cable protection or in event of the cable not being covering presents no hazard. buried. Cables and their protections should be well bedded and have no ‘humps’ or change of level over them. They should be unlikely to be disturbed by swell.

Royal Yachting Association (RYA) During the construction phase, Noted and key users will be notified of recreational sailors will best be activities via Notices to Mariners alerted by notices at neighbouring which will be distributed to local Ports harbours and marinas. and Harbours. Consideration will be given to any local events during the Portsoy is an important recreational planning of the cable harbour, which is particularly busy at laying/installation operations. the time of the Traditional Boat Festival when events take place in neighbouring waters.

Banff Harbour Be aware that small fishing boats Local fishing organisations are being operate from Cullen and Findochty consulted with. Anchoring areas are harbours. Local fishing associations been identified though analysis of should be consulted. Vessels survey data. A Burial Protection Risk ranging from yachts to larger ships Assessment will be performed to anchor offshore (outwith the ensure that there are no adverse harbour areas) and effects and that the cable is buried to provision/consultation should be an appropriate depth to minimise risk. carried out to ensure that there is no adverse effect.

Baseline Characteristics

5.2.1.6 The main data sources used for the desktop study are listed below:  AIS data for Moray Firth Round 3 Zone from summer (July 2013) and winter (December 2013);  Fishing surveillance satellite data (2009) and over flight data (2005-09);  Maritime incident data from the Maritime Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) (2001-2010) and Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) 2001-10;  UK Admiralty Charts; and  Admiralty Sailing Directions, North Coast of Scotland Pilot (NP 52).

5.2.1.7 The shipping and navigation baseline presents an assessment of the existing navigational features and shipping activity recorded in proximity to the modified OfTI. The baseline data for each of the main navigational users is presented in the following sections. Desktop Studies Study Area

5.2.1.8 The study areas include the modified cable area and a wider area including a 5 nm buffer area indicative potential route to show context with regards to navigational features.

5.2-2 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.2.1.10 Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.1.17 5.2.1.16 5.2.1.15 5.2.1.14 5.2.1.13 5.2.1.12 Shipping Surveys 5.2.1.11 5.2.1.9 Navigational Features

entrance to Banff Bayandsmaller ve to entrance st it anchorage Banff /Macduff Bay. Ofthe Scotland Pilot(NP52) notes that anchoring Admiralty The Banff andMacduff. servicing There are two anchorages within studythe area; onein Cullen Bay and one anywhere possiblelocations with offshore export cable route. is noted It that there will be amaximum of two AC OSPs, consented windfarmsites, consented Telford, Figure 5.2-1 presents a chart of the navigational features relative to the three and fouroffshoresupport vessels. Twosmal month survey period. These were two large and three medium sized shuttle tankers Nine vessels anchored in ornear Banffto the /Macduff anchorage over 2 the data arepresented in Figure 5.2-4. The vessels anchorat near the coast within the study area during 56the days of AIS area. inthe sites offshore visiting vessels support asoffshore aswell vessel, corridor. Thiswas due ato vessel perfor OfTI modified ofthe part central the over recorded activity “other” vessel notable summer and norecreational vessels were export cable route corridor. Therewasless fishing activity noted in winter inthan to seen were and mainlandEurope UK the winter. As in summer, routes between the inner Moray Firth ports and other ports in An average of 16unique vessels per day passed through studythe areaduring the corridor. seen to pass closer to the coast. Fishing activity was noted over the central part of vessels. cargoand tanker mainly comprised UKthe and mainland Thisroute wa Europe. by acoastal shipping route between inthe offshore endof the Thelandfall summer. An average of 18unique vessels per day passed through studythe areaduring presented in Figure 5.2-2 and Figure 5.2-3 respectively. Overviews of shipping the data recorded during July and December 2013 are the OSPs. export cable route corridor. Thestudy areaalso covers the two possible locations of was undertaken inastudyareacovering (AIS) data from July and December 2013 to 56 using wasperformed A shippinganalysis and Buckie. Macduff, Banff, Portknockie corridor are route cable export modified are considered be clearto of all shipping.’ Themain ports in the vicinity of the using a clear rangeprocedure; exercises and firing only take place when the areas transit the firing practise any areasat time. Thefiring practise areas areoperated ‘N that, states Charts Admiralty on the note inte areas are two military practice There designated anchorage,near the far south east corner of the study area. ship were anchored approximately 2nm east southern of the boundary of the Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson within three the consented sites. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ssels can anchor further inshore.

Stevenson and MacColl, and the modified modified andMacColl, andthe Stevenson export cableroutecorridorwasintersected ming a survey anditsassociated guard rsecting the area of the modified OfTI. A A modified OfTI. areaof the rsecting the approximately 5nmaround theoffshore account forseasonal account variations. Analysis days of Automatic Identification System System Identification daysofAutomatic s located 2-8 nm of north the coast and intersect the landfall end of the offshore offshore of the end landfall the intersect l container ships and and ships container l recorded duringthisperiod.There was o restrictions are placed on right the to ner Moray Firth ner andotherports Moray Firth ports in ates that anchoring is available off the off the anchoring isavailable ates that is available in the outer part of Cullen of Cullen outer part in the is available Smaller recreational Smallerrecreational vessels were also Sailing Directions 2009, North Coast of Coast 2009, North Directions Sailing an offshore supply supply an offshore

5.2-3

CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.2.1.18 Anchoring was also recorded west of the offshore export cable route corridor near Cullen and Portsoy from small container ships, offshore support vessels and a research vessel.

5.2.1.19 Two vessels were seen to be at anchor further offshore during winter; a large Russian military tanker and a tug. These vessels are presented in Figure 5.2-5.

5.2.1.20 There were two vessels anchored approximately 2 nm south of the boundary of the three consented wind farm sites. Details of the 18 vessels that anchored within the study area are given in Table 5.2-2.

Table 5.2-2 Details of Anchored Vessels

Dead Length Weight Mean Distance to Vessel Name Type (m) Tonnage Corridor (nm) (DWT)

ABERDEEN Tanker 221 87,055 3.4

ALBA NA MARA Research Vessel 27 1,499 5.9

ANNELEEN KNUTSEN Tanker 187 35,144 1.0

BETTY KNUTSEN Tanker 187 35,309 0.5

CALVIN Standby Safety Vessel 40 1,499 1.3

ELISABETH KNUTSEN Tanker 265 124,788 1.7

FAR GRIMSHADER Cargo 80 3,325 5.1

FS AQUARIUS Cargo 10 3,100 3.9

GIJON KNUTSEN Tanker 183 35,144 2.3

NAVION BRITANNIA Tanker 260 118,500 1.2

NIKOLAY CHIKER Tug 99 7,542 1.2

OSIPOV Military Tanker 160 UNSPEC* 1.4

RITSKE Cargo 80 1,688 3.9

SAMSKIP AKRAFELL Cargo 100 5,565 3.7

SKANDI ACHIEVER Offshore Supply Ship 106 4,000 0.9

VOS PRECIOUS Offshore Supply Ship 73 3,250 5.4

VOS TRAPPER Standby Safety Vessel 50 425 0.4

WORLD DIAMOND Offshore Supply Ship 80 1,499 1.6

*DWT information was not available for the Osipov, however from its length and type it was estimated to be in the 15,000-40,000 DWT range

5.2-4 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.1.25 5.2.1.24 5.2.1.23 5.2.1.22 Fishing Activity 5.2.1.21 5.2.1.30 5.2.1.29 5.2.1.28 Recreational Vessel Activity 5.2.1.27 5.2.1.26 5.2.1.31

whelkers were alsosighted Demers tracks. fishing vessel AIS the within These demersal trawlers were mainly sighted in similar positions to the activity noted in overfl the The majority offishingvessels 5.2-7. showin 2009 from to data 2005 overflight The andfishingports grounds. the study area were actively fishing, asopposed steamingto on passage between in ofvessels 60% Approximately sites. farm wind consented three of the boundary Macduff harbour. was Dredgingandtrawling activity alsonoted within the Vesselsassociated with thisactivity we of coast the 6 to nm south of boundarythe of the three consented wind farm sites. offshore export cableroute corridorduring was activity trawling demersal Significant were fishing vessels unique of 59 A total colour coded andar bygeartype The fishing vessel tracks recorded in the AIS survey for July and December 2013 are type. vessel and 15,000-18,000 kg; however anchor sizes can vary depending on the type of anchor during winter. Theanchor within 2nmoftheexport cabl approximated anchorElisabeth Knutsen with a length of 265 m and a DWT of 124,788. This vessel was at size ofa vesselThe largest vesselrecorded at anchorwithin study the area was shuttle the tanker of this tonnage is between seen intersecting the offshore export cabl offshore export the intersecting seen southern part of studythe area. A small nu intersecting the offshore export cable rout activi recreational The majority of the The recreational vessel tracks from the AIS data are presented in Figure 5.2-9. 2013. Atlas an RYA from Coastal information the sectionThis reviews recreational the vesselactivity within theMorayFirth basedon length. >18 was forvessels vessels forfishing requirements carriage AIS the survey m in withinnoted the three consented isnoted windfarms.It at that the ofthe time available for asmall subsetof the satellit informationwasonly data.Gear AIS type in seen positionsthe similar those to cable route corridor andwithin the boundary export offshore ofthe part central wasnotedthe over fishingactivity Significant 5.2-8. showin from2009 data surveillance Satellite data. However, asthe longest recreational in the vessels ofrecreational majority for the was not available information Draught the boundary ofthree the consented wind farms. Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson within within the boundaryof Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray e presented in Figure 5.2-6.

e corridor for approximately three weeks e corridorforapproximately recorded during summerand 33in winter. ight data sightings were demersal trawlers. e routecorridorfurther e positions. Scallop dredging activity was re also recorded entering and leaving ty identified on AIS was from vessels wasfrom vessels onAIS identified ty al trawlers, scallop dredgers and potter / / potter and dredgers scallop trawlers, al e corridorwithin5 in nm of the the coast d the AIS data from July and December andDecember datafromJuly d the AIS summer, fromapproximately 6 nm north vesselrecorded was 17 lengthm in and g gear vessel ispresentedinFigure type recorded over the central partof the central over the recorded g vessel gear type is presented in Figure Figure in presented is type gear g vessel mber ofrecreational vessels were also of the three consented wind farms in three consented wind farms.three consentedwind offshore and within and offshore

5.2-5

CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

as the vast majority of recreational vessels recorded were sailing vessels, it can be conservatively assumed that they all had draughts of less than 5 m. With the exception of vessels entering or leaving ports, recreational vessels within the study area tended to avoid the areas near shore with charted depths of less than 5 m. It is noted that a significant number of recreational vessels do not have AIS fitted and that the data provides a source of validation of where routes exist. The RYA Atlas is used to identify the main recreational vessel routes in the area, the Atlas is based on consultation with local clubs / users. The RYA Coastal Atlas for the study area is presented in Figure 5.2-10.

5.2.1.32 Three medium use cruising routes associated with the ports of Macduff and Banff crossed the offshore export cable route corridor near the coast. One medium use cruising route crossed the offshore export cable route corridor further offshore and intersected the area of the three consented wind farms. The RYA Coastal Atlas describes medium use routes as ‘popular routes on which some recreational craft will be seen at most times during summer daylight hours’. A sailing area in Spey Bay west of the offshore export cable route corridor extends approximately 1 nm into the study area. Maritime Incidents

5.2.1.33 This section presents data on past vessel incidents within the study area over the ten year period 2001 to 2010.

5.2.1.34 The MAIB incident data from 2003 to 2012 is presented in Figure 5.2-11

5.2.1.35 Two incidents were recorded within the study area in the MAIB data. A machinery failure in 2008 was recorded approximately 3.5 nm south of the three consented wind farms and a grounding, also in 2008, occurred near the modified offshore export cable route corridor landfall point. Three incidents were recorded in the area of the three consented wind farms, two involving accidents to people (2003 and 2005) and one hazardous incident (2005).

5.2.1.36 The RNLI incident data from 2001 to 2010 is presented in Figure 5.2-12

5.2.1.37 A total of 13 incidents were recorded in the RNLI data as occurring within the study area between 2001 and 2010. Twelve of these incidents occurred within 4 nm of the coast. The remaining incident, a machinery failure in 2008, occurred 3.5 nm south of the three consented wind farms. This incident was also recorded in the MAIB data. No incidents were recorded within the boundary of the three consented wind farms in the RNLI data. Legislative and Planning Framework Primary Guidance

5.2.1.38 The primary guidance used during this assessment was the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)Marine Guidance Notice 371 (MGN 371 M+F) - Offshore Renewable Energy Installations (OREIs): Guidance on UK Navigational Practice, Safety and Emergency Response Issues (2008).

5.2.1.39 MGN 371 highlights issues that need to be taken into consideration when assessing the impact on navigational safety from offshore renewable energy developments, proposed for United Kingdom (UK) internal waters, territorial sea or Renewable Energy Zone.

5.2.1.40 There are 5 annexes containing recommendations (1-4) and regulatory extract (5) as follows:

5.2-6 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment

Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - ofEffects Summary Summary ofEffects and Mitigation Construction and Decommissioning 5.2.2.1 and Mitigation Summary ofEffects 5.2.2 5.2.2.2 5.2.1.41 Other Guidance

Impact Assessment               and decommissioning of OfTIon modified the sectionThis presents anassessmentlikelythe of effectsof theconstruction, operation impacts of the modified OfTI are listed below. below. listed are OfTI impacts of modified the the OSPs, with a denser volume of traffic tran of OSPs,traffic volume adenser the with along shipping activity the offshore export Compared with other areas of the UK there is a relatively low level of commercial listed as follows: asfollows: listed formsofmarineandnavigationOther base

fishing vessels andrecreational vessels; riskforcommercial shipping, encounter and collision Increasing ship-to-ship (RNLI). Institution Lifeboat Royal National Chapter 4 Search and Rescue(SAR) Framework, MCA(2002) – Chapter 1 MCA and Assessment (FSA)(2007); and Safety forFormal (IMO), Organisation Guidelines Maritime International Section 4 safety zone and exclusionzones; (2008) –Section 2.7 effects of wind farms and wind turbines onrouteing and Installations (OREIs) Guidance to Mariners Operating in theVicinity of UK OREIs MCA Marine Guidance Notice (MGN372 372) Offshore Renewable Energy Structures; IALA Recommendation O-139(2008), TheMarking ofMan-Made Offshore Safety Zones,(2007); DECC and Climat ofEnvironment Department Fishing gearsnaggingwith vessel (partially constructed OSPs); and Allision riskforcommercial installations; cable around Deviations Annex 1: position, Considerations onsite andsafety zones; structures Annex 2: Navigation, collisionavoidance and communications; and shipping routes; Annex 3: MCAtemplate forassessing di construction, operation and decommissioning; operation and construction, Annex 4: and Safety mitigation measures recommended forOREIduring or salvage incident inor incident aroundan or salvage OREI. operational requirements in the event of a search and rescue, counter pollution 5: StandardsandproceduresAnnex

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

shipping, fishingandrecreational vessels with OSP’s

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

partially laidorunprotected cable.

cable routecorridorand in the of vicinity stances between windfarmboundaries d guidance used in this assessment are assessment inthis used d guidance e Change(DECC) Gu shipping and navigation. The potential The potential shipping and navigation. siting to the east of the ofthe wind farm sites siting east the to for generator shutdown and other andother shutdown for generator

idance Notes on idance Notes

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

passing between the Pentland Firth and around the north east coast of Scotland. There will be an increased number of vessels within the area associated with the installation (and decommissioning) of both the cable and the OSP’s however, given the available sea room, all commercial vessels shall be able to increase passing distance from onsite vessels and associated works / safety zones mitigating effects and resulting in a minor effect on shipping and navigation with respect to increased ship-to-ship encounter and collision risk.

5.2.2.3 The area is regularly used by a moderate level of commercial fishing vessels in particular the inshore and near shore cable area. However with embedded mitigation of construction safety zones, promulgation of information and guard vessels, the effect on fishing vessels of increased ship-to-ship encounters and collision risks is considered to be minor.

5.2.2.4 Recreational vessel (mostly sailing vessels) tend to transit along the coast within inshore waters but again this traffic is at low levels compared to other areas of the UK therefore with embedded mitigation, including direct promulgation of information to local sailing clubs in place, the effect of increased encounters and collision risk is considered to be minor.

5.2.2.5 As noted, the area where the OSPs are to be located is transited by relatively low levels of commercial shipping, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Combined with the likely limited area of the cable and OSP installation activities the effects on these vessels with regards to deviation (including increased transit times for commercial vessels) and additional allision risk is considered to be minor. This effect considered that rolling construction safety zones will be in place around any works or un- commissioned structures.

5.2.2.6 Fishing vessels engaged in bottom gear activities may also be at risk from partially buried or exposed cables during the installation phase, especially within the near shore cable area where fishing activity is common. However with direct liaison with local fisheries (as to any potential hazards) and guard vessel(s) in place, this effect can be reduced to minor. Additional Notes on Decommissioning

5.2.2.7 During the decommissioning phase of the project, the likely effects are not considered to be any greater than those identified during the construction phase.

5.2.2.8 A Decommissioning Plan in line with standard requirements would be developed and should consider the scenario where, on decommissioning, and on completion of removal operations, an obstruction attributable to the wind farm is left on-site which is considered to be a danger to navigation and which it has not proved possible to remove.

5.2.2.9 Buried cables would be left in-situ and would be notified to UKHO for inclusion in navigation charts. Operation and Maintenance Summary of Effects and Mitigation  Increasing ship-to-ship encounter and collision risk for commercial shipping, fishing vessels and recreational vessels;  Allision risk for commercial shipping, fishing and recreational vessels with OSPs;  Displacement / re-routeing resulting in increased transit times for commercial shipping, fishing vessels and recreational vessels;

5.2-8 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.2.13 5.2.2.12 5.2.2.11 5.2.2.10 5.2.2.17 5.2.2.16 5.2.2.15 5.2.2.14

    considered tobe is effect OSPs,this ofthe purposes forthe anddistanceshowever times in transit vessels(based onhistorical experience) will avoid thesite but there will be increases site and passing traffic the these commercial through It isnoted little is there very allision riskis considered to be embedded mitigation suchas lightingand marking theoverall effect ofadditional of With use the from structures. passingdistance asafe keeping whilst navigate site from vessels and smaller themselves the With respect to the OSPs during operation, minor. associatedreceptors with the offshore ex riskforall collision mitigation, increased embedded andthe oftraffic level low the coor to coordination vessel encountersto-ship orcollisionriskespecial maintenance of cablethe and the OSPs but not at a level that would increase ship- in vessel asmallincrease be will There present increased risk to commercial,fishing orrecreational craft in transit. buried(including aburial depthtarget of 1m) and/or protected therefore should not For theoperation and maintenance phase it is assumed that the cable will be either during the operational phase of the cable is considered beto navigational on shipborne The effect cable burial index study. keel of under Consideration acceptable. approxim that up to indicates guidance waters canreduce under keel clearance for small craft transiting area. in the MCA Recent lessons learnt by industry the noted have cablethat protection in shallow protection whereburial thenot possible. depthis target measures includingcableburial a target to minor operationalduring the phaseconsideredis moderate be to can bereduced but to Based on the higher levels of commercial fishing activity in area the the snagging risk well as other embedded mitigations in place, effect the is considered to be (target 1 m) being monitored by regular surveys to monitor the cable coverage, as ofanchoringdisplacement vessels dragging other areas (informed byacableburialinde the cable burial depths may need to bedeeper orprotected(target of 1m) than the cable route is adjacent to known anchorages(off Banff near the cable landing) observed to anchorin close proximity to the cable route. However, in areas where advefromsheltered are anchorages that The Moray Firth provides commercial, fishing and recreational vessels with

Electromagnetic effects from thecable onshipborne navigational equipment. cable protection methods; and risk with grounding associated and inunder keel clearance therefore Reduction associated protection; Snagging risk to fishing vessels anchoring and to their gear due to the cable and cable and associated protection; both anchoringcommerci Snagging riskto due to the types of trawling used through the implementation of mitigation minor. Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

dinate craft associated with the development. Given minor Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray .

equipment from electromagnetic effects port cableroute corridor and the OSPs is ately a 5% reduction in Chart Datum is Datum inChart reduction a5% ately ly with embedded mitigation of marine depth of1manduseothermeans of depth rseVessels sea/weatherconditions. are commercial vessels willagain distance activity on site associated with the (fishing and recreational) will be able able to willbe (fishing andrecreational) clearance will be assessed within the the within assessed will be clearance across cable.the With burial depths x study) to mitigate the effect of any al and recreational vessels due to the minor. Industry minor

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

research to date shows that the only noted effect is on magnetic compasses but that burial or protection of the cable will reduce this to tolerable levels. It is noted that the magnetic compass, for the majority of vessels, is not a primary method of navigation. Proposed Mitigation Measures and Residual Effects

5.2.2.18 The following embedded mitigations are part of the modified OfTI:  Burial of the cable to a minimum of 1m and/or protection;  Aids to Navigation as required by NLB;  Charting of cables as per UKHO requirements;  Compliance with MGN 371;  Construction safety zones;  Monitoring – depth and coverage surveys during the operational phase of the cables; and  Notices to Mariners.

5.2.2.19 The following are additional mitigation measures considered in addition to embedded standard mitigation measures.  Consideration of designated anchorages (additional burial requirements) and under keel clearance as part of the Cable Burial Index Study (to be completed post consent);  Guard vessel during construction and major maintenance;  Promulgation of information including targeted information to local sailing and fishing organisations; and  Works vessel coordination for wind farm support and construction vessels.

5.2.2.20 Following implementation of mitigation all effects have been reduced to minor and therefore residual effects are considered to be not significant under EIA terminology.

5.2.2.21 Table 5.2-3 provides a summary of the impacts.

Table 5.2-3 Impact Assessment Summary – Shipping and Navigation

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect Construction & Decommissioning

Allision risk for Fishing Vessels Minor N/A Minor commercial shipping, fishing and Commercial Vessels Minor N/A Minor recreational vessels with OSP’s during Recreational Vessels Minor N/A Minor construction and decommissioning phases (partially constructed OSPs).

5.2-10 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - during operation cable installations around Deviations during operation recreational vessels fishing vesselsand shipping, commercial collision riskfor and ship encounter Increasing ship-to- operation during with OSP’s recreational vessels fishing and shipping, commercial Allision riskfor Maintenance and Operation phases. and decommissioning during construction cable installations around Deviations phases and decommissioning during construction recreational vessels fishing vesselsand shipping, commercial collision riskfor and ship encounter Increasing ship-to- during installation unprotected cable partially laidor snagging with Fishing vessel gear Effect

Fishing Vessels Fishing Vessels Fishing Vessels Craft Recreational Recreational Vessels Vessels Commercial shipping Commercial Recreational Vessel Commercial Shipping Commercial Shipping Commercial Fishing Vessels Shipping Commercial Receptor

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray Minor Minor Minor Minor Moderate Minor Minor Minor Moderate Minor Minor Moderate Effect Pre-mitigation

N/A N/A N/A N/A Liaison Fisheriesincluding Information of Promulgation Coordination Works Vessel Guard Vessels construction Safety during Zones N/A N/A N/A Liaison Fisheriesincluding Information of Promulgation Coordination Works Vessel Guard Vessels construction Safety during Zones N/A N/A Mitigation Liaison Fisheriesincluding Information of Promulgation Coordination Works Vessel

Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Effect Post-mitigation

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Effect Receptor Pre-mitigation Mitigation Post-mitigation Effect Effect

Snagging risk to both Commercial vessels Moderate Additional burial Minor anchoring requirements or commercial and protection in recreational vessels proximity to due to the cable and anchorage area. associated protection during operational Ongoing surveying phase. of cable once installed.

Other mitigations strategies include, marine control centre and vessels setting up anchoring alarm zones to warn of dragging anchor near cables.

Anchoring on cable Recreational Vessels Minor Not Required Minor

Fishing Gear Fishing Vessels Minor Additional Minor Snagging on Cable protection in event of cable burial not being possible. Ongoing surveys of cable once installed. Depending on the success of the trials and industry interest, modified scallop dredging gear may be implemented as an additional mitigation (but is not assumed here).

Electromagnetic Commercial, fishing and Minor N/A Minor /Effects on Navigation recreational vessels Equipment

Introduction to Impact Assessment

5.2.2.22 This chapter addresses the likely significant effects on shipping and navigation from the modified OfTI to the landfall on the north east coast of Scotland.

5.2.2.23 The scope of this section is to assess the effects on shipping and navigation including commercial shipping, recreation and fishing vessels. This assessment also informs, and is informed by, the Commercial Fisheries assessments (Chapters 5.1 (Commercial Fisheries)) and Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in Chapter 5.1.

5.2.2.24 The Rochdale envelope for the modified OfTI includes the export cable route and a maximum of two OSPs, located within the boundary of the three consented wind farm sites (Chapter 2.2 (Project Description).

5.2-12 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.2.29 5.2.2.28 5.2.2.27 EIA Methodology Table 5.2-4RochdaleEnvelopeParametersrelevanttotheShippingandNavigationImpactAssessment 5.2.2.26 5.2.2.25 navigational equipment navigational equipment on shipborne interference Electromagnetic cable(s) andtheOSPs. Fishing gearinteraction/snaggingexport recreational vessels. and fishing commercial, operations for allisionriskduring Structure Vessel to export cable(s). cable) dueto or snagging dragging anchorage, anchor vesselanchoring(lossof on Effect Operation laying vessels. cable installation and to the areadue vessels)in and recreational vessels, fishing (commercial of shipping Re-routeing risk. increasedcollision OSPs resultingin and the cable export installation ofthe the with vessel activity of Increased level Construction &Decommissioning Effect Potential

assessed and aseriesofmitigation meas with associated on OfTIworkswas shipping modified the and navigation The effect time shipping survey data, desk- ofreal use through the identified be riskareas to higher allowed study baseline The Energy and Climate Change(DECC) Risk Assessment Methodology(2005). principally follows the MCA MGN (MGN371 371 M+F)(2008) and Department of OfTI modified of the effects significant likely assess the to used The methodology Assessment. Rochdale envelope parameters relevant to a separate trench. The target burial depth is 1m, Table 5.2-4 summarises the The maximum number of cables will be 4 and it is assumed that each cable will be in route length is up to 52 km from the boundary of the three consented wind farms. The offshore export cable landfall will be located at Inverboyndie and thecable OSPswill be whichthe located. within of boundary the includes most This buffer andassessed. identified are onshippingandnavigation effects wider that ensure nmbuffer a5 including OfTI, on the modified effe significant likely of the assessment The

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed Scenario Rochdale Envelope            based research and consultation.

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray 4 circuits in 4 trenches,width4 circuits total in4 to 1,200 wate up m dependingon OSP layout ofnavigable givingsea maximumloss area. 4 cables in 4trenches,4 cables widthtotal to 1,200 up m dependingwate on in 4trenches,4 cables widthtotal to 1,200 up m dependingwate on OSP layout ofnavigable givingsea maximum loss area. Installation related vessel activity in the area. the in activity vessel related Installation data). (based on current geophysical depth depth. 4 cables in 4trenches,total width up1,200 m dependingwate on 2 OSPs. depth. Two OSPs. Banff /Macduff. area at the anchorage to proximity closest in trenches 4 in cables 4 area. the in activity vessel related Installation depth.

ures and monitoring

cts on shipping and navigation is based cts isbased on shipping and navigation of the three consented wind farmsites, the Shipping theNavigation and Impact from the offshore export cable route route to cable export offshore from the

plans are presented.

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r r r r CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Significance Criteria

5.2.2.30 The likely significant effects on shipping and navigation from the modified OfTI cannot be easily categorised, hence the application of significance criteria to an assessment of effects is, subjective.

5.2.2.31 In terms of the modified OfTI, the effects on the shipping and navigation receptors for different phases of the project are assessed using the significance terminology as described below:  Not significant. Effects that are slight and negligible deviations in terms of vessel navigation / routeing, anchor / fishing gear interaction risk causing no damage, negligible risk of allision with OSP and radar interference on navigational equipment which does not affect a vessel’s ability to navigate;  Minor significance. Effects which are generally small in magnitude in terms of vessel navigation (e.g. minor deviation around cable laying vessels for regular routes), anchor / fishing gear interaction risk causing minor damage to vessel / gear, low risk of allision with OSP and radar interference on navigational equipment restricting a vessel’s ability to navigate safely.  Moderate significance. Effects which are moderate in magnitude in terms of vessel navigation (e.g. moderate deviation for regular route around cable laying vessels), anchor / fishing gear interaction risk causing moderate damage to vessel / gear and / or injury to crew, moderate risk of allision with OSP and radar interference on navigational equipment reducing a vessel’s ability to navigate in proximity to the infrastructure; and  Major significance. Effects which are of major significant in magnitude, in terms of vessel navigation (e.g. large deviations for dense shipping), anchor / fishing gear interaction risk causing major damage to vessel / gear and major injuries to crew, high risk of allision with OSP and radar interference on navigational equipment which means a vessel can no longer navigate safely in the vicinity of the infrastructure. Mitigation Measures

5.2.2.32 During the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the modified OfTI works, a number of mitigation measures will be in place and these are listed below:  Any marine Aids to Navigation (AtoNs) required to mark the structures, land falls and/or subsea features will be provided in accordance with the Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB) requirements;  Marking of structures and subsea cabling on appropriate scale Admiralty Charts by the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO);  Positions of the OSPs and export cable routes notified to FISHSAFE via Kingfisher Information Services-Cable Awareness (KIS-CA) for inclusion in cable awareness charts and plotters for the fishing industry;  Promulgation of information and appropriate liaison with local fishing and recreational sailing organisations as well as local ports and harbours. This ensures information on the modified OfTI works are circulated in Notices to Mariners, Navigation Information Broadcasts and other appropriate media to allow vessels to effectively and safely pre-plan navigation around any installation / cable laying vessels;  A Search and Rescue (SAR) Emergency Response Cooperation Plan (ERCoP) will be developed and put in place for the construction, operation and the

5.2-14 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.2.37 5.2.2.36 5.2.2.35 5.2.2.34 Impact Assessment 5.2.2.33 Construction 5.2.2.38

      shipping and navigation receptors that may that receptors shipping andnavigation the identified assessment The chapter. of this baseline in the detailed were OfTI andnavigational activity vessel The baseline significant. adopted, the limitations associated with this study are not considered to be findingsof inthe confidence further gives was effects significant oflikely review The around expo area the modified wider the includingtypes commercial,and recr fishing A rangeofvessel weretypes recorded onAI variations. inshippingan fluctuations record to 2013 area. Theshipping data used in the asse cable route corridor wasdefinedin order to OfTI tothelandfall.detailedA studyof area modified the corridorof route cable export offshore along the waspresented data analysis of real time a comprehensive OFTI modified with the associated effects assessthe to order In shipping survey data was carried out. A review of AIS shipping place. in put be impact assessmentThe assumesthatin these assessed separately in Chapter 5.1. equipment. onshipbornenavigational effects navigation in relation to commercial shipping, recreation vessels,fishing vessels and The main part of assessment the covers the

Compliance with MGN 371. cables; and – depthMonitoring and surveyscoverage during theoperational phase ofthe WorksVessel forwindfa Coordination Guard vessel duringconstruction and majormaintenance; (to Study becompleted consent);post and under keel clearance to beconsidered as part of Cablethe Burial Index place. Consideration of designated anch depth is not achieved, then appropriate protection measures will be put in export cable will be buried a to minimum target depth ofWhere 1m. this burial managed carefully and over the long-term; anddecommission operation/maintenance designedensure to relaterisks that the be works. Itwill OfTI response for modified of emergency the ordination co- effective ensure the developed to be (SMS) will System Management Safety A project. wind farmand TI of modified entire decommissioningthe phases Construction safety zones; is it envelope, on Rochdale Based the

Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson

Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

ssment wasfromJuly2013and December rt cable route corridor and the corridorandthe OSPs. route cable rt rm support and vessels; rm support construction d vesselactivity dueseasonalto and tidal carried out by experienced personnel. This This personnel. byexperienced carried out the work. As a result of the approach ofthe result As a work. the assess the wider impacts on users in the likely significant effects onshippingand effects significant likely be affected by the modified OfTI works. OfTI modified bythe be affected S and in order to ensure the main vessel toensure S andinorder dustry standard mitigation measures will will measures mitigation standard dustry 5 nm either side of offshorethe export features in the vicinity of the modified modified of the vicinity in the features eational vessels were also recorded in recorded also were vessels eational assumed that the modified offshore offshore modified the that assumed d to marine operations (construction, (construction, operations marine d to orages (additional burial requirements) requirements) burial (additional orages Effects on commercial fishingarealso on commercial Effects ing) specific to the project are project the to ing) specific

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.2.2.39 In terms of the shipping and navigation receptors, the effect associated with the modified OfTI has been assessed for the construction/installation phase of the project. Effect on Commercial Vessels Allision and Ship Collision Risks

5.2.2.40 The presence of cable laying and installation vessels associated with the modified OfTI works can pose additional risks to navigation. This is due to increased vessel activity and the fact that the installation vessels are restricted in their manoeuvrability. This may lead to an increase in ship-to-ship encounters in the area as passing shipping deviates around cable laying works.

5.2.2.41 From the baseline information, it is seen that there is a relatively low density of commercial vessels transiting the area, approximately 5 unique vessels per day. The majority of vessels recorded in close proximity to the offshore export cable route corridor were vessels fishing in the area. There is sea room available for passing vessels to re-route around additional marine operations traffic and cable laying vessels operating in this area.

5.2.2.42 Assuming standard mitigation measures are in place, it is expected that cable laying works can be carried out safely, with a minor, effect on commercial shipping with respect to ship-to-ship encounters and increased collision risk. Effect on Recreational Vessel Allision/Collision Risk & Journey/Transit Times

5.2.2.43 A small number of recreational vessels (approximately one per day during summer) were recorded on AIS routeing along the Aberdeenshire coast (within approximately 5 nm of the coast), however, only a small minority of such vessels are likely to broadcast on AIS. More generally, four medium use RYA / CA cruising routes intersect the offshore export cable route corridor and consented wind farm areas, two of which are associated with Macduff harbour.

5.2.2.44 Overall, given that there is sea room available for vessels to deviate around installation and cable laying vessels and assuming standard mitigation measures are in place, a minor, effect is predicted on recreational vessel routeing distance / voyage time as well as for allision and collision risks. Effect on Fishing Vessel Allision/Collision Risk

5.2.2.45 There is a significant level of fishing activity in the vicinity of the modified OfTI and there will be an increase in the ship-to-ship encounters and hence collision risk in the area during construction activities. Whilst the effect is considered to be moderate given the additional mitigation through liaison with local fisheries organisations as well as through the use of guard vessels and safety zones in the construction phases of the project, the impact is reduced to minor. Effect on Commercial Shipping Routeing

5.2.2.46 The presence of cable installation vessels could cause re-routeing of commercial shipping, leading to increased voyage distance and time.

5.2.2.47 The baseline information shows that the main shipping route intersecting the proposed offshore export cable route corridor was traffic headed east and west to / from the Moray Firth, between 2-7 nm north of the landfall, near Banff. This mostly comprised shuttle tankers and small-to-medium sized coastal cargo vessels, with approximately two commercial vessels per day using this route.

5.2-16 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.2.2.56 5.2.2.55 Effect on Fishing Operations 5.2.2.53 5.2.2.52 Effect on Fishing Vessel Routeing 5.2.2.54 Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.2.48 5.2.2.51 5.2.2.50 5.2.2.49

vessels during the construction / installation phase. interaction with the offshore export cable, particularly if the cable is partially buried ispartially cable ifthe cable, particularly export offshore with the interaction can penetrate up to 75 cm and therefore these vessels are at higher risk of gear (basedpenetration depthgear varieson about 20 cm, along whichdrags the seabed collecting the catch. Scallopgear 30 cm. Scallop dredgers have achain bag with teeth that dig into the sediments to Demersal dragtrawlers th the boundary ofthree the consented wind farms. dredgers werealsosightedalong the offsho farm sites, with the majority coast to approximately 6 nm south of the boundary of the three consented wind of activity beingarea of fishing activity over the cable route, approximatelyfrom 6nm northof the demersal trawlers. offishing 5.1 terms Chapter In Assessment, A number of scallop within Fisheries isassessed Commercial grounds the on fishing The vessel effect by thecable laying vessels adviseto passing laying activities as fishing they arriveat fishi Non-local (NtMs) andfisheries liaison. vessels within offshorethe export cable Local fishing vessels will be made aware of installation works and cable laying as entering or leaving Macduff. cable routeoffshore export corridor.Less th also recordedvessels onpassage, approximately 5 nm clear of Banff.number A vessels of were onThe AIS(July data and December 2013) recorded passage arelatively lowdensity of fishing to Macduff, passing commercial shiprouteingispredicted. approximately 1.5 nm east of the of 20 m and meandraught 4 m), there will be a cable route and relativelythe small size and draught of fishing vessels(mean length Given the low density of fishing vessels on recorded onaroute transiting For theOSPs, densest the route passes to the east with one vessel every 10 days commercial vessels in close prox in close commercial vessels the of the offshore export cable route corridor and the lowlevels of inshore levels of shipping on the affected routes, available sea room to the east and west of thereonly willincrease a minorbedistance voyage to and time.Given thelow revised passage in advance of encountering the areathe of proposed sites and any pre-plan able to be shippingwill commercial isconsidered that OSPsit For the routes. and seaconditions). However, of coastal vessels were recorded passing clear of shallower areas where the possibility exists of a vessel grounding. A number corridor keepsin theorder least 1-2.5 of at nm northof Aberdeenshire the coast, In general,commercial shi platforms in the area, including Ross Field, Captain Field and Beatrice/Jacky Fields. mobile/temporary supporting east, and north o the intersect also vessels supply Offshore Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson eir gear along the seabed gear alongthe eir pping in the area of offshore the export cable route from Wick to thesouth. ingeneral, mostcommercial vessels avoid inshore Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray imity to thecable land fall, a

grounds through day used groundsthrough marksandlights ng vessels will become awareof cablethe route corridor through Notices to Mariners route corridor through to Notices type/ weight and sea bed type) but gear gear but type) bed sea and weight type/ ffshore export cable route corridor, the to gear interaction, there was a significant was asignificant there gear interaction, an one fishing vessel adaywas recorded closer shore(dependent to on draught re export cable re export route corridorandwithin passageoffshore export crossing the vessels ofrestrictions drilling operations and fixed offshore offshore andfixed operations drilling minor effect on routeing offishing onrouteing effect and could penetrate up to in manoeuvrability. inmanoeuvrability. minor , effect on on , effect

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

or exposed during the installation phase. Overall, the risk to demersal trawlers and scallop dredgers operating in the vicinity of the export cable route is likely to be moderate.

5.2.2.57 However with direct liaison with local fisheries (as to any potential hazards) and guard vessels this impact can be reduced to minor Operation

5.2.2.58 This section considers the effects of the modified OfTI on shipping and navigation receptors during the operational phase. Effect on Commercial Vessels Anchoring

5.2.2.59 A Navigational Hazard Review Workshop was carried out in July 2011, as part of the Navigational Risk Assessment (NRA) for the offshore wind farm developments within the Moray Firth. The workshop highlighted that the Moray Firth provides vessels with sheltered anchorages, located inshore of adverse sea and weather conditions that can be experienced in the North Sea. Vessels including shuttle tankers, offshore supply ships, survey and cable laying vessels, anchor off the Moray Firth coastline during severe weather.

5.2.2.60 Anchoring within 5 nm of the offshore export cable route was recorded in Inverboyndie Bay in the anchorage servicing Banff and Macduff. This anchorage is located east of the offshore export cable route corridor and is less than 0.4 nm from the corridor at its nearest point. Nine vessels anchored within, or close to, the Banff anchorage during the two month survey period. These vessels were comprised of 2 large and 3 medium-sized shuttle tankers and 4 small offshore support vessels. In this anchorage area, the sea bed type is sandy gravel where there is good holding ground for anchoring.

5.2.2.61 Small container ships, offshore support vessels and a research vessel were also recorded anchoring further along the coast to the west, near Cullen and Portsoy. In addition, a large military tanker was recorded 1 nm east of the modified OfTI corridor, in sand / muddy sand sea bed type.

5.2.2.62 Sea bed mobility is relatively high within and adjacent to the Southern Trench. Therefore, to minimise the risk of export cables becoming exposed to anchor interaction, alternative forms of protection will be considered where the export cable cannot be satisfactorily buried (i.e. mattresses and/or rock placement), as well as regular surveys to monitor cable burial depths.

5.2.2.63 Assuming industry standard mitigation measures, including a target burial depth of 1m, a moderate effect on anchoring is predicted, due to the proximity of the cable to the anchorage area close to Banff and Macduff and the large tankers recorded at anchor there. This is reduced to minor due the additional burial requirements in proximity to the anchorage area as well as ongoing surveys of the cables once installed. Effect on Smaller Vessels Anchoring

5.2.2.64 The effect on smaller vessels anchoring, including fishing and recreational vessels is expected to be similar in nature and extent to those discussed for commercial shipping anchoring effects. However, small vessels are likely to anchor in more sheltered and inshore areas, which are shallower and do not restrict small vessels anchor chain lengths.

5.2-18 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.2.2.68 5.2.2.72 on Effect Fishing Vessels Allision and Collision Risks 5.2.2.71 Re-Routeing Vessels on Commercial Effect 5.2.2.70 5.2.2.69 Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.2.67 Effect on Commercial Shipping and Collision Risk 5.2.2.66 5.2.2.65

been recovered in (e.g.time, anchored of driftingcollisions with structures on UKCSthe in over 6,000 operational years.Whilst anumber ship ‘pas noreported been have There years. incidents ei vessel allisionrisk forthe The drifting are recordedin the vicinity development. of the each year not in change does th showanysignificant in UK waters,conclusion isalsosupported bythe fact th allision risk most is estimated to be lower than that calculated in the MORL ES. This vesselstwo OSPs. Given that the shipping has data remained relatively unchanged, the have(1(UKCS)1,900 years). in ThemodifiedOfTI Shelf KingdomContinental United on the installations foroffshore installation-year with an OSP. is It noted that there is g with collide fishing isarisk vessels There that routesfrom theirexisting is consider be to of OSP’s the and therefore impactthe with respect to vessels requiring deviate to structures.Very few vessels are observed from survey data as routeing in the vicinity around the re-route will to require Once vessels then the OfTIisinplace modified minor volume of vessel activity in theMoray Firth low the given However, OfTI. modified of the operation to the in relation area in the onship-to-ship co effect the to With respect OSPs. baseline risk and smallthe change in allision / of shippingallision riskgiven low on commercial traffic levels ispredicted the effect Overall, through the baseline data,consultation and collision risk models, a 261,000 years. This is lowcompared to the historical average of 5.3 x10 assuming a worst case scenario of eight OSPs, and estimated to be one every allision riskwas calculated offshore forthe The is beaprobableevent. considered to not OSPs, with it the into proximity comes In terms ofanerrant vessel under power devi Therefore a consideration. seabed. an uneven introducing furthe present not should protection any cable 10 than 20 less depths approximately water in that requested was It m, depth. cm recreational risk to vessel anchoring isco Consultation with the RYA andCA stated th mitigation measures implemented then this is reduced to beconsidered vessels andanOSPis to andthrough to proximity anoffshorewind the vessel who will be responsible for assessi within / between structures. The decision to do this however lies with the Master of . minor , effect is predicted on small vessel anchoring. vessel onsmall ispredicted , effect Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson The burial plans for the cable route will take this into into this take will route cable the for plans burial The Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray ght OSPs ght was asone identified every 18,100,000

ood prospectforfishing , restarted enginesortaken in tow.) minor sing’ drifting (‘Not under Command’)ship (‘Notunder sing’ drifting Rochdale envelope states amaximumof Transmission Infrastructure in the MORL ES, in MORLES, the Transmission Infrastructure moderate nsidered lowas anchors tend run to to e numbers of vessels and shipping routes in general the effect is considered to be to considered is effect the general in at, givena target burialdepth of1m, the ng risksassociatedthe with navigating in other th or that vessels at the up to date shipping survey data farm. The risk of alli farm. Theriskof risk due to thephysical presenceof the llision risk, there will be additional traffic traffic additional be will risk,llision there ating from its route to the extent that it extent route the to fromits ating r hazard to recreational vessels, r hazardto by i.e. . . However, with the additional minor . . sion between fishing vessels to navigate vessels to ey have an allision minor -4

5.2-19 per per ,

CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Fishing Gear Snagging Risks

5.2.2.73 There is a risk to fishing vessels should they snag their gear on unprotected cables or cables running over spans or on the OSPs subsurface. However, with identification and mitigation of potential snagging hazards including cable protection / burial as well as survey / monitoring and liaison with the fishing industry, it is considered that the operational phase of the transmission works will have a minor effect on fishing vessels. Effect on Shipborne Navigational Equipment

5.2.2.74 An additional navigational effect has previously been identified based on electromagnetic interference on vessels navigational equipment, e.g. magnetic compasses and communication equipment.

5.2.2.75 A decision has been made to use HVAC export cabling for the modified TI. HVDC export cables were assessed in the MORL ES (MORL, 2012). HVDC export cables do have impacts different to Alternating Current (AC) and could potentially cause deflection of a compass needle through electromagnetic interference (Metoc, 2000). In addition, vessels can use an auto-pilot which is dependent on a magnetic sensor and may experience slight steering issues if crossing a high voltage cable. However, the decision to use HVAC export cabling will remove this as a potential effect.

5.2.2.76 It is also assumed that all equipment and offshore export cables will be rated and in compliance with design codes. In addition the offshore export cables will be buried (where possible) or protected and any generated electromagnetic fields will be very weak resulting in a minor effect on shipborne navigational equipment.

5.2.2.77 A small number of vessels identified during the baseline assessment, including those on the Wick and offshore routes, will be subject to a low level of radar interference; however, based on the revised routeing patterns, radar interference is predicted to be minor given the distance which they are likely to pass from the structures. Decommissioning

5.2.2.78 The effects associated with decommissioning the modified OfTI are anticipated to be similar in nature and extent to those identified during the construction phase.

5.2.2.79 However, the likely significant effects associated with decommissioning the offshore export cables could be dependent upon the method used for decommissioning and whether it is decided that offshore export cables shall remain buried in the seabed.

5.2.2.80 It is anticipated that the effect resulting from the decommissioning of the export cables shall be minor in terms of disruption to shipping and navigation receptors. In addition, any possible effects should be assessed as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) undertaken to inform the final Decommissioning Plan. Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

5.2.2.81 In addition to the industry standard mitigation measures described above, additional mitigation and safety measures will be applied to the offshore export cables works appropriate to the level and type of risk determined during the EIA.

5.2.2.82 The specific measures to be employed will be selected in consultation with the MCA.

5.2-20 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.3.2 5.2.3.1 Summary 5.2.3 5.2.2.90 5.2.2.89 5.2.2.88 Decommissioning 5.2.2.87 5.2.2.86 5.2.2.85 Operation 5.2.2.84 Construction 5.2.2.83

Cumulative Impact Assessment Assessment Cumulative Impact   the OfTI; projects has been done. Thelist notes there application status and distance from effe significant of the likely An assessment arising from shippingupon andnavigation This section presents the results ofassess activities. other orscopedmarinerecept existing decommissioningworks. prior to carried out an ofinformation Promulgation procedures. this is likely to lead to a revision of the existing ERCoP and associated safety with in A decommissioningstan plan line removal of export cables orleave the cable(s)buried in the seabed). measures will also be dependent on the similarident be those to to anticipated are cables export the decommissioning with associated measures The mitigation place during construction /installation planning. take will route cable the to in proximity monitoring of vessel consideration Further (i.e.shoreroute to monitor to any vesselsanchoring proximity totheinroute). cable cable modified cover export extended the farm sites be andmonitoringto could A Marine Control Centre is being considered as part of the three consented wind monitor burialdepths/ andprotection seabed mobility. Periodic and planned surveys of theexport cable routes will be carried out to the cables’ over-trawlability will also be tested. protected with concrete mattresses and/orrockplacement. Following installation, Whereand fishinggear. asuitable burial de a suitab to buried be will activity fishing to identified route cable ofthe Sections associated with theproject. offshore transmissiontowards or works duties monitorguard to passing vessels an Oneof the construction/installation vesselswill be tasked with vessel monitoringand assumed. measur mitigation following In addition,the

station and associated TI) – Operational and planning (adjacent); and and (adjacent); planning and Operational – TI) associated and station WindfarmBeatrice Offshore Limited(BOW MORL WDAMORL – Operational (adjacent). Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson d appropriate liaison with marine stakeholders will be Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

le depth to protect against vessel anchors protectagainst vessel depth to le method ofdecommissioning(i.e. complete ified for the construction phase; however phase; however construction forthe ified dard requirements will be developed and will be developed dard requirements ors including coastal developments and developments coastal ors including ment of the potential cumulative effects cumulative potential of the ment cts of the whole project with the following following with the whole project ofcts the be high riskareasfromanchoringand d warn / contact errant vessels headed headed vessels errant contact / d warn es specific to a particular phase will will be phase aparticular to es specific the modified OfTI in conjunction with inconjunction OfTI the modified vessels inmanoeuvrability restricted pth is unachievable, the cables be will cables the pth isunachievable, L) (includinggeneration the offshore L)

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.2.3.3 A summary of the expected cumulative impacts is provided in Table 5.2-5 for shipping and navigation.

Table 5.2-5 Cumulative Impact Summary (Shipping and Navigation)

Effect/Receptor Residual Whole Project Whole Project Whole Project Mitigation Significance Assessment: with with Method Level for Consented Unconsented Modified TI Modified TI + Projects + WDA but Likely Stevenson, Project Telford and MacColl

Construction/Decommissioning

Displacement / re-routeing resulting in increased transit Minor Minor Minor Minor N/A times associated with construction areas and safety zones / Commercial Ships, Fishing Vessels and Recreational Vessels (Whole project plus those developments listed in section 5.2.3.2).

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Minor

Increasing ship-to-ship encounter and collision risk Minor Moderate Moderate Moderate Works Vessel with construction and Coordination support vessels / Coordination commercial shipping, between all fishing vessels and Developments recreational vessels. (Whole project plus those Promulgation developments listed in of Information section 5.2.3.2).

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Minor

Allision risk with OSPs and other structures Minor Minor Minor Minor N/A (constructed and partially constructed) / Commercial shipping, fishing and recreational vessels (Whole project plus those developments listed in section 5.2.3.2).

Total Cumulative Impact Assessment Minor

Operation/Maintenance

Displacement/re-routeing resulting in increased transit Minor Minor Minor Minor N/A times associated from completed developments/ Commercial Ships, Fishing Vessels and Recreational Vessels (Whole project plus

5.2-22 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.3.4 Methodology Assessment Total CumulativeImpact 5.2.3.2). section in listed those developments vessels fishing andrecreational shipping, Commercial developments / other constructed OSPsand Allision riskwith Assessment Total CumulativeImpact 5.2.3.2). section in developments listed plus those (Whole project vessels and recreational shipping, fishing vessels projects /commercial other associated with and constructionvessels al vessels with operation collision risk encounter and Increasing ship-to-ship Assessment Total CumulativeImpact 5.2.3.2). section in listed those developments Residual Effect/Receptor (Whole project plus

       status and distance and status unconsented likely projects but has been effe significant of the likely An assessment

station and associated TI) – Operational and planning (adjacent); (adjacent); planning and Operational – TI) associated and station WindfarmBeatrice Offshore Limited(BOW MORL WDAMORL – Operational (adjacent); Round Three Zone 2 (Forth)Round ThreeZone2 (83 Submitted – nm); Inch Cape – Submitted (90 nm); nm); (90 –Submitted Cape Inch NNG OffshoreWind Farm–Submitted(105 nm); EOWDC(47 –Consent nm); Hywind(36.5 - Scoping nm);

Minor Minor Minor Minor Modified TI Level for Significance Minor Moderate Moderate Moderate Works Moderate Moderate Moderate Minor Vessel Minor Minor N/A Minor Minor Minor Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson from the OfTI; OfTI; fromthe MacColl MacColl Telford and Stevenson, + Modified TI Assessment: Whole Project Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

cts of the whole project with the following following with the whole project ofcts the Projects + WDA Projects +WDA Consented with Whole Project done. notes Thelist there application L) (includinggeneration the offshore L) Project Project but Likely Unconsented with Whole Project Method Method Mitigation of Information of Information Promulgation Developments between all Coordination Coordination

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CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

 Kincardine Offshore Wind Farm (Floating) – Scoping (57 nm);  SHE-T HVDC cable – In Planning (overlaps with array and landfall 25 nm approx.); and  Initial planning framework for offshore wind energy in Scottish waters (spatial planning).

5.2.3.5 Projects and proposed developments were screened in to the assessment only where potential overlap between activities and receptors was identified due to the distance from the modified OfTI and the limited information available of in planning and scoped projects only those adjacent to the modified OfTI have been considered. It is noted that further consultation will be required with the SHE-T HVDC cable but this is not considered to have any cumulative impacts for shipping and navigation unless construction overlaps; however at this stage due to limited information it has been screened out of this cumulative study.

5.2.3.6 Cumulative impacts have been considered for an extended study area to include navigational waters between the Moray Firth and the Firth of Forth. Cumulative projects have been considered within 10 nm of the development area; however due to the nature of international shipping routeing to and from ports outside of this study area have also been considered but not quantified.

5.2.3.7 Cumulative impacts have been considered for shipping and navigation receptors, this includes other offshore developments, as well as in combination activities associated with other marine activities. However it should be noted that fishing, recreation and marine aggregate dredging transits have been considered as part of the baseline assessment.

5.2.3.8 Worst case assumption for all developments include the maximum number of structures are the largest development area as well as assuming that construction phases could overlap.

5.2.3.9 A number of projects and marine activities were scoped out of the assessment with regards to vessel movement as these were considered to be part of the baseline for vessel traffic. This includes traffic associated with aggregate extraction areas, fishing activity and recreational craft transits Cumulative Assessment

5.2.3.10 The types of effects considered in this assessment during are:  Construction and Decommissioning o Displacement/re-routeing resulting in increased transit times associated with construction areas and safety zones; o Increasing ship-to-ship encounter and collision risk with construction and support vessels; and o Allision risk with OSPs and other structures (constructed and partially constructed).  Operation and Maintenance o Displacement / re-routeing resulting in increased transit times associated from completed developments; o Increasing ship-to-ship encounter and collision risk with operation al vessels and construction vessels associated with other projects; and o Allision risk with OSPs and other constructed developments.

5.2-24 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.2.3.17 Construction VesselsAssociated with OtherProjects Increasing Ship-to-shipEncounter andCollisionRiskwith OperationwithVessels and 5.2.3.16 Developments AssociatedDisplacement fromCompleted /Re-routeingResultinginIncreasedTransitTimes 5.2.3.15 Allision Risk with OSPs and OtherStructures (Constructedand Partially Constructed) Chapter 5.2 - Shipping and Navigation Navigation and Shipping 5.2 Chapter - 5.2.3.11 5.2.3.14 Increasing Ship-to-shipEncounterand Collision Risk with Construction and Support Vessels 5.2.3.13 5.2.3.12

   noted that this effect is tempor effect this that noted is It ofinformation. and promulgation developments other with communication to reduced operating within the area increasing encoun asi be could overlap forthis to potential Along with the small number of vessels expected during onsite operation and the within theCommercialFisheries Chapter(Commercial5.1 Fisheries). impacts associated with thedi are considered developments impactsthe on routeing associated with cumulative developments across the proposed development areas and the overall foot print of the construction phase. isnote It ofinformation. promulgation and developments other with coordination),communication (works vessel traffic Due tothelimitedamountof transits for be protected byguardvessels and zones./ orsafety anddecommissioni during construction that impact isconsidered receptors to navigate safely around and within the development. Therefore this design, li site including in-situ already significant not isconsidered receptors) Despite the increased in structures with Moraythe Firth increased allision(for all The receptors identified for consideration in this cumulative assessment are: are: assessment cumulative in this forconsideration identified receptors The collisions. However this can bereduced to number of vessels operating within theMoray areaincreasing encounters and periods overlap ther construction Should mitigation above standard embedded mitigation. associated with deviations areexpected beto temporary natured oftheconstruction areas andsafety zones all impacts TI plusStevenson, Telford andMacCol of with development associated the modified cumulative receptors the recreational deviatio significant that ispotential There construction areas and safety zones. in resulting /re-routeing Displacement

Commercial Shipping; Commercial Fishing; and Recreational Vessels.Recreational minor minor with effective management of traffic (works vessel coordination), coordination), (works vessel traffic of management effective with Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl WindTransmissionModified Telford,Infrastructure andMacColl Farms for Stevenson minor and not significant under EIA methodologies. It is noted that Itisnoted methodologies. under EIA significant and not and not significant under EIA methodologies. It is noted It methodologies. EIA under significant not and splacement of fishing activity is considered separately separately isconsidered activity offishing splacement ary for the construction phase. Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Statement -Environmental Limited Renewables Offshore Moray

ghting andmarking ghting whichwill the enable recreational, fishingan due to the embedded mitigation measure measure due mitigation to embedded the l, WDA and BOWL However due to the the to due However BOWL and WDA l, gnificant increase in the number of vessels ofvessels number in increase the gnificant d that this impact is temporary for the is temporary forthe impact d this that increased timestransit associated with ns could affect commercial, fishing and fishing and commercial, affect ns could e increase in e will bea the significant ng vulnerable areas of development will ofdevelopment areas ng vulnerable ters and collisions. However this canbe However and collisions. ters minor minor with effective management of of management effective with and do not require further further require anddonot d commercial vessels

5.2-25

CHAPTER 5.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

Allision Risk with OSPs and Other Constructed Developments

5.2.3.18 As with the construction period despite the increase in structures with the Moray Firth increased allision (for all receptors) is considered not significant due to the embedded mitigation measure already in situ including site design, lighting and marking which will enable the receptors to navigate safely around and within the development. Therefore this effect is considered minor and not significant under EIA methodologies.

5.2.4 References Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC, 2007). Guidance Notes on Safety Zones, DECC: London. IALA Recommendation O-139 (IALA, 2008). The Marking of Man-Made Offshore Structures. IALA: Brussels) MCA Marine Guidance Notice 371 (MGN 371) Offshore Renewable Energy Installations (OREIs): Guidance on UK Navigational Practice, Safety and Emergency Response Issues. (MCA, 2008a). MCA: Southampton. MCA Marine Guidance Notice 372 (MGN 372) Offshore Renewable Energy Installations (OREIs) Guidance to Mariners Operating in the Vicinity of UK OREIs (MCA, 2008b). MCA: Southampton. International Maritime Organisation (IMO, 2007), Guidelines for Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) (2007) Search and Rescue (SAR) Framework, MCA (MCA, 2002) – Chapter 1 MCA and Chapter 4 Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)

5.2-26 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

5.1.3.156 The cumulative effect upon the nomadic scallop fishery is dependent upon the productivity of grounds affected and the scale of effect identified for each development. Information available for the projects listed above is not currently detailed enough to quantify the scale of effect upon the nomadic scallop fishery. It is, however, considered that in each instance the scale of effect will be largely defined by the engineering design and construction schedules of individual developments and the ability of vessels to regain access to grounds once the sites are operational.

Marine Energy Developments in the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters

5.1.3.157 The receptors affected by the modified OfTI have not for the most part been identified as operating within the Pentland Firth and Orkney waters, although it is recognised that in certain years the squid fishery may attract vessels from around the Scottish coast, including the Orkney Islands, depending upon the productivity of the fishery. As a result, the marine developments in the Pentland Firth, including the MeyGen tidal project, will not have a cumulative effect. SHE-T Cable

5.1.3.158 The construction activities during the installation of the proposed SHE-T cable and the modified OfTI have the potential to cumulatively affect fishing activities. The scale of effect will depend upon the construction schedule and the status of the infrastructure in the operational phase. Shipping and Navigation

5.1.3.159 The principal cumulative effect of shipping and navigation upon commercial fishing activities is discussed in Chapter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation. Offshore Oil and Gas Development

5.1.3.160 There is currently oil and gas development in the Greater Beatrice Area of the Moray Firth. This includes Beatrice Field infrastructure and the Jacky platform and corresponding subsea flow lines. All vessels are prohibited from within 500 m of any such infrastructure. Included within the oil and gas infrastructure are two operational demonstrator wind turbines. The existing Beatrice and Jacky infrastructure currently limits fishing activity in the Moray Firth as a result of these safety zones and the modified OfTI, MORL consented wind farms, BOWL project and WDA will cumulatively add to this. It is also noted that the offshore demonstrator turbines currently operational in the Moray Firth are located within the footprint of the safety zone currently encompassing the Greater Beatrice Field infrastructure. Site investigation surveys for currently licensed and unlicensed blocks may also temporarily displace fishing activity but the extent of such an effect is currently unknown. MPAs and other Closed/Restricted Areas

5.1.3.161 MPAs currently in place have had the effect of restricting fishing activities in certain areas, particularly those activities affecting the seabed (i.e. bottom towed gear). For example, in Cardigan Bay (a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC)), all scallop dredging is prohibited. It is considered that the Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) announcements in England and Wales and the Nature Conservation MPAs in Scotland will enforce additional limitations upon certain, if not all, fishing activities in the future.

5.1.3.162 The potential for cumulative effects of the modified OfTI, MORL consented wind farms, WDA, BOWL project and unconsented developments in the Forth and Tay in

5.1-56 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment 5.1.4 5.1.3.164 national-energy-infrastructure-projects Oln] Aalbe rm from: (201 Available (DECC) Change Climate [Online], and Energy of Department [03/06/2014]. 5.1.3.163 Oln] Aalbe from: Available [Online], Reco Developments: Renewables Offshore for Guidance Renewabl Wet and Wind Offshore with Liaison Fishing ehd t poie ihrslto etmts f fis of estimates high-resolution Mar of Journal ICES - data. (VMS) system monitoring provide to methods Dev (2010). S. Jennings, and B., A. South, J., Lee, (20 Together. Working (ICPC) Committee Protection Cable International P Marine Co of the to Protocol 1996 the and 1972, Matter, Other Prevention the on Convention (1996) IMO an Marine and Ireland. Britain in Assessment Impact Environmental and Ecology of Institute (2010) IEEM Chapter5.1Commercial – Fisheries from: Available [Online], for Mar 2, Version note requirements CPA and Guidance FEPA of respect farms: wind Offshore (2004) Unit Industry and Trade of Department Affair, Regulatory S Aquaculture and Fisheries Environment, for Centre assessm environmental 2012. May report: ME5403, Contract projects. marine support to acquisition S Aquaculture and Fisheries Environment, for Centre Recom (2004) (BWEA) Association Energy Wind British Ltd, London. COWRIE FISHMITIG09. contract Off Collaborative for report Final farms. wind f with opportunities and Options (2010) R. Blyth-Skyrme, liaison.pdf practice-guidance-for-offshore-renewables-developme

References

Isle of Man waters). It is possible that additional that possible is waters). It of Man Isle fl scallop nomadic the r affect to in potential the result have which UK the around policies Management nul n ae ujc t rve. hr ae o cur Firth. Moray not the in areas are There review. to subject are and annual activities. fishing of type all or certain prohibit policies management fisheries additional are There significance of the effect. effect. of the significance not is it although noted, is fleet) (with scallop nomadic area wider and MPA) Trench Southern the proposed in MPAs proposed and existing with conjunction , [03/06/2014]. ,[03/06/2014]. http://www.cefas.co.uk/publications/files/windfarm- Modified Transmission Infrastructurefor Telford,S http://www.thecrownestate.co.uk/media/495620/floww- https://www.gov.uk/consents-and-planning-applicatio , [03/06/2014]. ,[03/06/2014]. Moray OffshoreMoray RenewablesLimited - EnvironmentalS eloping reliable, repeatable, and accessible accessible and repeatable, reliable, eloping shore Wind Research into the Environment Environment the into Research Wind shore d Coastal. Final Document. Document. Final Coastal. d ine Science, 67: 1260-1271. 1260-1271. 67: Science, ine nvention. London Convention. Convention. London nvention. cience (Cefas) (2012) Guidelines for data data for Guidelines (2012) (Cefas) cience or marine fisheries mitigation associated associated mitigation fisheries marine or cience, Department of Environment and Environment of Department cience, , and Marine Consents and Environment Environment and Consents Marine and , liaison. fisheries for mendations Management. Guidelines for Ecological Ecological for Guidelines Management. es Group (FLOWW) (2014) Best Practice Practice Best (2014) (FLOWW) Group es ine Consents Environment Unit, pp. 48, 48, pp. Unit, Environment Consents ine uhrsrcin a e esnl or seasonal be may restrictions Such closed areas may apply in the future. future. the in apply may closed areas niomna ipc assmn in assessment impact environmental nts-recommendations-for-fisheries- 09) Fishing and Submarine Cables - - Cables Submarine and Fishing 09) ents of offshore renewable energy energy renewable offshore of ents hing-effort distributions from vessel vessel from distributions hing-effort ollution by Dumping of Wastes and and Wastes of Dumping by ollution possible to quantify the cumulative cumulative the quantify to possible mmendations for Fisheries Liaison. Liaison. Fisheries for mmendations 1) Decommissioning guidance. guidance. Decommissioning 1) eet (for example, the closure in in closure the example, (for eet n lc wih lo etit or restrict also which place in rently any restricted or closed closed or restricted any rently oa Frh fr xml the example (for Firth Moray estricted access to grounds grounds to access estricted tevensonand Wind MacColl Farms atclr eeec t the to reference particular guidance.pdf tatement ns-for- 5.1-57 best- , ,

CHAPTER 5.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Modified Transmission Infrastructure for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms

OSPAR (2008) Background Document on Potential Problems associated with Power Cables other than those for Oil and Gas Activities. OSPAR Commission. Biodiversity Series.

Renewable UK (2013) Cumulative impact assessment guidelines, guiding principles for cumulative impacts assessments in offshore wind farms;

Sea Fish Industry Authority and UK Fisheries Economic Network (UKFEN) (2012) Best practise guidance for fishing industry financial and economic impact assessments;

UK Oil and Gas, (2008). Fisheries Liaison Guidelines - Issue 5.

5.1-58 Volume 2 Environmental Impact Assessment