West Somerset Council & Sedgemoor District Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report

Final Version | October 2011

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Job title Hinkley Point C Project Job number 210482-00 Document title Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal File reference Report Consultation Draft Document ref 210482 -00 Revision Date Filename Draft 1 05/01/11 Description First draft for comment

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Sedgemoor District Council &West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final Version October 2011

Contents

Page

Non-Technical Summary 3

1 Introduction 10 1.1 The Purpose of the Sustainability Appraisal 10 1.2 Sustainability Appraisal Report Consultation 10 1.3 Structure of the Sustainability Appraisal Report 12

2 Sustainability Appraisal Context and Process 13 2.1 Context 13 2.2 Sustainable Development and the SPD 13 2.3 A Combined Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment Process 14

3 Relevant Plans, Programmes and Approaches 18 3.1 Relevant Approaches, Plans and Programmes 18

4 Consultation 21 4.1 Stage A Consultation - Scoping 21 4.2 Stage D Consultation – Draft Sustainability Appraisal Report22

5 Baseline Situation and Key Sustainability Issues 24 5.1 Scope and Purpose of the Baseline and Key Issues 24 5.2 The Baseline Sustainability Issues for Hinkley Point C and Associated Development 24

6 Sustainability Appraisal Framework 32 6.1 Purpose and Overview 32 6.2 Assessment of Effect Significance 36 6.3 Scoring Criteria 37 6.4 Identification of Mitigation Measures 38

7 Sustainability Appraisal of Supplementary Planning Document Approaches 40 7.1 Introduction 40 7.2 Project-wide guidance and approaches 40 7.3 Hinkley Point C Main Site 54 7.4 Associated Development Accommodation Sites 55 7.5 Associated Development Park & Ride and Freight Logistics / Storage Sites 60 7.6 Planning Obligations and Community Benefits and Compensation Scheme 64

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7.7 Cumulative and Synergistic Effects 65

8 Next Steps 67 8.1 Overview 67 8.2 SA Stage D: Consulting on the Preferred Options of the SPD and the SA Report 67 8.3 SA Stage E: Monitoring the Significant Effects of Implementing the Plan 67 8.4 Conclusions 67

Appendices

Appendix A SA Matrices

Appendix B Appraisal Criteria and Proposed indicators

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Non-Technical Summary

Introduction This document provides a Non-Technical Summary of the Sustainability Appraisal Report (SA) (incorporating the provisions of the SEA Directive1) underpinning the Hinkley Point C Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This will be a joint SPD for both West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council (the Councils), developed to provide supplementary advice on the local policy framework. The SPD is intended to guide the Hinkley Point C (HPC) project promoter in preparing a Development Consent Order application and any related applications submitted to the Councils and to inform decision making bodies on important local considerations. The SA is being undertaken to provide a mechanism within which the SPD‟s social, environmental and economic effects can be evaluated and where necessary improved to mitigate or avoid potentially adverse effects. The spatial scope for the SPD and SA is limited to the joint administrative area of the Councils, referred to as the SPD study area in this report. Throughout the SPD and SA Report, when referring to the Councils, it is recognised that the Councils have a number of authority functions, including for example as Local Planning Authority and Local Housing Authority. The purpose of the SA process (incorporating Strategic Environmental Assessment - SEA) is to appraise the social, environmental and economic effects of a plan from the outset. In so doing, it will help ensure that decisions are made that contribute to achieving sustainable development. This non-technical summary summarises how the SA has been undertaken, the baseline information used to inform the assessment and the results of the assessment process.

Sustainability Appraisal Process The combined SA/SEA process is clearly defined in guidance set out by the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG). It consists of five Stages (A to E) as set out in the Table below. The publication of this report represents the completion of Stage D of the process, „...Consultation with the public and statutory bodies and making any further amendments prior to adoption of the SPD.‟

1 Enacted through The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (SI2004/1633).

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Table 1 - The Sustainability Appraisal process as applied to the Hinkley Point C Project Supplementary Planning Document

SA Description HPC SPD Stage

A Scoping - setting the context, The scoping stage consultation establishing the baseline and deciding exercise ran from Monday 20th on the scope. In the context of this December 2010 to Monday 24th SPD this involves cross referencing January 2011. Consultees included: with the relevant sections of the Scoping Report and Sustainability  West Somerset Council; Reports for the two planning  Sedgemoor District Council; authorities. This stage also involves  Somerset County Council; consultation with external organisaions and statutory consutees to confirm the  The Environment Agency; scope of the issues to be included in  Natural England; and the assessment.  English Heritage.

B Assessment of the alternative options In addition to the assessment of the considered for the SPD and the SPD approaches, the approach emerging preferred approaches for the proposed during the Stage 2 SPD. This also includes the consultation by the HPC project identification of mitigation measures promoter was appraised using the where adverse or uncertain impacts are same criteria, to allow for a predicted. Cumulative effects with comparison of options. other plan and programmes are also considered.

C Preparation of the Sustainability Public consultation on the Draft HPC Appraisal Report. This records the SPD and supporting Draft SA Report findings of the SA process described was undertaken for a 6 week period in the two stages above. between 1st March 2011 and 12th April 2011. A full description of D Consultation with the public and consultation activities is set out in the statutory bodies and making any HPC SPD Report on Consultation, further amendments prior to adoption which includes a schedule setting out of the SPD. comments received in relation to the Draft SA Report and how these have been addressed.

E Monitor the effects of the SPD on the Monitoring indicators and targets will environment/sustainability once it has be aligned where appropriate with the been adopted. monitoring frameworks for the WSC and SDC Core Strategies. The HPC SPD also sets out a number of potential impacts relating to the HPC project where additional monitoring will be expected to be undertaken.

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Relevant Plans, Programmes and Approaches During the preparation of the SA Scoping Reports for the WSC Core Strategy2 and SDC Core Strategy SA Report and appendices3, a thorough review of national, regional and local plans and programmes was undertaken. The information that was gathered by both Councils was revisited for the purpose of undertaking the SA of the SPD, to identify any new plans and programmes that had not previously been considered. The main sources of additional information identified that were of direct relevance to the SA of the HPC SPD were the formal public consultations undertaken by the HPC project promoter:  Stage 1: Consultation on „Initial Proposals and Options‟ 15th December 2009 to 18th January 2010.  Stage 2: Consultation on „Preferred Proposals‟ – 9th July 2010 to 4th October 2010 (including Preliminary Environmental Information and the Sustainability Evaluation of the Preferred Proposals). Since the Draft SA Report was prepared, EDF Energy have undertaken two further stages of consultation:  Stage 2 Update: „Update on and Proposed Changes to Preferred Proposals – 25th February 2011 to 28th March 2011.  Stage 2b: „Proposed Changes to the Preferred Proposals including M5 Junction 24 and Highway Improvements in the Bridgwater Area' – 1st July 2011 – to 12th August 2011. The timing of the „Stage 2 Update‟ consultation coincided with the formal public consultation on the Draft HPC SPD and SA Report. The final version of the SPD and SA Report has been amended to reflect updates to the EDF Energy HPC project Preferred Proposals where appropriate. It is also noteworthy that Appraisals of Sustainability have been undertaken for the National Policy Statements (NPS) EN-1 „Overarching Energy‟4 and EN-6 „Nuclear‟5. Approved versions of NPSs EN-1 and EN-6 were published in July 2011.

2 West Somerset Council LDF Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report, Environ UK Ltd, May 2009. See link: http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/Planning--- Building/Planning-Policy/Local-Development-Framework/Sustainability-Appraisal pages 7-9. Last accessed 13/12/10. 3 Sedgemoor Local Development Framework Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Report, Environ UK Ltd, September 2010. See link: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=5854 pages 12-13 and Appendix A. Last accessed 13/12/10. 4 Appraisal of Sustainability for EN-1 (Overarching Energy NPS) – Main Report – October 2010. See link: https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/overarching/aos 5 Appraisal of Sustainability for EN-6 (Nuclear NPS) – Main Report – October 2010. See link: https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/nuclear/appraisals_of_sustainability_en6

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Baseline key sustainability issues for Sedgemoor and West Somerset The sustainability topics and SA Objectives considered by this SA Report cover the aspects identified in the SEA Directive, together with the topic areas covered by the existing Core Strategy SA frameworks of the two Councils. In order to identify the key sustainability issues for the Councils in relation to the HPC project and ensure consistency with the emerging Core Strategies, the issues identified in the SA Report for the Sedgemoor Core Strategy6, Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report7 and the Scoping Reports for the West Somerset Core Strategies8 have been examined. These have been supplemented with information from the Appraisal of Sustainability Site Report for Hinkley Point, prepared to inform the production of NPS EN-6 on nuclear power generation. This review work has provided a comprehensive list of sustainability issues for consideration. Stakeholder engagement and public consultation has been identified as an additional sustainability issue for the Hinkley Point C SPD, as communication with stakeholders and the public is seen as key to the success of the HPC project. The HPC project would have a wide ranging impact on the SPD study area over an extensive time period, including the construction, operation and decommissioning phases and the long term storage of nuclear waste. The following issues are considered to be of most importance for the Hinkley Point Nuclear SPD:  biodiversity and ecology;  landscape and the built environment;  cultural heritage (designated sites, features, non-designated sites and features and archaeology);  water (flood risk, above and below ground water resources and water quality);  soils and geology;  waste and resource management;  climate and energy;  air quality, noise, vibration and light pollution;  transport;  human health;  culture, leisure, tourism and recreation;  social infrastructure;  crime and safety;

6Source: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=6957&p=0 pages 12-19 and Appendix A. Last accessed 14/12/10. 7 Source: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=4907&p=0. Last accessed 22/02/11. 8Source: http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/Planning---Building/Planning-Policy/Local- Development-Framework/Sustainability-Appraisal,. Last accessed 22/02/11.

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 economy including skills and employment; and  housing.

Assessment of Effect Significance The assessment questions (which accompany the SA Objectives) act as a prompt for the SA process and the baseline for Sedgemoor and West Somerset helps to further inform the appraisal work. The SA baseline provided the evidence base to support expert judgements and has also been important when considering how the SA Objectives interact with each other. Two options (future scenarios) have been assessed and compared as part of the SA process. The first option (referred to as Option A) is drawn from the Stage 2 Preferred Proposals Sustainability Evaluation produced by EDF Energy, the HPC project promoter, and has been updated to take account of Proposed Changes and updates. The second option (Option B) is based on the approaches set out in the HPC SPD. To determine whether or not each option was likely to have an impact a „base case‟ situation was identified against which the sustainability effects of each option could be considered. For this SA the base case assumes that the HPC new power station is not constructed and that none of the HPC project specific approaches in the SPD is implemented.

SA of SPD Approaches This section summarises the results of the SA process up to Stage D. The HPC SPD approaches are structured into three main parts: section 6 of the SPD covers project wide issues including climate change, economic development, transport and housing; sections 7, 8 and 9 provide supplementary advice on the local policy framework for specific sites; and section 10 sets out an approach on planning obligations and compensation. The supplementary advice and the recommended planning approach set out in each of these SPD sections has been appraised using the SA framework and significance criteria. The SA of the HPC SPD highlights a number of sustainability issues that need to be considered during the implementation of the SPD. These include:  Many of the approaches were assessed as being likely to have an adverse impact on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and waste generation. The main reason for this is because if the population within the two local authority areas increases there will be a greater number of people consuming resources, energy, travelling and generating waste than is currently the case. It is inevitable in these circumstances that GHG emission and waste arisings would increase to a certain extent. However, other parts of the SPD include approaches that will help to reduce the magnitude of these effects, including measures to promote sustainable transport and energy efficient buildings. Taking account of consultation comments, the SA Report has been revised to highlight the contribution that the HPC project could make to low carbon energy generation.  The importance of directing development associated with accommodation for construction workers towards existing settlements and centres where this is appropriate, to ensure that these settlements receive the economic benefits. The SPD approaches also promote the provision of permanent housing that

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would be used on a temporary basis by construction workers and provide permanent legacy housing, contributing to the long term housing delivery objectives of the two District Councils.  The SPD‟s strategic approach for directing new residential development towards existing settlement could also have wider benefits for those communities in the form of additional community facilities and affordable housing. This will be particularly beneficial for those residents that are currently disadvantaged by a lack of affordable housing, inaccessible services and poor quality built environment.  The SPD will seek to secure a comprehensive package of mitigation and compensation measures to address the predicted adverse social, economic and environmental effects of the project, such as impacts on residential amenity and the natural environment.

Cumulative and Synergistic Effects The SAs of the Core Strategies for West Somerset and Sedgemoor have or will consider potential cumulative and synergistic effects arising from the two plans individually or in combination with the effects from other plans. Further cumulative and synergistic effects that could occur as a result of the HPC project are considered through the SA process as summarised below:  HPC Project Developments - The HPC project is expected to involve the development of a range of associated development sites, in addition to the power station main site. These could include permanent and/or temporary accommodation buildings for the construction workforce, a bypass for Cannington, Park & Rides sites and freight management and logistics facilities. The combined impacts of these individual developments may include detrimental impacts on sensitive environmental and social receptors. The proposals will be subject to Environmental Impact Assessment, which should include an assessment of cumulative effects. Any adverse effects that these identify will be addressed via development specific mitigation measures.  Other Projects - HPC project related development could also have cumulative impacts with other projects brought forward over a similar timeframe. Examples include the Steart Coastal Management Project, which involves the realignment of flood defences to form wetland habitat at an area of land to the east of Hinkley Point. In Bridgwater, the implementation of the North East Bridgwater planning consent is progressing quickly, with the Morrissons distribution centre commencing operation during October 2011. The potential for cumulative effects resulting from the HPC project, alongside other projects, must be taken into account through the Environmental Impact Assessment of the HPC project development.  HPC SPD Approaches - There will be instances where the various approaches proposed in the HPC SPD would have combined and cumulative effects. In this respect the „project-wide‟ approaches and the approach to compensation and mitigation in sections 6 and 10 respectively of the SPD are particularly important. This is because the proposed approaches could help to mitigate some of the potentially adverse impacts associated with individual developments at the HPC main site, the associated development accommodation sites and the associated development park and ride and freight logistics / storages sites. For instance, by seeking to minimise the overall

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volume of road traffic, the total amount of GHG emissions from transport may be reduced. Without these „project-wide‟ approaches and a comprehensive approach to impact mitigation and compensation, the resultant effects would be more severe.  Other Plans - There may also be cumulative effects from the interaction of the SPD with other plans. Many of these are identified in Chapter 3 of the SA Report. These include the West Somerset Local Plan and emerging Core Strategy, the Sedgemoor Core Strategy (due to be adopted in October 2011) and Somerset Future Transport Plan. These plans have helped to inform the identification of key sustainability issues in this SA Report and the HPC SPD itself has been produced in conformance with these plans. As a consequence, the SPD is considered unlikely to have an adverse cumulative effect on other plans. Nevertheless, there is potential for the SPD to have positive cumulative effect with other plans. For example, the proposed approach for dealing with flood risk and securing contributions for improved flood defences in the SPD will have a beneficial impact on the objectives of the Environment Agency‟s Catchment Flood Management Plan and Flood Risk Management Strategies for the River Parrett. The SPD cumulative effects on European Natura 2000 sites (Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas) have been considered as part of the Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) screening process. This screening process concluded that the SPD would not result in approaches that adversely affect the status of European sites either in isolation or combination with other plans.

Next Steps

SA Stage E: Monitoring the Significant Effects of Implementing the Plan The final stage of SA requires arrangements to be set up for monitoring the significant effects of implementing the approved plan. Monitoring is intended to provide important feedback on the success of the plan and progress towards its objectives. The Good Practice Guide on Local Development Frameworks advises that the monitoring of significant sustainability effects should be integrated with other monitoring of Local Development Frameworks. The HPC SPD has been produced further to and in conformance with national planning policy, the West Somerset Local Plan and emerging Core Strategy and Sedgemoor Core Strategy. For this reason, West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council will seek to report significant sustainability effects in future Annual Monitoring Reports (AMR) associated with the Local Development Framework. In addition, the Councils will promote the establishment of a comprehensive monitoring framework specific to the Hinkley Point C project, which will include indicators assessing significant social, economic and environmental effects. In order to avoid duplication of monitoring activity and efficiency of processes. It is proposed that monitoring of the effects of adopting the plan is integrated into the existing LDF AMR and proposed HPC Project monitoring processes.

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1 Introduction

1.1 The Purpose of the Sustainability Appraisal This document provides a Sustainability Appraisal Report (SA) (incorporating the provisions of the SEA Directive9) underpinning the Hinkley Point C Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). The SPD is a joint document for both West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council (the Councils), developed to provide supplementary advice on the local policy framework. Given the scale of the Hinkley Point C (HPC) project proposals, the opportunities for positive local benefits, as well as the potential for significant impacts on local communities, the Councils consider it beneficial to supplement by way of supplementary advice the local policy framework to guide the HPC project promoter in preparing a Development Consent Order application and any related planning applications submitted to the Councils and to inform decision making bodies on important local considerations. The purpose of the SA process (incorporating Strategic Environmental Assessment - SEA) is to appraise the social, environmental and economic effects of a plan, such as the HPC SPD, from the outset. In so doing, it will help ensure that decisions are made that contribute to achieving sustainable development. The spatial scope for the SPD and SA is limited to the joint administrative area of the Councils, referred to as the SPD study area in this report. The SPD study area is illustrated in Figure 1 overleaf. Throughout the SPD and SA Report, when referring to the Councils, it is recognised that the Councils have a number of authority functions, including for example as Local Planning Authority and Local Housing Authority.

1.2 Sustainability Appraisal Report Consultation Public consultation on the Draft HPC SPD and supporting Draft SA Report and Habitats Regulation Appropriate Assessment Screening was undertaken for a 6 week period between 1st March 2011 and 12th April 2011. A full description of consultation activities is set out in the HPC SPD Report on Consultation, which includes a schedule setting out comments received in relation to the Draft SA Report and how these have been addressed in the final version.

9 Enacted through The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (SI2004/1633).

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Figure 1. Hinkley Point C and associated development sites (based on the promoter‟s Stage 2 Preferred Proposals, incorporating Updates and Proposed Changes); international environmental designations; and national landscape and environmental designations.

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1.3 Structure of the Sustainability Appraisal Report This SA has been tailored to address the sustainability implications most likely to occur as a result of implementing the approaches within the HPC SPD. It also presents the information required for appraising the HPC SPD including:  Section 3: A review of international, national, regional, sub regional and Sedgemoor / West Somerset wide plans, policies and programmes;  Section 4: A description of how the baseline information from the Councils‟ emerging Core Strategies have been used to identify the key sustainability issues that may be significant to the development of the SPD;  Section 5: A summary of the key baseline sustainability issues;  Section 6: A Sustainability Appraisal (SA) Framework (drawn from the frameworks developed for the SA of the emerging Core Strategies of both Councils), including SA Objectives, Decision Making Criteria (DMC), indicators and targets, as well as Matrices for Appraisal;  Section 7: Summary of the results from the SA of SPD Approaches; and  Section 8: Information on the next steps in the SA process and the main conclusions from the SA. This SA Report has been prepared using the methodology set out in the Communities and Local Government (CLG) / Planning Advisory Service (PAS) Plan Making Manual.

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2 Sustainability Appraisal Context and Process

2.1 Context The HPC SPD has been produced further to the existing sustainable development policies of the Councils, approved national policy on nuclear energy development set out in National Policy Statements (NPSs) EN-1 and EN-6 (July 2011) and the emerging Core Strategies of both Councils. West Somerset Council are intending to publish a Core Strategy „Preferred Strategy‟ for public consultation during the autumn 2011. The Sedgemoor District Council Core Strategy was subject to Examination in Public during May 2011 and it is intended that the document will be adopted during October 2011. Separate Sustainability Appraisal has or is being carried out of these relevant policies and plans. Nevertheless, the Councils are carrying out an SA of this SPD in accordance with the Councils‟ sustainable development objectives and any relevant expectations.

2.2 Sustainable Development and the SPD Sustainable development is a key global and local issue. A commonly used definition of sustainable development is: ‘Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ Bruntland Commission, 1987. The UK Government has a sustainable development strategy; Securing the Future, which was published in March 2005. It sets out five key principles for sustainable development as illustrated in Figure 2 below. Spatial plans such as the HPC SPD can have a significant role in achieving the objectives of sustainable development. The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 requires planning bodies, in preparing plans, to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development.

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Figure 2. Guiding Principles in UK Strategy Securing the Future (March 2005).

2.3 A Combined Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment Process As set out in the Communities Local Government (CLG) / Planning Advisory Service Plan (PAS) Making Manual10, the SA process incorporates the requirements of the EU Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive 2001/42/EC or „SEA Directive‟. This was transposed into English law by the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (the SEA Regulations). However, a Sustainability Appraisal covers wider social and economic effects of plans, as well as the more environmentally-focused considerations in the SEA Directive.

2.3.1 Sustainability Appraisal Process The combined SA/SEA process is clearly defined in guidance set out by the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG). It consists of five Stages (A to E) as set out in the Table below. The publication of this report represents the completion of Stage D of the process, „...Consultation with the public and statutory bodies and making any further amendments prior to adoption of the SPD.‟

10 CLG / PAS Plan Making Manual – http://www.pas.gov.uk/pas/core/page.do?pageId=109798

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Table 2 - The Sustainability Appraisal process as applied to the Hinkley Point C Project Supplementary Planning Document

SA Description HPC SPD Stage

A Scoping - setting the context, The scoping stage consultation establishing the baseline and deciding exercise ran from Monday 20th on the scope. In the context of this December 2010 to Monday 24th SPD this involves cross referencing January 2011. Consultees included: with the relevant sections of the Scoping Report and Sustainability  West Somerset Council; Reports for the two planning  Sedgemoor District Council; authorities. This stage also involves  Somerset County Council; consultation with external organisaions and statutory consutees to confirm the  The Environment Agency; scope of the issues to be included in  Natural England; and the assessment.  English Heritage.

B Assessment of the alternative options In addition to the assessment of the considered for the SPD and the SPD approaches, the approach emerging preferred approaches for the proposed during the Stage 2 SPD. This also includes the consultation by the HPC project identification of mitigation measures promoter was appraised using the where adverse or uncertain impacts are same criteria, to allow for a predicted. Cumulative effects with comparison of options. other plan and programmes are also considered.

C Preparation of the Sustainability Public consultation on the Draft HPC Appraisal Report. This records the SPD and supporting Draft SA Report findings of the SA process described was undertaken for a 6 week period in the two stages above. between 1st March 2011 and 12th April 2011. A full description of D Consultation with the public and consultation activities is set out in the statutory bodies and making any HPC SPD Report on Consultation, further amendments prior to adoption which includes a schedule setting out of the SPD. comments received in relation to the Draft SA Report and how these have been addressed.

E Monitor the effects of the SPD on the Monitoring indicators and targets will environment/sustainability once it has be aligned where appropriate with the been adopted. monitoring frameworks for the WSC and SDC Core Strategies. The HPC SPD also sets out a number of potential impacts relating to the HPC project where additional monitoring will be expected to be undertaken.

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2.3.1 Compliance with the SEA Directive and Regulations The dual purpose of this report is to document the SA process and the elements of the SA process that fulfil the requirements of the SEA Regulations and the SEA Directive. To avoid producing a separate SEA report and a SA report they have been combined. The contents of a SEA Environmental Report as required by the SEA Directive are set out in the box overleaf.

What the SEA Directive says: “The environmental report shall include information that may reasonably be required taking into account current knowledge and methods of assessment, the contents and level of detail in the plan or programme, [and] its stage in the decision-making process” (Article 5.2). Information to be provided in the Environmental Report includes: • “the likely significant effects on the environment, including on issues such as biodiversity, population, human health, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, landscape and the interrelationship between the above factors. These effects should include secondary, cumulative, synergistic, short, medium and long-term, permanent and temporary, positive and negative effects” (Annex I (f) and footnote) • “an outline of the reasons for selecting the alternatives dealt with” (Annex I (h)) • “the measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and as fully as possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the plan or programme” (Annex I (g))

The following table (Table 3) sets out which sections of this report correspond with the requirements of Article 5.2 and Annex I of the SEA Directive and Regulation 12(3), Schedule 2 of the SEA regulations Table 3: How the Sustainability Appraisal complies with the requirements of the SEA Directive and Regulations Section of Description Compliance with the the SA SEA Directive and Report Regulations Non- Non-technical summary of the SA and SEA. Annex I (j) technical Summary Chapter 1 Sets out the main objectives of the SA and SEA and Annex I (a) and 2.2 and the main purpose of the SPD. 2.3 2.1 Describes the planning and decision-making hierarchy Article 5 (2) in which the SPD sits. Chapter 4 Summary of the consultation process to date with the Article 5 (4) as defined statutory consultation bodies and the public. by Article 6 (3). 5.1 and A review of plans and programmes has been carried Annex I (a) Appendices out as part of the SA/SEA process for the West A and B. Somerset and Sedgemoor Core Strategies. These have been cross-referenced in the SPD SA, rather than

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Section of Description Compliance with the the SA SEA Directive and Report Regulations repeating the same information. Chapter 5 This section describes the baseline data that is relevant Annex I (b) (c) (d) (e) and 6. to the SA of the SPD. (f) Chapter 5 This section summarises the key sustainability issues Annex I (d) (e) and 6. and problems identified in the review of baseline data, other plans and programmes and consultation. The summary includes environmental issues amongst the sustainability issues. Chapter 8 This chapter describes the SA and SEA appraisal of Article 5 (1) Annex I the SPD. It also describes the main justification for the (h) (g) selection of the various options. Full details of the appraisal matrices can be found in Appendix A. It also compares the effects of the two options that were considered. Chapter 8 This documents what mitigation measures are required Article 5 (1), Annex I to reduce or avoid adverse effects and improve neutral (g). or beneficial effects further. It also highlights some key relevant policies, such as the emerging Core Strategies and saved Local Plan policies Chapters 9 This chapter reviews the potential for cumulative Article 10 and Annex I effects. It also states the proposed monitoring (i) requirements of the significant effects of the SPD, identified in the SA.

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3 Relevant Plans, Programmes and Approaches

3.1 Relevant Approaches, Plans and Programmes

3.1.1 The Review Process During the preparation of the SA Scoping Reports for the WSC Core Strategy11 and SDC Core Strategy SA Report and appendices12, a thorough review of national, regional and local plans and programmes was undertaken. The information that was gathered by both Councils was revisited for the purpose of undertaking the SA of the SPD, to identify any new plans and programmes that had not previously been considered. The main sources of additional information identified that were of direct relevance to the SA of the HPC SPD were the formal public consultations undertaken by the HPC project promoter:  Stage 1: Consultation on „Initial Proposals and Options‟ 15th December 2009 to 18th January 2010.  Stage 2: Consultation on „Preferred Proposals‟ – 9th July 2010 to 4th October 2010 (including Preliminary Environmental Information and the Sustainability Evaluation of the Preferred Proposals). Since the Draft SA Report was prepared, EDF Energy have undertaken two further stages of consultation:  Stage 2 Update: „Update on and Proposed Changes to Preferred Proposals – 25th February 2011 to 28th March 2011.  Stage 2b: „Proposed Changes to the Preferred Proposals including M5 Junction 24 and Highway Improvements in the Bridgwater Area' – 1st July 2011 – to 12th August 2011. The timing of the „Stage 2 Update‟ consultation coincided with the formal public consultation on the HPC SPD and SA. The final version of the SPD and SA Report has been amended to reflect updates to the EDF Energy HPC project proposals where appropriate. It is also noteworthy that Appraisals of Sustainability have been undertaken for the National Policy Statements (NPS) EN-1 „Overarching Energy‟13 and EN-6

11 West Somerset Council LDF Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report, Environ UK Ltd, May 2009. See link: http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/Planning--- Building/Planning-Policy/Local-Development-Framework/Sustainability-Appraisal pages 7-9. Last accessed 13/12/10. 12 Sedgemoor Local Development Framework Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Report, Environ UK Ltd, September 2010. See link: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=5854 pages 12-13 and Appendix A. Last accessed 13/12/10. 13 Appraisal of Sustainability for EN-1 (Overarching Energy NPS) – Main Report – October 2010. See link: https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/overarching/aos

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„Nuclear‟14. Approved versions of NPSs EN-1 and EN-6 were published in July 2011. Plans that have been reviewed as part of this SA include those listed in Table 4 below. Table 4. Plans, programmes and policies that have been reviewed as part of this SA List of Plans and Programmes that have been Reviewed National Plans and Programmes Overarching Energy National Policy Statement (EN-1) –July 2011 Nuclear National Policy Statement (EN-6) – July 2011 PPS1: Sustainable Development PPG2 Green Belts PPS3 Housing PPS4 Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth PPS5 Planning for the Historic Environment PPS8 Open Space, Sport and Outdoor Recreation PPS9 Biodiversity and Geological Conservation. PPS10 Planning for Sustainable Waste Management PPG13 Transport PPG17 Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation PPG20 Coastal Flooding PPS22 Renewable Energy PPS23 Planning and Pollution Control PPG24 Planning and Noise PPS25 Development and Flood Risk UK Low Carbon Transition Plan, National Strategy for Climate and Energy Localism Bill. Regional Plans, Programmes and Policies Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) – SoS Proposed Changes The South West Climate Change Action Plan Regional Waste Strategy for the South West Water Resources for the Future – A Strategy for the South West Region. South West Regional Economic Strategy. South West Biodiversity Implementation Plan Sub-Regional / County Level Plans and Programmes Somerset Future Transport Plan 2011 - 2026 Somerset Waste Local Plan 2001 - 2011 Somerset Biodiversity Strategy 2008 – 2018

14 Appraisal of Sustainability for EN-6 (Nuclear NPS) – Main Report – October 2010. See link: https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/nuclear/appraisals_of_sustainability_en6

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List of Plans and Programmes that have been Reviewed Somerset Renewable Energy Strategy (2005) Draft Somerset Economic Assessment (November 2010). Somerset and Exmoor National Park Joint Structure Plan 1991 to 2011. North Devon and Somerset Coastal Advisory Group (NDASCAG) Shoreline Management Plan SMP2 – Draft Issues and Options (January 2009). Preferred Parrett Estuary Flood Risk Management Strategy Report (2009). River Parrett Catchment Flood management Plan. Local Plans and Programmes Sedgemoor Corporate Priorities Sedgemoor Employment and Skills Task Force Report and Action Plan (August 2009), Sedgemoor Housing Strategy (2008) Sedgemoor Biodiversity Action Plan. Sedgemoor District Local Plan (September 2004) – saved policies Sedgemoor Core Strategy (Adoption scheduled for October 2011) Sedgemoor Core Strategy revised SA Scoping Report (Annex A) (March 2010). Sedgemoor Strategic Flood Risk Assessment. Sedgemoor Sustainable Community Strategy Sedgemoor Economic Strategy Bridgwater Vision Sedgemoor Infrastructure Delivery Strategy Sedgemoor Green Infrastructure Strategy West Somerset Corporate Objectives West Somerset Sustainable Community Strategy West Somerset Local Plan – saved policies West Somerset Core Strategy Options Paper (January 2010) West Somerset LDF Core Strategy SA Scoping Report and associated topic papers (May 2009). West Somerset Economic Strategy Western Somerset Economic Development and Access Strategy. West Somerset Climate Change Strategy West Somerset Sustainable Community Strategy West Somerset Biodiversity Action Plan Quantock Hills AONB Management Plan Vale of Taunton and Quantock Fringes Countryside Character Assessment.

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4 Consultation

Consultation is a core part of the SA process. Consultation occurs at two stages: firstly, at the end of the scoping stage (SA Stage A as described above); and then once when the draft SPD is being consulted on (SA Stage D).

4.1 Stage A Consultation - Scoping The scoping stage consultation exercise ran from Wednesday 22nd December 2010 to Wednesday 26th January 2011. The consultees included:  West Somerset Council;  Sedgemoor District Council;  Somerset County Council;  The Environment Agency;  Natural England; and  English Heritage. Comments that were received from the consultees have been addressed during the production of this SA Report. These are also summarised below:  West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Councils have been directly involved in the SA and SPD development processes and their comments and guidance have been integrated throughout.  Somerset County Council provided comments regarding landscape and visual issues, issues regarding the accessibility of public rights of way, green space and the use of previously developed land. They also highlighted a number of plans that would help to inform the identification of sustainability issues.  The Environment Agency identified a number of plans to be included in the review process as well as additional sources of baseline information.  Natural England highlighted the fact that the „Exmoor and Quantock Oakwoods‟ Special Area of Conservation (SAC) should be included in the baseline along with the Blue Anchor to Lilstock Bay Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). They also suggested an amendment to assessment question 1.1 to state „protect sites of international and national importance‟.  English Heritage highlighted a range of plans and programmes that might be relevant along with core sources of heritage information. They also provided information regarding the key heritage issues and how these overlap with other aspects of sustainability e.g. tourism, leisure, recreation, place-making and the design of new development.

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4.2 Stage D Consultation – Draft Sustainability Appraisal Report Public consultation on the Draft HPC SPD and supporting Draft SA Report and Habitats Regulation Appropriate Assessment Screening was undertaken for a 6 week period between 1st March 2011 and 12th April 2011. A full description of consultation activities is set out in the HPC SPD Report on Consultation, which includes a schedule setting out comments received in relation to the Draft SA Report and how these have been addressed in the final version. In summary, comments raised were as follows:  EDF Energy comment that the Sustainability Appraisal fundamentally fails to recognise the overriding benefits of low carbon energy generation or the very substantial socio-economic benefits of the Hinkley Point C investment. This flaw exposes an inappropriate emphasis on largely unsubstantiated assertions of impact. In response, the SA has been updated to refer to the importance of nuclear power as part of the Government‟s strategy for generating low carbon energy.  Otterhampton Parish Council concur significantly with areas of the document, particularly where it relates to major aspects that affect the proposed Combwich Wharf development. They advise that the proposals at Combwich outlined in the SPD accord with the „Sustainability Appraisal‟ of the emerging Local Development Framework and the objectives of sustainable development.  Somerset County Council comment that the SA Report needs to set out in more detail how the two development options/scenarios that inform the appraisal have been iteratively developed. The SA Report has been updated to reflect the HPC project promoter‟s proposed changes to the Preferred Proposals. Further details of how the approaches in the SPD have been changed to respond to consultation comments are set out in the Statement on Consultation to be published alongside the final SPD.  Somerset County Council comment that, while the base descriptions and issues are fairly comprehensive, there is insufficient emphasis and information on biodiversity and landscape issues. The Councils received a number of comments highlighting that the SPD should deal more robustly with biodiversity and landscape issues. A new project-wide issues and approaches section was therefore added to the SPD entitled „Protection of the Natural Environment.‟  Stogursey Parish Council states that in general the document proposes a sensible framework within which the development should proceed in a sustainable fashion that will provide some legacy benefit to the affected communities.

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5 Baseline Situation and Key Sustainability Issues

5.1 Scope and Purpose of the Baseline and Key Issues The SEA Directive requires a discussion of the ‘relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan or programme’ (Annex 1 (b)). In the case of SA, the baseline and identification of key issues must also consider social and economic aspects of the policy, plan or programme. The baseline provides the reference point for predicting and monitoring the potential effects of the HPC SPD. In this context, the baseline means the prevailing characteristics of the current situation and also significant trends in the study area of the plan. For this SA, the summary of the baseline situation has been merged with the summary of sustainability issues. Sustainability issues can be any issues or uncertainties which need to be understood and addressed before the plan can be considered sustainable. Issues can be positive or negative, and will help to identify enhancement opportunities as well as measures to minimise detrimental impacts.

5.2 The Baseline Sustainability Issues for Hinkley Point C and Associated Development

5.2.1 Sources of Baseline Information In order to identify the key sustainability issues for West Somerset and Sedgemoor in relation to the HPC project, the issues identified in the Scoping Report for the West Somerset Core Strategy15, the SA Report for the Sedgemoor Core Strategy16 and Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report17 have been examined. This has been supplemented with the information from the Appraisal of Sustainability Site Report for Hinkley Point as part of the NPS process18 and Preliminary Environmental Information published by the HPC project promoter as part of the Stage 2 „Preferred Proposals‟ and subsequent consultations.

15Source: http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/Planning---Building/Planning-Policy/Local- Development-Framework/Sustainability-Appraisal,. Last accessed 14/12/10. 16Source: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=6957&p=0 pages 12-19 and Appendix A. Last accessed 14/12/10. 17 Source: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=4907&p=0. Last accessed 14/12/10. 18 Source: Appraisal of Sustainability Site Report for Hinkley Point Draft National Policy Statement for Nuclear Power Generation (EN-6) https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/docs/AoS%20site%20report%20for%20Hinkley %20Point%20-%202010.pdf Last accessed 14/12/10

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This provided a comprehensive list of sustainability issues for consideration, as set out in Table 5 below. The topics are drawn in part from the aspects identified in the SEA Directive and the topic areas covered by the SA Frameworks of the two Councils. Stakeholder engagement and public consultation has been identified as an additional sustainability issue for the HPC SPD, as communication with stakeholders and the public is seen as key to the HPC project. The HPC project would have a wide ranging impact on the SPD study area over an extensive time period, including the construction, operation and decommissioning phases and the long term storage of nuclear waste. The following issues are considered to be of fundamental importance for the HPC SPD:

Table 5. Key Sustainability issues for the Hinkley Point SPD Sustainability Appraisal. SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic Biodiver The area covered by the SPD includes the Severn Estuary Special Area of sity and Conservation (SAC), Special Protection Area (SPA), Ramsar site and Site of Special ecology Scientific Interest (SSSI). These sites are all adjacent to Hinkley Point. In addition to these sites there is the Exmoor and Quantock Oakwoods SAC, Blue Anchor to Lilstock Bay SSSI and the Bridgwater Bay SSSI and National Nature Reserve. The Steart Peninsular, to the east of Hinkley Point, has been identified as an appropriate area for the creation of compensatory habitat by The Bristol Port and Environment Agency. Proposals involve the managed realignment of coastal defences to provide large areas of salt marsh and some fresh water habitats. Further inland are the Somerset Levels and Moors SPA and Ramsar sites. Much of the local wildlife within the two authority areas is found within small and often isolated habitat fragments. County Wildlife Sites and Local Nature Reserves provide local policy protection for sites of recognised value, however other areas of land are also capable of providing valuable habitats, including for European Protected Species and Biodiversity Action Plan priority species. Without protection, small sites and ecological features (e.g. ponds and hedgerows) are highly vulnerable to environmental stresses, such as habitat loss and degradation. There are many and varied terrestrial, intertidal and subtidal habitats under threat, reasons including: insensitive management of wildlife-rich areas and caravan parks, commercial dredging for sediment and proposals for tidal barrages for energy generation in the Severn Estuary19. In terms of the existing context the current state of the district (Sedgemoor) with regards to nature conservation is „moderate to good‟20. Should it be necessary to provide compensatory habitat in relation to the HPC main site or associated development proposals, documents such as the South West Delivery Plan for Biodiversity, Somerset Biodiversity Strategy, district level Biodiversity Action Plans and Quantock Hills Management Plan set out potential areas for investment to protect and enhance biodiversity. Landsca The most notable landscape features within the two authority areas are the Quantock pe and Hills, Mendip Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Exmoor built National Park. In addition to this there is the coast line along the Severn Estuary

19 Source: Sedgemoor Green Infrastructure Scoping Report. http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=7059&p=0 20 Source: Sedgemoor Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Report (September 2010) page 15. http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=5854

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SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic environ leading to the Bristol Channel, and Conservation Areas in the two authorities‟ ment settlements21 22. With the exception of Bridgwater, both West Somerset and Sedgemoor are predominately rural and agricultural districts with scattered small settlements and some larger principal settlements acting as hubs. As a consequence, large scale development has the potential to result in significant landscape and/or built environment impacts. The general topography of the area, where the flat levels and moors are encircled by the Mendip and Quantock hills, also means that some development in the River Parrett valley and on the coast can be seen at distance. In West Somerset there has been a gradual change in landscape character due to changes in agricultural practices that has seen the loss of landscape features such as hedgerows, woodland and increases in field size. Likewise there has been a trend of new development that does not reflect the local styles and materials of existing buildings in the authority area21. Although the Sedgemoor has significant areas of rural land use and landscape it is arguably more urbanised than West Somerset because there are more densely populated settlements. This greater degree of urbanisation means that there is development pressure on the neighbouring rural fringe. As a consequence the future development of settlements, such as Bridgwater, could impact on the landscape character of the area22. The topography of the rural area around Hinkley Point is characterised by predominantly flat landscape with some low-lying hills to the south. Arable farmland is divided by hedgerows and small settlements, including the hamlets of Shurton, Burton, Wick, Stolford and Lilstock, and the small village of Stogursey. The existing Hinkley Point A and B power station complexes are therefore dominant features in local views, as well as longer vistas from the Quantock and Mendip hills and along the coast. The edges of larger urban areas (e.g. Bridgwater and Highbridge) also present potentially sensitive landscape features because they are highly prominent within the wider landscape. Given the predominately rural / semi-rural nature of the two local authority areas, tranquillity is a significant issue, particularly for the area in the vicinity of Hinkley Point23 As a consequence changes in transport volumes and/or distribution could have an adverse impact on tranquillity. Cultural The two authority areas contain listed buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments, heritage which include “Wick Barrow Pixies‟ Mound” at Hinkley Point24, as well as registered (designa parks and gardens and conservation areas. In addition to this, there are numerous ted sites, records of archaeological remains25. A key sustainability challenge is meeting the need features, for future development without adversely impacting on heritage assets. This is an non- important issue for both authorities, particularly in relation to the loss or degradation of designat non-designated buildings and heritage assets that contribute to the cultural and built ed sites heritage of the area. and Consultation with English Heritage has also highlighted some wider heritage issues features which include the capacity of Bridgwater to accept high-level growth without adverse and impacts on its historic core. EH also highlights the need to conserve the industrial and archaeol commercial heritage of the area. Again this is particularly relevant to Bridgwater. ogy). These heritage features can also provide an opportunity for future development to integrate these assets and use them to contribute towards local distinctiveness, sense of

21 Updated SA Scoping Report West Somerset Council Core Strategy page 25 22 Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 25 23 Appraisal of Sustainability Site Report for Hinkley Point, page 28. 24 Appraisal of Sustainability Site Report for Hinkley Point page 27. 25 Updated SA Scoping Report West Somerset Council Core Strategy page 22. Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report, page 3.

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SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic place and community engagement as well as awareness of the area‟s historic environment. Water Both authority areas contain extensive low lying areas of the Somerset Levels and (flood Moors that are vulnerable both to river and coastal flooding. Indeed, almost all the risk, land in the Levels and Moors lies at or below the level of high spring tides. This is above already a significant issue for people living in settlements in vulnerable locations as and well as farms, businesses and infrastructure that are also present in these areas. For below example, areas of Bridgwater, Cannington, and all of Burnham- on-Sea and Highbridge ground are categorised as having a 'high' probability of flooding26. In West Somerset, parts of water Williton are at risk of fluvial flooding from the Monksilver Stream. resource Future development is governed by national, regional and local policy which aims to s and avoid exacerbating the existing flood risk whilst avoiding significant flood risk to new water developments. These measures are particularly important because of the impact that quality) climate change could have on future flood risk and sea-level rise which may increase the magnitude and/or the extent of potential flood risk. The management of water resources is vital to ensure that the environment and human beings have sufficient water resources to meet their needs. As part of their Water Resource Management Plan Wessex Water has concluded that there will be sufficient resources to meet the needs of the population now and in the future (to 2032)27 in West Somerset. However, the Sedgemoor Core Strategy SA identifies risks to water resources as an important sustainability issue for the future28. Maintenance of water resources is also vital for achieving and maintaining favourable conditions in the Somerset Levels and Moors. As a consequence minimising the demand for water resources from new development is critical to maintaining the availability of water resources both now and in future climatic conditions where rainfall may not be as reliable and a greater variation in weather conditions is experienced. The potential de-watering of Bridgwater Bay SSSI is a potentially significant sustainability issue. Water quality is an important environmental issue, particularly given the number of rivers and watercourses within the SPD study area. In general terms river and bathing water quality is good and/or improving within both authority areas27,28. The Water Framework Directive is a particularly important piece of legislation which now shifts the focus away from the chemical quality of watercourses and waterbodies and places emphasis on their ecological quality. This is an important issue for future development and land management because there will be a need to prevent the quality of waterbodies from deteriorating and in some cases to improve the overall quality to achieve „Good Ecological Potential‟. There are clear overlaps between this issue and biodiversity and the role of open space and rivers as part of green infrastructure. Soils The rural and low lying characteristics of the SPD study area means that it contains and significant areas of high quality agricultural land. Current threats to these areas include geology development on the fringes of existing settlements, increased frequency of flooding and sea-level rise (particularly within Sedgemoor). More generally, there has been a change in focus with the need to retain and protect soil structures becoming more important because of biodiversity benefits as well as food production benefits. Geology is an important factor, particularly in West Somerset, where there are two sites that are registered under the Geological Conservation Review (GCR), namely: Blue Anchor to Lilstock Coast and Glenthorne. (see Figure 1).

26 Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 16. 27 West Somerset LDF SA Scoping Report – Topic Paper 8: Water 28 Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 20

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SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic Waste The final treatment and /or disposal of waste arising within both authority areas is and particularly significant due to the availability of capacity at suitable landfill sites. This resource factor, combined with other levers such as the landfill tax and recycling targets mean manage that the way waste disposal authorities manage and dispose of wastes are changing. ment There are a variety of options and solutions, such as anaeorobic digestion, energy from waste and more frequent kerbside collections that could be adopted as well as interventions that can help to divert more waste from landfill for recycling29. Waste arising from the proposed new power station and associated development also poses sustainability issues. Large quantities of construction waste will be generated during construction of the new power station and the other associated development. Finding an alternative to disposal to landfill may present a challenge given the rural / semi-rural character of the SPD study area. However, it is the long term waste impacts associated with the hazardous radioactive waste that will be generated during the operational life of the power station30 that presents the most significant sustainability issue. As a consequence, it is a requirement of the Draft Nuclear National Policy Statement and the Managing Radioactive Waste Safely White Paper31 that interim storage for spent fuel and intermediate level waste to be stored on site until a long term geological disposal facility can be located and constructed. Climate (a) NPS EN-1 states and that „for the UK to meet energy, its energy and climate (climate change objectives, the change Government believes and that there is an urgent reducing need for new electricity contribu generation plant, tions to including new nuclear climate power. Nuclear power change) generation is a low carbon, proven technology, which is anticipated to play an increasingly important role as we move to diversify and decarbonise our sources of electricity. It is Government policy that new nuclear power should be able to contribute as much as possible to the UK‟s need for new capacity‟.32 New nuclear power generation, such as the HPC project proposals, is therefore seen as a very important element of the Government‟s strategy to meeting its legal obligation of reducing the UK‟s greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% (from 1990 levels) by

29 These are listed in the Somerset Waste Local Plan 2001 to 2011 Source:http://www.somerset.gov.uk/irj/public/services/directory/service?rid=/wpccontent/Sites/SC C/Web%20Pages/Services/Services/Environment/Waste%20Planning%20Policy 30 AoS site report for Hinkley Point page 10. 31 National Policy Statement for Nuclear Power Generation (EN-6) and Managing Radioactive Waste Safely „A Framework for Implementing Geological Disposal‟, a White Paper by Defra, BERR and the devolved administrations for Wales and Northern Ireland. 32 National Policy Statement EN-1 „Overarching Energy (July 2011) paragraph 3.5.1.

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SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic 2050. Alongside new nuclear power, the strategy also includes: increased renewable electricity generation; fossil fuel generation with Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS); reduced demand through energy efficiency; „smart demand management‟ across the national grid (balancing supply and demand); and interconnection of the grid with other countries. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from all activities is critical if the magnitude of long term climate change weather impacts is to be reduced. In data collected for the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) from 2008, the total CO2 emissions from within SDC‟s area totalled 863 kt CO2 (7.7 per capita) and in WSC 33 they totalled 378 kt CO2 (10.6 per capita) . These figures can be explained by the fact that West Somerset is more rural than Sedgemoor and as result the population is more likely to travel further, generally by private car to access services, shops, jobs and amenities. However, the total emissions are greater in Sedgemoor because of a greater concentration of commercial and industrial activities and a greater population. Increasing the housing numbers and population growth in the South West region means that there is a significant risk that these emissions will grow rather than decline. As a result, new development needs to be planned and constructed so that increased emissions are avoided by making new development zero carbon, by limiting temporary development that serves no long term purpose, and by minimising the need for people to travel by private car. There is also a need to reduce the emissions associated with the existing building stock and infrastructure, which land use planning can also make positive contributions towards. Adapting to future climatic conditions is another important sustainability issue. We have already covered the issues regarding flood risk. However, other impacts such as hotter and drier summers and wetter winters also need to be considered34. The SW Region is generally milder than the rest of the UK and can expect higher average temperatures than other areas. As a result new development needs to include measures that will help people living in or and using these developments to adapt to the future climatic conditions. Some measures e.g. planting need to be considered now. However by designing „adaptive capacity‟ into new developments, other measures can be left until they are needed (e.g. designing buildings so that external solar shading can be added at a later date). Air There are currently no Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) in West Somerset, or quality, Sedgemoor. The main sources of background and ambient noise and vibration are the noise, main roads, such as the M5, A38 and A39. Sources of light pollution in the districts are vibratio the main settlements and road networks. n and Emissions to the atmosphere, noise, vibration and light pollution may also be issues light during the construction and decommissioning of a new power station and potentially pollutio during operation also. n Transpo The M5 is the main transport corridor within the SPD area along with other trunk roads rt such as the A38 and A39. These provide important transport links for accessing Bristol and Bath to the north and Somerset, Devon and Cornwall to the south. There are also rail links from Taunton, Bridgwater and Burnham-on-Sea to Weston-Super- Mare and Bristol. The rural nature of West Somerset means that its population is more dependent upon private car to access all the services and facilities they require. Conversely the semi- rural character of Sedgemoor means that accessibility to public transport within the major settlements (e.g. Bridgwater and Burnham-on-Sea) is easier and there is a greater choice in the form or transport that residents can use. Nevertheless there are

33 Local and Regional CO2 Emissions Estimates for 2005-2008. http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/climate_change/gg_emissions/uk_emissions/200 8_local/2008_local.aspx. 34 Warming to the Idea - Building resilience to extreme weather and climate change in the South West. Source: http://www.oursouthwest.com/climate/registry/warming-to-the-idea-2010.pdf

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SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic opportunities to improve the public transport provisions and the highway network within both local authority areas35 In light of these constraints it is particularly important to implement policies that do not increase road traffic and enable residents to select viable alternative modes of transport or avoid the need to travel in the first place. Human A number of factors are influencing the health of the population within the SPD study health area. Firstly the population is ageing as life-expectancy increases. This is true for both authority areas but is more evident within West Somerset where the increase in older proportion of the population has been coupled by a loss of 19-34 year olds36. This trend is also being driven by net in-migration of people seeking to retire or live in more rural locations. As a result, the demands on existing healthcare provisions are increasing. At the same time the general health of the population is becoming less healthy as demonstrated by the high proportion of obese adults in Somerset37. The access issues described above relating to transport and the accessibility of services are equally relevant to health care. Culture, Tourism is an important economic sector for both authorities and as a result the leisure, accessibility of tourist sites, accommodation and other amenities are critical for their tourism ongoing success. The safeguarding and enhancement of the natural and cultural and heritage of Sedgemoor and West Somerset is of fundamental importance to the tourism recreatio industry, as is the maintenance and improvement of the transport, services and n accommodation network. These issues will help the tourism sector38. In addition to safeguarding existing assets and facilities there is a need to improve their accessibility for visitors and employees alike. Public Rights of Way (PRoWs) are the prime means by which the public can access the countryside and landscape. Within the HPC SPD area there are numerous PRoWs that could be affected. This also includes some regional footpath routes such as the West Somerset Coast Path, which will form part of a SW regional and national coastal footpath route (the England Coastal Path). Social As noted in the transport section above, the rural nature of West Somerset areas means infrastru that for some groups of the population, that do not have ready access to private cars, cture access to important social services can be challenging. For instance there are issues associated with accessing education, and social service39. Accessibility is less of an issue within Sedgemoor because it is semi-rural and transport is easier for the population living within the larger settlements. However, it too has its own problems. Bridgwater in particular contains some of the most deprived areas within Somerset and England. Educational attainment and skills are the specific areas where Bridgwater is underperforming40. Crime The majority of people living in both authority areas feel fairly or very safe during the and day and at night time 41. In general there are higher rates of crime in the semi-urban safety areas of Sedgemoor than the rural areas of both Sedgemoor and West Somerset. However, crime and the perception of being at risk from crime is low in both authority

35 West Somerset LDF SA Scoping Report – Topic Paper 4: Public Infrastructure and Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 23. 36 Sedgemoor Annual Monitoring Report 2008/09 page 10 and West Somerset Annual Monitoring Report page 19. 37 (34.7.%) From the West Somerset Core Strategy SA Scoping Report 38 West Somerset Annual Monitoring Report page 26 and Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 33. 39 West Somerset Annual Monitoring Report page 26 40 Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 46. 41 West Somerset Annual Monitoring Report page 15 and Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 50.

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SA Key Sustainability Issues Topic areas41. Nevertheless, new development can provide opportunities to change the built environment to deter crime and also change people‟s perception about their vulnerability to crime in a given location. Econom Economic activity is lower in both authority areas than the national average42. Over y time there has been a net loss of jobs from the area due in part to the decline in the agricultural sector generally, and the industrial sector in Bridgwater, as well as an increase in the numbers of residents travelling outside of the area for work. Access to the M5 and the wider motorway network is seen as an asset in Sedgemoor, given the lack of alternative modes of haulage following the decline in the railway network since the 1960s. There is a perceived need (within both local authorities SA Scoping Reports) to increase the employment land within both authority areas, particularly in those sectors that are most likely to generate economic growth, such as the low carbon energy sector, both in the current and future economic conditions. This needs to be coupled with measures to improve the accessibility of employment for employees and to allow them to gain better access to clients and markets. Qualification levels amongst the working age population in West Somerset are amongst the lowest in the South West, and a high proportion of Sedgemoor‟s working age population has no qualifications. For example, the proportion of the population within Sedgemoor with high-level qualifications (e.g. degree level and higher) accounts for 21% the population compared with 27% at the South West Regional scale43. This is because local access to higher level skills training is limited, with no Higher Education Institution in the area, and a limited number of further education colleges. However, it is worth noting that the quality of the existing educational skills providers is good. Housing Housing provision is an important issue within both authorities. For West Somerset there is significant in migration which supports demand for housing. However, this increase in demand is forcing house prices to rise and as a consequence is also increasing the demand for affordable housing44. The dispersed nature of housing across West Somerset also means that access to services and jobs may be restricted (as described in other the other topics above). In Sedgemoor there are similar issues with the availability of all types of housing. Furthermore, recent price increases are increasing the demand for affordable property45. However, due to Bridgwater‟s relative affordability compared with other parts of the District and neighbouring authorities and accessibility to Bristol it is a popular location for people to live. Town “The retail offer in Bridgwater does not compete well with other regional retail centres and such as Taunton, Bristol and Exeter and this leads to residents of Sedgemoor travelling rural outside of the district for certain types of shopping. The traditional “high street” within centres Bridgwater and the market towns has been showing signs of decline (vacancies and quality / type of outlet) in the face of competition from supermarkets / other centres and this is a trend which seems likely to continue. Rural centres and villages have suffered the closure of some banks, post offices and shops in recent years”46.

42 West Somerset Annual Monitoring Report page 26 and Sedgemoor LDF: Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 32. 43 Sedgemoor Economic Masterplan, July 2009. Page 9. Sedgemoor District Council - Economic Development Strategy and Employment Land Review 44 West Somerset Annual Monitoring Report page 17 45 Sedgemoor LDF Sustainability Appraisal Revised Scoping Report page 43. 46 Source: Sedgemoor Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Report (September 2010) page 19.

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6 Sustainability Appraisal Framework

6.1 Purpose and Overview The SA Framework provides the means for considering, assessing and comparing the predicted sustainability effects of the HPC SPD. In order to create an appraisal framework for this SPD, the SA objectives and appraisal questions for the Core Strategies of the two Councils have been used as the starting point for developing a hybrid SA framework. The information gathered to summarise the baseline situation and identify the key sustainability issues for the SPD was then used to guide the selection or amendment of the SA objectives and appraisal questions. The resulting framework can be found in Table 6 overleaf and 0 sets out a comparison with the SA framework for the Core Strategies of the two Councils. This shows that the composite SA Framework for the SPD reflects the issues, topics and objectives identified by both councils‟ SA Frameworks. The framework includes a series of SA topics, objectives and appraisal questions, which are supported by a range of indicators and targets that were identified in the Sedgemoor Core Strategy SA Report. These have been extracted and cross referenced with the SA objectives identified for the SPD and are set out at Appendix B. Through a series of appraisal procedures the SPD has been tested against the SA Objectives and appraisal questions. From this, the potential effects of the supplementary advice in the SPD has been predicted and their significance assessed. To aid the appraisal process and ensure all the requirements of the SEA Directive are met, appraisal matrices have been used, similar to those used to assess the Sedgemoor Core Strategy47. These have provided a structure for completing and documenting the process. They will also consider potential impacts against the current baseline conditions as well as future baseline conditions drawing on current trends in baseline data.

47 Source: http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=5854

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Table 6. Sustainability Appraisal Framework for Hinkley Point SPD. SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Will the proposed SPD approach… 1. Biodiversity To maintain and enhance, 1.1 protect sites of international and national importance? and ecology biodiversity and ecology 1.2 help to conserve and enhance species diversity and in particular avoid harm to protected species? 1.3 help to maintain and enhance sites designated for their nature conservation interest (including sites of international importance)? 1.4 help to maintain and enhance the wildlife value of rural and urban environments (hedgerows and other wildlife corridors)? 1.5 contribute towards maintaining and enhancing green infrastructure and integrate biodiversity into new development? 2.Landscape Maintain and enhance the quality 2.1 protect and /or enhance landscape character, designated features of landscape quality, and Built of landscape and the built townscape, public realm and the built environment? Environment environment. 2.2 help to make a positive contribution to townscape character and local distinctiveness/sense of place? 2.3 help to create places, spaces and buildings that work well, wear well and look well? 2.4 encourage development which incorporates green infrastructure and helps to link isolated areas of open space? 2.5 encourage development that makes use of previously developed land included brownfield, vacant and underused sites). 3.Cultural To maintain cultural heritage and 3.1 protect or help to enhance the fabric and setting of designated archaeological sites, monuments, Heritage archaeological resources for the structures and buildings, recorded Historic Parks and gardens, maritime and coastal heritage, benefit of current and future listed buildings and conservation areas? generations. 3.2 protect or help to enhance the fabric and setting of undesignated archaeological sites, monuments, structures and buildings? 4.Water To avoid increasing the risk of 4.1 avoid increasing the risk of river and coastal flooding to people, property and infrastructure? flooding to existing and new 4.2 avoid increasing the risk of surface water flooding to people, property and infrastructure? developments, protect water 4.3 avoid adverse impacts on surface water quality (including coastal and marine water quality) and quality and water resources. assist achievement of Water Framework Directive objectives? 4.4 avoid adverse impacts on the supply of surface, coastal and marine water resources? 5.Soils and To protect and enhance the 5.1 minimise or avoid the loss of best and most versatile agricultural land? geology quality of land and soil. 5.2 avoid causing soil erosion and help to protect soils? 5.3 reduce areas of contaminated land or avoid contaminating land? 5.4 encourage development that utilises previously developed land instead of greenfield sites?

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SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Will the proposed SPD approach…

6.Waste and To reduce waste generation, 6.1 encourage development to re-use or refurbish existing buildings and sites? Resource manage waste sustainably and use 6.2 lead to developments that proactively reduce the volume of waste generated during Management natural resources more efficiently. construction? 6.3 lead to developments that proactively reduce the volume of waste generated during operation? 6.4 increase the use of materials that contain recycled content and the use of alternatives to primary resources (e.g. using demolition material instead of virgin aggregates)? 6.5 make it easier for people using new or existing developments to recycle and segregate their waste? 6.6 lead to the safe management of radioactive waste?

7.Climate and Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 7.1 contribute towards reducing emissions of greenhouse gases within the two authorities' areas by Energy and improve adaptation for reducing energy consumption, and reducing the amount of private car use? unavoidable climate change. 7.2 contribute towards reducing the emissions associated with the consumption of goods and services in the two authorities' areas? 7.3 promote measures that reduce energy demand in the first instance before alternative power sources (e.g. renewables) are considered? 7.4 require new development to be better adapted to the effects of climate change? 7.5 promote the adaptation of existing communities? 8.Air Quality To minimise vibration, noise and 8.1 avoid air quality, noise, vibration and light pollution impacts on sensitive areas, groups of Noise, light pollution. people or individuals (e.g. schools, residential properties and health care facilities)? Vibration and Light 8.2 help to reduce the severity of any existing air quality, noise, vibration or light pollution issues? Pollution. 9.Transport Help people and business move 9.1 help to reduce the need/desire to travel by car? away from private car and road 9.2 facilitate the use of alternatives to road for the haulage of goods and materials? haulage to more sustainable 9.3 increase the volume of traffic on the existing road network? modes of transport. 10.Human To improve the health and well 10.1 help people to adopt healthier lifestyles (e.g. integrate exercise in their daily lives)? Health being of the population and 10.2 increase the accessibility of health care services for all? improve access to health services 10.3 avoid creating new health impacts for all. 11. Culture, Increase access to and 11.1 create new and widely accessible cultural, leisure and recreational facilities?

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SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Will the proposed SPD approach… leisure, participation in cultural, leisure 11.2 improve the accessibility for all to existing cultural, leisure and recreational facilities? tourism and and recreational activities. 11.3 improve the perception of the area to potential visitors? recreation 11.4 promote sustainable tourism in the area? 12.Social Ensure equitable access to viable 12.1 improve access to services and facilities (including educational facilities, local authority and infrastructure facilities and services for all national Government services)? sectors of the community including those in rural areas. 13.Population To develop and maintain a 13.1 develop and maintain a balanced and sustainable population structure? and social balanced and sustainable 13.2 contribute towards the need for affordable housing, particularly in the areas where the need is inclusion. population structure with good greatest? access to services, facilities and 13.3 improve access to services and facilities (see 12.1,10.2) and improving the degree to which homes for all sectors of the services are provided locally. society. 14.Crime and Reduce anti social behaviour and 14.1 help to reduce the risk or perceived risk of crime in existing communities? Safety fear of crime 14.2 help to reduce the risk or perceived risk of crime in new developments? 15.Economy Improve sustainable economic 15.1 help to create opportunities for new employment sites? activity and support job creation - 15.2 help to diversify the range of businesses and employers? particularly in areas of focus for 15.3 create new employment sites that can easily be accessed by all? regeneration. 15.4 increase or maintain the diversity of uses in town, local and rural centres? 15.5 help to create a sustainable housing market that meets the requirements of all in terms of housing type, tenure, size and location?

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6.2 Assessment of Effect Significance The assessment questions (which accompany the SA Objectives) have acted as a prompt for the SA process and the baseline for West Somerset and Sedgemoor and have been used to help inform the appraisal. The baseline provided the evidence base to support expert judgements and consideration was also given to how the SA Objectives interact with each other. The considerations that informed the SA are described in Table 7 below. Two options have been assessed and compared as part of the SA process:  The first option (referred to as Option A) is drawn from the HPC project promoter‟s proposals as set out in the Stage 2 „Preferred Proposals‟ consultation and Sustainability Evaluation (amended to reflect the subsequent Proposed Changes and updates to the Preferred Proposals).  The second option (Option B) is based on the approaches set out in the SPD. To determine whether or not each option was likely to have an impact, a „base case‟ situation was identified against which the sustainability effects of each option could be considered. For this SA the base case assumes that the HPC new power station is not constructed and that none of the HPC project specific approaches in the SPD is implemented. In some situations it was not possible to compare the two approaches because the HPC project promoter‟s approach did not include development proposals at the same locations. So, for example, the SPD approaches for accommodation in Williton, Watchet, Stoguresy and Cannington cannot be compared with an indicative approach for accommodation development in these settlements being put forward by the HPC project promoter. Table 7. Considerations used during the Sustainability Appraisal. Issues for Details consideration Type of Effect Positive or negative; Direct or indirect; Cumulative; and Temporary or permanent. Magnitude and Where will it impact? Will it be within the SPD boundary or outside it? Spatial Extent Will it cause trans-boundary issues and impact on adjacent areas or regionally, nationally or internationally? What is the geographical area and size of population likely to be affected? Who it will Affect Key groups or communities considered include: Older and young people; Socio economic groups (variable); Women and men; and Asylum seekers and refugees; Black and ethnic minority people (including Gypsy and Traveller communities);

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Issues for Details consideration Disabled people; Faith communities; Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people; Vulnerability of Sensitivity of receptors; Receptor Special natural characteristics/areas or cultural heritage; Protected areas; and Relative importance of the site, whether it is a nationally or internationally important feature or of local significance. Timing and Short term – 0 – 4 years Duration of the Effect Medium – 5 – 9 years Long term -10+ years

6.3 Scoring Criteria Once an impact type had been identified, the significance of the effect had to be determined. To do this a suite of significance criteria were developed and can be found in Error! Reference source not found. below. The table shows both the scoring criteria applied during the SA of the emerging Sedgemoor Core Strategy and the HPC SPD (scoring criteria for the emerging West Somerset Core Strategy SA have yet to be developed). The significance criteria for the Sedgemoor Core Strategy focused on the number of Appraisal Questions that are addressed by the option / policy and a judgement on the extent to which the SA Objective is effected (positive or negative). These scoring criteria have been further developed in the SA of the Draft SPD to provide for consideration of the following factors:  The potential geographical area of an effect. Would the effect be localised, or the effect the whole SPD area?  The number, sensitivity or importance of receptors. Would a large number of people be effected and is the receptor of national or international importance?  The magnitude of the effect. Is the effect indirect or direct? Would the effect be of a minor or major magnitude?

Table 8. Comparison of Sustainability Criteria between the Sedgemoor Core Strategy SA and the HPC Project SPD Significance Criteria. Symbol Score Sedgemoor Core HPC Project Joint SPD Description of Strategy Description Effect of Effect Major The option / policy Likely to benefit a large part of the SPD area Positive fully addresses the or a large number of people and receptors SA Objective and all ,addresses the SA objectives and all of the + + of the Appraisal Appraisal questions and contributes Questions contribute significantly to the achievement of the SA significantly to the objective. The effects are likely to be direct achievement of the and permanent and the magnitude will be

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Symbol Score Sedgemoor Core HPC Project Joint SPD Description of Strategy Description Effect of Effect SA Objective. major Minor The option / policy The extent of predicted beneficial effects is Positive broadly assesses the likely to be limited to small areas within SPD SA objective but area or small groups of people and receptors. either does not The effects can be direct or indirect, + address all or any of temporary or reversible. The magnitude of the Appraisal the predicted effects will be minor. The Questions. option or approach broadly addresses the SA objectives but does not address all of the appraisal questions Neutral The option / policy Neutral effects are predicted where the option does not have any or approach being assessed is unlikely to alter effect on the the present or future baseline situation. A 0 achievement of the neutral effect has also been used to describe SA Objective. indirect effects of negligible magnitude that are not a material consideration for the sustainability appraisal. Minor The option / policy Minor negative effects are likely to be limited Negative detracts significantly to small areas within the SPD area, or limited from the achievement to small groups of people and receptors. The of the SA objective effects can be direct or indirect, temporary or - and Appraisal reversible. The importance of the receptor Questions. that is effect is likely to be minor as is the magnitude of the predicted effect. The option or approach does not satisfactorily address the SA objective or appraisal question. Major The option / policy Likely to affect the whole, or large part of the Negative detracts significantly SPD area. Also applies to effects on from the achievement nationally or internationally important assets. of the SA objective The effects are likely to be direct, irreversible - - and Appraisal and permanent. The magnitude of the Questions. predicted effects will also be major. The option or approach detracts significantly from the SA objective and appraisal questions. Unknown / There is an uncertain This significance criterion is applied to effects Uncertain relationship between where there is insufficient information to the option / policy make a robust assessment. It is also applied ? and the SA Objective to the assessment of options that can have or the relationship is both positive and negative effects and it is not negligible. clear whether the positive or negative effects outweigh each other. N/A Not There is no clear This is applied to objectives that are clearly Applicable / relationship between not affected by the option or approach being No the option / policy assessed. relationship and the achievement of the SA Objective or the relationship is negligible.

6.4 Identification of Mitigation Measures The development of the SPD has been an iterative process that has drawn upon a variety of information during its preparation. These sources of information

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include the Sustainability Appraisal. Where the SA has identified potential opportunities to mitigate potentially adverse impacts they have been incorporated into the final version of the SPD where relevant.

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7 Sustainability Appraisal of Supplementary Planning Document Approaches

7.1 Introduction This section summarises the results of the SA. The HPC SPD is structured into two main parts: section 6 of the SPD covers „project wide‟ issues including climate change, economic development, transport and housing; sections 7, 8 and 9 provide supplementary advice on the local policy framework for specific sites. The supplementary advice and the recommended planning approach set out in each of these SPD sections has been appraised using the SA framework and significance criteria outlined in Section 6. A detailed appraisal, including individual SA topic matrices for the majority of SPD approaches is included at Appendix B. Some of the site specific approaches are considered to be similar in nature to the project-wide approaches and as such a separate matrix was not produced (for example the proposed approach for construction worker accommodation in north east Bridgwater). The final approach in the SPD entitled „Planning Obligations and Community Benefits and Compensation Scheme‟ seeks to ensure that, wherever possible, „…the HPC proposals avoid, minimise and mitigate adverse impacts during the construction, operation, decommissioning and restoration phases of the HPC project development.‟ As the approach is concerned with ensuring comprehensive mitigation and compensation for adverse effects, it is therefore judged as having a neutral effect overall and a matrix has not been produced. Topics and sites appear below in the same order as they appear in the SPD. In addition to the assessment of the SPD approaches, the approach proposed during the Stage 2 „Preferred Proposals‟ consultation by the HPC project promoter (taking account of subsequent Proposed Changes and updates) was appraised using the same criteria, to allow for a comparison of options. The results from this appraisal and a comparison between the two options has been included for completeness.

7.2 Project-wide guidance and approaches This section appraises the supplementary advice and approaches outlined in Section 6 of the SPD document. These are overarching approaches that are necessary given the scale of the HPC project, potential for cross-boundary effects and range of associated development expected to be required.

7.2.1 Climate Change

7.2.1.1 Construction Phase Carbon Emissions Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:

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 Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and energy; and  Transport. Carbon emissions from the new development have the potential to significantly increase emissions above baseline levels during construction (short and medium term), although the long term benefits of the operating power station as a low carbon source of energy need to be recognised. Construction phase emissions sources include transport of materials and workers, procurement of construction materials, treatment and disposal of waste arisings and operational emissions from residential, office and other associated buildings. The proposed approach will help minimise the carbon impacts of construction through encouraging sustainable transport options, the specification of low-carbon buildings and promotion of on-site renewable technologies. Design and materials specification decisions made early on in the project could have long term implications for emissions from residential and other associated buildings that are transferred to legacy use. Achievement of BREEAM, Code for Sustainable Homes and Zero-carbon Non-domestic Buildings ratings will help minimise short, medum and long term (legacy) stage emissions of associated developments, as well as the embodied GHG emission associated with the use of construction materials. This approach has an important role to play in terms of mitigating some of the potential adverse impacts of the accommodation and settlement specific policies later on in the SPD.

Comparison of the options Both the HPC project promoter and SPD approaches are broadly similar in that they seek to minimise short and medium term (construction stage) emissions. One difference is that the SPD promotes payments into a Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund to assist in the mitigation of construction stage emissions, where provision of on-site renewable is not considered viable. This SPD approach is also of importance in terms of its link with the Whole Life Legacy Planning Approach, which seeks to ensure that permanent development with legacy benefits is delivered. Clearly, in a legacy use scenario, the long term energy performance of buildings will be of importance.

7.2.1.2 Whole Life Cycle Legacy Planning Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Biodiversity and Ecology  Landscape and Built Environment;  Water (flood risk in particular);  Waste and resource management;  Climate and energy;  Transport;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Access to social infrastructure;  Population and social cohesion; and

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 Economy. This proposed approach aims to ensure that, wherever possible and appropriate, the majority of associated development buildings and infrastructure are permanent in nature. This is to avoid temporary development and infrastructure, which is viewed as inherently unsustainable where there is a demonstrable need for permanent buildings (e.g. housing), and to promote the potential regeneration benefits of permanent new build. It is also the Councils‟ view that high quality permanent development removes the risk that temporary developments would detract from the existing townscape and landscape character of the area and promotes compliance with existing council policies requiring the incorporation of climate change resilience measures. The councils‟ preference for permanent buildings and infrastructure over temporary development will maximise the potential to achieve wider sustainability benefits from the HPC project. In parallel with other parts of the SPD (including those for specific sites), new accommodation for construction workers would aid local objectives to deliver affordable housing and would help increase the viability of existing settlements and service centres. The legacy element of the proposed approach would have a positive effect when compared with temporary accommodation development because it helps to reduce the magnitude of waste, energy and climate change impacts of the associated development proposals. By promoting permanent properties and infrastructure, there will be savings in future construction emissions that would be associated with the replacement of temporary buildings with new permanent development once the power station is completed (on sites allocated for development). Nevertheless, new development, whether temporary or permanent, will increase greenhouse gas emissions above baseline levels as a result of emissions from the construction process as well as operation.

Comparison of the options The main difference between the two options is that the HPC SPD approaches seek to promote consideration of permanent legacy development across a wider range of sites, where appropriate. This is particularly evident in relation to housing and accommodation.

7.2.1.3 Climate Change Mitigation and Flood Risk Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Water (flood risk in particular);  Climate and energy;  Transport;  Human health; and  Economy.

Where associated development is proposed, this approach relates to the promoter contributing to flood risk management in the area and complying with PPS25. The HPC project promoter should demonstrate that there will be no increased risk of

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flooding to homes or land. In addition, the promoter should contribute towards long term flood risk strategies in the area. Each location-specific SPD approach covered below adopts a consistent approach in this regard. Earlier versions of the SPD only considered climate change adaptation in the context of flood risk. Expanding the scope of the climate impacts considered, such as hotter summers, was highlighted by the SA process and the scope was subsequently expanded within the SPD to reflect this.

Comparison of the options Over the short and medium term both options have similar effects. However, over the long term the SPD option has greater beneficial effects because it requires the contributions towards flood defence schemes that will benefit the wider community into the future. The SPD also highlights the need for development to consider other impacts associated with a changing climate other than increased flood risk (e.g. more frequent summer heatwaves), which will be of particular relevance where permanent infrastructure and buildings are proposed.

7.2.1.4 Approach to Promoting a Somerset Low Carbon Cluster

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Waste and resource management;  Climate and energy;  Transport; and  Economy. This approach encourages the HPC project promoter to support the Somerset Low Carbon Cluster initiative, thereby contributing to economic development and supporting the up-take of low-carbon technologies and sustainable transport modes in the SPD area. However, the new HPC power station and its associated developments, if permitted, will result in an increase in direct carbon emissions (particularly during construction) which could offset any carbon savings that arise from this approach. HPC project promoter support for the Low Carbon Energy Cluster will increase the long term economic resilience of the area, encouraging investment, creating new employment and helping to diversify the region‟s economy. Following the construction phase of the HPC project, there is the possibility that there could be localised unemployment issues if there is insufficient local and/or regional demand for the skills and qualifications that residents and businesses may have obtained from involvement in the HPC project. As a consequence there is an opportunity to minimise this risk by ensuring that there are facilities / services to support local HPC construction phase employees find new jobs once the construction phase is complete. It is recommended therefore that the Councils seek the support of other partners, such as the HPC project promoter, to set in place measures to support individuals in finding new employment. This is a point that is picked up in the approach to Maximising Local Resident Labour Participation.

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Comparison of the options Support for the creation of a Somerset Low Carbon Cluster is an important part of the SPD which also aims to sustain economic development and provide some employment opportunities for workers once the construction phase of the HPC development is complete. The HPC project promoter‟s approach tends to focus on the short term benefits derived from the construction of the power station, and the core staff requirement to operate the station.

7.2.2 Economic Development

7.2.2.1 People - Maximising Local Resident Labour Participation

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Access to social infrastructure;  Population and social cohesion; and  Economy. At its peak during construction, the HPC project is anticipated to deliver approximately 5,600 jobs (Full Time Equivalent positions). This approach aims to ensure positive economic development benefits in the area by increasing the proportion of local residents in the HPC construction workforce. This could be achieved by maximising training, job opportunities and access to educational facilities for local residents prior to and during the construction phase of the HPC project. There is the potential for the HPC project to displace local skilled workers in existing businesses, resulting in a skill shortage amongst existing employers in the region and a possible decline in productivity. The HPC project could also result in wage inflation. Following the construction phase, there is the possibility that there could be localised unemployment issues if there is insufficient local and/or regional demand for the skills and qualifications that residents may have obtained. As a consequence this risk will be minimised by ensuring that there are facilities / services to support locally based HPC construction phase employees find new jobs once the construction phase is complete, which is recognised in the objective of finding „measures to assist local labour to find alternative employment once the construction phase is over‟.

Comparison of the options The approach proposed by each option are predicted as having the same impacts during the short term. However, over the medium and long term the HPC approach could have an adverse impact on the resident population when they have to find new employment that matches the skills and training they have developed during the HPC construction phase. A key aspect of the SPD approach is to ensure that the local labour targets are met. The SPD also includes a requirement

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to provide support to assist workers in finding new employment at the end of the construction phase.

7.2.2.2 Spatial Planning for Employment Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Waste and resource management;  Climate and energy;  Transport;  Access to social infrastructure;  Population and social cohesion; and  Economy. This approach seeks to minimise any negative impacts from employment and transport proposals by limiting the extent of temporary development on greenfield sites, wherever possible, and seeking to ensure that new development improves the vitality of existing employment centres through the regeneration of brownfield sites. It also highlights the need to ensure that significant adverse environmental impacts are avoided. This, combined with national policy, existing local plans policies and the emerging Core Strategy policies, means that the approach should have a neutral impact on sensitive environmental receptors. The adverse impacts associated with developing new employment sites (increased waste arisings, energy consumption, traffic and greenhouse gas emissions) will, to a certain extent, be mitigated by other approaches within the SPD and policy documents. However, it is unlikely that they will completely mitigate adverse effects.

Comparison of the options The majority of the effects for the two options are the same. However, the spatial approach set out in the SPD has the short and medium term benefit of reducing temporary greenfield development and the long term benefits of supporting long term economic growth and the regeneration of allocated employment sites, such as those at Bridgwater.

7.2.2.3 Support for Local and Supply Chain and Services Business Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Climate and Energy;  Transport; and  Economy.

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The proposed approach in the SPD will provide significant short term economic benefits for the local economy by helping to direct expenditure towards local suppliers and businesses that might otherwise be lost from the region. Furthermore, by providing a framework to supports local supply chains the distance that goods have to be transported can be reduced which also has short term beneficial impacts on transport and greenhouse gas emissions.

Comparison of the options The HPC project promoter‟s approach does not state a clear requirement for support for local supply chains and service businesses. However, the SPD sets out clear expectations that will have short term benefits for greenhouse gas emissions, transport and the local economy.

7.2.3 Transport

7.2.3.1 Sustainable Transport Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Human Health;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. This approach aims to ensure that any new transport development proposed as part of the HPC project meets transport planning and environmental expectations for mitigation. As a result, the SA topics most commonly associated with Environmental Impact Assessment were assessed as having a neutral impact. The development is likely to result in increased traffic volumes over baseline levels, especially during the construction phase and on key routes such as the M5, A38 and A39 and local roads in Bridgwater. However the SPD approach will help to partially mitigate these effects by promoting travel management, highway, public and sustainable transport schemes, resulting in a beneficial effect. The SPD also places an emphasis on the need to align investment in transport infrastructure with the future transport plan for the area so that longer term legacy benefits are realised wherever possible. The proposed approach has particular benefits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as supporting the economy and access to social infrastructure and services. This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and walking/cycling alternatives from development sites to the centre of Bridgwater and the main site. Nevertheless, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

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Comparison of the options In the short term the overall effects between the two options are fairly similar. However, the SPD seeks to provide further benefits by also supporting sustainable forms of transport and locating residential development in existing settlements and centres where existing services can easily be accessed. The other key difference between the two approaches comes from the legacy benefits that the SPD will provide in the form of the sustainable transport infrastructure and permanent residential developments that already have good access to key services and facilities.

7.2.4 Housing

7.2.4.1 Spatial Approach for Worker Accommodation

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. This approach seeks to guide the provision of purpose-built accommodation for construction workers to locations that align with the local settlement hierarchy and Development Plans for the West Somerset and Sedgemoor. This would involve a higher proportion of accommodation being provided in Bridgwater where there are numerous brownfield site redevelopment opportunities, together with more modest scales of development in rural villages in West Somerset. Proposals for accommodation outside settlement boundaries on greenfield land at Hinkley Point should be avoided or minimised.

Comparison of the options An important difference between the two options appraised is their ability to provide a residential housing legacy. The HPC project promoter‟s approach proposes mainly temporary accommodation, including a large campus on greenfield land at Hinkley Point, whereas the SPD seeks to direct this development to locations where regeneration would be beneficial and housing is required in the long term, thereby providing a means to address the demand for housing in both authority areas and provide permanent development in the main population centres around HPC. The SPD approach would reduce temporary development on greenfield land at the Hinkley Point main site, which would provide good accessibility to the construction site, but would be located some distance from services provided in larger towns such as Bridgwater.

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7.2.4.2 Principles for Worker Accommodation

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. The construction of residential accommodation in Bridgwater and at the HPC project site will increase the population of the study area significantly above baseline levels with approximately 1,500 purpose-built bed spaces to be provided for construction workers. This will have the effect of raising municipal waste arisings and greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the number of journeys made within the area. The SPD aims to minimise these effects. The approach set out in this section advocates that the HPC project promoter commits to providing permanent residential development that can be used temporarily by construction workers and provide long term legacy housing development. Accommodation should be well-integrated with its surroundings and extra demand for existing public and private services evenly distributed, seeking to maximise the economic benefits of the development. The HPC project promoter may provide additional community services (medical facilities, leisure facilities etc.) for construction workers which could also help improve access for local residents. It also advocates that the HPC project promoter should ensure that workers are able to travel to the HPC main site by public transport and are able to reach public transport nodes by walking or cycling. This approach has an important mitigating role to play within the overall SPD. For example, it highlights the approach for legacy uses – which would help to mitigate some of the potentially adverse landscape and built environment, climate change and waste effects.

Comparison of the options As with many of the other approaches described over the preceding pages there are differences between the two options that arise from the lack of a clear residual legacy in the HPC project promoter‟s approach when compared to the SPD. The other critical sustainability issue is that the HPC project promoter‟s approaches misses out an opportunity to use resources more efficiently because it requires the construction and demolition of the temporary facilities only for further housing and amenities to be built again at some point in the future. However, the approach proposed by the SPD will avoid this inefficiency, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation and use of resources.

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7.2.4.3 Worker Accommodation at Hinkley Point and Bridgwater The sustainability implications of these two approaches are jointly covered by the „Principles for Work Accommodation and the spatial accommodation policies discussed above.

7.2.4.4 Tourism Accommodation and Caravan Parks Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Climate and Energy;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation; and  Economy. The approach is expected to result in a beneficial economic impact by allowing tourism accommodation providers to gain additional income from construction workers, particularly during the off-peak season. This beneficial effect is balanced in the approach by a mechanism to prevent displacement of tourism customers, which could result in displacement of tourism spend in the local economy. The approach also allows the HPC project promoter or third parties to provide new caravan or camping capacity, but only where it is clear there is ongoing viability of the development beyond the HPC project construction phase for tourism use. The approach will help secure longer term benefits to the supply of holiday accommodation in the study area through providing for any new caravan parks created for construction workers to be converted to holiday parks post- construction.

Comparison of the options Over the short term the options are similar, although the SPD further emphasises the need to put in place mechanisms to monitor take up of visitor accommodation and put in place measures to safeguard spaces for visitors if necessary. The SPD approach also provides an opportunity to retain any tourist accommodation built to house HPC construction workers, thereby providing some minor carbon and economic benefits.

7.2.4.5 Latent Supply Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy; and  Economy.

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The main beneficial effects from this approach, which promotes provision of construction worker accommodation in spare rooms in under-occupied property, are social and economic. In particular, the approach could provide additional income for property owners and could assist in taking pressure away from the affordable and privately rented property markets. This approach also performs well in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. From a climate change perspective it helps to reduce the amount of new residential accommodation that needs to be constructed as well as providing a direct input into the local economy.

Comparison of the options The HPC project promoter expects that workers will make use of latent accommodation supply and therefore the sustainability effects of both options are the same. The SPD seeks to ensure that people renting out rooms are provided with advice on relevant regulations and setting up contracts etc.

7.2.4.6 Affordable Housing Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Human Health;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. The HPC project offers the opportunity to contribute to the delivery of affordable housing in the study area in line with local planning policies. It does this by ensuring that they are designed and constructed so that they can be used as affordable housing in the legacy phase. Furthermore, the wider accommodation approach also helps to mitigate impacts that increased demand for accommodation could have on the private rented and affordable housing sectors, such as displacement of low income households. In the wider context for both West Somerset and Sedgemoor, this has the potential to help deliver social benefits by ensuring that younger groups within existing communities have the opportunity to stay in the area rather than move away because they are priced out of the housing market.

Comparison of the options The HPC project promoter‟s approach does not include provision of long term housing that could provide affordable housing, while, the SPD does make this a clear expectation in terms of mitigation of any adverse impacts on the housing market and as part of the wider HPC project legacy.

7.2.5 Amenity and Construction Working Hours

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:

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 Landscape & Built Environment;  Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution;  Human Health; and  Culture, Leisure, Tourism & Recreation The SPD approach seeks to safeguard quality of life and amenity for communities living in close proximity to the main site, associated development sites and along transport corridors, while also seeking to provide reasonable flexibility for the HPC project promoter to progress the scheme in an efficient manner. Long construction working hours are also predicted to have effects on landscape (due to light pollution) and the tourism sector. The SPD approach would not be able to prevent all disturbance impacts, but it does have potential to limit these to within reasonable limits. In this sense, it will be necessary to strike a balance between the intensity and length of the construction phase of the project. Construction working hours could have feedback implications across a range of topic areas including biodiversity and ecology, transport, social infrastructure and crime and safety. The interplay of these effects is difficult to quantify, however these factors may influence decision-making.

Comparison of the options The HPC project promoter‟s approach sets out intensive construction working hours that include weekend working and some periods of night time working, which could result in major adverse impacts on residential amenity, potentially leading to stress, anxiety and loss of sleep. The SPD approach seeks to restrict working hours such that the worst impacts are avoided, while providing flexibility for construction of the project to be progressed in an efficient manner.

7.2.6 Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Environment

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Biodiversity & Ecology;  Landscape & Built Environment;  Cultural Heritage;  Water;  Soils & Geology  Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism & Recreation; and  Economy The SPD approach seeks to ensure that the highly valued natural environment and landscapes of West Somerset and Sedgemoor are conserved and enhanced. An

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important aspect of the SPD approach is that it seeks to align mitigation and compensation measures with the broader relevant strategies for the area (e.g. Biodiversity Action Plans, Sedgemoor Green Infrastructure Strategy). It also highlights that off-site measures may be necessary to fully mitigate and compensate for adverse effects. The SA shows that measures to conserve and enhance the natural environment could have important secondary effects across other topic areas, providing compensation relating to disturbance impacts, human health, tourism and recreation, and the economy. The SA predicts that overall, the approach will have a neutral to minor positive impact (biodiversity) by encouraging off-site measures that align well with wider strategies for the local area.

Comparison of the options The approaches adopted by the HPC project promoter and the SPD are broadly similar, although the SPD identifies the potentially beneficial role of off-site mitigation and compensatory measures, while the HPC project promoter‟s proposals rely primarily on on-site mitigation. The HPC SPD also seeks to ensure that where impacts cannot be avoided, mitigation and compensation measures should seek to align with relevant strategies for West Somerset and Sedgemoor.

7.2.7 Tourism, Leisure and Sports

7.2.7.1 Protecting and Contributing to the Tourism Economy Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Biodiversity and Ecology;  Landscape & Built Environment;  Water;  Transport;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation; and  Economy. This approach aims to minimise impacts on the landscape amenity in the area due to its vital role as a tourism asset. Where impacts to this asset are predicted to occur, the HPC project promoter will be expected to reduce negative impacts and provide enhancements through landscape schemes, green infrastructure provision and habitat mitigation. The SA predicts that overall, the approach will have a minor positive impact on biodiversity and ecology through enhancements to habitats and provision of green infrastructure. The quality of the local landscape will be protected and there are clear opportunities to enhance the value of this asset through measures outlined in this approach. Maintenance of landscape amenity is supported in the approach by investment in public rights of way, the new visitor centre proposed by the HPC project promoter and tourism facilities, as well as support for tourism services.

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Comparison of the options The HPC project promoter‟s approach includes measures to ensure that the scheme does not adversely impact on the tourism and visitor economies and provides some benefit through the provision of the visitor centre. The SPD seeks to go further by identifying opportunities to enhance the overall tourism and recreational offer in the area around Hinkley, thereby providing medium and long term benefits.

7.2.7.2 Promoting a Partnership Approach to Sports

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Transport;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. This approach seeks to ensure that sports facilities are provided for construction workers and that these are integrated with existing Council and partner plans to maintain and enhance existing facilities and provide new sports and leisure venues in the SPD study area. Community access to any facilities provided is viewed as important to prevent inequality of provision and social tension. The approach encourages protection of existing facilities (or suggests replacement), where these may be lost as a result of HPC project developments. The approach promotes a legacy benefit for the existing community as a result of enhancements made to sports facilities during the HPC project construction phase. It is also considered to be particularly important because it provides leisure and in some cases health and wellbeing benefits not covered by other legacy approaches.

Comparison of the options As with many of the other approaches the two options effects differ because the SPD requires sports and recreational facilities to be retained after the construction phase is over to provide legacy benefits. The SPD also goes further by requiring that the sports facilities provided within the worker accommodation campuses are also accessible to the wider community during the construction phase.

7.2.8 Nuclear Waste

7.2.8.1 Nuclear waste Storage Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:

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 Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy; and  Economy. The majority of the effects are neutral for this approach because potentially adverse issues will be addressed through the Environmental Impact Assessment and planning processes. The SPD approach sets out an expectation that mitigation and compensation measures are agreed that would outweigh any perceived and actual detrimental effects of radioactive waste storage. It will have a positive impacts for waste management until the long term because at present there are no designated facilities for the long term storage of waste. An adverse effect is predicted for climate and energy reflecting the continuing need to provide power to ensure that the facility can securely store waste. Finally, the approach will provide a small scale contribution to the local economy in the long term through job creation.

Comparison of the options The sustainability implications of both options are the same, pending details of the full environmental impact assessment and HPC project promoter‟s approach to mitigation and compensation.

7.3 Hinkley Point C Main Site

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Biodiversity and Ecology;  Landscape & Built Environment;  Cultural Heritage ;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation; and  Economy. The main HPC project site is located partly within or adjacent to several internationally protected ecological sites and will be clearly visible from the Mendips and Quantock Hills AONBs. Associated developments including the proposed Cannington Bypass, accommodation campuses and Park and Ride facilities would be likely to increase cumulative visual impacts. This approach assists in ensuring that impacts to visual amenity and biodiversity in particular are identified and addressed from an early stage and that any unavoidable impacts are suitably mitigated or compensated for. It places obligations on the developer to demonstrate that clear strategies are in place to address local landscape and access issues and that the councils and local residents are consulted throughout the design process. Along with other parts of the SPD, it also places significant importance on the need to develop a clear legacy plan for the long term future of the site and its surroundings. When compared with the baseline landscape, the new development, even with compliance to the approach set out in this section, would have a negative impact

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on visual amenity. However the overall impacts on ecology and biodiversity at the site are likely to be neutral due to a combination of advanced mitigation works and general. The approach will, also, commit the developer to incorporating mitigation measures where possible.

Comparison of the options For the majority of the sustainability topics the predicted effects are the same for the two options. The only difference relates to the legacy benefits that would be required under the SPD in terms of recreational and sports facilities and potential economic impacts of the two approaches.

7.4 Associated Development Accommodation Sites In addition to the over-arching worker accommodation approach, the SPD also includes guidance outlining more detailed expectations for each potential accommodation site. These add limited site-specific detail to the accommodation approaches which are covered above. A brief summary of site-specific issues is provided below but the site-wide guidance should be referred to for more detailed appraisal. If progressed, some proposals may well be subject to an EIA at which point detailed site-specific mitigation measures will be identified.

7.4.1 HPC Accommodation Campus Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. The approach seeks to ensure that accommodation for workers at the HPC main site limits noise and light disruption to the neighbouring villages of Shurton and Burton by limiting its size. The development would be on greenfield land and would result in negative impacts to landscape character during the construction phase, although the approach envisages restoration of the site to green fields after this period. The approach suggests that, where appropriate, development associated with the main site campus should be in the form of permanent buildings forming part of the permanent development or located in nearby settlements where they could provide a beneficial legacy use. For instance, education buildings could be provided in a nearby settlement, with potential for community use following the HPC construction phase.

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Comparison of the options In the short term the main differences between the two options arise from the visual impacts and the carbon impacts associated with constructing and demolishing temporary accommodation. Over the medium and long term the main differences between the two options arise because the HPC project promoter‟s approach does not specify the same extent of legacy benefits when compared to the SPD.

7.4.2 Williton

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. Williton is the third largest settlement in West Somerset and houses the West Somerset council offices. It is one of several settlements that is expected to grow significantly over the Core Strategy Period. The council is currently preparing a masterplan for Williton to mange this growth to 2026. The approach makes clear that any proposals brought forward by the HPC project promoter for worker accommodation in Williton must be consistent with the emerging Core Strategy and Williton masterplan. The approach seeks to ensure that flood risk is not adversely affected by new development and that a contribution is made to flood alleviation in the village. No extra strain should be placed on existing services and infrastructure and access to the town centre must be provided via suitable foot and cycle routes. The approach is considered likely to result in social, recreational and economic benefits for the study area.

Comparison of the options It is not possible to make a direct comparison between the SPD approach and the HPC project promoter‟s approach because the latter does not include purpose- built accommodation in Williton. A comparison between the HPC project promoter‟s accommodation approach and the SPD approach is provided in the project-wide housing approaches

7.4.3 Watchet Accommodation Approach

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:

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 Landscape & Built Environment; and  Economy. Watchet is a small harbour town to the North of Williton and the second largest settlement in West Somerset. Much of the town is a designated Conservation Area. The Watchet Accommodation approach promotes the development of a permanent housing scheme that benefits from an existing planning permission (Urban Splash). The aim is to reduce the need for temporary construction worker accommodation in favour of delivering housing required in the long term. As a consequence it already forms part of the SA baseline conditions. However, it is noted that by using this development there would be beneficial impacts on the built environment (because it would ensure that these new developments are occupied and used). The SPD approach would also support the local economy in Watchet.

Comparison of the options It is not possible to make a direct comparison between the SPD approach and the HPC project promoter‟s approach because the latter does not include purpose- built accommodation in Watchet. A comparison between the HPC project promoter‟s accommodation approach and the SPD approach are assessed in section 7.2.4.

7.4.4 Stogursey

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment; and  Economy. Stogursey is a small village two miles south of the HPC main site. Like Watchet, much of the village is a Conservation Area. The Stogursey Accommodation approach promotes the development of a permanent housing scheme that benefits from an existing planning permission. The aim is to reduce the need for temporary construction worker accommodation in favour of delivering housing required in the long term. As a consequence it already forms part of the SA baseline conditions. However, it is noted that by using this development there would be beneficial impacts on the built environment (because it would ensure that these new developments are occupied and used). It will also support the local economy in Stogursey.

Comparison of the options It is not possible to make a direct comparison between the SPD approach and the HPC project promoter‟s approach because the latter does not include purpose- built accommodation in Stogursey. A comparison between the HPC project promoter‟s accommodation approach and the SPD approach are assessed in section 7.2.4.

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7.4.5 Northeast Bridgwater Accommodation Cluster Approach Three search areas in northeast Bridgwater were originally identified by the HPC project promoter as potential locations for construction worker accommodation. These are located in close proximity offering potential for regeneration opportunities at and between locations, as well as shared services. As the general site-wide accommodation approach applies, no separate SA matrices have been produced for each location. However, the sections below briefly highlight some of the key issues addressed by the SPD approach for the North East Bridgwater accommodation sites. In general, the approach to these locations will help ensure that development at these locations will contribute to the delivery of the Bridgwater Vision; increase access to services, improve connectivity and accessibility by walking and cycling, and deliver affordable housing.

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Soils and geology  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Human Health;  Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion;  Crime and Safety; and  Economy. The following sections describe the specific sustainability issues or effects relevant to each of the NE Bridgwater sites identified in the SPD.

Comparison of the options As before, the main differences between the two options relate to the temporary and short term focus of the HPC project promoter‟s approach compared with the long term legacy approach of the SPD. As consequence the SPD provides greater benefits for Bridgwater, both in the short and medium and long term, than the HPC project promoter‟s option.

7.4.5.1 Innovia The Innovia site is located adjacent to Bath Road in the north of the town. In addition to expectations set out in site-wide accommodation policies, the Innovia SPD approach requires that development on the site contributes to the delivery of „…an exemplar sustainable development‟ and the „Bridgwater Gateway‟ concept, which aims to create an arrival point on a high quality transport corridor in this part of the town. This would in part be delivered by ensuring that external-facing buildings contribute to a high-quality built environment. The proposals for this site also provide an opportunity to develop an exemplar sustainable development

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in Bridgwater that integrates and retains natural and industrial heritage features of the site.

7.4.5.2 Former Cattle Market This site is located immediately to the southwest of the Innovia site. The SPD approach for accommodation on this site requires that any proposal fulfils a transition role between the Knowledge Quarter and Wylds Road Bridgwater Vision areas and raises the quality of the built environment on the approach to the Cross Rifles Roundabout. Development of this brownfield site would make a significant contribution to the regeneration of this part of Bridgwater, adding to the vitality of the area.

7.4.5.3 Rugby Club Training Pitch This site is adjacent to a Bridgwater College site and is currently in use as a training pitch by the local rugby club. The SPD approach is that any development on the site is converted to student residence and educational use post construction. It also expects that additional open space is provided to compensate for the loss of the training pitch. It aims to ensure that a community educational hub is created in the long term that can be used by Bridgwater College. This will improve access to education facilities for the wider community.

7.4.6 Eastover

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach There are four potential accommodation sites in Eastover, located towards the east of Bridgwater town centre. Two of these sites already benefit from planning consent so are not considered in detail by the SPD. The four sites are clustered close to the Bridgwater bus station aiding the easy transport of staff to the HPC site by public transport. Development on these sites will be expected to comply with the site-wide accommodation approach and some individual site-specific design principles are provided. This section briefly addresses these site-specific aspects. The approach is very similar for each of the sites so they are addressed together. The potential sites are well-suited to housing development given the proximity to existing services and transport links. Development here would also open up opportunities to further regenerate the riverside area and Celebration Mile in accordance with the Bridgwater Vision and increase permeability between the river and the city centre. The SPD approach expects that development is sensitive to existing listed buildings on the waterfront. The sites are located within an Area of High Archaeological Potential and the SPD approach expects detailed assessment and consultation with county archaeologists.

Comparison of the options It is not possible to make a direct comparison between the SPD approach and the HPC project promoter‟s approach because the latter does not include accommodation in Eastover. A comparison between the HPC project promoter‟s

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accommodation approach and the SPD approach are assessed in the sections above on the project-wide housing approaches.

7.4.7 Other Central Bridgwater Sites – Penel Orlieu

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Cultural Heritage;  Soils and Geology;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. One further central-Bridgwater site – Penel Orlieu – has been identified by Sedgemoor District Council as potentially suitable for worker accommodation. The site is to the west of the town centre and is currently in use as a cinema and bingo hall. The area has been identified as offering potential for a rejuvenated evening economy in the town. This approach provides that if a housing scheme is progressed on the site, alternative provision for the cinema and other facilities would need to be made elsewhere. This would ensure no long term impact to recreational and leisure facilities in the town. However, it is also noted that the building‟s Art Deco architecture could be of local value and its retention should be considered as part of any redevelopment proposals.

Comparison of the options It is not possible to make a direct comparison between the SPD approach and the HPC project promoter‟s approach because the latter does not include accommodation in Penel Orlieu. A comparison between the HPC project promoter‟s accommodation approach and the SPD approach is provided in the sections on project-wide housing approaches above.

7.5 Associated Development Park & Ride and Freight Logistics / Storage Sites A number of Park & Ride facilities and freight management sites have been consulted upon by the HPC project promoter, each of which is subject to SPD guidance in addition to the site-wide Sustainable Transport Approach outlined above. Summaries of the findings from the appraisals are included below and appraisal matrices are included in Appendix B.

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7.5.1 Williton Park & Ride

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Water;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. A Park & Ride facility is proposed at Williton to serve the HPC main site during construction. The HPC project promoter has consulted on two possible locations to the west of Williton: Mamsey Lane and the Smithyard Terminal. In response to consultation feedback, the SPD confirms that the Smithyard Terminal is the preferred option for the Council. As this is a brownfield site, it is anticipated that environmental impacts relating to the construction and removal of a temporary facility on a greenfield site can be avoided. The SPD seeks to ensure that the Park & Ride can be reached by safe cycling and walking routes and by public transport.

Comparison of the options The effects of the two options are broadly the same over the short term, although the SPD seeks to promote the provision of additional transport infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians. It also sets out local planning guidance for the Mamsey Lane greenfield site, should this site come forward as the preferred option.

7.5.2 Combwich Wharf

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape & Built Environment;  Water;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution  Transport; and  Economy. Combwich is a small rural village on the river Parrett. The HPC Project promoter proposes to use Combwich Wharf to deliver (Abnormal Indivisible Loads) AIL and freight to the HPC main site. Combwich Wharf is encircled by residential properties and the SPD approach seeks to limit disruption to the village by seeking to restrict the number of deliveries and hours of operation of the wharf and associated facilities to within reasonable limits. Nevertheless, there would likely be impacts to residential amenity of the village during the HPC project construction phase, as well as some obstruction of the leisure use of the wharf.

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The approach also seeks to limit any associated development on greenfield land in the floodplain adjacent to the wharf, by ensuring that other sites (potentially including previously used land at Hinkley Point A) are used in preference. Where any associated facilities are required, they would be temporary in nature and land will be returned to its previous state after the construction phase, which is appropriate given the sensitive rural characteristics of the site proposed for development and the policy restrictions on development within the area.

Comparison of the options For the majority of the SA topics the predicted effects of the two approaches are similar. However, the visual and landscape impacts and disturbance impacts of the HPC project promoter‟s Stage 2 approach are predicted to be worse because they are expected to involve a greater area of land and greater intensity of activity at the wharf and freight laydown area.

7.5.3 Cannington Park & Ride

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Landscape and Built Environment;  Water;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Transport;  Social Infrastructure;  Population and Social Cohesion; and  Economy. A Park and Ride facility is proposed at Cannington to serve the HPC main site during its construction phase. The approach expects that the size of the facility should be minimised and that disturbance impacts for residents of the village are limited as far as possible. If a temporary Park & Ride at Cannington were to be pursued, it would be expected to contribute towards improved flood alleviation for the village and the SPD also suggests that legacy options for the site are agreed in consultation with the Parish Council and local residents. The SPD therefore seeks to ensure that the facility contributes to lasting legacy benefits for the community, which could include improved public rights of way, cycling infrastructure and sports facilities. The proposal should be consistent with a masterplan or neighbourhood plan which it is proposed should be developed for the area.

Comparison of the options The effects of the two options are broadly the same over the short term, although the SPD also seeks to provide additional transport infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

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7.5.4 M5 Junction 23 – Dunball

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Biodiversity and ecology;  Landscape & Built Environment;  Water;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution  Transport; and  Economy. A Park and Ride and freight management facility is proposed at Dunball to serve the HPC main site during its construction phase. If a temporary Park & Ride and freight facility is pursued, the development would be expected to contribute towards the achievement of Bridgwater Vision objectives for the J23 „Gateway‟ location and incorporate a public Park & Share facility to help alleviate problems associated with parking around the M5 junction.

Comparison of the options In broad terms the sustainability effects of the two options are the same, both of which allow the option for a legacy use of the site, but with the land being restored to greenfield if no suitable long term use consistent with planning policy can be found. The SPD seeks to promote general environmental enhancement along the A38 corridor that will have medium and long term benefits for the visual and landscape character of this corridor and indirect benefits for the Bridgwater Vision. The SPD also seeks to promote improved access to the river bank.

7.5.5 M5 Junction 24 – Huntworth

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach The main SA Topics affected are:  Biodiversity and ecology;  Landscape & Built Environment;  Water;  Waste and Resource Management;  Climate and Energy;  Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution  Transport; and  Economy. A Park and Ride and freight management facility is proposed at Junction 24 of the M5 to serve the HPC main site during its construction phase. The HPC project promoter has consulted on two site options: a greenfield site to the southwest of the Huntworth Roundabout; and the „Somerfield‟ brownfield site to the northeast

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of the Huntworth roundabout. The SPD sets out a preference for the Somerfield site on the basis that landscape impacts would be reduced. The SPD also seeks to promote contributions towards the achievement of Bridgwater Vision objectives for the J24 „gateway‟ to Bridgwater.

Comparison of the options In broad terms the sustainability effects of the two options are the same. The SPD seeks to promote general environmental enhancement along the A38 corridor that will have medium and long term benefits for the visual and landscape character of this corridor and indirect benefits for the Bridgwater Vision.

7.6 Planning Obligations and Community Benefits and Compensation Scheme

7.6.1 Approach to Compensation and Mitigation

Summary of the effects from the preferred approach This approach aims to reduce any adverse effects associated with development within the councils‟ areas resulting from the HPC project by ensuring that mitigation and compensation is provided. It also seeks to ensure that the councils, local communities and other stakeholders are appropriately consulted throughout the design, construction and operational phases of any development. The SPD encourages long-term benefits for the environment and all affected communities including:  Climate change mitigation; including low carbon construction methods, energy efficient buildings, sustainable transport infrastructure and investment in low-carbon technology, business and innovation in the area through the creation of a low carbon cluster;  Climate change adaptation and resilience; including contributions to investment in flood alleviation measures.  Lifecycle impacts; including sustainable construction and use of re-used and recycled materials.  Biodiversity and ecology: including commitments to environmental enhancements where appropriate and provision of new green infrastructure.  Community facilities. The promoter is expected to make significant contributions towards local schools, medical facilities, green space and other community services to mitigate any increased demand for services resulting from the project.  Job and training provision; the promoter is encouraged to agree an employment charter, improving access to training and employment opportunities to local (especially disadvantaged) communities during the construction phase.  Provision of new and improved tourist facilities and improvements to local attractions and public rights of way to mitigate for landscape, recreation and congestion impacts and potential negative perceptions of nuclear.

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 Provision of and contributions towards housing to mitigate or compensate for the impact on the affordable and rented housing stock and adverse impacts on the housing market. The overall effect of this approach is neutral because it provides a mechanism, along with other parts of the SPD, to mitigate what would otherwise be adverse short, medium and long term impacts as a result of the HPC project, including temporary accommodation and support infrastructure.

Comparison of the options Within the Stage 2 consultation proposals, the HPC project promoter stated that in developing its proposed package of planning requirements and development consent obligations, they would ensure that any significant adverse effects of the construction, operation or decommissioning of the power station are appropriately mitigated in a way which is environmentally responsible and sensitive both to the needs of the community and to the strategies of the relevant authorities. However, the Stage 2 Response of the Councils expressed a concern that the obligations proposals set out fell far short in terms of fully compensating in scale and in kind for the impacts and harm associated with a nationally significant new nuclear project, including proposals for nuclear waste storage. The approach in the SPD seeks to ensure that a comprehensive set of planning permission conditions and planning obligations and a development consent set of requirements and planning obligation as appropriate would be provided to compensate and mitigate for the impacts and harm associated with the HPC project. The approach set out in the SPD is therefore expected to address adverse effects so that a neutral outcome is achieved.

7.7 Cumulative and Synergistic Effects

Cumulative and Synergistic Effects The SAs of the Core Strategies for West Somerset and Sedgemoor have or will consider potential cumulative and synergistic effects arising from the two plans individually or in combination with the effects from other plans. Further cumulative and synergistic effects that could occur as a result of the HPC project are considered through the SA process as summarised below:  HPC Project Developments - The HPC project is expected to involve the development of a range of associated development sites, in addition to the power station main site. These could include permanent and/or temporary accommodation buildings for the construction workforce, a bypass for Cannington, Park & Rides sites and freight management and logistics facilities. The combined impacts of these individual developments may include detrimental impacts on sensitive environmental and social receptors. The proposals will be subject to Environmental Impact Assessment, which should include an assessment of cumulative effects. Any adverse effects that these identify will be addressed via development specific mitigation measures.  Other Projects - HPC project related development could also have cumulative impacts with other projects brought forward over a similar timeframe. Examples include the Steart Coastal Management Project, which

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involves the realignment of flood defences to form wetland habitat at an area of land to the east of Hinkley Point. In Bridgwater, the implementation of the North East Bridgwater planning consent is progressing quickly, with the Morrissons distribution centre commencing operation during October 2011. The potential for cumulative effects resulting from the HPC project, alongside other projects, must be taken into account through the Environmental Impact Assessment of the HPC project development.  HPC SPD Approaches - There will be instances where the various approaches proposed in the HPC SPD would have combined and cumulative effects. In this respect the „project-wide‟ approaches and the approach to compensation and mitigation in sections 6 and 10 respectively of the SPD are particularly important. This is because the proposed approaches could help to mitigate some of the potentially adverse impacts associated with individual developments at the HPC main site, the associated development accommodation sites and the associated development park and ride and freight logistics / storages sites. For instance, by seeking to minimise the overall volume of road traffic, the total amount of GHG emissions from transport may be reduced. Without these „project-wide‟ approaches and a comprehensive approach to impact mitigation and compensation, the resultant effects would be more severe.  Other Plans - There may also be cumulative effects from the interaction of the SPD with other plans. Many of these are identified in Chapter 3 of the SA Report. These include the West Somerset Local Plan and emerging Core Strategy, the Sedgemoor Core Strategy (due to be adopted in October 2011) and Somerset Future Transport Plan. These plans have helped to inform the identification of key sustainability issues in this SA Report and the HPC SPD itself has been produced in conformance with these plans. As a consequence, the SPD is considered unlikely to have an adverse cumulative effect on other plans. Nevertheless, there is potential for the SPD to have positive cumulative effect with other plans. For example, the proposed approach for dealing with flood risk and securing contributions for improved flood defences in the SPD will have a beneficial impact on the objectives of the Environment Agency‟s Catchment Flood Management Plan and Flood Risk Management Strategies for the River Parrett. The SPD cumulative effects on European Natura 2000 sites (Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas) have been considered as part of the Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) screening process. This screening process concluded that the SPD would not result in approaches that adversely affect the status of European sites either in isolation or combination with other plans.

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8 Next Steps

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8.2 SA Stage D: Consulting on the Preferred Options of the SPD and the SA Report As set out in the Statement of Community Involvement, consultation on the SPD and SA report will be carried out over a six week period from February 2011. Once this consultation is over it may be necessary to update the SA Report to reflect changes to the SPD following consultation and also to address any specific issues or comments raised by consultees regarding the results of the SA or the approach that has been used.

8.3 SA Stage E: Monitoring the Significant Effects of Implementing the Plan The final stage of SA requires arrangements to be set up for monitoring the significant effects of implementing the approved plan. Monitoring is intended to provide important feedback on the success of the plan and progress towards its objectives. The Good Practice Guide on Local Development Frameworks advises that the monitoring of significant sustainability effects should be integrated with other monitoring of Local Development Frameworks. The HPC SPD has been produced further to and in conformance with national planning policy, the West Somerset Local Plan and emerging Core Strategy and Sedgemoor Core Strategy. For this reason, West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council will seek to report significant sustainability effects in future Annual Monitoring Reports (AMR) associated with the Local Development Framework. In addition, the Councils will promote the establishment of a comprehensive monitoring framework specific to the Hinkley Point C project, which will include indicators assessing significant social, economic and environmental effects. In order to avoid duplication of monitoring activity and efficiency of processes. It is proposed that monitoring of the effects of adopting the plan is integrated into the existing LDF AMR and proposed HPC Project monitoring processes.

8.4 Conclusions The SA of this SPD highlights a number of sustainability issues that need to be considered during the implementation of the SPD.

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A number of the approaches were assessed as being likely to have an adverse impact on greenhouse gas emission and waste generation. The main reason for this is because if the population within the two local authority areas increases there will be a greater number of people consuming resources, energy, travelling and generating waste than is currently the case. Inevitably this increases GHG emissions and waste arisings. As raised in consultation comments, it is important to recognise that the delivery of new nuclear power generating capacity forms an important component of the Government‟s long term strategy for low carbon energy generation. In addition, approaches within the SPD include measures that will help to reduce the magnitude of these effects, as well as seeking to ensure wider sustainability outcomes across the economic, social and environmental spheres of influence. These include:  The importance of focusing development associated with accommodation for construction workers towards existing settlements and centres where this is appropriate to ensure that these settlements receive the economic benefits that this will provide as well as the longer term legacy benefits that form an expectation within many parts of the SPD.  The SPD‟s strategic approach for directing new residential development towards existing settlement also has wider benefits for those communities in the form of additional educational facilities, job opportunities as well as affordable housing. This will be particularly beneficial for those residents that are currently disadvantaged by a lack of job and training opportunities, affordable housing, inaccessible services and poor quality built environment.  The SPD approach encourages mitigation and compensation to address many of the adverse impacts of the HPC project, for instance relating to loss of residential amenity and impacts on the environment. This applies to the HPC development site as well as associated development and transport infrastructure.

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Appendix B SA Matrices

Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B1 Climate Change Approaches

B1.1 Construction Carbon Emissions Approach

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal As set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation, EDF Energy‟s Sustainability Commitments include a proposal to deliver a 60% reduction in carbon intensity from the generation of electricity from its power stations by 2020, principally through the delivery of new, more efficient nuclear power stations. The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation recognises that the construction of the HPC project will contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases. Project specific objectives set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation that are of particular relevance to construction stage emissions include:  To minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement;  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of the need to minimise travel to work distances;  To support the achievement of EDF Energy‟s transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities; and With respect to the design of associated development, the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation advises that for developments of a temporary nature a stronger emphasis will be given to resource efficiency and the ability to reuse and recycle components. A stated practical way to achieve this is to use prefabricated and modular buildings, which could be disassembled and used elsewhere. In contrast, more permanent development will be designed with a focus on operational efficiency, demonstrating sustainable design and construction against recognised standards. Opportunities that the promoter advises have been considered in relation to HPC project associated development are:

 setting targets for CO2 reduction in line with the Government‟s targets for low carbon buildings;  adopting recognised sustainable design and construction standards for associated development, using BREEAM and CEEQUAL as a mechanism for delivery;  utilising small scale Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems in Bridgwater, to support the accommodation campuses; and  utilisation of small scale low carbon/renewable energy installations for other site uses. Para. 8.3.8 states that EDF Energy has given further consideration to managing construction related emission for HPC, with proposals including:

 ensuring CO2 emissions are factored into decision-making for procurement;

 developing a range of travel planning initiatives to minimise CO2 related to construction transport;  minimising embodied emissions through off-site pre-fabrication where possible; and  importing approximately 80% of materials by weight (2 x 106 tonnes) to the development site by sea transportation, including all aggregates, sand and cement. B. SPD Approach

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Carbon emissions from the HPC project have the potential to significantly increase emissions above baseline levels. Construction phase emissions sources include transport of materials and workers, procurement of construction materials, treatment and disposal of waste arisings and operational emissions from residential, office and other associated buildings. The proposed approach will help minimise the carbon impacts related to the construction phase by the following means:  By seeking to minimise travel requirements and promote low carbon transport modes for both people and freight.  The environmental performance of buildings will be expected to meet or exceed national Code for Sustainable Homes and Zero Carbon for Non-Domestic Buildings standards.  A Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) should be provided for all HPC project sites.  Encourage the incorporation of on-site low carbon and renewable energy technologies into associated development proposals and, where these are not a viable option, encourage payments to a Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund that can be used to fund strategic energy efficiency and/or off-site renewable schemes in the authority areas.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Although there is a link between the two option approaches described in the table NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology above and these SA topics, the relationship is indirect and given the scale of the development proposals they are unlikely to have significant impact on this SA 2. Landscape & Built NA NA NA NA NA NA topic. As a consequence a neutral effect is predicted. Environment 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA

6. Waste and A) This option highlights the use of CO2 emissions as a guide to procurement Resource and the use of pre-fabrication and modular accommodation to allow their re-use Management elsewhere following construction. However, it does not completely avoid waste generation associated with the construction and demolition of the temporary accommodation facilities. In addition it is likely that the two councils would still have to build new accommodation to meet increase in demand over time. As a + + 0 0 0 0 consequence a minor beneficial impact is predicted over the short term recognising the fact that some waste generation will be avoided. B) The approach of producing a Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) for new development will help minimise waste arisings from the construction. Adopting a SWMP will also encourage designers to design out waste and reduce arisings during the construction phase. Even with this approach in place construction

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B works will result in waste being generated, even if it is not sent to landfill. As a consequence a minor beneficial impact is predicted over the short term recognising the fact that some waste generation will be avoided. Comparison) Although the significance of the two effects are similar, it is predicted that the waste impacts of the approach set out in SPD approach are likely to be more beneficial than the HPC proposal. Following completion of the construction phase for HPC neither approach is predicted as having an impact.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B

7. Climate and CO2 emissions will increase over baseline levels as a result of the development Energy because the transport of materials and workers, procurement of construction materials, treatment and disposal of waste arisings and use of construction site facilities, office and other associated buildings will all result in greenhouse gas emissions. A) NPS EN-1 (July 2011) states that „for the UK to meet its energy and climate change objectives, the Government believes that there is an urgent need for new electricity generation plant, including new nuclear power. Nuclear power generation is a low carbon, proven technology, which is anticipated to play an increasingly important role as we move to diversify and decarbonise our sources of electricity‟ (paragraph 3.5.1). The overall, long term benefits of delivering new nuclear power generation therefore need to be recognised in terms of the long term benefits of the project. The HPC project promoter‟s Preferred Proposals contain many measures that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions + ++ + ++ ++ ++ and improve the energy efficiency of associated development required in the short and medium term (during the power station construction phase). While the construction phase will result in short and medium term CO2 emissions, the measures proposed to mitigate this are considered to result in a minor beneficial effect, prior to the long term beneficial effect of power station operation. B) Similarly, the SPD approach in this option will help minimise short and medium term emissions during construction through Travel Plans, local procurement, reduced waste generation, and through meeting Code for Sustainable Homes and Zero Carbon Non-domestic Buildings standards and adoption of renewable energy technologies. In addition, the SPD approaches propose that contributions could be made towards a Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund, to help offset HPC construction stage emissions. Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar, as both seek to minimise emissions while facilitating the long term benefit of power station operation. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. Light Pollution

9. Transport + + + + 0 0 A) This option includes the consideration of measures by the HPC project promoter to reduce traffic volume during the construction phase and reduce GHG

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B from transport compared to situation where these measures were not introduced. This includes staff travel as well as measures to reduce the number of construction vehicle movements bringing material to site and removing waste from site. B) The implementation of Travel Plans and local procurement practices during the construction phase will encourage low-carbon transport choices amongst site workers and reduce road haulage of materials. As a consequence the magnitude of transport related emissions are likely to be lower than they would be without the approach. However, given the magnitude of the development proposals it is likely at an increase in traffic volumes on the local road network will occur. Comparison) It is not possible to make a clear distinction between the transport impacts of the two options. However, both options seek to mitigate the increases in traffic during the construction phase of HPC development. As a result both options are predicted as having a minor beneficial effect during the construction phase (short and medium term). A neutral effect is predicted for the long term as neither option covers this timeframe. 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA Although there is a link between the two option approaches described in the table above and these SA topics, the relationship is indirect and given the scale of the 11. Culture, Leisure, development proposals they are unlikely to have significant impact on this SA Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA topic. As a consequence a neutral effect is predicted. Recreation 12. Social Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. Firstly, they do not set a specific spatial framework for development and as a consequence will not direct NA NA NA NA NA NA development in such a way that it would have an impact on economic growth or development. Secondly they do not set out a general area wide approach for protecting or improving issues economic growth and development. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option)

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Carbon emissions from the new development have the potential to significantly increase emissions above baseline levels during construction (short and medium term), although the long term benefits of the operating power station as a low carbon source of energy need to be recognised. Construction phase emissions sources include transport of materials and workers, procurement of construction materials, treatment and disposal of waste arisings and operational emissions from residential, office and other associated buildings. The proposed approach will help minimise the carbon impacts of construction through encouraging sustainable transport options and local procurement. Longer term emissions beyond the construction phase are minimised through the specification of low- carbon buildings and renewable technologies. Design and materials specification decisions made early on in the project will have long term implications for emissions from residential and other associated buildings that are transferred to legacy use. Achievement of BREEAM, Code for Sustainable Homes and Zero-carbon Non-domestic Buildings ratings will help minimise operational-phase emissions as well as the embodied GHG emission associated with the use of construction materials. This approach has an important role to play in terms of mitigating some of the potential adverse impacts of the accommodation and settlement specific policies later on in the SPD. It does this by reducing the magnitude of the impacts arising from the consumption of construction materials and the subsequent use of energy in the new accommodation Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary There are no mitigation proposals for the SPD approach. However, it is noticed that this approach has an important role in mitigating some of the more adverse effects of other approaches (accommodation and the spatial distribution of accommodation) in the SPD.

B1.2 Whole Life Legacy Planning

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities) have a long-term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community. In terms of site specific proposals at Stage 2, there are two main examples of where permanent buildings and infrastructure are proposed:  Cannington bypass;  Combwich Wharf (refurbished); and  Bridgwater C – Rugby Club Training Pitch, where construction worker accommodation could provide a student accommodation legacy. In addition, it is proposed that the M5 Junction Park & Ride and Freight Management facility and Williton Park & Ride could be provided on existing

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brownfield sites, that are expected have on-going lorry parking or employment uses after the HPC construction phase. The remaining site comprise principally of temporary development: Hinkley Point Accommodation Campus; Combwich Laydown Facility; Cannington Park & Ride; Bridgwater A – Innovia Accommodation Campus; and M5 Junction 23 Park & Ride. B. SPD Approach On the basis that temporary development and infrastructure is inherently unsustainable, the SPD promotes the provision of permanent buildings and infrastructure that comply with relevant local development plan policies and promote high quality, inclusive design, wherever possible. Where there is no opportunity for permanent development with a legacy use, and temporary development is provided, the SPD seeks to mitigate the carbon emissions relating to demolition, removal and land reinstatement by encouraging payments to a Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. 2. Landscape & Built This aspect is only concerned with securing legacy benefits as a result of the Environment HPC development. Therefore impacts in short term are not applicable. A) The HPC project promoter approach does include some legacy elements (specifically Cannington bypass, refurbished Combwich Wharf and student accommodation legacy at the Rugby Club Training pitch). On the basis that the Rugby Club Accommodation proposal is proposed as a site with a legacy use for the Bridgwater College, which should also aim to provide a high quality design solution, a minor positive benefit is identified. NA NA NA NA + ++ B) The high quality permanent development associated with this option approach will increase the vitality and viability of the existing built environment. Also, by providing clearly defined legacy benefits at a greater number of sites the benefits, in terms of the built environment, will remain beyond the construction phase of HPC and will benefit a significant number of people. Comparison) Both options seek to provide legacy benefit, however the SPD option promotes high quality permanent development across a much larger range of sites. The limited legacy benefits of the HPC project promoter‟s proposals and lack of clarity of how their proposals will provide greater legacy benefits means that the long term effects are more limited. 3. Cultural Heritage Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 4. Water A) The HPC Project promoter does propose that flood risk and drainage infrastructure could be retained on sites as a legacy benefit, which would be designed to serve the HPC project promoter‟s development. A neutral benefit is predicted in the short and medium term and an uncertain effect is predicted for the long term, as it will not be clear whether the drainage infrastructure will have an ongoing use. B) Where flood risk and drainage infrastructure is designed for permanent 0 0 0 0 ? + development, its long term benefit is clearer and therefore a positive effect is predicted. Comparison) The HPC project promoter would provide sufficient flood risk infrastructure to mitigate effects during construction (neutral) and this could be retained in the long term, but this is uncertain. The SPD proposes permanent development across a greater number of sites, hence the long term benefit of providing this infrastructure is clearer. 5. Soils and Geology Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. 6. Waste and A) This option has some waste and resource management benefits because by Resource providing legacy benefits construction waste will only be produced once for the Management accommodation and bypass that remain. However, by not providing legacy benefits across all sites, it does not avoid greater quantities of waste generation associated with the construction and demolition of the temporary accommodation facilities instead of the development of permanent accommodation. In addition it is likely that the two councils would still have to build new accommodation to meet increase in demand over time resulting in more construction waste generation. As a consequence a minor beneficial impact is predicted over the NA NA + ++ + ++ medium and long term recognising the fact that some waste generation will be avoided. It is also acknowledged that the HPC project promoter intends to use a modular form of construction that may allow elements of the buildings to be reused. B) Whether temporary or permanent, new development will result in increased waste arisings over baseline conditions. However, by requiring associated development to be permanent, wherever possible, this approach will avoid the generation of waste arisings from demolition of any temporary development. As a consequence, the medium and long term effects are predicted to be more

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B beneficial than Option A, allowing for retention of buildings and infrastructure. Comparison) Although the significance of the two effects are similar in the short term, it is predicted that the waste impacts of the approach set out in the SPD approach are likely to be more beneficial than the HPC proposal because construction waste will only be generated once. However, with the approach proposed by the HPC project promoter waste will be generated during the construction and removal of temporary accommodation and then again when new housing is constructed in the future. Following completion of the construction phase for HPC, neither approach is predicted as having an impact. 7. Climate and A) This option will have some benefits in the short, medium and long term for Energy those sites that are designed to have permanent legacy uses. At the remaining sites, the extent of legacy uses is not certain. B) The purpose of this approach is to ensure that, wherever possible, new development associated with the power station is of suitable quality so that it meets the short term needs of power station construction as well as the long term needs of West Somerset and Sedgemoor for transport, housing, employment land and support infrastructure. As a consequence of the approach there will be some emission savings by avoiding the need to dispose of demolition waste from temporary structures and facilities and therefore a major positive benefit is + + + + + ++ identified. The proposed new development will result in the consumption of more construction materials, generate more traffic and will also consume more energy and resources once they are in use. However, their construction should help to offset the need for further new development in West Somerset and Sedgemoor in the long term. The approach that promotes permanent development, combined with the promotion of payments to a Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund to mitigate potentially adverse impacts where legacy uses are not feasible, means the overall effects are predicted as being beneficial. Comparison) the SPD approach seeks to provide greater benefits than the HPC project promoter‟s approach over the medium and long term. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. Light Pollution

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 9. Transport Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic in the short term. This is because both options are concerned with broad approach towards development and the provision of wider legacy benefits. A) in the medium term this option is likely to have beneficial transport impacts by increasing capacity on the local road network. However, over the long term it is not certain that this will remain the case as traffic volume tends to increase over time and as a result is assumed that the volume of traffic using the bypass will increase which itself could reduce the extent of any beneficial effects in the long term. B) The legacy approach set out in the SPD does not cover transport explicitly NA 0 + ? ? ? because this is covered by other SPD approaches, and the Councils do not yet have sufficient information to decide on a preferred transport strategy for the HPC project. However, the Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund could provide long term sustainable transport benefits if some of it is invested in infrastructure that supported low carbon and sustainable forms of transport. As a result the medium to long term effects are predicted as being uncertain. Comparison) In the short to medium to the HPC project promoter approach could result in transport benefits. However, certainty regarding how long these benefits are likely to remain is uncertain. The approach set out in the SPD could provide greater medium to long term benefits if the Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund is used to support sustainable transport infrastructure and measures. However, it is not clear whether this is the intention and as a result an uncertain effect is predicted. 10. Human Health Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. 11. Culture, Leisure, A) The HPC project promoter proposes the provision of leisure and sports Tourism and facilities at the Hinkley Point and Bridgwater A temporary accommodation Recreation campuses. These are provided mainly for use by construction workers (a neutral effect), however the sports facilities are proposed to be available for the + + + + - + community - a minor beneficial effect in the short and medium term. It is expected that these would be removed at the end of the construction phase resulting in a minor negative effect. B) A presumption in favour of permanent development will improve the

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B potential for new cultural, leisure and recreational facilities to be established (the specifics are identified in the site specific approaches) and ensure that, wherever possible, leisure and sports facilities are retained in the long term as a legacy benefit. Comparison) The SPD provides the greater benefit in the long term as it seeks to ensure that leisure facilities of benefit to the wider community are retained as a legacy of the project. 12. Social A) The HPC project promoter seeks to provide services such as medical Infrastructure facilities, that are sufficient for the construction workforce. Therefore a neutral effect is predicted in the short and medium term, with long term effect not applicable. B) Approaches in the SPD seek to support the provision of sufficient social infrastructure for the construction workforce. The presumption in favour of 0 0 0 0 NA ? permanent development means that the buildings and services they contain have greater potential to be retained, however, this effect is uncertain in the longterm. Comparison) A neutral effect is predicted where services are provided that are sufficient for the construction workforce in the short and medium term. The SPD approach has the greater prospect of delivering a beneficial effect in the long term, by seeking to ensure that permanent buildings (e.g. medical/education facilities) are provided wherever possible. 13. Population and A) This option will provide some legacy benefits for the population, through Social Cohesion providing community access to sports facilities in the short and medium term, and by providing Bridgwater College buildings and a permanent bypass at Cannington in the long term. As a result a minor beneficial effect is predicted in the long term. + + + + + + + B) Community access to facilities is supported by the SPD and the presumption in favour of permanent development means there could be a much greater contribution in the long term: e.g. provision of affordable housing and retention of community and sports facilities. Comparison) The SPD provides the greater benefits in the long term because of the approach to seeking permanent legacy development wherever possible. 14. Crime and Safety Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 15. Economy A) While the HPC project associated development will benefit the economy in the short term, as construction workers move away and temporary development is removed, some of the economic benefits may diminish. A beneficial effect is predicted in therefore predicted in the short term, reducing to a neutral effect in the long term. + NA + + + 0 + + B) The SPD approach will have the same beneficial effect in the short and medium term, but with permanent development predicted to have greater regeneration, housing market and employment benefits in the medium to long term. A presumption in favour of permanent development will also ensure that investment in residential properties and infrastructure will provide a lasting legacy for the communities of West Somerset and Sedgemoor. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) This proposed approach aims to ensure that, wherever possible and appropriate, the majority of associated development buildings and infrastructure are permanent in nature. This is to avoid temporary development, which is viewed as inherently unsustainable where there is a demonstrable need for permanent buildings (e.g. housing) and infrastructure and to promote the potential regeneration benefits of permanent new build; and permanent quality development also removes the risk that temporary developments would detract from the existing townscape and landscape character of the area in the short and medium term and promotes compliance with existing council policies requiring the incorporation of climate change resilience measures. The councils‟ preference for permanent buildings and infrastructure over temporary development will maximise the potential to achieve wider sustainability benefits from the HPC project. In parallel with other parts of the SPD (including those for specific sites), new accommodation for construction workers will aid local objectives to deliver affordable housing and will help increase the viability of existing settlements and service centres. The legacy element of the proposed approach will have a positive effect when compared with temporary accommodation development because it helps to reduce the magnitude of waste, energy and climate change impacts of the accommodation policies. By promoting permanent properties and infrastructure, there will be savings in future construction emissions that would be associated with the replacement of temporary buildings with new permanent development once the power station is completed (on sites allocated for development). Nevertheless, new development, whether temporary or permanent, will increase greenhouse gas emissions above baseline levels as a result of emissions from the construction process as well as operation. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach. However, the Low Carbon Infrastructure Fund does provide both authorities (outside of their planning duties) to invest in projects that reduce the GHG emissions from existing energy users in both Sedgemoor and West Somerset.

B1.3 Climate Change Adaptation and Flood Risk

Summary of the Options

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation summarises flood risk management at the HPC project main site and associated development sites, setting out measures taken to ensure PPS25 compliance. These include:  At the main site, proposals involve raising the land platform for the power station and construction of a new sea wall. Surface water run-off would be diverted to sea, which is not a recognised Sustainable Urban Drainage (SUD) approach, but would prevent risk of flooding for other properties.  For associated development, all proposals meet with the PPS25 Sequential Approach.  SUDs measures are proposed for associated development sites, such as balancing ponds and permeable paving. Further information on the PPS25 Sequential Approach is required to demonstrate compliance. For example, the proposed siting of industrial facilities in a high risk flood zone at Combwich was viewed as potentially inconsistent with a sequential approach. B. SPD Approach Where associated development is proposed, this approach ensures that the developer contributes to flood risk management in the area and complies with PPS25. It ensures the HPC project promoter demonstrates that there will be no increased risk of flooding to homes or land. It also commits the promoter to contributing towards long term flood risk strategies in the area. Each location-specific SPD approach covered below reiterates this expectation.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Both options present an opportunity to provide wider biodiversity and ecological Ecology + + + + + + benefits either as result of the creation of Sustainable Drainage Systems or as part of flood works to watercourses. 2. Landscape & Built Although there is a link between the two option approaches described in the table NA NA NA NA NA NA Environment above and these SA topics, the relationship is indirect and given the scale of the development proposals they are unlikely to have significant impact on this SA 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA topic. As a consequence a neutral effect is predicted. 4. Water A) The HPC project promoter will follow the national planning policy set out in PPS25 regarding development and flood risk. This will benefit the sites where temporary and permanent developments will be constructed. However, this option does not make wider contributions towards flood risk management + + + + + ++ measures that would benefit the wider community. Therefore a minor beneficial effect has been predicted. B) The SPD sets out an expectation that the developer must contribute to flood solutions and flood resilience of the wider SPD area as well as the expectation for all developments to comply with standards set out in PPS25 (Development

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B and Flood Risk). The long term benefits are predicted as being major beneficial because the framework that the approach puts into place will benefit the wider community in West Somerset and Sedgemoor and not just those using new development sites that have been constructed in line with PPS 25. Comparison) Both options include appropriate measures to avoid unacceptable flood risk to new development (both temporary and permanent) by following PPS25 and using features such as Sustainable Drainage Systems to manage surface water flooding risks. However, the SPD option is more likely to have greater benefits over the long term because it requires the HPC project promoter to contribute to other flood risk management schemes that benefit the wider community, such as contributions towards the strategic flood defence solution for Bridgwater. 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA Although there is a link between the two option approaches described in the table above and these SA topics, the relationship is indirect and given the scale of the 6. Waste and development proposals they are unlikely to have significant impact on this SA Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA topic. As a consequence a neutral effect is predicted. Management 7. Climate and A) This option does not cover any other aspects of climate change adaptation Energy other than flood risk. In the short and medium term this is unlikely to have a significant effect. However, over the long term (where permanent development is proposed) a failure to address other potential aspects of climate change (e.g. higher average summer temperatures) is likely to result in significant long term adverse effects. 0 0 0 0 - + B) In the short and medium term the approach set out in the SPD is unlikely to have a significant impact on climate change adaptation. However, over the medium and long term amendment to the SPD means that there will be minor benefits in relation to climate change, as adaptation and resilience measures will be of particular importance in relation to any permanent development proposed. Comparison) The SPD option raises climate change adaptation and resilience as an important issue for permanent development. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. Light Pollution

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 9. Transport Both options are likely to have a beneficial impact on transport because they will + + + + + + both result in transport related development that complies with PPS25. This is particularly applicable to the development proposals for the Cannington Bypass. 10. Human Health A) This option does not cover any other aspects of climate change adaptation other than flood risk. In the short and medium term this is unlikely to have a significant effect. However, over the long term a failure to address other potential aspects of climate change (e.g. higher average summer temperatures) could have adverse effects on groups on users of permanent development proposed. For example, using buildings that are inadequately designed to cope with hotter summers and heatwave conditions. B) In the short and medium term the approach set out in the SPD is unlikely to 0 0 0 0 - + have a significant impact on climate change adaptation. However, over the long term amendments to the SPD mean that there will be minor benefits for people living in the settlements that received legacy benefits from the HPC development. The benefits are only minor because the extent of the effects are likely to be limited to small areas within those communities where permament legacy infrastructure and buildings are proposed. Comparison) The SPD option raises climate change adaptation and resilience as an important issue for permanent development. 11. Culture, Leisure, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Recreation 12. Social NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy A) The economic effects of this option are uncertain because they cannot be quantified. However the Stern Report highlighted the fact that failing to act to NA NA ? ? ? ? address the effects of climate change would have wide ranging economic impacts so it has been highlighted as a potential impact. B) as above there is the potential for economic impacts as a result of the

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B approach proposed by the SPD. However, these measures will only benefit some parts of the economy within the study area and as a result it is not possible to define, with any certainty, the extent or magnitude of potential beneficial effects. Comparison) Although the effects of both options are uncertain it is likely that the SPD option is more likely to have beneficial effects due to the reasons described amongst some of the other SA topics above. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) Where associated development is proposed, this approach relates to the promoter contributing to flood risk management in the area and complying with PPS25. The HPC project promoter should demonstrate that there will be no increased risk of flooding to homes or land. In addition, the promoter should contribute towards long term flood risk strategies in the area and consider climate change adaptation and resilience during the design of permanent infrastructure and buildings. Each location-specific SPD approach covered below adopts a consistent approach in this regard. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary The development of the SPD has also taken into account suggestions regarding including climate change adaptation measures. So no further mitigation measures are proposed.

B1.4 Promoting a Somerset Low Carbon Cluster

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement.  To provide positive socio-economic benefits to the local community, e.g. through opportunities for training, employment and participation in the local community.  To encourage and facilitate the involvement of local businesses in the supply chain for the nuclear power station.  Where practicable, to stimulate and secure inward investment into Somerset to achieve economic restructuring and meet economic objectives.  To support the use of the project to contribute to the economic development of the local region. With respect to economic development, the following key benefits were identified:  The construction workforce would be expected to peak at 5,000, with considerable potential for local recruitment.  Approximately 700 staff would be required to operate the power station, all of whom would live locally.  The project would generate indirect economic benefit through demand for goods and services from local services.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

It was not made clear in the Sustainability Evaluation how these benefits would translate into the achievement of the broader stated objectives of stimulating inward investment economic restructuring. B. SPD Approach This approach encourages the HPC project promoter to support the Heart of Somerset Low Carbon Cluster initiative, thereby contributing to economic development and supporting the up-take of low-carbon technologies and sustainable transport modes in the SPD area. However, the new power station and its associated developments will result in an increase in direct carbon emissions (particularly during construction) which could offset any carbon savings that arise from this approach.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Ecology approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. This is because the HPC project promoter‟s proposals do not set out to contribute towards the Low NA NA NA NA NA NA Carbon Cluster Initiative. The SPD option does not have an impact either, because it is concerned with the uptake of low carbon technology and the use of sustainable transport and as such does not include any site specific elements that could impact on biodiversity and ecology. 2. Landscape & Built Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Environment approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. This is because the HPC project promoter‟s proposals do not set out to contribute towards the Low NA NA NA NA NA NA Carbon Cluster Initiative. The SPD option does not have an impact either, because it is concerned with the uptake of low carbon technology and the use of sustainable transport and as such does not include any site specific elements that could impact on landscape or the built environment. 3. Cultural Heritage Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. This is because the HPC project promoter‟s proposals do not set out to contribute towards the Low NA NA NA NA NA NA Carbon Cluster Initiative. The SPD option does not have an impact either, because it is concerned with the uptake of low carbon technology and the use of sustainable transport and as such does not include any site specific elements that could impact on cultural heritage.

4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. This is because the HPC

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B project promoter‟s proposals do not set out to contribute towards the Low Carbon Cluster Initiative. The SPD option does not have an impact either, because it is concerned with the uptake of low carbon technology and the use of sustainable transport and as such does not include any site specific elements that could impact on water. 5. Soils and Geology Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. This is because the HPC project promoter‟s proposals do not set out to contribute towards the Low NA NA NA NA NA NA Carbon Cluster Initiative. The SPD option does not have an impact either, because it is concerned with the uptake of low carbon technology and the use of sustainable transport and as such does not include any site specific elements that could impact on water quality, water resources and flood risk. 6. Waste and A) The promoter‟s approach described in the previous table is likely to have an Resource impact on this SA topic. This is because both the HPC project promoter‟s Management proposals does not set out to contribute towards the Low Carbon Cluster Initiative. B) The SPD option might have a positive impact if the Low Carbon Cluster 0 ? 0 ? 0 ? Initiative supports developments that minimise waste or use waste as a resource. However, the SPD does not expand on the extent of potential projects and as a result an uncertain effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD options are more likely to make a positive contribution towards waste management and resource efficiency because both are closely linked to GHG emissions. 7. Climate and A) A positive short term effect is predicted reflecting other aspects of the HPC Energy project promoter‟s approach regarding greenhouse gas emissions during the construction phase of the scheme. The promoter‟s approach described in the previous table is unlikely to have an impact this SA topic over the medium and long term because it does not make a clear contribution towards the Low Carbon + + 0 + 0 + Cluster Initiative. B) Pilot green travel schemes and on-site renewables resulting from investment in the Somerset Low Carbon Cluster will help reduce direct emissions in the area. Furthermore, the Low Carbon Cluster is more likely to provide beneficial effects over the medium and long term. Comparison) The SPD provides benefits when compared with the HPC project

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B promoter‟s approach by seeking to utilise the HPC project as a catalyst for the development of a Low Carbon Cluster and green economy, over the medium and long term. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Vibration and approach is likely to have an impact this SA topic. This is because the HPC Light Pollution project promoter‟s proposals do not set out to contribute towards the Low NA NA NA NA NA NA Carbon Cluster Initiative. The SPD option does not have an impact either, because it is concerned with the uptake of low carbon technology and the use of sustainable transport and as such does not include any site specific elements that could impact on air quality, noise, vibration and light pollution. 9. Transport A) A positive short term effect is predicted reflecting other aspects of the HPC project promoter‟s approach regarding transport during the construction phase of the scheme. The promoter‟s approach described in the previous table is unlikely to have an impact this SA topic over the medium and long term because it does not make a clear contribution towards the Low Carbon Cluster Initiative. B) Pilot green travel schemes will help reduce dependence on private car travel. However, HPC and ancillary developments will likely increase traffic volumes + + 0 + 0 + on the local road network, especially during construction. However the benefits for transport GHG emissions from this approach may be offset by the increased emissions from other development related traffic increases. Nevertheless the overall effects from this SPD approach are predicted as being positive. Comparison) The SPD provides benefits when compared with the HPC project promoter‟s approach by seeking to utilise the HPC project as a catalyst for the development of a Low Carbon Cluster and green economy, over the medium and long term. 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA Recreation 12. Social NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy A) The HPC project promoter‟s approach will have major economic benefits for the study area and as a result a major beneficial effect is predicted. However, these benefits are predicted as being short and medium term, with the expectation that economic opportunities will diminish in the long term, albeit there would be job opportunities associated with the operation of the station B) Investment in Somerset Low Carbon Cluster will help create new business and employment opportunities in the region in the long term, seeking to ensure that economic development is sustained. The SPD approach will support the diversification of the economy towards new sectors that could realise significant + + ++ ++ ++ + ++ future growth. The short term effects are only minor beneficial because the approach in the SPD is unlikely to benefit the entire economy of the study area. However, it is more likely to provide lasting economic benefits and growth into the medium to long term. Comparison) Although the HPC project promoter‟s approach will have major benefits for the area over the short term it is more likely to have lasting adverse effects once the construction phase is over. However, by aligning itself with the Low Carbon Cluster the SPD approach is likely to have a medium and long term beneficial effects. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) This approach encourages the HPC project promoter to support the Heart of Somerset Low Carbon Cluster initiative, thereby contributing to economic development and supporting the up-take of low-carbon technologies and sustainable transport modes in the SPD area. However, the new HPC power station and its associated developments, if permitted, will result in an increase in direct carbon emissions (particularly during construction) which could offset any carbon savings that arise from this approach. HPC project promoter support for the Low Carbon Energy Cluster could increase the long term economic resilience of the area, encouraging investment, creating new employment and helping to diversify the region‟s economy. Following the construction phase of the HPC project, there is the possibility that there could be localised unemployment issues if there is insufficient local and/or regional demand for the skills and qualifications that residents and businesses may have obtained from involvement in the HPC project. As a consequence there is an opportunity to minimise this risk by ensuring that there are facilities / services to support local HPC construction phase employees find new jobs once the construction phase is complete. It is recommended therefore that the Councils seek the support of other partners, such as the HPC project promoter, to set in place measures to support individuals in finding new employment. This is a point that is picked up in the approach to Maximising Local Resident Labour Participation.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B2 Economic Development Approaches

B2.1 People - Maximising Local Resident Labour Approach

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To provide positive socio-economic benefits to the local community, e.g. through opportunities for training, employment and participation in the supply chain.  To work with contractors, local authorities, central Government and others to develop a training and recruitment programme that will deliver sufficient numbers of appropriately skilled personnel on time to build and operate the new power station.  Together with partners, to leave a legacy of enhanced skills and high quality employment in the UK and specifically in the local area.  To promote the training and recruitment of local people and support the provision of training courses and facilities in the local area.  To encourage the provision of apprenticeships, for both civil and mechanical and electrical jobs, by both the developer and key contractors, targeted at local school leavers.  To promote training for specific disadvantaged groups in the local area. At Stage 2, the promoter estimated that the construction workforce would peak at 5,000 (Full-time Equivalent positions). An assessment of the following local resident labour scenarios was provided: 20% - „Do-nothing‟; 30% - limited public and project funding on key measures; 40% - assumes clearly targeted and resourced project and public interventions, but with public funding being more limited; and 50% - highly innovative and closely managed programmes with project and public funding. The 40% resident labour scenario was selected as the most beneficial and achievable scenario (Environmental Statement, Vol 2, page 65. B. SPD Approach This approach aims to maximise local resident labour participation in the project by promoting a range of measures within an Employment and Skills Charter agreed with the HPC project promoter:

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

 Support for the expansion of existing higher education and further education facilities.  A brokerage service via Job Centre Plus, providing initiatives such as coaching and multi-agency referrals.  Support for Bridgwater Education Trust, community centres, schools and libraries to provide outreach facilities.  Direct, targeted „back to work‟ outreach support for disadvantaged communities.  Support measures to enable workforce development, such as health improvement and childcare.  Procurement practices that maximise direct employment and social enterprise contract opportunities.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 2. Landscape & Built NA NA NA NA NA NA Environment 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 7. Climate and NA NA NA NA NA NA Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA Light Pollution 9. Transport NA NA NA NA NA NA 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA

11. Culture, Leisure, NA NA NA NA NA NA Tourism and

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Recreation 12. Social Both options would improve access to education and training opportunities for Infrastructure local people throughout construction and operation. Investment by the HPC project promoter would improve local facilities such as schools, libraries and community centres to the benefit of the whole community. It is also predicted + + + + + + that this will also provide a lasting legacy of investment in educational facilities that will remain following construction of the power station. A key aspect of the approach in the SPD is to ensure that investment in education and community outreach facilities is secured. 13. Population and A) This option provides significant benefits for the local population and Social Cohesion workforce by drawing at least 40% of the HPC construction work force from resident labour. This will be supported by a variety of training measures. This training will also be targeted towards groups that are in greatest need of support. However, there are no specific measures to assist the work force find new employment at the end of the construction phase. Therefore the long term effects are predicted to be adverse. + + + + - + B) This option also provides the similar beneficial effects over the short term. However, over the medium to long term the effects are likely to be beneficial as a result of measures that will assist workers to find new work once the construction phase is complete. Comparison) The main differences between the two options are the long term effects whereby the SPD option is predicted as having better medium and long term effects. 14. Crime and Safety Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 15. Economy A) This option provides significant benefits for the local population and workforce by drawing at least 40% of the HPC construction work force from resident labour. This means that the economic benefits from construction are more likely to benefit the regional economy rather than being lost from the local ++ ++ ++ ++ - + area due to a workforce that migrates into the area and may have roots elsewhere in the UK or overseas. However, there are no specific measures to assist the workforce find new employment at the end of the construction phase. Therefore the longer term effects are predicted to be adverse.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B B) This option also provides the similar beneficial effects over the short term. However, over the medium to long term the effects are likely to be beneficial as a result of measures that will assist workers to find new work once the construction phase is complete. Comparison) The main differences between the two options are the medium and long term effects whereby the SPD option is predicted as having better medium and long term effects. A key aspect of the Councils approach is to ensure that proactive measures are put in place so that local labour targets are met. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option)

At its peak during construction, the HPC project is anticipated to deliver approximately 5,600 jobs (Full Time Equivalent positions). This approach aims to ensure positive economic development benefits in the area by increasing the proportion of local residents in the HPC construction workforce. This could be achieved by maximising training, job opportunities and access to educational facilities for local residents prior to and during the construction phase of the HPC project. There is the potential for the HPC project to displace local skilled workers in existing businesses, resulting in a skill shortage amongst existing employers in the region and a possible decline in productivity. The HPC project could also result in wage inflation. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary The SPD approach seeks to ensure measures are in place to support resident workers find new jobs once the HPC construction is complete. This has now been taken into account and as a result no further mitigation measures are proposed.

B2.2 Place - Spatial Planning for Employment Approach

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement.  Provide long-term, sustainable legacy benefits for the local community from new [transport] infrastructure where appropriate. The HPC project promoters Preferred Proposals (taking account of updates and proposed changes) for transport and freight management comprise those at Williton (Park & Ride); Combwich (wharf upgrade, freight laydown area); M5 Junction 23 (Park & Ride and freight management); and M5 Junction 24 (Park &

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

Ride and freight management). The scale of potential development at Combwich is an ongoing concern for the Council, based on the rural setting and location of proposals in the floodplain. The Councils‟ Stage 2 response highlighted that a more thorough appraisal of site options would be necessary. Further site specific points are picked up in the relevant sections below. B. SPD Approach This approach sets out advice that employment, logistics and transport proposals (e.g. Park & Ride) should comply with local plan policy and the spatial strategy for the area in which they are located, as well as comply with relevant flood risk guidance. For example, in Sedgemoor, large-scale employment proposals should be focussed at Bridgwater or Burnham-on-Sea where they could help improve the vitality of existing employment centres. This approach also seeks to avoid adverse environmental impacts.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and A) The HPC project proposals have been amended such that the Williton Park & Ecology Ride and M5 Junction 24 Park & Ride/freight management facility would be located on brownfield rather than greenfield land, which is seen as a positive step, that could help to protect biodioversity. B) The SPD sets out a sequential approach to identifying sites that seeks to ensure that, wherever possible, employment and transport land uses are located - + - + 0 0 on brownfield sites that are at low risk of flooding. There is therefore potential for further temporary (short and medium) term development of greenfield land to be prevented, which would result in reduced impacts on biodiversity. Comparison) The HPC project promoter has amended proposals to address concerns raised about temporary development on greenfield sites, however there may still be potential for the total area of greenfield land take to be reduced, as promoted by the SPD. 2. Landscape & Built A) The HPC project proposals have been amended such that the Williton Park & Environment Ride and M5 Junction 24 Park & Ride/freight management facility would be located on brownfield rather than greenfield land, which is seen as a positive step, that helps to positively regenerate urban land and keep it in active use. - + - + + + B) The SPD sets out a sequential approach to identifying sites that seeks to ensure that, wherever possible, employment and transport land uses are located on brownfield sites that are at low risk of flooding. There is therefore potential for further temporary (short and medium) term development of greenfield land to be prevented, which would help direct development towards brownfield sites

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B helping to secure regeneration benefits. Comparison) The HPC project promoter has amended proposals to address concerns raised about temporary development on greenfield sites, however there may still be potential for the total area of greenfield land take to be reduced, as promoted by the SPD. 3. Cultural Heritage The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect cultural heritage. This should mitigate any 0 0 0 0 0 0 potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 4. Water The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect water quality, resources and flood risk. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 5. Soils and Geology A) The HPC project proposals have been amended such that the Williton Park & Ride and M5 Junction 24 Park & Ride/freight management facility would be located on brownfield rather than greenfield land, which is seen as a positive step, that could help to protect agricultural soils. B) The SPD sets out a sequential approach to identifying sites that seeks to ensure that, wherever possible, employment and transport land uses are located - + - + 0 0 on brownfield sites that are at low risk of flooding. There is therefore potential for further temporary (short and medium) term development of greenfield land to be prevented, which would result in reduced impacts on agricultural land. Comparison) The HPC project promoter has amended proposals to address concerns raised about temporary development on greenfield sites, however there may still be potential for the total area of greenfield land take to be reduced, as promoted by the SPD. 6. Waste and A) New development will result in increased waste arisings over baseline Resource conditions because there will be a greater number of business premises Management generating waste that has to be treated, recycled and/or disposed. The effect - 0 - 0 0 0 continues following construction in recognition that some or all of the new businesses will be serving the needs of the community and workers at HPC once it is operational. B) The approach set out in the SPD seeks to prevent temporary development of

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B greenfield sites and therefore potential reduces the extent of hardsurfacing etc that would have to removed and disposed of when the land is reinstated to greenfield. Comparison) Both options would result in waste arisings, however the SPD approach seeks to minimise temporary development on greenfield sites that would result in need to dispose of large areas of hardsurfacing etc. at the end of the HPC construction phase.

7. Climate and A) This option does seek to incorporate some spatial planning elements to reduce Energy the GHG associated with the HPC development (e.g. the use of park and ride for construction worker commuting). However, by not focussing development towards the principle towns there is the risk that workers will travel more to access some services and facilities. B) New employment sites resulting from development will increase emissions of greenhouse gases from the SPD area due to their use of resources and materials as well as the energy and electricity consumed once they are in use. However, by focussing this development towards existing transport hubs, settlements (e.g. Bridgwater and Burnham-on-Sea) and district centres the magnitude of the predicted impacts are reduced by offsetting potential emissions. The magnitude - 0 - 0 0 0 of any potentially adverse effects will also be offset by other approaches in the SPD (such as the “Construction phase carbon emissions approach)”. Despite the mitigating effects of these other approaches it is still likely to result in increased greenhouse gas emissions. Comparison) Both options will lead to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. However, they also include measures that seek to reduce the magnitude of these effects. Although the significance criteria suggests that the significance of the predicted effects for both options are the same it is likely that the SPD option will have slightly lower GHG because focussing employment towards the principal towns means that workers will be able to take advantage of existing services and therefore will not have to travel as far. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Vibration and environmental negatively affect air quality, noise, vibration and light pollution. 0 0 0 0 0 0 Light Pollution This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 9. Transport A) The HPC development will increase traffic using the existing road network. However, the spatial approach to employment will help to reduce these effects on the road network in the vicinity of the HPC site. As a result a minor adverse effect is predicted. However, once the construction phase is complete it is not certain what type of effect will remain. Some of the freight and park and ride sites may provide long term benefits for transport by helping to reduce the volume of traffic on roads in the area. However, there are no specific descriptions of whether this would be implemented and who it would benefit so an uncertain medium and long term effect is predicted. - - ? + ? + B) As above this option will help to reduce the magnitude of the traffic impacts from the development but cannot completely ameliorate them. However, by adopting a spatial approach that directs employment development towards the main settlements the medium and long term effects are likely to be beneficial because it provides employees with a greater opportunity to use alternative forms of transport to the private car, thereby helping to reduce congestion. Comparison) SPD option is more likely to provide medium and long term benefits in terms of reducing road traffic and providing the spatial framework that can support residents using alternatives to private car transport. 10. Human Health The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect human health and access to health care. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 11. Culture, Leisure, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Tourism and environmental negatively affect cultural, leisure, tourism and recreational 0 0 0 0 0 0 Recreation facilities. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 12. Social A) This option is unlikely to have an impact on the accessibility of social Infrastructure infrastructure so a neutral effect is predicted. B) The emphasis of the spatial planning approach for employment is to locate it 0 + 0 + 0 + in existing settlements that already have social infrastructure present and therefore can be accessed by workers both during the construction phase as well as the medium and long term. New employment sites will also increase the vitality of existing centres, improving the viability of community facilities. As a

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD option provides clear benefits when compared to the HPC project promoter‟s approach. 13. Population and A) In the short term this option is likely to have a beneficial impact for the Social Cohesion population in the form of job creation and the other benefits for residents. However, the medium to long term benefits are lost because this option does not direct employment sites towards existing centres where the existing workforce could take advantage of any legacy benefits. B) The emphasis of the spatial planning approach for employment is to locate it + + 0 + 0 + in existing settlements that will provide benefits from the short term to the long term. New employment sites will also increase the vitality of existing centres, improving the viability of community facilities. As a result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD option provides clear benefits when compared to the HPC Project Promoter‟s approach. 14. Crime and Safety The approaches proposed by both options helps to discourages development that will environmental negatively affect crime and safety. This should mitigate any 0 0 0 0 0 0 potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 15. Economy A) In the short term this option is likely to have a beneficial impact for the economy in the form of job creation and the other benefits for residents. However, the medium to long term benefits are lost because this option does not direct employment sites towards existing centres where the existing workforce could take advantage of any legacy benefits. + + 0 + 0 + B) The emphasis of the spatial planning approach for employment is to locate development in existing settlements will provide economic benefits from the short term to the long term. New employment sites will also support the economic viability of existing centres. As a result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD option provides clear benefits when compared to the HPC project promoter‟s approach. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) This approach seeks to limit the negative impacts of employment and transport development on greenfield sites and ensure that new developments improve the

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B vitality of existing employment centres through the regeneration of brownfield sites. It also highlights the need to ensure that significant adverse environmental impacts are avoided. This, combined with national policy, existing local plans policies and the emerging Core Strategy policies, means that the approach should have a neutral impact on sensitive environmental receptors. The adverse impacts associated with developing new employment sites (increased waste arisings, energy consumption, traffic and greenhouse gas emissions) will, to a certain extent, be mitigated by other approaches within the SPD and policy documents. However, it is unlikely that they will completely mitigate adverse effects. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary There is an opportunity for the two councils to work with other partners, outside of the planning system, to address some of the potentially adverse effects described above. For example, it may be possible to mitigate some of the adverse waste and resource use effects by working with organisations such as the National Industrial Symbiosis Programme (NISP) to attract different businesses that can utilise each other‟s waste streams as a resource.

B2.3 Business – Support for Local Supply Chain and Service Businesses

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To provide positive socio-economic benefits to the local community, e.g. through opportunities for training, employment and participation in the supply chain.  Together with partners, to leave a legacy of enhanced skills and high quality employment in the UK and specifically in the local area.  To promote the training and recruitment of local people and support the provision of training courses and facilities in the local area.  To promote training for specific disadvantaged groups in the local area.  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration. B. SPD Approach This approach provides support for the HPC project promoter and other businesses to provide new or expanded premises to deliver goods or services that support the project, but sets out a preference for permanent development that will provide regeneration benefits and help to support the vitality and viability of centres, for example in Bridgwater and Williton.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and A) A neutral effect is predicted because the HPC project proposals do not set out Ecology guidance for other supply chain proposals that may come forward B) The SPD approach seeks to direct employment and business development towards existing settlements, therefore potentially reducing impacts on 0 + 0 + 0 0 biodiversity that could otherwise occur. Comparison) The SPD approach anticipates demand for further development close to the HPC main site and seeks to restrict temporary development in the countryside. 2. Landscape & Built A) A neutral effect is predicted because this option does not provide any benefits Environment for existing businesses that might help maintain the viability of existing settlements and thereby reduce the risk of employment land becoming vacant and detracting from the quality of the built environment. B) This option could contribute towards this SA topic by helping existing businesses remain viable thereby reducing the likelihood that employment sites 0 + 0 + 0 + become vacant and detract from the built environment quality of settlements. These benefits could remain following construction and as result a minor beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD approach is more likely to have a beneficial impact because it helps to support the viability of local businesses which in turn helps to minimise the number of vacant business premises that can detract from the quality of the built environment. 3. Cultural Heritage Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 4. Water Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 5. Soils and Geology A) A neutral effect is predicted because the HPC project proposals do not set out guidance for other supply chain proposals that may come forward B) The SPD approach seeks to direct employment and business development towards existing settlements, therefore potentially reducing impacts on 0 + 0 + 0 0 agricultural land that could otherwise occur. Comparison) The SPD approach anticipates demand for further development close to the HPC main site and seeks to restrict temporary development in the countryside.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 6. Waste and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Management 7. Climate and A) This option does not include safeguards that support the use of local supply Energy chains and service businesses. As a consequence there is a significant chance that the supply chains service businesses could come from national organisation that are not based in the local economy. Therefore goods and services will have to be transported further than if local supply chains were used. - + 0 0 0 0 B) This option is likely to have a positive effect on climate and energy consumption because it will help to reduce the distance that goods have to travel before they are used. Comparison) The SPD option, due to proximity, is likely to have a more beneficial effect than the HPC project promoter approach because the distances that have to be travelled to provide services and goods will be shorter. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Light Pollution 9. Transport A) This option does not include safeguards that support the use of local supply chains and service businesses. As a consequence there is a significant chance that the supply chains service businesses could come from national organisation that are not based in the local economy. Therefore goods and services will have to be transported further than if local supply chains were used. - + 0 0 0 0 B) This option is likely to have a positive effect on climate and energy consumption because it will help to reduce the distance that goods have to travel before they are used. Comparison) The SPD option, due to proximity, is likely to have a better effect than the HPC project promoter approach because the distances that have to be travelled to provide services and goods will be shorter. 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA Recreation

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 12. Social NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy A) The stage 2 approach does not provide a clear indication about whether or not support for the existing supply chain and service businesses will be provided. Given this uncertainty it is assumed that local supply chains will not be proactively supported and as a result a minor adverse effect is predicted because it will not benefit existing businesses. B) This option will have major benefits for the local economy in the short term 0 ++ 0 0 0 0 because it will help to direct expenditure towards to the local economy that might otherwise leak out into the wider economy. No medium or long term effects are predicted because the scope of this SPD approach is only concerned with the construction phase of the HPC. Comparison) the SPD option provides clear short term benefits for the local economy where as the HPC approach does not include any specific measures that would benefits local businesses and supply chains. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The proposed approach in the SPD will provide significant short term economic benefits for the local economy by helping to direct expenditure towards local suppliers and businesses that might otherwise be lost from the region. Furthermore, by providing a framework to supports local supply chains the distance that goods have to be transported can be reduced which also has short term beneficial impacts on transport and greenhouse gas emissions. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B3 Transport Approaches

B3.1 Sustainable Transport Approach

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Minimise the volume of road traffic associated with the construction of the new power station and its associated development especially during peak hours.  Reduce travel demand associated with the proposed development of HPC.  Maximise the safe and efficient movement of people and materials to and from the new power station site.  Minimise disruption both for the local community and visitors to the area using the road network for business and leisure trips.  Provide long-term, sustainable legacy benefits for the local community from new infrastructure where appropriate.  Protect the natural and built environment and ensure the image of the area is not adversely affected. At Stage 2, the HPC project promoter put forward a transport strategy based on Park & Ride, with bus services from Williton, Cannington and M5 Junctions 23 and 24 to the main power station site. The movement of freight would involve the use of freight management sites at Combwich and M5 Junctions 23 and 24. Some freight would be delivered by water, either to the wharf at Combwich, or direct to a temporary jetty at the main site. In addition, the promoter proposed the construction of a new bypass to the west of Cannington that would prevent the need for construction traffic to travel through the village centre, together with a series of highway improvements in the Bridgwater area. B. SPD Approach This approach sets out a series of criteria and principles that should be addressed by the HPC project promoter‟s transport and freight strategy, so that the safe, efficient and sustainable movement of people and materials is achieved. Key measures include:  Alignment of transport and freight strategy with the transport plans and strategies of the County and District Councils, to provide long-term sustainable legacy benefits for the local community.  Minimisation of road traffic, particularly at peak times.  Any new highway proposals are to be justified by a full New Approach to Appraisal (NATA) assessment.  Provide public transport solutions for access to the site that workers and visitors will be required to use, and protect general public transport services.  Ensure that provision if made for cyclists and pedestrians, including protection of existing routes and enhanced routes are provided from associated

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development sites to nearby town and village centres.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Ecology environmental negatively affect biodiversity, sensitive habitats and species of 0 0 0 0 0 0 wildlife. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 2. Landscape & Built The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Environment environmental negatively affect landscape and the built environment. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 3. Cultural Heritage The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect cultural heritage. This should mitigate any 0 0 0 0 0 0 potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 4. Water The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect water quality, resources and flood risk. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 5. Soils and Geology The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect sensitive soil and geological features. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 6. Waste and Both options will indirectly lead to the generation of waste because they both Resource support the development of new transport infrastructure to that help residents and Management - - 0 0 0 0 workers to travel via more sustainable means than private car which will generate additional waste. However, this will only be a short term adverse effect that will not occur in the medium to long term.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 7. Climate and A) This option contains many measures that aim to reduce greenhouse gas Energy emissions from transport. However, the approach to transport means that these benefits will not remain or provide a legacy for the existing communities and residential population. As a result the medium and long term effects are predicted as being neutral. B) The approach in this option will help minimise emissions during construction + + 0 + 0 + through Travel Plans, park and ride and local procurement. Longer term emissions reductions will be achieved by the sustainable transport infrastructure that remains. Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar in the short term. However, the SPD approach, particularly with its legacy benefits is more likely to provide long term benefits. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Vibration and environmental negatively affect air quality or lead to significant noise, vibration 0 0 0 0 0 0 Light Pollution and light pollution. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 9. Transport A) This option contains many measures that aim to reduce road traffic by providing the infrastructure to operate park and ride service to HPC during construction. However, these measures are primarily going to help to reduce the increased traffic flows associated with construction and commuters. This means that the benefits are only likely to be minor beneficial, although it is recognised that any strategic highway improvements could provide a longer term legacy benefit. B) The approach in this option will help minimise transport impacts associated + + + + + + + + + with construction of the HPC development. However, this is also combined with the implementation of additional sustainable transport infrastructure to support modal shift. Longer term emissions reductions will be achieved by the sustainable transport infrastructure that remains. The magnitude of the predicted effects are major because the approach will provide infrastructure that could support modal shift towards public transport, cycling and walking. Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are different because of the scope of sustainable transport measures promoted by the SPD and associated long term legacy benefits.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 10. Human Health A) A neutral effect is predicted because any adverse effects will be indentified and mitigated through the Environmental Impact Assessment process. B) A minor beneficial effect is predicted because some forms of the sustainable 0 + 0 + 0 + transport (cycling and walking) also have health benefits. It also requires EIA to manage any potentially adverse health effect. Comparison) The SPD option is likely to provide greater benefits for the study area than the approach set out by the HPC project promoter. 11. Culture, Leisure, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Tourism and 0 0 0 0 0 0 environmental negatively affect access to cultural, leisure, tourism and Recreation recreational facilities. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options 12. Social A) This option will not affect how accessible community and social Infrastructure infrastructure is and as a result a neutral effect is predicted. B) This option will help to provide a greater variety of ways for people to access social infrastructure as a result of the legacy effects of the proposed 0 + 0 + 0 + development. However the extent of these benefits is likely to be limited to the communities where new development occurs. As a result a minor beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) Due to its legacy benefits the sustainability performance of the SPD option are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach. 13. Population and A) This option will not affect population and social cohesion and as a result a Social Cohesion neutral effect is predicted. B) This option will help to provide a greater variety of ways for people to access services and amenities as a result of the legacy effects of the proposed 0 + 0 + 0 + development. However the extent of these benefits is likely to be limited to the communities where new development occurs. As a result minor beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) Due to its legacy benefits the sustainability performance of the SPD option are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach. 14. Crime and Safety The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will increase the risk of crime or pose a safety risk. This should mitigate any 0 0 0 0 0 0 potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 15. Economy A) This option contains many measures that aim to reduce transport impacts from the HPC development which will have benefits for the local economy because it will help to avoid potentially adverse economic impacts associated with congestion. Where highway improvements are proposed, these could potentially have longer term benefits. + + + ++ + ++ B) This option includes measures that will help to retain legacy benefits in the form of sustainable transport infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on aligning investment with the long term transport plan for the area. Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar, however, the SPD places a greater emphasis on aligning transport investment with the long term transport plan for the area. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) This approach aims to ensure that any new transport development proposed as part of the HPC project meets transport planning and environmental expectations. As a result, the SA topics most commonly associated with Environmental Impact Assessment were assessed as having a neutral impact. The development is likely to result in increased traffic volumes over baseline levels, especially during the construction phase and on key routes such as the M5, A38 and A39 and local roads in Bridgwater. However the SPD approach will help to partially mitigate these effects by travel management, highway, public and sustainable transport schemes, resulting in a beneficial effect. The proposed approach has particular benefits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as supporting the economy and access to social infrastructure and services. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and walking/cycling alternatives from development sites to the centre of Bridgwater and the main site. Nevertheless, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B4 Housing Approaches

B4.1 Spatial Approach for Worker Accommodation

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of: the need to minimise travel to work distances; regional and local planning policies, including areas identified for development; and the need to keep numbers attached to any town or village within a manageable capacity, bearing mind the nature and characteristics of the place.  To support the achievement of the transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities.  To make use of existing accommodation in the local area and support local businesses (e.g. owners of B&Bs and caravan parks) but without displacing the local tourist industry.  To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries, restaurants), and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). The Stage 2 Preferred Proposals for accommodating 3,700 non-home base workers (taking account of Proposed Changes) are as follows:  Around 2,200 of the non-home base workforce will use existing accommodation (owner occupied, private rented, tourism accommodation and latent supply);  510 bedspaces to be provided in a temporary campus at Hinkley Point;  850 bedspaces to be provided in a temporary campus at Bridgwater A (Innovia); and 150 bedspaces to be provided in a temporary campus at Bridgwater C (Rugby Club), with potential for a legacy use of student accommodation and/or College teaching space.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that construction worker accommodation is located in existing settlements in West Somerset and Sedgemoor, in proportions that reflect the local settlement hierarchy as set out in the emerging Core Strategies of the two District Councils. In summary, this would involve:  a higher proportion of accommodation (permanent or temporary) directed to Bridgwater;  smaller-scale proposals for permanent housing in Stogursey, Watchet, Williton and Cannington; and  proposals for accommodation outside settlement boundaries on greenfield land at Hinkley Point should be minimised.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and The approaches proposed by both options discourage development that will Ecology environmental negatively affect biodiversity, sensitive habitats and species of 0 0 0 0 0 0 wildlife. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 2. Landscape & Built A) The spatial approach proposed in this option could detract from the built Environment environment within urban and semi-urban settings in the short term. It could also detract from the wider landscape in more rural locations e.g. HPC project main site and as a result an uncertain effect is predicted because the temporary accommodation may be designed such that it has neutral impact on this topic area. It is not predicted as being likely to have legacy benefits so a neutral medium and long term effect is predicted. B) The spatial approach in this option uses the HPC development as an ? + 0 + 0 + opportunity to address some existing landscape and built environment issues e.g. providing a legacy development at the Innovia site that also enhances one of the major gateways into Bridgwater. The requirement in the SPD for the HPC project promoter to provide greater numbers of permanent accommodation also means that the quality of the built environment in the short term will be greater. Comparison) Of the two options the SPD provides greater landscape and built environment benefit because it requires greater quantities of permanent development that are directed towards existing settlements and will help to improve the quality of the built environment. 3. Cultural Heritage 0 0 0 0 0 0 The approaches proposed by both options discourage development that will

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 4. Water environmental negatively affect cultural heritage, water quality, water resources, 0 0 0 0 0 0 and flood risk. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 5. Soils and Geology Both options will contribute towards improving the „soil environment‟ by directing accommodation development towards previously developed „brownfield sites‟. As a consequence they will have to comply with the relevant contaminated land legislation and standards for residential accommodation. This means that any contamination will either be removed, remediated or contained to + ++ + ++ + ++ prevent adverse environmental effects or impacts on human beings. As a result a minor beneficial effect has been predicted. A major beneficial effect is predicted for the SPD approach as, in addition, it seeks to limit greenfield development at the construction site by directing development towards existing settlements. 6. Waste and Neither option is predicted as having an impact on waste and resource Resource management because they are both primarily concerned with the spatial Management 0 0 0 0 0 0 distribution or location of worker accommodation. As a result the impact on waste generation or resource use is likely to be negligible and as a result a neutral effect is predicted. 7. Climate and A) Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and accommodation will generate Energy increased greenhouse gas emissions. These effects will be mitigated by the transport options described earlier. However, this option will not have an impact on the medium or long term emissions because its distribution and use will be restricted to the HPC construction phase. B) Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and accommodation will generate increased greenhouse gas emissions. However, this approach aims to ensure that - - 0 ++ 0 ++ accommodation sites are sited so as to maximise opportunities for workers to access facilities in existing settlements (particularly Bridgwater) by walking, cycling or public transport. The magnitude of any potentially adverse effects will also be offset by other approaches in the SPD (such as the “Construction phase carbon emissions approach”). Despite the mitigating effects of these other approaches it is still likely to result in increased greenhouse gas emissions. The legacy effects are predicted as being positive because the spatial distribution of accommodation in existing settlements will displace the need to build additional housing thereby saving GHG emissions. Consequently the medium and long

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B term effects are major beneficial. Comparison) During the construction phase both options are likely to have adverse effects in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. However the magnitude of these effects are mitigated by other measures. The SPD does however perform better over time because the spatial distribution of housing development combined with the legacy benefits will help to avoid additional emissions associated with building new residential properties in the future. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Both options tackle increased congesting as a result of higher traffic volumes Vibration and may be mitigated through highways proposals such as new bypasses at Light Pollution 0 0 0 0 0 0 Bridgwater and Cannington. These schemes will be subject to EIA at which stage local air quality, noise and vibration impacts should be identified and mitigated for. 9. Transport A) During construction this option should support the other aspects of the HPC project promoter‟s approach (e.g. the park and ride facilities) and as a result a positive short term effect is predicted. However, the spatial approach is unlikely to have a long term effect on transport so a neutral effect is predicted for the medium and long term. B) The spatial approach set in this option is likely to have a similar effect during the construction phase. However, it is over the medium and long term where the + + 0 + 0 + SPD spatial approach for locating accommodation in the existing centres (particularly Bridgwater) where residents are more likely to have access to public transport, footpath and cycling infrastructure so there is a greater chance that they will be able to travel more sustainably. Comparison) In the short term the effects of both options are likely to be similar. However, the stronger legacy element of the SPD means that it is more likely to provide a legacy of sustainable transport infrastructure that benefits residents in the future. 10. Human Health A) The spatial approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant impact on human health or access to healthcare. Any potentially adverse health effects associated with any of the development will be identified and mitigated 0 + 0 + 0 + through the Health Impact Assessment process. B) The spatial approach proposed by this option will locate large residential developments at sites where health care can easily be accessed from existing facilities. This is of particular relevant for developments in their legacy phase.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Potentially adverse health effects associated with any of the development will be identified and mitigated through the Health Impact Assessment process. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 11. Culture, Leisure, A) The spatial approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Tourism and impact on access to culture, leisure, tourism and recreation. It also provides Recreation safeguards to avoid adverse impacts on existing tourism facilities (e.g. Bed and Breakfast accommodation) so a neutral effect is predicted. B) The approach aims to ensure that accommodation developments are 0 + 0 + 0 + consistent with the aims of the Bridgwater Vision which include creating a vibrant, accessible and vibrant community. As the campuses are likely to be permanent developments, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 12. Social A) The spatial approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Infrastructure impact on access to social infrastructure because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained. B) This option will help ensure that accommodation developments promote the aims of the Bridgwater Vision. This will include the provision of new/enhanced 0 + 0 + 0 + community facilities in Bridgwater and improvements to service access for the wider community where possible. As the campuses are likely to be permanent developments, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 13. Population and A) The spatial approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have an impact on Social Cohesion access to population and social cohesion because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained and does not integrate with the wider community in terms of legacy benefits. 0 + 0 + 0 + B) This option will contribute to the wider aims of the Bridgwater Vision which promotes social inclusion and community cohesion. It will ensure that decisions on accommodation location will help improve access to services for existing communities. If campuses are permanent (as is encouraged by other SPD

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B approaches), they will help improve access to affordable housing in the area after the construction phase. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 14. Crime and Safety Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. 15. Economy A) The spatial approach proposed by this option will have short term benefits for the economy because it will direct some temporary development towards the larger centres e.g. Bridgwater. However, the temporary accommodation approach does not provide long term benefits or contribute to the long term regeneration aspirations of the two councils. As result a minor beneficial short term effect is predicted and a neutral medium and long term effect also predicted. + + 0 + 0 + B) The construction of new campuses in Bridgwater will bring a large new workforce into the area that will use existing services, boosting the local economy. As the accommodation is likely to be permanent in Bridgwater and transferred to legacy use, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) This approach advocates key criteria for the locations of worker accommodation and as such provides significant beneficial effects. The approach promotes accommodation being sited in locations that promote regeneration of brownfield sites and where there is good access to public transport and a range of services (reducing the need to travel). The approach also seeks to minimise disruption and negative impacts to the function and character of smaller settlements near to the HPC site, as well as temporary development on greenfield sites that could result in long term or permanent damage. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B4.2 Principles for Worker Accommodation

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The HPC Project promoters Stage 2 proposals are summarised in the preceding section. The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that are of particular relevance here include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of: the need to minimise travel to work distances; regional and local planning policies, including areas identified for development; and the need to keep numbers attached to any town or village within a manageable capacity, bearing in mind the nature and characteristics of the place.  To support the achievement of the transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities.  To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries, restaurants), and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). B. SPD Approach This section of the Draft SPD sets out an expectation that a overarching Worker Accommodation Strategy should be provided by the HPC project promoter, and that proposals for worker accommodation should conform with a series design principles. Design principles include:  Proposals should minimise the need to travel for work and leisure, particularly by private car.  The majority of accommodation should be of a permanent form of construction, preventing unsustainable temporary development.  Proposals should promote a positive legacy for the area and communities adjacent to the development.  Proposals should integrate the construction workforce with local communities to promote regeneration and social cohesion.  Minimise local environmental impacts, including noise disturbance, visual impacts, and traffic impacts on key junctions.  Achieve a balanced distribution of demand on key public and private services, avoiding excessive loading on one area.  Any accommodation should be underpinned by a Code of Conduct and minimise the demand on policing and service delivery.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and The approaches proposed by both options discourage development that will Ecology environmental negatively affect biodiversity, sensitive habitats and species of 0 0 0 0 0 0 wildlife. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 2. Landscape & Built A) The general approach proposed in this option could detract from the built Environment environment within urban settings in the short term. It could also detract from the wider landscape in more rural locations (e.g. HPC project main site). It is not predicted as being unlikely to have legacy benefits so a neutral medium and long term effect is predicted. B) The general approach in this option uses the HPC development as an opportunity to address some existing landscape and built environment issues e.g. - + - + 0 + providing a legacy development at the Innovia site that also enhances one of the major gateways into Bridgwater. The requirement in the SPD for the HPC project promoter to provide greater numbers of permanent accommodation also means that the quality of the built environment in the short term will be greater. Comparison) Of the two options the SPD provides greater landscape and built environment benefit because it requires greater quantities of permanent development that are directed towards existing settlements and will help to improve the quality of the built environment. 3. Cultural Heritage The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect cultural heritage. This should mitigate any 0 0 0 0 0 0 potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 4. Water The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect water quality, resources and flood risk. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 5. Soils and Geology The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect sensitive soil and geological features. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 6. Waste and A) Temporary worker accommodation will increase the municipal waste that is Resource generated during construction. Waste will also be generated during the Management construction and removal / demolition of the accommodation once the construction phase is over. B) Developments to house construction workers at HPC, Bridgwater and the other sites will result in increased generation of municipal waste in the SPD area - - - - - 0 compared to baseline levels. This approach and separate SPD approaches stating the authorities‟ preference for permanent and re-usable over temporary development will avoid the production of demolition waste in the long term. Comparison) The provision of new accommodation or housing will generate waste in the short and medium term. By promoting permanent housing the SPD approach would reduce demolition waste in the long term. 7. Climate and A) The construction of temporary accommodation will involve emission from Energy the construction and demolition of the dwellings. There will also be greenhouse gas emissions associated with the construction materials that are used and disposed of. Over the medium term, energy use is predicted to be consistent with that of other dwellings, however additional GHG emissions would result from the demolition and removal of temporary accommodation units and associated infrastructure. B) New accommodation to house construction workers will add additional energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions to existing baseline levels. However, in line with separate SPD approaches, permanent development will - - 0 0 - + achieve Code for Sustainable Homes ratings, reducing lifecycle emissions. In the long term, permanent development can be retained, both reducing GHG emission associated with demolition of temporary dwellings, and saving emissions associated with the construction of new planned housing. Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and accommodation will also generate increased greenhouse gas emissions. However, this approach aims to ensure that accommodation sites are sited so as to maximise opportunities for workers to reach facilities in existing settlements by walking, cycling or public transport. The magnitude of any potentially adverse effects will also be offset by other approaches in the SPD (such as the “Construction phase carbon emissions approach”. Comparison) Although significance of the effects for the SPD option are adverse

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B over the lifetime of the SPD its overall approach will result in lower emissions than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because it avoids the emissions associated with removing or demolishing temporary accommodation only for new housing to be built again at some point in the future to meet the wider requirements of the council‟s Core Strategies. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that create Vibration and air quality, noise, vibration and light pollution. This should mitigate any 0 0 0 0 0 0 Light Pollution potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 9. Transport A) During construction this option should support the other aspects of the HPC project promoter‟s approach (e.g. the park and ride facilities) and as a result a positive short term effect is predicted. However, the spatial approach is unlikely to have a long term effect on transport so a neutral effect is predicted for the medium and long term. B) The general approach set in this option is likely to have a similar effect during the construction phase. However, it is over the medium and long term where the + + 0 + 0 + SPD spatial approach for locating accommodation in the existing centres (particularly Bridgwater) where residents are more likely to have access to public transport, footpath and cycling infrastructure so there is a greater chance that they will be able to travel more sustainably. Comparison) In the short term the effects of both options are likely to be similar. However, the stronger legacy element of the SPD means that it is more likely to provide a legacy of sustainable transport infrastructure that benefits residents in the future. 10. Human Health A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant impact on human health or access to healthcare. Any potentially adverse health effects associated with any of the development will be identified and mitigated through the Health Impact Assessment process. 0 + 0 + 0 + B) This option promotes healthy lifestyles and general community wellbeing, through the provision of new and enhanced community facilities (including medical facilities) during the construction phase. As the campuses are likely to be permanent developments, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 11. Culture, Leisure, A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Tourism and impact on access to culture, leisure, tourism and recreation. However, Recreation community access to campus sports facilities is proposed, which would provide a benefit in the short and medium term, but could result in a negative effect were these facilities to be removed in the long term. + + + + - + B) This option promotes the creation of new or enhanced cultural and leisure facilities alongside new worker accommodation during the construction phase. As the campuses are likely to be permanent developments, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a long term legacy benefit. 12. Social A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Infrastructure impact on access to social infrastructure because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained. B) This option will help ensure that accommodation developments promote the aims of the Bridgwater Vision. This will include the provision of new/enhanced 0 + 0 + 0 + community facilities in Bridgwater and improvements to service access for the wider community where possible. As the campuses are likely to be permanent developments, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 13. Population and A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have an impact Social Cohesion on access to population and social cohesion because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained and does not integrate with the wider community in terms of legacy benefits. B) This option will contribute to the wider aims of the Bridgwater Vision which 0 + 0 + 0 + promotes social inclusion and community cohesion. It will ensure that decisions on accommodation location will help improve access to services for existing communities. If campuses are permanent (as is encouraged by other SPD approaches), they will help improve access to affordable housing in the area after the construction phase. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 14. Crime and Safety A) The HPC Project Promoters accommodation proposals involve the dispersion of approximately 2,200 non-home based workers to existing accommodation (private rented, owner occupation, tourism, latent), with around 1,500 workers being located in accommodation campuses with a secure perimeter. There is a concern that the campus accommodation in particular could foster a „them and us‟ situation, with implications for social cohesion and potentially antisocial behaviour in the short and medium term (construction phase). B) The SPD approach seeks to integrate purpose-built accommodation within existing settlements and prevent very large concentrations of workers in a single - 0 - 0 0 0 area. It also seeks contributions towards policing services to ensure they are adequately resourced to deal with any crime and safety issues that may occur during the construction phase. Comparison) The SPD approach seeks to integrate workers within the existing community and prevent very large concentrations of workers in a single area that could result in „them and us‟ tensions in the community, a situation that could be exacerbated by the provision of large temporary campuses. The SPD also seeks to ensure that the police are appropriately resourced to deal with any issues that arise. 15. Economy A) The spatial approach proposed by this option will have short term benefits for the economy because it will direct some temporary development towards the larger centres e.g. Bridgwater. However, the temporary accommodation approach does not provide long term benefits or contribute to the long term regeneration aspirations of the two councils. As result a minor beneficial short term effect is predicted and a neutral medium and long term effect also predicted. + + 0 + 0 + B) The construction of new campuses in Bridgewater will bring a large new workforce into the area that will use existing services, boosting the local economy. As the accommodation is likely to be permanent in Bridgwater and transferred to legacy use, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option)

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B

The construction of residential accommodation in Bridgwater and at the HPC project site will increase the population of the study area significantly above baseline levels with approximately 1,500 extra bed spaces to be provided for construction workers alone. This will have the effect of raising municipal waste arisings and greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the number of journeys made within the area. The SPD aims to minimise these effects.

The approach set out in this section advocates that the HPC project promoter commits to ensuring residential development for construction workers has a beneficial impact on existing communities. The delivery of permanent housing development is proposed that would deliver regeneration benefits and reduce GHG emissions resulting from the demolition of temporary accommodation and reprovision of new permanent housing. Accommodation should be well- integrated with its surroundings and extra demand for existing public and private services evenly distributed, seeking to maximise the economic benefits of the development. The HPC project promoter may provide additional community services (medical facilities, leisure facilities etc.) for construction workers which could also help improve access for local residents. It also advocates that the HPC project promoter should ensure that workers are able to travel to the HPC main site by public transport and are able to reach public transport nodes by walking or cycling.

This approach has an important mitigating role to play within the overall SPD. For example, it highlights the approach for legacy uses – which would help to mitigate some of the potentially adverse landscape and built environment, climate change and waste effects. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B4.3 Approach to Worker Accommodation at Hinkley Point

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of: the need to minimise travel to work distances; regional and local planning policies, including areas identified for development; and the need to keep numbers attached to any town or village within a manageable capacity, bearing mind the nature and characteristics of the place.  To support the achievement of the transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities.  To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries, restaurants), and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). Current proposals are for the provision of a 510 bedspace temporary accommodation campus on a greenfield site at Hinkley Point. B. SPD Approach In recognition of the remote rural location of Hinkley Point, the need to minimise impacts on the amenity of residents within nearby settlements, and the unsustainable nature of temporary development on greenfield sites, the draft SPD seeks to limit the scale of the temporary accommodation campus at Hinkley Point to the minimum.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Ecology 2. Landscape & Built Environment 3. Cultural Heritage 4. Water 5. Soils and Geology 6. Waste and Resource Management 7. Climate and All of the effects associated with the two options Energy All of the effects associated with the two options are covered under B4.1 and are covered under B4.1 and B4.2 and as result B4.2 and as result are not repeated here. 8. Air Quality, Noise, are not repeated here. Vibration and Light Pollution 9. Transport 10. Human Health 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation 12. Social Infrastructure 13. Population and Social Cohesion

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 14. Crime and Safety 15. Economy Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) All of the effects associated with the two options are covered under B4.1 and B4.2 and as result are not repeated here. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary All of the effects associated with the two options are covered under B4.1 and B4.2 and as result are not repeated here.

B4.4 Approach to Worker Accommodation in Bridgwater

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of: the need to minimise travel to work distances; regional and local planning policies, including areas identified for development; and the need to keep numbers attached to any town or village within a manageable capacity, bearing mind the nature and characteristics of the place.  To support the achievement of the transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities.  To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries, restaurants), and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). As part of the HPC project promoter‟s Preferred Proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes), two worker accommodation sites are proposed in Bridgwater:  a temporary accommodation campus at North East Bridgwater at the BRI-A Innovia site, providing 850 bedspaces; and  permanent buildings at the BRI-C Rugby Club Training Pitch site, providing up to 150 bedspaces.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

With respect to legacy proposals, the BRI-A accommodation campus was proposed as a temporary facility, with buildings being removed at the end of the HPC project construction phase. Retention of the permanent buildings on the BRI-C site was proposed, with potential for transfer to Bridgwater College to be used for teaching space and/or student accommodation. B. SPD Approach This approach advises that the majority of permanent and temporary accommodation should be directed to Bridgwater as the larger nearby settlement to Hinkley Point, where proposals should seek to prevent the concentration of accommodation in a single part of the town to balance impacts and effects, and to provide the best opportunity for community integration. Temporary accommodation should be minimised and would only be supported as part of a design-led solution which includes both permanent and temporary units on the Innovia and Cattle Market sites in Bridgwater, where it is shown to provide a legacy benefit and address a short-term contingency requirement during the peak construction phase. At least 40% of bedspaces on these sites are expected to be within permanent housing, allowing for transfer to an RSL as affordable housing at the end of the HPC project construction phase.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Ecology 2. Landscape & Built Environment 3. Cultural Heritage 4. Water 5. Soils and Geology All of the effects associated with the two options 6. Waste and All of the effects associated with the two options are covered under B4.1 and are covered under B4.1 and B4.2 and as result Resource B4.2 and as result are not repeated here. Management are not repeated here. 7. Climate and Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution 9. Transport 10. Human Health

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Recreation 12. Social Infrastructure 13. Population and Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety 15. Economy Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) All of the effects associated with the two options are covered under B4.1 and B4.2 and as result are not repeated here. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary All of the effects associated with the two options are covered under B4.1 and B4.2 and as result are not repeated here.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B4.5 Approach to Use of Tourism Accommodation

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To make use of existing accommodation in the local area and support local businesses (e.g. owners of B&Bs and caravan parks) but without displacing the local tourist industry.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community. The Stage 2 Preferred Proposals for accommodating 3,700 non-home base workers (taking account of Proposed Changes) are as follows: around 2,200 of the non-home base workforce will use existing accommodation (owner occupied, private rented, tourism accommodation and latent supply); and 1,510 bedspaces will be provided in purpose-built temporary accommodation campuses in Bridgwater and at Hinkley Point. B. SPD Approach This approach provides for use of tourism accommodation by construction workers, recognising the economic benefits for accommodation providers, particularly during the off-peak season. To prevent the possibility of displacement of visitors to the area, the approach suggests a monitoring regime should be put in place so that the take-up of tourism accommodation can be managed if capacity becomes strained. The approach also sets out criteria that will apply to applications coming forward for caravan and camping facilities to serve the construction workforce, stressing that these should comply with existing planning policy and that for any new facilities, it would be necessary to demonstrate long term viability as a tourism use.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 2. Landscape & Built Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Environment approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 7. Climate and NA NA NA NA NA NA Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA Light Pollution 9. Transport NA NA NA NA NA NA 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA 11. Culture, Leisure, A) The HPC project promoter‟s approach seeks to utilise „spare‟ capacity in the Tourism and tourism accommodation sector, whilst seeking to ensure that the local tourism Recreation industry is not displaced. B) Similarly, the option set out in the SPD promotes use of tourism accommodation, but also seeks to ensure that there is no loss of visitor accommodation required to support the tourism industry as a result of take-up from construction workers. If proposals come forward for caravan developments to house construction workers, the approach will ensure that these are viable in 0 0 0 + 0 + the long-term for tourism use and not only provided to house construction workers. Comparison) During the construction of the HPC development the effects of both options are similar, although the SPD seeks to ensure that mechanisms are in place to monitor take-up of tourism accommodation to ensure that displacement of the visitor trips is avoided. The SPD also provides a small scale opportunity for legacy benefits if accommodation is developed that could be converted into some form of tourist accommodation (a potential medium and long term benefit). 12. Social NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy A) The approach proposed by the HPC project could provide valuable business for tourism accommodation providers during the short and medium term, particularly during the off-peak seasons. This benefit could extent into the operational phase as workers visit the area for „outages‟ at HPC. B) The benefits of the HPC project promoters approach are supported by the SPD, while also seeking to ensure that mechanisms are in place to safeguard the + + + + + + wider tourism industry. If development proposals come forward for caravan- type accommodation for workers, this option will help create new employment opportunities in the longer term as they are transferred for legacy use. Comparison) Although the benefits are likely to be small scale the SPD approach will help to provide some economic benefits if worker accommodation is constructed that can be then used for tourism accommodation in the medium and long term. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option)

The approach is expected to result in a beneficial economic impact by allowing tourism accommodation providers to gain additional income from construction workers, particularly during the off-peak season. This beneficial effect is balanced in the approach by a mechanism to prevent displacement of tourism customers, which could result in displacement of tourism spend in the local economy.

The approach also allows the HPC project promoter or third parties to provide new caravan or camping capacity, but only where it is clear there is ongoing viability of the development beyond the HPC project construction phase for tourism use. The approach will help secure longer term benefits to the supply of holiday accommodation in the study area through providing for any new caravan parks created for construction workers to be converted to holiday parks post- construction. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B4.6 Approach to Use of Latent Supply

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make use of existing accommodation in the local area and support local businesses (e.g. owners of B&Bs and caravan parks) but without displacing the local tourist industry.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). The Stage 2 Preferred Proposals for accommodating 3,700 non-home base workers (taking account of Proposed Changes) are as follows: around 2,200 of the non-home base workforce will use existing accommodation (owner occupied, private rented, tourism accommodation and latent supply); and 1,510 bedspaces will be provided in purpose-built temporary accommodation campuses in Bridgwater and at Hinkley Point. B. SPD Approach Recognising the benefits to homeowners of having the opportunity to rent rooms to construction workers, providing a supplementary form of income, this approach allows for use of latent accommodation. In order to prevent potential adverse impacts, the approach seeks to ensure that support is provided to households letting rooms in relation to community safety, fire regulations and setting up contracts etc.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 2. Landscape & Built NA NA NA NA NA NA Environment 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Both options will help to avoid waste associated with constructing new Resource residential accommodation. However, there will be an overall increase in the Management ? ? ? ? 0 0 domestic waste arising due to an overall increase in the residential population. Therefore an uncertain impact is predicted in the short and medium term. There will not be any long term effects. 7. Climate and Over the period of the construction phase the use of latent supply will have a Energy positive impact on emissions because it helps to avoid new construction and takes advantage of residential properties that have already been constructed. Therefore, the emissions associated with new construction area avoided and + + 0 0 0 0 operational emissions are minimal because these properties may already be consuming energy. These benefits may be offset to an extent by increased transport emissions. But over the HPC construction period this is likely to be negligible when compared to the construction emission associated with building new residential accommodation. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Light Pollution 9. Transport NA NA NA NA NA NA 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA Recreation 12. Social NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA

15. Economy + + + + 0 0 Both options will have a minor beneficial economic impact because they will result in direct economic benefits for existing property owners with properties in

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B West Somerset and Sedgemoor. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The main beneficial effects from this approach, which promotes provision of construction worker accommodation in spare rooms in under-occupied property, are social and economic. In particular, the approach could provide additional income for property owners and could assist in taking pressure away from the affordable and privately rented property markets. This approach also performs well in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. From a climate change perspective it helps to reduce the amount of new residential accommodation that needs to be constructed as well as providing a direct input into the local economy. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B4.7 Affordable Housing

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community. B. SPD Approach This approach requires that, in parallel with the provision of accommodation for construction workers, the HPC project promoter will be expected to contribute to the delivery of affordable housing to offset:  the potential impacts of the project on the private rented sector;  the adverse effects of providing temporary accommodation campuses on the Council‟s objectives for regeneration, place-making, local residential amenity; and community well-being; and  any other impacts on the housing market and housing services arising from the HPC project. Measures set out in the approach are: the transfer of a proportion of permanent housing to a Registered Social Landlord to provide affordable housing at the end of the HPC project construction phase; and financial contributions to a Housing Investment Fund.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 2. Landscape & Built A) A neutral effect is predicted because the HPC project promoter‟s approach Environment does not make any proposals to provide affordable accommodation as part of legacy benefits. B) Commitments to affordable housing will maintain and increase the viability and vitality of existing communities by providing the type of tenure that will help 0 + 0 + 0 + to retain and attract people that are currently priced out of the housing market and have subsequently had to move away. Comparison) The SPD, with its commitment to delivering affordable housing will help to improve the long term viability of the smaller settlements and bigger towns by retaining residents and supporting the vibrancy of local communities. 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 7. Climate and NA NA NA NA NA NA Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA Light Pollution 9. Transport NA NA NA NA NA NA 10. Human Health A) A neutral effect is predicted because the HPC project promoter‟s approach does not make any proposals to provide affordable accommodation as part of legacy benefits. An adverse effect could result if it was found that construction 0 + 0 + 0 + workers were displacing households with low incomes from existing housing. B) There may be some indirect health benefits from this approach because the expectations for affordable housing means that other standards such as „Homes

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B for Life‟ have to be met as a design standard. Therefore people can stay in their own home for longer which can help to reduce stress that people face when forced to move home due to disability or ill health. Comparison) The SPD, with its commitment to delivering affordable housing may provide better quality homes that meet people‟s needs over the long term which could have indirect beneficial effects. 11. Culture, Leisure, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Recreation 12. Social NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure 13. Population and A) A neutral effect is predicted because the HPC project promoter‟s approach Social Cohesion does not make any proposals to provide affordable accommodation as part of legacy benefits. An adverse effect could result if it was found that construction workers were displacing households with low incomes from existing housing. B) The approach will place an obligation on the developer to transfer a given percentage of residential units to a Registered Social Landlord. This will increase 0 + 0 + 0 + the provision of affordable housing in the region. By increasing the variety of housing and type of tenure available social cohesion may also be improved by this option. As a result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD, with its commitment to delivering affordable housing may provide better quality homes that meet people‟s needs over the long term which could have indirect beneficial effects. 14. Crime and Safety Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 15. Economy A) A neutral effect is predicted because the HPC project promoter‟s approach does not make any proposals to provide affordable accommodation as part of legacy benefits. An adverse effect could result if it was found that construction 0 + 0 + 0 + workers were displacing households with low incomes from existing housing. B) The approach increases the availability of affordable housing that will help also improve the sustainability of the housing market in the SPD region. By increasing the variety of housing and type of tenure available more people may

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B be able to remain living in the area and thereby help to support and grow the economy. As a result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) The SPD, with its commitment to delivering affordable housing may provide better quality homes that meet people‟s needs over the long term which could have indirect beneficial effects. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option)

The HPC project offers the opportunity to contribute to the delivery of affordable housing in the study area in line with local planning policies. It does this by ensuring that accommodation for construction workers is designed and constructed so that a proportion of units can be used as affordable housing in the legacy phase. Furthermore, the wider accommodation approach also helps to mitigate impacts that increased demand for accommodation could have on the private rented and affordable housing sectors.

In terms of mitigation, this approach has an important role to play because it supports other approaches within the SPD regarding the long term legacy for the area. In particular, it assists in that some of the existing issues relating to the availability of affordable accommodation can be addressed over the medium to long term. In the wider context for both West Somerset and Sedgemoor, this has the potential to help deliver social benefits by ensuring that younger groups within existing communities have the opportunity to stay in the area rather than move away because they are priced out of the housing market. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B5 Approach to Construction Working Hours and Protecting Amenity

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal Project specific objectives set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation that are of particular relevance include:  To minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement.  To be a “good neighbour” and ensure that the needs and views of the local community are fully taken into account. At the HPC main site, the following construction working hours are proposed:  Mon-Fri – the first shift will start between 6.00am and 7.30am and the second shift will finish between 10.00pm and midnight. Shift handover would generally occur between 1.30pm and 4.00pm.  Weekends – Some operators will operate a single shift on Saturdays from between 6.00am and 8.00am to 1.00pm and 3.00pm. Others will operate a rolling shift pattern in which every other weekend operates a full shift pattern on Saturdays and Sundays.  Night shifts – It may be necessary to have night shifts which will start between 8.30pm and 10.00pm and end between 6.00am and 8.00am. B. SPD Approach The SPD sets out an approach that seeks to ensure that:  The cumulative and in-combination effects of disturbance impacts on individual neighbourhoods are clearly presented by the HPC project promoter.  Hours of construction and operation for the main site and associated development sites are agreed, with scope for temporary extension of working hours to be enabled through requirements or a system of notices that enable review and the implementation of restrictions.  Statutory nuisance powers under the EPA 1990 are retained, providing the Councils with an important mechanism for investigating complaints and taking enforcement action.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Disturbance impacts associated with construction works, such as noise and light, Ecology could have an adverse affect on wildlife in the locality. Detailed environmental ? ? ? ? N/A N/A assessment and expert advice is required to determine the extent to which the more intensive construction worker hours proposed by the HPC project promoter could have detrimental effects.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 2. Landscape & Built Restricting construction hours provides one means for reducing light pollution Environment during the construction phase, as security lighting would not need to be as - 0 - 0 N/A N/A powerful as full working lights. The HPC project promoter approach is identified as having an adverse effect in this regard during the short and medium term, while the SPD approach would seek to limit light pollution. 3. Cultural Heritage N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 4. Water N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 5. Soils and Geology N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 6. Waste and Resource N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Management 7. Climate and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, The intensive construction working hours proposed by the HPC project promoter Vibration and are expected to result in significant adverse disturbance impacts for communities Light Pollution in close proximity to the main construction site and associated development sites. In contrast, the SPD sets out an approach that seeks to limit construction working hours late at night and at weekends, while allowing flexibility for longer working ------N/A N/A hours where particular operations or phases of work demand it. Negative disturbance impacts cannot be completely avoided through this approach, but they can be limited. Clearly a balance will need to be struck on construction working hours, on the basis that major reductions of day to day working hours would result in the extension of the overall programme, potentially resulting in extended impacts across a wide range of issues. 9. Transport Changes to construction working hours would have implications for the movement of people and freight associated with the construction of the station. The extent to which changes to construction hours would have impacts on traffic ? ? ? ? N/A N/A congestion at different times of the day would need to be considered through a detailed transport assessment, and therefore an uncertain impact is identified at this stage. 10. Human Health ------N/A N/A Disturbance impacts arising at the main site, associated development sites and

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B along the main transport corridors could have health effects that include, loss of sleep and increased stress levels. The longer working hours proposed by the HPC project promoter are predicted to have a greater adverse effect during the construction phase (short and medium term), while the approach set out in the SPD would seek to limit these as far as possible. 11. Culture, Leisure, Disturbance impacts arising at the main site, associated development sites and Tourism and along the main transport corridors could potentially impact on the tourism Recreation economy. The extent to which the restriction of construction working hours - - - - N/A N/A would counter adverse impacts is not clear at this stage. It is acknowledged that the proposed visitor could attract visitors to the site, contributing towards the mitigation of adverse effects during the construction phase. 12. Social Shift working patterns could affect the numbers of people seeking to access ? ? ? ? N/A N/A Infrastructure particular facilities and services at particular times of day. Positive effects could be reduced demand and over-crowding for particular services at peak times. 13. Population and ? ? ? ? N/A N/A Negative effects could include increased opening hours of leisure facilities such Social Cohesion as pubs and nightclubs, which in turn could lead to disturbance impacts and 14. Crime and Safety antisocial behaviour. The interplay of these effects is difficult to quantify (so an ? ? ? ? N/A N/A uncertain effect is shown at this stage), however these factors may influence decision-making. 15. Economy The HPC project promoter‟s approach would result in shorter, more intensive construction phase, while the SPD approach could result in an extended, but less 0 0 0 0 N/A N/A intensive construction phase. The overall economic opportunities are expected to balance out overall and therefore a neutral short and medium term effect is predicted. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The SPD approach seeks to safeguard quality of life and amenity for communities living in close proximity to the main site, associated development sites and along transport corridors, while also seeking to provide reasonable flexibility for the HPC project promoter to progress the scheme in an efficient manner. Long construction working hours are also predicted to have effects on landscape (due to light pollution) and the tourism sector. The SPD approach would not be able to prevent all disturbance impacts, but it does have potential to limit these to within reasonable limits. In this sense, it will be necessary to strike a balance between the intensity and length of the construction phase of the project. Construction working hours could have feedback implications across a range of topic areas including biodiversity and ecology, transport, social infrastructure and crime and safety. The interplay of these effects is difficult to quantify, however these factors may influence decision-making. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach because its overall purpose is to mitigate potentially adverse disturbance impacts such as noise, air and light pollution.

B6 Approach to Protecting and Enhancing the Natural Environment

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal Project specific objectives set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation that are of particular relevance include: to minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement. Key proposals include:  maintenance of ecological connectivity through the main site;  priority to the preservation of natural assets in situ (where possible);  loss of significant species will be reduced and enhanced by carefully siting development to reduce impacts;  landscape restoration to provide habitat suitable for protected species;  enhancements to benefit farm birds, where feasible green roofs will be deployed on non-nuclear buildings; and  on-going engagement with local nature groups to ensure local Biodiversity Action Plan priority species are promoted as an outcome of the project. B. SPD Approach The SPD approach states that it is essential that the highly valued natural environment and landscapes of West Somerset and Sedgemoor are conserved and enhanced. Protecting the integrity of the European Natura 2000 sites (SPAs and SACs) will be a priority. Where assessment demonstrates that adverse impacts would occur as a result of the HPC project, and cannot be avoided, the Councils will seek to work with Natural England, Somerset County Council, the promoter and stakeholders to identify appropriate mitigation and compensation measures. Wherever possible and appropriate these should align with existing and emerging strategies, and could include:  Commitments to design and restoration of sites so that habitats, biodiversity and landscapes are protected and, wherever possible, enhanced.  Measures to minimise disturbance during construction, operation and decommissioning that could result in the displacement of species.  Contributions to off-site landscape enhancement and habitat creation schemes to compensate for temporary and residual effects.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 16. Biodiversity and - - + + + + A) The HPC project promoter approach seeks to minimise any negative

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Ecology environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement, through such measures as providing compensatory habitat. It is predicted that construction activity in the short term would result in an adverse impact, but that as compensatory habitats mature and net positive biodiversity gain should be achieved. B) The SPD approach seeks to ensure that habitats and species are conserved and enhanced and is therefore similar to the overarching objective expressed by the HPC project promoter. The SPD advises that measures to mitigate and compensate impacts should seek to align with the broader strategies of Somerset County Council, the Quantock Hills AONB etc. In addition, the SPD highlights that off-site habitat creation measures may be required to fully compensate for the impacts of the project. Comparison) The approaches are broadly similar, with the SPD seeking to join- up elements of the HPC project proposals with broader strategies for habitat and species conservation and enhancement, that may include contributions to off-site habitat creation. 17. Landscape & Built A) It is predicted that the HPC power station units will have a major adverse Environment impact on the landscape in the medium and long term, that cannot be fully mitigated through measures such as landscape screening. The HPC project proposals include on-site landscape works, but off-site landscape works are not ------considered. B) In comparison, the SPD approach seeks to highlight the role that off-site landscape works could play in mitigating and compensating the adverse impact of the proposals. Off-site mitigation and compensation cannot fully remove the landscape impact, but can help to reduce the severity of the effect. 18. Cultural Heritage A) The HPC project proposals are predicted to have adverse impacts on the settings of cultural sites, such as scheduled ancient monuments (Pixies‟ Mound) and listed buildings (Brymore School). Landscape screening measures tend to be restricted to on-site measures and therefore impacts are not expected to be fully - - - 0 - 0 mitigated or compensated. B) The SPD approach refers to the importance of off-site landscape works, that could include contributions to schemes to restore or enhance the settings of local heritage features, therefore mitigating or compensating adverse effects. A neutral overall effect is therefore identified for the medium and longterm as

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B schemes are completed. 19. Water To the extent that water features provide valuable habitats and form part of the - - + + + + landscape, the description and summary of impacts for the „Biodiversity & Ecology‟ also applies here. 20. Soils and Geology To the extent that soils and geological features provide valuable habitats and - - + + + + form part of the landscape, the description and summary of impacts for the „Biodiversity & Ecology‟ also applies here. 21. Waste and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Resource N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Management 22. Climate and While it is recognised that habitats can have climate change mitigation and Energy adaptation benefits, acting as carbon sinks or reducing surface water runoff rates ? ? ? ? ? ? for example, the magnitude of effects are uncertain at the project scale referred to by this SA. 23. Air Quality, Noise, A) The HPC project promoter is expected to result in adverse disturbance Vibration and impacts, that are not likely to be fully mitigated by on-site physical or Light Pollution management measures. - - - 0 - 0 B) The SPD sets out an approach that encourages off-site mitigate measures that could enhance the landscape in the local area and provide new sites for quiet recreation (in the medium and long term), providing a form of compensation for the disturbance impacts of the project. 24. Transport Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 25. Human Health To the extent that disturbance impacts are expected to have adverse effects on human health (e.g. loss of sleep, anxiety), the description and summary of - - - 0 - 0 impacts for the „Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution‟ also applies here. 26. Culture, Leisure, A) The HPC project proposals could have adverse effects on the tourism Tourism and economy, including through landscape impacts and damage to wildlife habitats. - - - 0 - 0 Recreation Landscape screening measures tend to be restricted to on-site measures and therefore impacts are not expected to be fully mitigated or compensated.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B B) The SPD approach refers to the importance of off-site landscape and habitat creation works. In addition to compensating for primary effects on biodiversity and landscape, this works could have the secondary of effect of maintaining the location as popular location for tourism visits.

27. Social Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 28. Population and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Social Cohesion approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 29. Crime and Safety Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 30. Economy To the extent that adverse effects on landscapes and wildlife habitats are expected to have adverse effects on the tourism economy, the description and - - - 0 - 0 summary of impacts for the „Culture, Leisure, Tourism & Recreation‟ also applies here. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The SPD approach seeks to ensure that the highly valued natural environment and landscapes of West Somerset and Sedgemoor are conserved and enhanced. An important aspect of the SPD approach ais that it seeks to align mitigation and compensation measures with the broader relevant strategies for the area (e.g. Biodiversity Action Plans, Sedgemoor Green Infrastructure Strategy). It also highlights that off-site measures may be necessary to fully mitigate and compensate for adverse effects. The SA shows that measures to conserve and enhance the natural environment could have important secondary effects across other topic areas, providing compensation relating to disturbance impacts, human health, tourism and recreation, and the economy. The SA predicts that overall, the approach will have a neutral to minor positive impact (biodiversity) by encouraging off-site measures that align well with wider strategies for the local area. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach because its overall purpose is to mitigate potentially adverse effects on the natural environment and landscapes.

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B7 Tourism, Leisure & Sports Approaches

B7.1 Approach to Protecting and Contributing to the Tourism Economy

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal Project specific objectives set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation that are of particular relevance include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement. Stage 2 proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates) that are linked to the tourism economy and outdoor leisure comprise:  Temporary and permanent closures of Public Rights of Way at the HPC power station site, with redirections provided around the site perimeter.  The construction of a permanent HPC Public Information Centre at the main site. B. SPD Approach The Draft SPD sets out an approach whereby the highly valued landscape and tranquillity of the area is protected, and that where impacts cannot be avoided, these effects should be mitigated and compensated. Measures should include:  Maximising opportunities for the proposed HPC Visitor Centre to integrate with other facilities (such as habitat creation at the Steart Peninsula) and benefit the wider tourism economy.  Strategic enhancements and maintenance of the Public Rights of Way network.  Landscape schemes and Green Infrastructure projects that provide screening, flood risk management and biodiversity benefits.  The need to protect the integrity of the European Natura 2000 sites.  Support for destination marketing, promotional initiatives and tourism information, including increased marketing and signage to encourage leisure or community benefits.  Supporting and enabling the West Somerset Railway and Severn Ferry Service in providing alternative means of access for tourists and others to West Somerset.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 31. Biodiversity and A) This option includes measures to minimise any adverse effects and may also Ecology follow up opportunities for implementing enhancements. However, the 0 + 0 + 0 + enhancement measures are not specific so it is not possible to determine whether there will be any long term effects. So a neutral effect has been predicted.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B B) With this option, where impacts are unavoidable developer contributions will aid the delivery of the Green Infrastructure Strategy. This will help to enhance the value of natural habitat in the SPD area. It also makes clear requirement for the need to protect the integrity of European Natura 2000 sites and providing biodiversity benefits that also benefit the tourist and visitor economies. Adverse effects will be managed through the environmental assessment process associated with planning applications. Comparison) Although the SPD effects are likely to be minor the magnitude of the effects are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because this is not specific about the enhancement measures that would be implemented. 32. Landscape & Built A) This option includes measures to minimise any adverse effects and may also Environment include follow up opportunities for implementing enhancements. However, the enhancement measures are not specific so it is not possible to determine whether there will be any long term effects. So a neutral effect has been predicted. B) With this option adverse effects will be managed through the environmental assessment process associated with planning applications. Where impacts are 0 + 0 + 0 + unavoidable, developer contributions will aid the delivery of the Green Infrastructure Strategy and other landscape schemes. This will help to enhance the value of SPD area for tourists and visitors. Comparison) Although the SPD effects are likely to be minor the magnitude of the effects are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because this is not specific about the enhancement measures that would be implemented. 33. Cultural Heritage Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach is considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. 34. Water A) This option includes measures to minimise any adverse effects and may also follow up opportunities for implementing enhancements. However, the enhancement measures are not specific so it is not possible to determine whether there will be any long term effects. So a neutral effect has been predicted. 0 + 0 + 0 + B) With this option adverse effects will be managed through the environmental assessment process associated with planning applications. It also identifies flood risk management measures as possible means to mitigate potentially adverse impacts on the landscape and general tranquillity. Where this occurs there could be beneficial effects from a flood risk management perspective.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Comparison) Although the SPD effects are likely to be minor the magnitude of the effects are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because this is not specific about the enhancement measures that would be implemented. 35. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 36. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 37. Climate and NA NA NA NA NA NA Energy 38. Air Quality, Noise, Both options are predicted as having a neutral effect on this SA topic because Vibration and 0 0 0 0 0 0 they both have general requirement for development to avoid or mitigate adverse Light Pollution impacts on landscape and tranquillity. 39. Transport A) This option includes measures to minimise any adverse effects and may also follow up opportunities for implementing enhancements. However, the enhancement measures are not specific so it is not possible to determine whether there will be any long term effects. So a neutral effect has been predicted. B) With this option adverse effects will be managed through the environmental assessment process associated with planning applications. It also identifies the 0 + 0 + 0 + provision of support to the West Somerset Railway and Severn Ferry Service as a means of helping visitors to use alternative forms of transport and thereby reduce traffic on roads in West Somerset. As a result beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) Although the SPD effects are likely to be minor the magnitude of the effects are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because this is not specific about the enhancement measures that would be implemented. 40. Human Health Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on this SA topic. 41. Culture, Leisure, A) This option includes measures to minimise any adverse effects on the visitor Tourism and and tourism economy, such as the proposals for the visitor centre, and may also Recreation follow up opportunities for implementing enhancements. However, the 0 + 0 + 0 + enhancement measures are not specific so it is not possible to determine whether there will be any long term effects. So a neutral effect has been predicted. B) With this option adverse effects will be managed through the environmental

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B assessment process associated with planning applications. It also identifies a range of additional measures that could also provide long term benefits for tourism as an indirect result of mitigation for other unavoidable effects. As a result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) Although the SPD effects are likely to be minor the magnitude of the effects are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because this is not specific about the enhancement measures that would be implemented. 42. Social Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 43. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion 44. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 45. Economy A) This option includes measures to minimise any adverse effects, such as the proposed visitor centre, and may also include follow up opportunities for implementing enhancements. However, the enhancement measures are not specific so it is not possible to determine whether there will be any long term effects. So a neutral effect has been predicted. B) With this option adverse effects will be managed through the environmental 0 + 0 + 0 + assessment process associated with planning applications. It also identifies a range of additional measures that could also provide long term economic benefits for tourism as an indirect result of mitigation for other unavoidable effects. As a result a beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) Although the SPD effects are likely to be minor the magnitude of the effects are greater than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because this is not specific about the enhancement measures that would be implemented. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) This approach aims to minimise impacts on the landscape amenity in the area due to its vital role as a tourism asset. Where impacts to this asset are predicted to occur, the HPC project promoter will be expected to reduce negative impacts and provide enhancements through landscape schemes, green infrastructure provision and habitat mitigation. The SA predicts that overall, the approach will have a minor positive impact on biodiversity and ecology through enhancements to habitats and incorporation of green infrastructure. The quality of the local landscape will be protected and there are clear opportunities to enhance the value of this asset through measures outlined in this approach. Maintenance of landscape amenity is supported in the approach by investment in public rights of way, a new visitor centre and

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B tourism facilities, as well as support for tourism services. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach because its overall purpose is to mitigate potentially adverse effects on the tourist and visitor economy.

B7.2 Promoting a Partnership Approach to Sports & Recreation Provision

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposals Project specific objectives set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation that are of particular relevance include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries and restaurants) and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities) have a long-term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community. At Stage 2 (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates), the HPC project proposals relating to sports and recreation provision were as follows:  Development of a temporary campus at the BRI-A site (Innovia) would result in the loss of the existing Bridgwater Sports and Social Club and associated playing fields. There were no clear proposals for the replacement of these facilities.  Development of permanent accommodation at the BRI-C (Rugby Club Training Pitch) would result in the loss of a pitch. There were no clear proposals for the replacement of these facilities.  Temporary sports and leisure facilities were proposed at the Hinkley Point accommodation campus, which would be accessible to the community.  Temporary sports and leisure facilities were proposed at the BRI-A (Innovia) accommodation campus, which would be accessible to the community.  Permanent accommodation at the BRI-C (Rugby Club Training Pitch) site would include a permanent sports pitch. B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that where any proposals would result in the loss of existing sports, recreation facilities or open space, a replacement facility of equivalent benefit would be made available. It also seeks to ensure that the HPC project promoter provides sports facilities to cater for the demands of the workforce and that this investment should align with the plans and strategies of existing sports and recreation providers in the area. This will help to ensure that

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facilities will be located and managed in such a way that they are also accessible to the community during the HPC project construction phase and could be retained as a long term legacy benefit.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 2. Landscape & Built NA NA NA NA NA NA Environment 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 7. Climate and NA NA NA NA NA NA Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and NA NA NA NA NA NA Light Pollution 9. Transport Both options will have a neutral impact on transport because they both aim to locate sports and recreational facilities where they are accessible by walking, cycling or by public transport (including HPC bus services). As a result neither option is likely to generate significant levels of additional traffic so a neutral effect is predicted. 0 0 0 0 0 + B) This option has some potentially beneficial effects over the medium and long term because it will ensure that the remaining sports and recreational facilities are located where they can be accessed by the local community once the construction phase is complete. Comparison) The SPD option provides greater medium and long term benefits than the HPC project promoter option because it seeks to ensure that sports

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B facilities are located where they could be retained in the long term. 10. Human Health A) This option has beneficial health effects over the short and medium term for HPC workers by ensuring they have access to sports and recreational facilities on site. Revisions to the proposals mean that the sports and recreation facilities will be accessible to the public, providing a positive benefit in this respect. Because these facilities are likely to be temporary this option could result in a long term minor adverse effect once they are removed. B) This option is likely to contribute towards human health in the area by + + + + - + ensuring that the sports and recreational facilities are available to residents and workers during the short and medium term and that these facilities are retained as a legacy benefit for the community in the long term. As result minor beneficial effects are predicted from the short term to the long term. Comparison) Both options have positive effect in the short and medium term, however with the emphasis on legacy benefits the SPD option also had a beneficial effect over the long term. 11. Culture, Leisure, A) This option has beneficial effects over the short and medium term for HPC Tourism and workers by ensuring they have access to sports and recreational facilities on site. Recreation Revisions to the proposals mean that the sports and recreation facilities will be accessible to the public, providing a positive benefit in this respect. Because these facilities are likely to be temporary this option could result in a long term minor adverse effect once they are removed. B) This option ensures that the existing provision of sports and recreational + + + + + + - + + facilities are not adversely affected by providing additional facilities for HPC construction workers. In addition the requirement that these facilities are made available to the wider population, both during and post HPC construction means that they are more likely to benefit a greater number of people and as a result a major beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) Both options have positive effect in the short and medium term, however with the emphasis on legacy benefits the SPD option also had a beneficial effect over the long term. 12. Social A) This option has beneficial effects as revisions to the proposals mean that the Infrastructure + + + + 0 + sports and recreation facilities will be accessible to both construction workers and the public, providing a positive benefit in this respect. Because these

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B facilities are likely to be temporary the effect is neutral in the long term. B) The SPD seeks to ensure that the sports and recreational facilities are available to residents and workers during the short and medium term and that these facilities are retained as a legacy benefit for the community in the long term. As result minor beneficial effects are predicted from the short term to the long term. Comparison) Both options have positive effect in the short and medium term, however with the emphasis on legacy benefits the SPD option also had a beneficial effect over the long term. 13. Population and A) This option has beneficial social cohesion effects over the short and medium Social Cohesion term as revisions to the proposals mean that the sports and recreation facilities will be accessible to the public, providing a positive benefit in this respect. B) This option is likely to contribute towards social cohesion in the area by + + + + 0 0 ensuring that the sports and recreational facilities are available to residents and workers during the short and medium term. Comparison) Both options have a positive effect on social cohesion in the short and medium term. 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 15. Economy NA NA NA NA NA NA Summary of Assessment

This approach seeks to ensure that sports facilities are provided for construction workers and that these are integrated with existing Council and partner plans to maintain and enhance existing facilities and provide new sports and leisure venues in the SPD study area. Community access to any facilities provided is viewed as important to prevent inequality of provision and social tension. The approach encourages protection of existing facilities (or suggests replacement), where these may be lost as a result of HPC project developments. The approach promotes a legacy benefit for the existing community as a result of enhancements made to sports facilities during the HPC project construction phase. It is also considered to be particularly important because it provides leisure and in some cases health and wellbeing benefits not covered by other legacy approaches. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach because its overall purpose is to mitigate potentially adverse effects on sports and recreation provision in West Somerset and Sedgemoor.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

B8 Nuclear Waste Approach

B8.1 Approach to Nuclear Waste Storage

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation refers to the waste hierarchy that provides the framework for sustainable waste management in the UK. It is proposed that the principles of sustainable waste management in accordance with the hierarchy will be reflected both during site preparation, construction and operation, and will eventually be considered in the decommissioning of the main site. There is a commitment that all construction HPC projects will prepare and implement a Site Waste Management Plan. With respect to radioactive waste management, the Stage 2 proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates) include provision for interim storage facilities at the main HPC site. These would comprise buildings that would be designed to provide capacity for storage of all Intermediate Level Waste and spent fuel rods generated during the operational period. The buildings may remain in place after the decommissioning of the power station pending final disposal in a national geological disposal facility once it is available.

B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that the impacts of the non-radioactive and radioactive waste aspects of the HPC project are evaluated and that adverse impacts are avoided, mitigated or compensated as appropriate. A further expectation set out in the approach is that appropriate measures are set out for the long term decommissioning and site restoration proposals for any interim waste storage facility and these are set out clearly in a DCO application.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and This SA topic is not applicable to either option because they will both consider 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ecology the environmental implications of Intermediate Level Waste storage on site as part of the EIA process and permitting processes. As a result this assessment 2. Landscape & Built 0 0 0 0 0 0 process will identify significant effects and the measures to avoid or mitigate Environment

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 3. Cultural Heritage 0 0 0 0 0 0 adverse impacts. As a result a neutral effect is predicted at this stage. 4. Water 0 0 0 0 0 0 5. Soils and Geology 0 0 0 0 0 0 6. Waste and Both options will help ensure the safe management of radioactive waste and is in Resource line with national policy (which has already been subject to sustainability Management + + + + - - - - appraisal). The short term effects are beneficial. However, a long term adverse impact is predicted reflecting the fact that no long term storage option for nuclear waste has been identified. 7. Climate and The approach proposed by both options will result in a carbon intensive building Energy (due to the need for a secure structure) as well as the energy that will be required to operate the waste storage facility. It is noted that measures such as design ------standards will help to reduce emissions but are unlikely to completely avoid them. Therefore an adverse effect is predicted. It is acknowledged that the operating power station forms part of a national strategy for reducing carbon emissions, as set out in NPS EN-1. 8. Air Quality, Noise, This SA topic is not applicable to either option because they will both consider Vibration and 0 0 0 0 0 0 the environmental implications of Intermediate Level Waste storage on site as Light Pollution part of the EIA process and permitting processes. As a result this assessment process will identify significant effects and the measures to avoid or mitigate 9. Transport 0 0 0 0 0 0 adverse impacts. As a result a neutral effect is predicted. 10. Human Health 0 0 0 0 0 0 11. Culture, Leisure, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Recreation 12. Social NA Infrastructure NA NA NA NA NA 13. Population and NA Social Cohesion NA NA NA NA NA 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy 0 0 0 0 + + Both options will make minor contributions towards the local economy by

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B providing long term employment opportunities until a long term waste facility has been constructed and is operational.

Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The majority of the effects are neutral for this approach because potentially adverse issues will be addressed through the Environmental Impact Assessment and planning processes. The SPD approach sets out an expectation that mitigation and compensation measures are agreed that would outweigh any perceived and actual detrimental effects of radioactive waste storage. It will have a positive impact for waste management until the long term because at present there are no designated facilities for the long term storage of waste. An adverse effect is predicted for climate and energy reflecting the continuing need to provide power to ensure that the facility can securely store waste. Finally, the approach will provide a small scale contribution to the local economy through job creation.

B9 Hinkley Point C Main Site

B9.1 Approach to Masterplanning and Design of the Main Site

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal HPC project objectives set out in the Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation that are of relevance include:  To manage the construction in a way that maximises operational efficiency and minimises disruption to the local community.  To minimise any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement. Specific proposals at Stage 2 that are intended minimise, mitigate or compensate for landscape and biodiversity impacts at the main site are:  Native planting and new woodland to the south of the site to provide screening from residential properties at Shurton and Burton;  Sensitive construction timing and methods to reduce disturbance to European sites and SSSI  Maintenance of ecological connectivity through the site during construction.  A landscape restoration strategy for the non-permanent construction area designed to provide suitable habitat for protected species found at the site: badgers, bat species and slow worms.  Enhancements to benefit farm birds, including the sowing of a field of annual bird cover crop and providing winter feed.  Bird boxes to be installed across the site.

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

 Where feasible, green roofs will be employed on certain non-nuclear buildings; and  On-going engagement with local nature groups to ensure that local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species are promoted as an outcome of the project. B. SPD Approach This masterplanning and design approach aims to ensure that impacts to visual amenity and biodiversity in particular are identified and addressed from an early stage and that any unavoidable impacts are suitably mitigated and compensated for. Following consultation, the approach also emphasises that disturbance impacts such as noise, air and light pollution are avoided, mitigated or compensated. It places obligations on the developer to demonstrate that clear strategies are in place to address local landscape and access issues and that the Councils and local residents are consulted throughout the design process. Along with other parts of the SPD, it also places significant importance on the need to develop a clear legacy plan for the long term future development of the site and its surroundings.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Both options aim to ensure that any negative effects are mitigated and Ecology opportunities for enhancements to green infrastructure are pursued by the developer. There will be an obligation on the developer to produce a strategy document outlining how the permanent development will aid the integration of the development and other local plans within the existing landscape. It ensures that the appropriate mitigation measures are in place during construction to avoid, mitigate or compensate impacts on habitats and priority wildlife species. The SPD proposals have also been subject to a Habitat‟s Regulations Screening exercise. This has concluded that none of the SPD approaches are likely to have an adverse impact on SPAs, SACs or Ramsar sites. - - + + + + A short term adverse effect is predicted as existing habitats are damaged during the early part of the construction stage, but minor benefits could begin to accrue during the medium and long term as habitat replacement schemes begin to mature. Comparison) the main difference between the two options is the emphasis in the SPD on the early implementation of enhancement and mitigation measures to allow them time to become established and used by wildlife before other areas of vegetation are cleared. As set out in the Approach to Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Environment, the SPD also emphasises the role of off-site mitigation and compensation measures.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 2. Landscape & Built The HPC development and associated developments will introduce new large- Environment scale infrastructure to the existing landscape. This is likely to have significant visual impacts at local points of interest such as Mendips and Quantocks AONBs. A) This option has a commitment to any negative environmental impacts and seek opportunities for environmental enhancement. B) This option places an obligation on the developer to minimise individual and ------cumulative landscape effects. Where this is not possible it obligates the developer to mitigate and compensate. Long term landscape impacts are also addressed through the developer‟s drafting of a landscape legacy plan. Comparison) Given the large-scale nature of the development and its impact to views from nearby AONBs, the overall impact on the local landscape will be negative although it is recognised that the approach set out in both options will help to reduce the magnitude of some of these effects. The SPD emphasises the role of off-site landscape measures and the contributions these can make to mitigating and compensating adverse impacts. 3. Cultural Heritage Both options will result in adverse visual impacts on nearby Conservation areas in Stogursey and other nearby hamlets in the „Outstanding Heritage Settlements‟. This combined with the visual impact on the wider landscape setting of listed ------buildings and a scheduled ancient monument means that there will be adverse heritage impact. The SPD seeks to ensure that where landscape impacts cannot be mitigated, appropriate compensation, including off-site measures is provided. 4. Water 0 0 0 0 0 0 Impacts on water quality, water resources, flood risk, soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should 5. Soils and Geology 0 0 0 0 0 0 be managed through the EIA and subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 6. Waste and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Management 7. Climate and Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Energy approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 8. Air Quality, Noise, - - - - 0 0 Both the HPC project promoter approach and SPD approach seeks to minimise

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Vibration and disturbance impacts during the construction phase, including through physical Light Pollution measures such as provision of landscape embankments and planting, although these are not expected to be capable of fully mitigating adverse effects. A short to medium adverse effect is therefore predicted. The main difference between the two approaches relates to the role of construction working hours (see Approach to Construction Working Hours for the further information). 9. Transport 0 0 0 0 0 0 10. Human Health Both the HPC project promoter approach and SPD approach seeks to minimise disturbance impacts during the construction phase (and related impacts on human health), including through physical measures such as provision of landscape embankments and planting, although these are not expected to be capable of fully - - - - 0 0 mitigating adverse effects. A short to medium adverse effect is therefore predicted. The main difference between the two approaches relates to the role of construction working hours (see Approach to Construction Working Hours for the further information). 11. Culture, Leisure, Both options adversely affect access to existing public rights of way and points Tourism and of interest in the area and general landscape amenity, especially during Recreation construction. A) Other than diversions of Rights of Way around the site perimeter, this option does not indicate whether it will also improve access and other enhancements that could benefit this SA Topic and therefore a minor adverse affect is - 0 - 0 - 0 predicted. B) This option seeks to mitigate for impacts at the main site by seeking improvements to Rights of Way in the wider area, such that a neutral situation is achieved as a minimum. Comparison) The overall performance of the SPD option is seeks a greater commitment to securing adequate mitigation for obstruction and disturbance impacts to existing recreation assets – primarily Rights of Way. 12. Social Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD NA NA NA NA NA NA Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 13. Population and NA NA NA NA NA NA Social Cohesion

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 14. Crime and Safety NA NA NA NA NA NA 15. Economy Wider effects on the tourism economy are considered at the “Approach to NA NA NA NA NA NA Protecting and Contributing to the Tourism Economy” Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The main HPC project site is located partly within or adjacent to several internationally protected ecological sites and will be clearly visible from the Mendips and Quantock Hills AONBs. Associated developments including the proposed Cannington Bypass, accommodation campuses and Park and Ride facilities would be likely to increase cumulative visual impacts. This approach assists in ensuring that impacts to visual amenity and biodiversity in particular relating to the HPC main site development are identified and addressed from an early stage and that any unavoidable impacts are suitably mitigated or compensated for. In response to issues raised during consultation on Draft SPD and SA, this approach also refers to the need to avoid, mitigate and compensate for predicted adverse effects on amenity for communities near the main site. The SPD approach places obligations on the developer to demonstrate that clear strategies are in place to address local landscape and access issues and that the councils and local residents are consulted throughout the design process. Along with other parts of the SPD, it also places significant importance on the need to develop a clear legacy plan for the long term future of the site and its surroundings. When compared with the baseline landscape, the new development, even with compliance to the approach set out in this section, would have a negative impact on visual amenity. However the overall impacts on ecology and biodiversity at the site are likely to be neutral (an potentially enhanced) due to a combination of advanced mitigation and compensation works. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B9.2 Approach to Hinkley Point C Main Site Accommodation Campus

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of: the need to minimise travel to work distances; regional and local planning policies, including areas identified for development; and the need to keep numbers attached to any town or village within a manageable capacity, bearing mind the nature and characteristics of the place.  To support the achievement of the transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities.

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 To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries, restaurants), and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). As part of the Stage 2 proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates) the HPC project promoter proposes a temporary campus of 510 bedspaces at the main site, together with related facilities such as canteen, common rooms, bars and sports facilities. B. SPD Approach This approach advises that as the site of the temporary accommodation campus is a greenfield site where development would not normally be appropriate, the size of the campus should be limited (up to 100 bedspaces) reflecting the minimum requirement for essential on-site worker accommodation. Further key points in the approach are:  Impacts on neighbouring residents of Shurton and Burton should be avoided, including noise, over-looking, light-spill or anti-social behaviour.  A medical facility and administration office are recognised as necessary elements of main site development.  The need for shops, lounge bars/cafes appropriate to the scale of campus should be demonstrated, showing that these will not harm the viability of existing businesses. There is a preference for such facilities to be integrated with permanent development, to reduce unnecessary temporary development in the countryside.  Education / flexible use buildings should be provided as permanent buildings in locations where they can provide a legacy facility, potentially for use by the community.  The Councils would expect to see investment in sports facilities channelled to those locations within local communities where they would be accessible to construction workers, but would also serve local communities and be sustainable as a legacy use.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and The approaches proposed by both options discourage development that will Ecology negatively affect biodiversity, sensitive habitats and species of wildlife. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is 0 0 0 0 0 0 predicted for both options (enhancement may be possible and should be sought wherever possible – see Approach to Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Environment). 2. Landscape & Built A) The general approach proposed in this option will detract from the built Environment - + - + 0 + environment within urban and semi-urban settings in the short and medium term and the wider landscape because of the scale (510 bedspaces). It is not predicted

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B as being unlikely to have legacy benefits so a neutral long term effect is predicted. B) By limiting the number of bedspaces on site to 100 and directing accommodation to existing settlements this option uses the HPC development as an opportunity to address some existing landscape and built environment issues e.g. providing a legacy development at the Innovia site that also enhances one of the major gateways into Bridgwater. The requirement in the SPD for the HPC project promoter to provide greater numbers of permanent accommodation also means that the quality of the built environment in the short term will be greater. Comparison) Of the two options the SPD provides greater landscape and built environment benefit because it requires greater quantities of permanent development that are directed towards existing settlements and will help to improve the quality of the built environment. 3. Cultural Heritage 0 0 0 0 0 0 Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 4. Water 0 0 0 0 0 0 5. Soils and Geology 0 0 0 0 0 0 6. Waste and A) Temporary worker accommodation will increase the municipal waste that is Resource generated during construction in the short term. Waste will also be generated Management during the removal / demolition of the temporary accommodation once the construction phase is over (medium term). B) Developments to house construction workers at HPC, Bridgwater and the other sites will result in increased generation of municipal waste in the SPD area compared to baseline levels. However, this approach and separate SPD - - -- 0 0 0 approaches stating the authorities‟ preference for permanent and re-usable over temporary development will substantially avoid the production of demolition waste in the medium term. Comparison) In the short term the SPD option has fewer effects, however, over the medium an term the SPD approach has potential to substantially reduce the amount of demolition waste by promoting investment in permanent development. 7. Climate and A) Temporary worker accommodation will increase GHG emissions during - - - 0 0 0 Energy construction in the short term. GHG emissions will also be generated during the

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B removal / demolition of the temporary accommodation once the construction phase is over (medium term). It is acknowledged that once the operational power station is an important element of the UK pathway to reducing carbon emissions, alongside other relevant initiatives including energy efficiency. B) Developments to house construction workers at HPC, Bridgwater and the other sites will result in increased GHG emissions in the SPD area compared to baseline levels. However, this approach and separate SPD approaches stating the authorities‟ preference for permanent and re-usable over temporary development will avoid GHG emissions associated with of demolition and removal of temporary accommodation in the medium term. Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and accommodation will also generate increased greenhouse gas emissions. However, this approach aims to ensure that accommodation sites are sited so as to maximise opportunities for workers to reach the HPC by bus and other community facilities by walking and cycling. Comparison) Although significance of the effects for the SPD option are adverse over the lifetime of the SPD its overall approach will result in lower emissions than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because it avoids the emissions associated with removing or demolishing temporary accommodation only for new housing to be built again at some point in the future to meet the wider requirements of the council‟s Core Strategies. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Both the HPC project promoter approach and SPD approach seeks to minimise Vibration and disturbance impacts during the construction phase, including through physical Light Pollution measures such as provision of landscape embankments and planting, although - - - - 0 0 these are not expected to be capable of fully mitigating adverse effects. A short to medium adverse effect is therefore predicted. The main difference between the two approaches relates to the role of construction working hours (see Approach to Construction Working Hours for the further information). 9. Transport A) During construction this option should support the other aspects of the HPC project promoter‟s approach (e.g. the park and ride facilities) and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for the project 0 0 0 0 0 + B) The general approach set in this option is likely to have a similar effect during the construction phase. However, it is over the long term where the SPD spatial approach for locating accommodation in the existing centres (particularly Bridgwater), where residents are more likely to have access to public transport,

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B footpath and cycling infrastructure so there is a greater chance that they will be able to travel more sustainably. Comparison) In the short and medium term the effects of both options are likely to be similar. However, the stronger legacy element of the SPD means that it is more likely to provide a legacy of sustainable transport infrastructure that benefits residents in the future. 10. Human Health It is proposed that a medical facility will be provided at the main site during the 0 0 0 0 0 0 construction phase and the SPD approach supports this proposal, as it is clear that this should be readily accessible at the construction site. 11. Culture, Leisure, A) The general approach proposed by this option is predicted to have a minor Tourism and beneficial effect in the short and medium term as community access to the Recreation Hinkley Point sports facilities is proposed. These will be removed after the construction phase, although access to the land for informal recreation will be allowed, so a long term neutral effect is predicted. B) By setting out an alternative accommodation strategy that encourages the provision of accommodation in existing settlements, the SPD approach will help + + + + 0 + to promote spend in the local community and support for existing and new cultural and recreation facilities that may be provided. As the SPD approach encourages the provision of sports facilities where they could be retained as a permanent legacy, a long term minor beneficial effect is predicted. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities for construction workers to support facilities in villages in Bridgwater and promotes the provision of new leisure and recreation facilities in locations where they could be retained in the long term. 12. Social A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Infrastructure impact on access to social infrastructure because the proposed accommodation is, to a certain extent, self contained. B) The SPD seeks to promote the provision of accommodation in existing 0 0 0 0 0 + settlements so that associated facilities, such as education buildings, also have the potential to be retained as permanent community facilities in the long term. A neutral short and medium term effect is predicted, with a long term beneficial effect. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 13. Population and A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have an impact Social Cohesion on population and social cohesion because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained and does not integrate with the wider community in terms of legacy benefits. B) The SPD promotes an approach that integrates purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities with existing communities and seeks to facilitate social 0 + 0 + 0 + cohesion. If campuses are permanent (as is encouraged by other SPD approaches), they will help improve access to affordable housing in the area after the construction phase. Therefore a minor beneficial effect is predicted for the short, medium and long term. Comparison) The SPD provides greater opportunities for development relating to the HPC project to deliver regeneration benefits in the short, medium and long term. 14. Crime and Safety A) The HPC Project Promoters accommodation proposals involve the dispersion of approximately 2,200 non-home based workers to existing accommodation (private rented, owner occupation, tourism, latent), with around 1,500 workers being located in accommodation campuses with a secure perimeter. There is a concern that the campus accommodation in particular could foster a „them and us‟ situation, with implications for social cohesion and potentially antisocial behaviour in the short and medium term (construction phase). B) The SPD approach seeks to integrate purpose-built accommodation within existing settlements and prevent very large concentrations of workers in a single - 0 - 0 0 0 area. It also seeks contributions towards policing services to ensure they are adequately resourced to deal with any crime and safety issues that may occur during the construction phase. Comparison) The SPD approach seeks to integrate workers within the existing community and prevent very large concentrations of workers in a single area that could result in „them and us‟ tensions in the community, a situation that could be exacerbated by the provision of large temporary campuses. The SPD also seeks to ensure that the police are appropriately resourced to deal with any issues that arise.

15. Economy + + 0 + 0 + A) The spatial approach proposed by this option will have short term benefits for the economy because it will direct some temporary development towards

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Bridgwater. However, the temporary accommodation approach does not provide long term benefits or contribute to the long term regeneration aspirations of the two councils. As result a minor beneficial short term effect is predicted and a neutral medium and long term effect also predicted. B) The construction of appropriate quantities of purpose-built accommodation in local settlements, such as Bridgwater, Williton and Watchet will bring people into the area that will use existing services, boosting the local economy. As the SPD promotes the provision of permanent housing, these effects can be expected to retained in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities for regeneration and spend by construction workers in existing settlements in West Somerset and Sedgemoor. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) The approach seeks to ensure that accommodation for workers at the HPC main site limits noise and light disruption to the neighbouring villages of Shurton and Burton by limiting the size of the campus. The development would be on greenfield land and would result in negative impacts to landscape character during the construction phase, although the approach envisages restoration of the site to green fields after this period. The SPD approach suggests that, where appropriate, development associated with the main site campus should be in the form of permanent buildings forming part of the permanent development or located in nearby settlements where they could provide a beneficial legacy use. For instance, education buildings could be provided in a nearby settlement, with potential for community use following the HPC construction phase. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B9.3 Williton Accommodation Approach The HPC Project Promoter‟s preferred approach (taking account of proposed changes) does not propose the provision purpose-built construction worker accommodation in Williton. Therefore the following assessment is only concerned with the effects arising from the SPD approach for Williton.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach”. 2. Landscape & Built The approach should ensure that there is no negative impact to the existing Environment NA + NA + NA + character of the built environment. The preference for permanent development in Williton will help increase the longer term vitality and viability of the town. 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy approach”. 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 7. Climate and Development of new accommodation in Williton will add additional energy Energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions to existing baseline levels. However, in line with separate SPD approaches, West Somerset Council will promote the NA - NA - NA - achievement of high Code for Sustainable Homes ratings, reducing lifecycle emissions. Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and Williton will also generate increased greenhouse gas emissions although the SPD Sustainable Transport Approach will help minimise these impacts. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The expectation for good design quality means that issues such as noise and light Vibration and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 pollution will be designed out from an early stage. Light Pollution 9. Transport Increasing the number of residential properties will result in an increase in traffic, both during the construction of HPC as well as during its operation. The NA - NA - NA - magnitude of these effects will be offset by the provision of new facilities in Williton and by other approaches in the SPD and associated plans that seek to limit transport impacts. 10. Human Health The approach promotes healthy lifestyles and general community wellbeing NA + NA + NA + through the provision of permanent community sports facilities to support the provision of accommodation in the village. 11. Culture, Leisure, NA + NA + NA + The approach promotes the provision of new permanent community sports

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Tourism and facilities. Recreation 12. Social Provision of new permanent community facilities in Williton will improve access NA + NA + NA + Infrastructure to services for the wider community. 13. Population and The approach will improve access to services (see Topic 12) and aims to ensure Social Cohesion that the new development fits into the character of Williton which is expected as NA + NA + NA + having a beneficial impact for the population and should support in social inclusion. A proportion of permanent housing would be transferred for use as affordable housing following the construction phase. 14. Crime and Safety Approach aims to integrate the construction workforce into the existing NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 community and minimise the demand on local policing. It is assumed that the effects will remain neutral in the longer term. 15. Economy The overall approach for Williton means that its economy is more likely to benefit from the increased population during construction using location services NA + NA + NA + and amenities (e.g. shops, pubs and restaurants). The proximity of Williton to HPC also means that there could be benefits for the longer term from people working at HPC during the long term operational phase. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) Williton is the third largest settlement in West Somerset and houses the West Somerset council offices. It is one of several settlements that is expected to grow significantly over the Core Strategy period. The council is currently preparing a masterplan for Williton to mange this growth to 2026. The approach makes it clear that any proposals brought forward by the HPC project promoter for worker accommodation in Williton should be consistent with the emerging masterplan and Core Strategy. It specifies that housing should be permanent 2/3 bed units, a proportion of which would be transferred to provide affordable housing as a legacy. The approach seeks to ensure that flood risk is not adversely affected by new development and that a contribution is made to flood alleviation in the village. No extra strain should be placed on existing services and infrastructure and access to the town centre must be provided via suitable foot and cycle routes. The approach is considered likely to result in social, recreational and economic benefits for the study area. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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B9.4 Watchet Accommodation Approach The HPC project promoter does not have a specific approach for worker accommodation in Watchet. Therefore the following assessment is only concerned with the effects arising from the SPD approach for Watchet.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and A neutral effect is predicted because this approach supports existing Ecology NA NA NA NA NA NA development that has already achieved planning consent and as such forms part of baseline conditions for the SA. 2. Landscape & Built The approach should ensure that there is no negative impact to the existing Environment NA + NA + NA + character of the built environment. The preference for permanent development in Watchet will help increase the longer term vitality and viability of the town. 3. Cultural Heritage NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 A neutral effect is predicted because this approach supports existing development that has already achieved planning consent and as such forms part 4. Water NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 of baseline conditions for the SA. 5. Soils and Geology NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 6. Waste and Resource NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Management 7. Climate and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Energy 8. Air Quality, Noise, A neutral effect is predicted because this approach supports existing Vibration and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 development that has already achieved planning consent and as such forms part Light Pollution of baseline conditions for the SA. 9. Transport NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 10. Human Health NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Recreation 12. Social NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Infrastructure

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 13. Population and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 15. Economy The overall approach for Watchet means that its economy is more likely to benefit from the increased population during construction using local services and amenities (e.g. shops, pubs and restaurants). The approach means that NA + NA + NA + proposed development and regeneration for Watchet could be brought forward earlier and provide long term permanent housing. The proximity of Watchet to HPC also means that there will be benefits for the longer term, as permanent HPC workers may choose to live in the village. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) Watchet is a small harbour town to the North of Williton and the second largest settlement in West Somerset. Much of the town is designated as a conservation area. The Watchet Accommodation approach promotes the development of a permanent housing scheme that benefits from an existing planning permission (Urban Splash). The aim is to reduce the need for temporary construction worker accommodation in favour of delivering housing required in the long term that will help to deliver regeneration. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B9.5 Stogursey Accommodation Approach The HPC project promoter does not have a specific approach for worker accommodation in Stogursey. Therefore the following assessment is only concerned with the effects arising from the SPD approach for Stogursey.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on this topic area are covered by the Worker accommodation strategy NA NA NA NA NA NA Ecology approach”. 2. Landscape & Built The approach should ensure that there is no negative impact to the existing Environment NA + NA + NA + character of the built environment. The preference for permanent development in Stogursey will help increase the longer term vitality and viability of the village.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 3. Cultural Heritage NA NA NA NA NA NA Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy approach”. 4. Water NA NA NA NA NA NA 5. Soils and Geology NA NA NA NA NA NA 6. Waste and Resource NA NA NA NA NA NA Management 7. Climate and A neutral effect is predicted because this approach supports existing NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Energy development that has already achieved planning consent and a forms part of baseline conditions for the SA. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Light Pollution 9. Transport NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 10. Human Health NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Recreation 12. Social NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Infrastructure 13. Population and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 15. Economy The overall approach for Stogursey means that its economy is more likely to benefit from the increased population during construction using local services and amenities (e.g. shops, pubs and restaurants). The approach means that NA + NA + NA + proposed development in Stogursey could be brought forward earlier and provide long term permanent housing. The proximity of Stogursey to HPC also means that there will be benefits for the longer term, as permanent HPC workers may choose to live in the village.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) Stogursey is a small village two miles south of the HPC main site. Much of the village is designated as a conservation area. The Stogursey Accommodation approach promotes the development of a permanent housing scheme that benefits from an existing planning permission. The aim is to reduce the need for temporary construction worker accommodation in favour of delivering housing required in the long term. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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B10 North East Bridgwater Accommodation Cluster Approach

B10.1 Approach to Construction Worker Accommodation at North East Bridgwater

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  To adopt a strategic approach to the location of accommodation campuses, taking account of: the need to minimise travel to work distances; regional and local planning policies, including areas identified for development; and the need to keep numbers attached to any town or village within a manageable capacity, bearing in mind the nature and characteristics of the place.  To support the achievement of the transport strategy, in particular by ensuring workers have easy access to non-car modes of transport, including Park & Ride facilities.  To ensure that all purpose-built accommodation is of a high standard, with excellent facilities and amenities (e.g. sports and recreational facilities, laundries, restaurants), and is appropriately priced.  Where appropriate, to ensure that purpose-built accommodation and associated facilities (e.g. recreational facilities), have a long term, sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  To ensure that non-home based workers, in all forms of accommodation, are well supported and maintain high standards of conduct, especially in their interaction with the local community.  To ensure that the impacts of the development on local communities are assessed and appropriate mitigation measures are put in place (e.g. support for local health and education facilities). Taking account of Proposed Changes and updates, the Stage 2 Preferred Proposals for accommodation campuses in Bridgwater are as follows:  a temporary accommodation campus at North East Bridgwater at the BRI-A Innovia site, providing up to 1,000 bedspaces (850 bedspaces if BRI-C is developed); and  permanent buildings at the BRI-C Rugby Club Training Pitch site, providing up to 150 bedspaces. With respect to legacy proposals, the BRI-A accommodation campus is proposed as a temporary facility, with buildings being removed at the end of the HPC project construction phase. The retention of roads and infrastructure/services was proposed, but concern has been raised that these would not match the masterplan for the wider North East Bridgwater urban extension site. Retention of the permanent buildings on the BRI-C site was proposed, with potential for transfer to Bridgwater College to be used for teaching space and/or student accommodation. B. SPD Approach

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This approach supports proposals for permanent and temporary construction worker housing on the Innovia, Cattle Market and Rugby Club Training Pitch sites, subject to the consideration of detailed design in relation to a series of principles that include:  Development proposals should align with and not prejudice the delivery of consented schemes in terms of design, layout and phasing.  Infrastructure, including roads, flood management schemes, open space and landscaping should have a permanent role on sites.  Design solutions should enable integration with existing and new communities, providing public accessibility through and between sites.  Design proposals should be informed by the close proximity of the sites and the potential to contribute towards a high quality development and public realm enhancements in line with Bridgwater Vision objectives.  Any proposals for facilities on the sites, including for example security/administration offices and catering services, should be designed with a permanent legacy use in mind, including community and college uses. Sedgemoor District Council expressed concerns at Stage 2 that the legacy proposals did not align with future masterplans or permanent uses for the BRI-A and BRI-C sites, with the result that full redevelopment of the site may be required. There was also considered to be limited consideration of the relationships between the sites and measures that could enhance the public realm.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and The approaches proposed by both options discourage development that will Ecology negatively affect biodiversity, sensitive habitats and species of wildlife. This 0 0 0 0 0 0 should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. This applies to potential impacts on European Protected Species and Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species. 2. Landscape & Built A) The general approach proposed in this option could detract from the built Environment environment within urban and semi-urban settings in the short and medium term, as temporary development is not predicted to provide the high quality design and construction standards that would be expected for permanent buildings. A neutral long term effect is predicted as there is more limited prospect of permanent legacy use. - + - + 0 + B) By limiting the number of temporary bedspaces on site and requiring a greater volume of permanent accommodation and infrastructure to support delivery of the Bridgwater Vision, this option uses the HPC development as an opportunity to address some existing landscape and built environment issues e.g. providing a legacy development at the Innovia site that also enhances one of the major gateways into Bridgwater. The requirement in the SPD for the HPC project promoter to provide greater numbers of permanent accommodation also means that the quality of the built environment in the short and medium term will be

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B greater. Comparison) Of the two options the SPD provides greater landscape and built environment benefit because it requires greater quantities of permanent development that will help to improve the quality of the built environment, directing development towards brownfield regeneration sites. 3. Cultural Heritage 0 0 0 0 0 0 The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will environmental negatively affect cultural heritage, water quality, resources and 4. Water 0 0 0 0 0 0 flood risk. This should mitigate any potentially adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 5. Soils and Geology A) This option is likely to address any site contamination issues given that it proposes the use of sites for residential accommodation. As a consequence a positive effect is predicted. + + + + + + B) This option shares the same benefits as option A, however it also goes further by also directing development towards the Cattle Market site in Bridgwater. Comparison) Both options have broadly similar effects. However, the SPD option seeks the remediation of an additional brownfield site in Bridgwater. 6. Waste and A) Temporary worker accommodation will increase the municipal waste that is Resource generated during construction. Waste will also be generated during the Management construction and removal / demolition of the accommodation once the construction phase is over. B) Developments to house construction workers at HPC, Bridgwater and the other sites will result in increased generation of municipal waste in the SPD area - - - - - 0 compared to baseline levels. This approach and separate SPD approaches stating the authorities‟ preference for permanent and re-usable over temporary development will avoid the production of demolition waste in the long term. Comparison) The provision of new accommodation or housing will generate waste in the short and medium term. By promoting permanent housing the SPD approach would reduce demolition waste in the long term. 7. Climate and A) The construction of temporary accommodation will involve greenhouse gas Energy emissions from the construction and demolition of the dwellings. There will also - - 0 0 - + be greenhouse gas emissions associated with the construction materials that are used and disposed of. Over the medium term, energy use is predicted to be consistent with that of other dwellings, however additional GHG emissions

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B would result from the demolition and removal of temporary accommodation units and associated infrastructure. B) New accommodation to house construction workers will add additional energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions to existing baseline levels. However, in line with separate SPD approaches, permanent development will achieve Code for Sustainable Homes ratings, reducing lifecycle emissions. In the long term, permanent development can be retained, both reducing GHG emission associated with demolition of temporary dwellings, and saving emissions associated with the construction of new planned housing. Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and accommodation will also generate increased greenhouse gas emissions. However, this approach aims to ensure that accommodation sites are sited so as to maximise opportunities for workers to reach facilities in existing settlements by walking, cycling or public transport. The magnitude of any potentially adverse effects will also be offset by other approaches in the SPD (such as the “Construction phase carbon emissions approach”. Comparison) Although significance of the effects for the SPD option are adverse over the lifetime of the SPD its overall approach will result in lower emissions than the HPC project promoter‟s approach because it avoids the emissions associated with removing or demolishing temporary accommodation only for new housing to be built again at some point in the future to meet the wider requirements of the council‟s Core Strategies. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The approach proposed by both options discourages development that create air Vibration and 0 0 0 0 0 0 quality, noise, vibration and light pollution. This should mitigate any potentially Light Pollution adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 9. Transport A) During construction this option should support the other aspects of the HPC project promoter‟s approach (e.g. the park and ride facilities) and as a result a positive short and medium term effect is predicted. However, the spatial approach is unlikely to have a long term effect on transport so a neutral effect is + + + + 0 + predicted. B) The general approach set in this option is likely to have a similar effect during the construction phase. However, it is over the long term where the SPD spatial approach for locating accommodation in the existing centres (particularly Bridgwater) where residents are more likely to have access to public transport,

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B footpath and cycling infrastructure so there is a greater chance that they will be able to travel more sustainably. Comparison) In the short term the effects of both options are likely to be similar. However, the stronger legacy element of the SPD means that it is more likely to provide a legacy of sustainable transport infrastructure that benefits residents in the future. 10. Human Health A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant impact on human health or access to healthcare. Any potentially adverse health effects associated with any of the development will be identified and mitigated through the Health Impact Assessment process. Any health care facilities present on the accommodation sites will not be accessible to general public, although community access to campus sports facilities is proposed, so a minor positive effect is predicted for the short and medium term, reverting to a neutral effect when the majority of the sports facilities are removed. + + + + 0 + B) The approach promotes healthy lifestyles and general community wellbeing through the provision of new community sports facilities that can be used by workers as well as providing a long term legacy for existing residents in Bridgwater (Innovia and Cattle Market). The proposals for the Rugby Club training facilities require suitable alternative facilities to be provided during the construction phase of the scheme. Comparison) The SPD approach provides greater opportunities for community facilities that promote health, such as sports facilities, to be retained as a permanent legacy. 11. Culture, Leisure, A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Tourism and impact on access to culture, leisure, tourism and recreation because any facilities Recreation are temporary and not accessible to neighbouring communities, with the exception of the sports facilities. However, a minor beneficial effect is predicted as the provision of accommodation in Bridgwater is likely to result in additional + ++ + ++ 0 + spend at leisure and recreation facilities in the town. B) By seeking to deliver a greater proportion of permanent accommodation and associated community and leisure facilities, rather than provide standalone campuses, the SPD approach is predicted to have a greater beneficial effect through short, medium and long term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to provide

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B development that integrates with the local area, promoting social cohesion and long term regeneration. 12. Social A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have a significant Infrastructure impact on access to social infrastructure because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained. B) This option will help ensure that accommodation developments promote the aims of the Bridgwater Vision. This will include the provision of new/enhanced 0 + 0 + 0 + community facilities in Bridgwater and improvements to service access for the wider community where possible. As the campuses are likely to be permanent developments, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 13. Population and A) The general approach proposed by this option is unlikely to have an impact Social Cohesion on population and social cohesion because the accommodation is, to a certain extent self contained and does not integrate with the wider community in terms of legacy benefits. B) This option will contribute to the wider aims of the Bridgwater Vision which promotes social inclusion and community cohesion. It will ensure that decisions 0 + 0 + 0 + on accommodation location will help improve access to services for existing communities. If campuses are permanent (as is encouraged by other SPD approaches), they will help improve access to affordable housing in the area after the construction phase. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. 14. Crime and Safety A) The HPC Project Promoters accommodation proposals involve the dispersion of approximately 2,200 non-home based workers to existing accommodation (private rented, owner occupation, tourism, latent), with around 1,500 workers being located in accommodation campuses with a secure perimeter. There is a - 0 - 0 0 0 concern that the campus accommodation in particular could foster a „them and us‟ situation, with implications for social cohesion and potentially antisocial behaviour in the short and medium term (construction phase). B) The SPD approach seeks to integrate purpose-built accommodation within existing settlements and prevent very large concentrations of workers in a single

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B area. It also seeks contributions towards policing services to ensure they are adequately resourced to deal with any crime and safety issues that may occur during the construction phase. Comparison) The SPD approach seeks to integrate workers within the existing community and prevent very large concentrations of workers in a single area that could result in „them and us‟ tensions in the community, a situation that could be exacerbated by the provision of large temporary campuses. The SPD also seeks to ensure that the police are appropriately resourced to deal with any issues that arise. 15. Economy A) The spatial approach proposed by this option will have short term benefits for the economy because it will direct some temporary development towards the larger centres e.g. Bridgwater. However, the temporary accommodation approach does not provide long term benefits or contribute to the long term regeneration aspirations of the two councils. As result a minor beneficial short and medium term effect is predicted and a neutral long term effect is predicted. + + + + 0 + B) The construction of new campuses in Bridgwater will bring a large new workforce into the area that will use existing services, boosting the local economy. As the accommodation is likely to be permanent in Bridgwater and transferred to legacy use, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. Comparison) the SPD approach provides greater opportunities to take advantage of existing health care suppliers and provide a legacy benefit. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) Three search areas in Bridgwater have been identified by the HPC project promoter as potential locations for construction worker accommodation. These are close together in the northeast of the town offering potential for regeneration opportunities at and between sites, as well as shared services. As the general site- wide accommodation approach applies, no separate SA matrices have been produced for each site. However, the sections below briefly highlight some of the key issues addressed by the site-specific SPD approach for the North East Bridgwater accommodation sites. In general, the approach to these sites will help ensure that development in this area will contribute to the delivery of the Bridgwater Vision, increase access to services, improve connectivity and accessibility by walking and cycling, and deliver affordable housing. Innovia The Innovia site is located adjacent to Bath Road in the north of the town. In addition to expectations set out in site-wide accommodation approaches, the Innovia SPD approach requires that development on the site contributes to the delivery of „…an exemplar sustainable development‟ and the „Bridgwater Gateway‟ concept which aims to create an arrival point on a high quality transport corridor in this part of the town . This would in part be delivered by ensuring that external-facing permanent buildings contribute to a high-quality built environment. The proposals for this site also provide an opportunity to develop an

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B exemplar sustainable development in Bridgwater that integrates and retains natural and industrial heritage features of the site. Former Cattle Market This site is located immediately to the southwest of the Innovia site. The SPD approach for accommodation on this site requires that any proposal fulfils a transition role between the Knowledge Quarter and Wylds Road Bridgwater Vision areas and raises the quality of the built environment on the approach to the Cross Rifles Roundabout. Development of this brownfield site would make a significant contribution to the regeneration of this part of Bridgwater, adding to the vitality of the area. Rugby Club Training Pitch This site is adjacent to a Bridgwater College site and is currently in use as a training pitch by the local rugby club. The SPD approach requires that any development on the site is converted to student residence and educational use post construction. It also clearly requires that additional open space is provided to compensate for the loss of the training pitch. It aims to ensure that a community educational hub is created in the long term that can be used by Bridgwater College. This will improve access to education facilities for the wider community. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B10.2 Eastover Accommodation Cluster The HPC project promoter does not have a specific approach for worker accommodation in Eastover. Therefore the following assessment is only concerned with the effects arising from the SPD approach for Eastover.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy NA Ecology NA NA NA NA NA approach”. 2. Landscape & Built The approach will have a significant benefit for Bridgwater by regenerating Environment NA + NA + NA + underused/derelict land. Development could also contribute to enhancements of the public realm along Eastover and the riverside. 3. Cultural Heritage The Eastover area has been identified as an Area of High Archaeological NA + NA + NA + Potential and as such the development brief for this area requires archaeological impacts to be considered. As a result these approaches will indirectly provide an

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B opportunity for archaeologists to gain a better understanding of the archaeology and history of Bridgwater. 4. Water The approaches proposed by the SPD discourages development that would negatively affect water quality, resources and flood risk. In addition to this the NA 0 NA 0 NA + SPD sets out a requirement to contribute towards a legacy of flood defence measures so the long term effects are beneficial. 5. Soils and Geology By directing development towards previously developed land these approach will NA + NA + NA + help to address existing environmental problems such as historic contamination from previous industrial activities. 6. Waste and Developments to house construction workers at the sites in Bridgwater will result Resource in increased generation of municipal waste in the SPD area compared to baseline Management levels. This approach and separate SPD approaches stating the authorities‟ preference for permanent and re-usable over temporary development will avoid NA - NA - NA - the production of demolition waste in the short term. However, they cannot avoid the medium to long term effects associated with the generation of waste from a large number of dwellings than at present. As a result adverse impacts are predicted over the medium to long term.

7. Climate and Development of new accommodation in Bridgwater will add additional energy Energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions to existing baseline levels. However, in line with separate SPD approaches, permanent development will achieve Code NA - NA - NA - for Sustainable Homes Level 6, reducing lifecycle emissions. Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and Bridgwater will also generate increased greenhouse gas emissions although the SPD Sustainable Transport Approach will help minimise these impacts. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The approach proposed by both options discourages development that creates air Vibration and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 quality, noise, vibration and light pollution. This should mitigate any potentially Light Pollution adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 9. Transport The general approach is likely to have a similar effect during the construction phase. However, it is over the medium and long term where the SPD spatial NA + NA + NA + approach for locating accommodation in the existing centres (particularly Bridgwater) where residents are more likely to have access to public transport, footpath and cycling infrastructure so there is a greater chance that they will be

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B able to travel more sustainably. 10. Human Health The approach promotes healthy lifestyles and general community wellbeing through the provision of new community sports facilities that can be used by NA + NA + NA + workers as well as providing a long term legacy for existing residents in Bridgwater. 11. Culture, Leisure, Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA approach”. Recreation 12. Social This approach will help ensure that accommodation developments promote the Infrastructure aims of the Bridgwater Vision. This will include the provision of new/enhanced NA + NA + NA + community facilities in Bridgwater and improvements to service access for the wider community where possible. As the permanent developments are promoted, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. 13. Population and This approach will contribute to the wider aims of the Bridgwater Vision which Social Cohesion promotes social inclusion and community cohesion. It will ensure that decisions on accommodation location will help improve access to services for existing NA + NA + NA + communities. If construction worker accommodation is permanent (as is encouraged by other SPD approaches), they will help improve access to affordable housing in the area after the construction phase. 14. Crime and Safety This effect is neutral because it is assumed that by integrating the accommodation developments more effectively into the existing built NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 environment and by seeking buy in from local resident‟s people will value the developments and see them as less of an opportunity for low level crime. 15. Economy The overall approach of the approach for Bridgwater means that its economy is more likely to benefit from the increased population during construction using location services and amenities (e.g. shops, pubs and restaurants). As a large NA + NA + NA + settlement it is likely that Bridgwater will continue to benefit following construction of HPC, as new households move into the permanent accommodation. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) There are four potential accommodation sites in Eastover, located towards the east of Bridgwater town centre. Two of these sites already benefit from planning consent so are not considered in detail by the SPD. The four sites are clustered close to the Bridgwater bus station aiding the easy transport of staff to the HPC

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B site by public transport. Development on these sites will be expected to comply with site-wide accommodation approach and some individual site-specific design principles are provided. This section briefly addresses these site-specific aspects. The approach is very similar for each of the sites so they are addressed together. The potential sites are well-suited to housing development given the proximity to existing services and transport links. Development here would also open up opportunities to further regenerate the riverside area and Celebration Mile in accordance with the Bridgwater Vision and increase permeability between the river and the city centre. The SPD approach expects that development would be sensitive to existing listed buildings on the waterfront. The sites are located within an Area of High Archaeological Potential and the SPD approach expects detailed assessment and consultation with county archaeologists. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

B10.3 Penel Orlieu Accommodation Cluster The HPC project promoter does not have a specific approach for worker accommodation in Penel Orlieu. Therefore the following assessment is only concerned with the effects arising from the SPD approach for Penel Orlieu.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy NA Ecology NA NA NA NA NA approach”. 2. Landscape & Built The landscape and visual impacts of the proposed approach are predicted to be Environment positive in the short, medium and long term. Re-development of the site will NA + NA + NA + provide an opportunity to re-new the frontage of this site and potentially help to address current issues with the quality of the public realm in this prominent location. 3. Cultural Heritage Historically, Penel Orlieu was the site of one of the gates into Bridgwater. As NA + NA + NA + such the area has the potential to contain archaeology and any works in this area provides an opportunity to investigate and record any remains that are present. 4. Water Impacts on this topic area are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy NA NA NA NA NA NA approach”.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 5. Soils and Geology By directing development towards previously developed land these approach will NA + NA + NA + help to address existing environmental problems such as historic contamination from previous industrial activities. 6. Waste and Developments to house construction workers at the sites in Bridgwater will result Resource in increased generation of municipal waste in the SPD area compared to baseline Management levels. This approach and separate SPD approaches stating the authorities‟ preference for permanent and re-usable over temporary development will avoid NA - NA - NA - the production of demolition waste in the short term. However, they cannot avoid the medium to long term effects associated with the generation of waste from a large number of dwellings than at present. As a result adverse impacts are predicted over the medium to long term. 7. Climate and Development of new accommodation in Bridgwater will add additional energy Energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions to existing baseline levels. However, in line with separate SPD approaches, permanent development will achieve Code NA - NA - NA - for Sustainable Homes Level 6, reducing lifecycle emissions. Workers‟ travel between the HPC site and Bridgwater will also generate increased greenhouse gas emissions although the SPD Sustainable Transport Approach will help minimise these impacts. 8. Air Quality, Noise, The approach proposed by both options discourages development that creates air Vibration and NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 quality, noise, vibration and light pollution. This should mitigate any potentially Light Pollution adverse effects and as a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options. 9. Transport The general approach is likely to have a similar effect during the construction phase. However, it is over the medium and long term where the SPD spatial approach for locating accommodation in the existing centres (particularly NA + NA + NA + Bridgwater) where residents are more likely to have access to public transport, footpath and cycling infrastructure so there is a greater chance that permanent residents will be able to travel more sustainably. 10. Human Health NA NA NA NA NA NA Impacts on these topic areas are covered by the “Worker accommodation strategy approach”. 11. Culture, Leisure, Tourism and NA NA NA NA NA NA Recreation 12. Social NA + NA + NA + This approach will help ensure that accommodation developments promote the

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Infrastructure aims of the Bridgwater Vision. This will include the provision of new/enhanced community facilities in Bridgwater and improvements to service access for the wider community where possible. As permanent developments are promoted, these effects can be expected to remain in the longer term. 13. Population and This approach will contribute to the wider aims of the Bridgwater Vision which Social Cohesion promotes social inclusion and community cohesion. It will ensure that decisions on accommodation location will help improve access to services for existing NA + NA + NA + communities. If accommodation is provided as permanent housing (as is encouraged by other SPD approaches), they will help improve access to affordable housing in the area after the construction phase. 14. Crime and Safety This effect is neutral because it is assumed that by integrating the accommodation developments more effectively into the existing built NA 0 NA 0 NA 0 environment and by seeking buy in from local resident‟s people will value the developments and see them as less of an opportunity for low level crime. 15. Economy The overall approach for Bridgwater means that its economy is more likely to benefit from the increased population during construction using location services NA + NA + NA + and amenities (e.g. shops, pubs and restaurants). As a large settlement it is likely that Bridgwater will continue to benefit following construction of HPC, as new households move into the permanent accommodation. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) One further central-Bridgwater site – Penel Orlieu – has been identified by Sedgemoor District Council as potentially suitable for worker accommodation. The site is to the west of the town centre and is currently in use as a cinema and bingo hall. The area has been identified as offering potential for a rejuvenated evening economy in the town. This approach provides that if a housing scheme is progressed on the site, alternative provision for the cinema and other facilities would need to be made elsewhere. This would ensure no long term impact to recreational and leisure facilities in the town. Redevelopment of the sites has potential to significantly enhance the public realm in this prominent location, in line with the Bridgwater Vision. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary Mitigation measures are not required for this SPD approach.

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B11 Associated Development Park & Ride and Freight Logistics Sites Approaches

B11.1 Approach to Williton Park & Ride

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Maximise safe and efficient movement of people and materials to and from the new power station site  Minimise disruption both for the local community and visitors to the area using the road network for business and leisure trips.  Protect the natural and built environment and ensure the image of the area is not adversely affected. At Stage 2, the HPC project promoter set out proposals for a Park & Ride site on a greenfield site to west of Williton and Mamsey Lane. This provided capacity for 316 car parking spaces, 12 spaces for minibuses, 10 bus parking spaces and cycle parking. The proposals also included a single storey welfare building and an office for security personnel. The legacy proposal for the site was for reinstatement of the site to green fields, but with retention of the flood risk management balancing pond. A Proposed Change to the Preferred Proposals is for the Park & Ride to be provided in an alternative location, an existing lorry park named the Smithyard Terminal. This would provide 160 car parking spaces during the construction phase of Hinkley Point C. The site could revert to use as a lorry park once it is no longer required by the HPC project promoter. B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that, before proposals for Park & Ride at Williton are brought forward, the need for the facility is demonstrated as part of a well evidenced and robust HPC project transport strategy and investment package. The approach advises that the objective should be to minimise the size of the Park & Ride required at Williton. It possible that either the Mamsey Lane greenfield site or the Smithyard Terminal brownfield site proposals could be progressed by the HPC project promoter and the HPC project SPD sets out guidelines that are applicable to both sites, together with guidelines that would only be applicable to the Mamsey Lane site. Taking account of community responses to the proposals and a desire to limit the impacts of a Park & Ride scheme, the SPD expresses a preference for the brownfield Smithyard Terminal site to be brought forward.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and 0 0 0 0 0 0 Impacts on biodiversity, landscape, built environment and cultural heritage are

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Ecology all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and subsequent construction management 2. Landscape & Built 0 0 0 0 0 0 processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for HPC construction phase Environment where the Park & Ride would be operational. The preference for the Park & 3. Cultural Heritage Ride site to be provided at the Smithyard Terminal is predicted to limit effects 0 0 0 0 0 0 across these topic areas. 4. Water The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that could negatively affect water quality, resources and flood risk. Should the Mamsey 0 0 0 0 0 0 Lane site be progressed, the SPD promotes contributions towards a flood risk alleviation strategy for the village, hoever it is now considered less likely that this site will be brought forward by the HPC project promoter. 5. Soils and Geology Impacts on soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is 0 0 0 0 0 0 predicted for construction. The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at the Smithyard Terminal is predicted to limit effects across for this topic area. 6. Waste and Both options will indirectly lead to the generation of waste in the short term Resource because they both support the development of new transport infrastructure that Management will generate additional waste, although the scheme is intended to help workers - - 0 0 0 0 to travel via a more sustainable means than private car. The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at Smithyard Terminal is predicted to limit waste associated with the construction and removal of the Park & Ride site.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 7. Climate and A) The provision of a park and ride facility will help to reduce the number of Energy trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions. However, the approach to transport means that these benefits will not remain or provide a legacy for the existing communities and residential population. As a result the long term effects are predicted as being neutral. B) The approach in this option will help minimise emissions during construction + + + + 0 + in the same way as option A. Longer term emissions reductions will also be achieved by the sustainable transport infrastructure that remains (provision of cycle and pedestrian routes linking local settlements). Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar in the short and medium term. However, the SPD approach may also bring legacy benefits associated with the provision of permanent walking and cycling routes. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Impacts on soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large Vibration and construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and Light Pollution 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. See also the approach on Amenity and Construction Working Hours. 9. Transport A) The provision of a park and ride facility will help to reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact on traffic and transport. However, the approach to transport means that these benefits will not remain or provide a legacy for the existing communities and residential population. As a result the long term effects are predicted as being neutral. B) The approach in this option will help minimise emissions during construction in the same way as option A. Longer term emissions reductions could also be + + + + 0 + achieved through the provision of safe cycling and walking routes to local settlements. Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar in the short and medium term. However, the SPD approach may also bring legacy benefits associated with the provision of permanent walking and cycling routes.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 10. Human Health A) A neutral effect is predicted because any adverse effects will be indentified and mitigated through the Environmental Impact Assessment process. B) A minor beneficial effect is predicted because some forms of the sustainable 0 + 0 + 0 + transport (cycling and walking) also have health benefits. It also requires EIA to manage any potentially adverse health effect. Comparison) The SPD option is likely to provide greater benefits for the study area than the approach set out by the HPC project promoter. 11. Culture, Leisure, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Tourism and 0 0 0 0 0 0 negatively affect access to cultural, leisure, tourism and recreational facilities. As Recreation a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options 12. Social Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 13. Population and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 15. Economy Both options support measures that aim to reduce transport impacts from the HPC development which will have benefits for the local economy because it will + + + + 0 0 help to avoid potentially adverse economic impacts associated with congestion.

Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) A Park & Ride facility is proposed at Williton to serve the HPC main site during construction. The approach clarifies that the preferred location for the Park & Ride is the brownfield Smithyard Terminal site, which means that impacts associated with the temporary development of a greenfield site could be avoided. Should the Mamsey Lane site come forward, the SPD seeks a contribution to flood alleviation for the village as a whole and improved community facilities in line with the other approaches in the SPD. This would ensure that the facility contributes to lasting legacy benefits for the community, mitigating and compensating for any impacts associated with a temporary Park & Ride scheme. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and walking/cycling alternatives from development sites to the centre of Bridgwater and the main site. However, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

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B11.2 Approach at Combwich Wharf

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To manage construction in a way that maximises operational efficiency and minimises disruption to the local community.  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Maximise safe and efficient movement of people and materials to and from the new power station site  Minimise disruption both for the local community and visitors to the area using the road network for business and leisure trips.  Protect the natural and built environment and ensure the image of the area is not adversely affected. As part of the Stage 2 Preferred Proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates), the HPC project promoter set out proposals for the following development at Combwich: refurbishment of the wharf to provide Abnormal Indivisible Load (AIL) and construction goods berths; an AIL lay-by; staff and visitor parking; an administration office and welfare building; and a freight laydown area of 10Ha . The legacy proposal for the site was to completely remove the buildings and development associated with the freight logistics/storage facility, with the exception of selected trees, landscaping and flood risk management measures. B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to protect residential amenity and leisure use of Combwich Wharf by restricting the number and timing of deliveries to the wharf and preventing the use of greenfield land at Combwich for the storage of road-borne freight. The approach also advises that large-scale employment proposals are not considered appropriate on greenfield land in the floodplain in this rural location. Design and management measures are expected that would protect the integrity of the Severn Estuary SAC and SPA and the Bridgwater Bay SSSI.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Adverse impacts on biodiversity and ecology should be managed through the Ecology EIA and subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral 0 0 0 0 0 0 effect is predicted for construction. This applies to potential impacts on European and nationally designated sites and potential impacts on European Protected Species and Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species. 2. Landscape & Built The short term effects of both options are likely to be adverse, although there is Environment ------0 0 the opportunity for these effects to be mitigated during the design and construction process by providing landscape screening. The SPD approach also seeks to minimise the size of the laydown area to limit greenfield development

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B and landscape impacts. Both approaches propose that the freight laydown area is restored to greenfield use following the HPC construction phase, so long term effects are predicted to be neutral. Comparison) Although both options are adverse the visual and landscape impacts of the HPC project promoter‟s approach would be greater as the SPD seeks to limit the extent of greenfield development to the minimum possible. 3. Cultural Heritage Impacts on cultural heritage are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 4. Water A) The HPC project promoter approach pursues the temporary development of greenfield land within the floodplain of the River Parrett. A flood risk assessment is required to demonstrate that the development would not increase flood risk elsewhere, hence a neutral effect is predicted. 0 0 0 0 0 0 B) The HPC SPD approach questions whether the freight laydown area could be provided on existing brownfield land at Hinkley Point outside the floodplain. The effect of this approach is currently uncertain as a sequential study has yet to be carried out, however, it could limit the need to alter existing flood defences and provide new drainage infrastructure. 5. Soils and Geology Impacts on soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 6. Waste and A) The HPC project promoter approach pursues the temporary development of Resource greenfield land that will result in waste generation during construction and the Management removal of the facility. - ? - ? 0 0 B) The HPC SPD approach questions whether the freight laydown area could be provided on existing brownfield land at Hinkley Point, reducing or avoiding the need for the temporary development of agricultural land. The effect of this approach is currently uncertain as a sequential study has yet to be carried out.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 7. Climate and Both approaches support the use of Combwich Wharf, which will reduce the Energy volume of road traffic and greenhouse gas emissions associated with moving goods in the short and medium term. The SPD seeks to limit the operational + + + + 0 0 hours of the wharf to protect residential amenity, but also suggests that deliveries to the proposed temporary jetty could be increased to reduce the need for additional road freight. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Impacts on air quality noise, vibration and light pollution are all issues that are Vibration and associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed Light Pollution through the EIA and subsequent construction management processes. ------0 0 Sedgemoor District Council is concerned about the potential impacts on residential amenity resulting from the operation of the wharf, which would be difficult to mitigate using screens or bunds. It therefore promotes an approach that would restrict the number of deliveries and operational working hours so that adverse effects are reduced, although they would not be removed altogether. 9. Transport The use of Combwich Wharf will reduce the volume of road traffic during the ++ ++ ++ ++ 0 0 construction phase of the HPC project, which is predicted to have a beneficial effect across a wide number of receptors. 10. Human Health It is considered that adverse disturbance impacts such as noise and light pollution could have a detrimental effect on health, due to loss of sleep. The appraisal ------0 0 above relating to Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution is also considered to apply here. 11. Culture, Leisure, Deliveries of AILs and construction materials to the wharf is predicted to Tourism and obstruct leisure use of the wharf. The approach in the SPD seeks to set a Recreation - - - - 0 0 reasonable limit on the number of deliveries so that leisure uses can continue, although a certain level of impact is likely to remain during the HPC construction phase (medium and long term). 12. Social Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Infrastructure approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. 13. Population and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 15. Economy Reducing transport impacts from the HPC development will have benefits for the + + + + 0 0 local economy because they will help to avoid potentially adverse economic impacts associated with congestion. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) Combwich is a small rural village on the river Parrett. The HPC Project promoter proposes to use Combwich Wharf to deliver (Abnormal Indivisible Loads) AIL and freight to the HPC main site. Combwich Wharf is encircled by residential properties and the SPD approach seeks to limit disruption to the village by placing restrictions on the number of deliveries and hours of operation of the wharf and associated facilities. Nevertheless, there would likely be impacts to residential amenity of the village during the HPC project construction phase, as well as obstruction of the leisure use of the wharf. The approach also seeks to limit any associated development on greenfield land in the floodplain adjacent to the wharf, by ensuring that other sites (potentially including previously used land at Hinkley Point A) are used in preference. Where any associated facilities are required, they would be temporary in nature and land will be returned to its previous state after the construction phase, which is appropriate given the sensitive rural characteristics of the sites proposed for development and the policy restrictions on development within the area. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and the main site. However, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

B11.3 Approach to Park & Ride at Cannington

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Maximise safe and efficient movement of people and materials to and from the new power station site  Minimise disruption both for the local community and visitors to the area using the road network for business and leisure trips.  Protect the natural and built environment and ensure the image of the area is not adversely affected. As part of the Stage 2 Preferred Proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates), the HPC project promoter set out proposals for a Park & Ride site on a greenfield site to the south of Cannington. This is to provide capacity for 252 parking spaces. The proposals also include a single storey welfare building

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and an office for security personnel. The legacy proposal for the site is for reinstatement of the site to green fields, but with retention of flood risk management infrastructure. B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that, before proposals for Park & Ride at Cannington are brought forward, the need for the facility is demonstrated as part of a well evidenced and robust HPC project transport strategy and investment package. The approach advises that the objective should be to minimise the size of the Park & Ride required at Cannington and it goes on to set out further criteria:  A comprehensive approach to flood risk management should be provided that contributes to flood risk alleviation for the village.  A safe and secure pedestrian/cycle route connection to the village centre and any construction worker accommodation proposals is provided.  Legacy options for the site are considered with Cannington Parish Council, to meet local needs, and as an integral part of the long term development of the village and wider area.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on biodiversity and ecology are all issues that are associated with large Ecology construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 2. Landscape & Built Both approaches seek to deliver sensitive landscaping and screening of the Environment proposed P&R facility, restricting the scale of development to within one field - - - - 0 0 boundary. However, given the greenfield location, the development will result in a minor loss of landscape amenity during the construction phase. 3. Cultural Heritage Impacts on cultural heritage should be managed through the EIA and subsequent 0 0 0 0 0 0 construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 4. Water The approaches proposed by both options discourage development that will negatively affect water quality, resources and flood risk. In addition to this both options propose that improvements to flood risk management are achieved if + + + + + + development of the site is pursued (e.g. implementation of a flood risk management strategy for the village through the creation of a flood relief channel), resulting in a beneficial effect for the short, medium and long term.

5. Soils and Geology 0 0 0 0 0 0 Impacts on soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 6. Waste and Both options will indirectly lead to the generation of waste because they both Resource - - - - 0 0 support the development of new temporary transport infrastructure that will Management result in short term (construction) and medium term (removal) waste generation. 7. Climate and A) The provision of a park and ride facility will help to reduce the number of Energy trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions. However, the approach to transport means that these benefits will not remain or provide a legacy for the existing communities and residential population. As a result the long term effects are predicted as being neutral. B) The approach in this option will help minimise emissions during construction + + + + 0 + in the same way as option A. Longer term emissions reductions will also be achieved by the sustainable transport infrastructure that remains (cycle and pedestrian route from the worker accommodation site to the centre of the village). Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar in the short term. However, the SPD approach, particularly with its legacy benefits is more likely to provide long term benefits. 8. Air Quality, Noise, Both approaches seek to limit disturbance impacts on residents and ecological Vibration and receptors through physical measures, such as the provision of screening, and - - - - 0 0 Light Pollution management measures. Nevertheless, it is predicted that minor adverse disturbance effects will occur in the short and medium term. 9. Transport A) The provision of a park and ride facility will help to reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact on traffic and transport. However, the approach to transport means that these benefits will not remain or provide a legacy for the existing communities and residential population. As a result the medium and long term effects are predicted as being + + + + 0 + neutral. B) The approach in this option will help minimise emissions during construction in the same way as option A. Longer term emissions reductions will also be achieved by the sustainable transport infrastructure that remains (cycle and pedestrian route from the worker accommodation site to the centre of the

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B village). Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar in the short term. However, the SPD approach, particularly with its legacy benefits is more likely to provide long term benefits. 10. Human Health It is considered that adverse disturbance impacts such as noise and light pollution could have a detrimental effect on health, due to loss of sleep. The - - - - 0 0 appraisal above relating to Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution is also considered to apply here. 11. Culture, Leisure, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Tourism and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Recreation 12. Social N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Infrastructure 13. Population and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 15. Economy A) This option contains many measures that aim to reduce transport impacts from the HPC development which will have benefits for the local economy because it will help to avoid potentially adverse economic impacts associated with congestion. However, the approach to transport means that these benefits do not provide a legacy for the existing communities and residential population. As a result the long term effects are predicted as being neutral. + + + + 0 + B) This option includes measures that will help to retain legacy benefits in the form of sustainable transport infrastructure. In light of this it is concluded that it will result in a beneficial effect in the short and medium term as well as the long term. Comparison) the sustainability effects of the two options during construction are likely to be broadly similar in the short term. However, the SPD approach, particularly with its legacy benefits is more likely to provide long term benefits. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) A Park and Ride facility is proposed at Cannington to serve the HPC main site during its construction phase. The approach expects that the size of the facility

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B should be minimised. If a temporary Park & Ride at Cannington were to be pursued, it would be expected to contribute towards improved flood alleviation for the village and that legacy options for the site are agreed in consultation with the Parish Council and local residents. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and walking/cycling alternatives from development sites to the centre of Bridgwater and the main site. However, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

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B11.4 Approach to Park & Ride and Freight Logistics / Storage at Dunball (M5 Junction 23)

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Maximise safe and efficient movement of people and materials to and from the new power station site  Minimise disruption both for the local community and visitors to the area using the road network for business and leisure trips.  Protect the natural and built environment and ensure the image of the area is not adversely affected. The Stage 2 Preferred Proposals (taking account of Proposed Changes and updates) set out proposals for a Park & Ride and freight management facility on a greenfield site to west of the A38 Dunball roundabout. This is expected to provide 1,300 parking spaces, welfare facilities and an induction centre. The legacy proposal for the site is to leave the vacant premises for occupation by another business/operation or to reinstate the site as greenfield land. B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that, before proposals for Park & Ride and freight logistics facility at M5 Junction 23 are brought forward, the need for the facility is demonstrated as part of a well evidenced and robust HPC project transport strategy and investment package. Should the Park & Ride and/or freight logistics facility be brought forward, the criteria that should be applied include:  The provision of a Park & Share facility for public use should be considered.  Development should contribute to achieving the Bridgwater Vision North Bridgwater Design Gateway design principles.  A detailed flood risk management strategy would be expected that is PPS25 compliant.  An environmental enhancement corridor should be developed for M5 Junction 23 and the A38 corridor. In terms of legacy, the approach advises that speculative retention of hardstandings and buildings would not be considered an acceptable proposal, but does present a potential option for Somerset County Council to trial a public Park & Ride at the site. Proposals for legacy uses related to the delivery of the low carbon cluster for permanent inward investment would be considered with regard to the local policy framework in place at that time and any other material considerations.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on biodiversity and ecology are all issues that are associated with large Ecology construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. This applies to potential impacts on European Protected Species and Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species. 2. Landscape & Built The short term and medium term effects of both options on the site are likely to Environment be adverse, although there is the opportunity for these effects to be mitigated during the design and construction process by screening and landscaping the site to minimise adverse effects. The SPD also seeks to ensure that the development - + - + 0 + contributes to enhancements of the A38 corridor into Bridgwater, therefore providing landscape mitigation and the potential for a beneficial regeneration overall.

3. Cultural Heritage Impacts on cultural heritage are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 4. Water Water impacts are issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and subsequent construction management processes. Any development will also need comply with relevant 0 0 0 0 0 0 planning policy. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. The SPD seeks to highlights that a Flood Risk Assessment will be required to support proposals at this site. 5. Soils and Geology Impacts on soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. 6. Waste and Both options will indirectly lead to the generation of waste because they both Resource - - ? ? ? ? support the development of new temporary transport infrastructure that will Management result in short term (construction) and medium term (removal) waste generation.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B Both approaches may reduce waste associated with removal by allowing for a Park & Ride or alternative legacy use of the site. 7. Climate and Both approaches support the provision of a park and ride facility that has Energy potential to help reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions. + + ? ? ? ? The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride.

8. Air Quality, Noise, Both approaches seek to limit disturbance impacts on residents and ecological Vibration and receptors through physical measures, such as the provision of screening, and Light Pollution management measures. Nevertheless, it is predicted that minor adverse - - - - ? ? disturbance effects could occur in the short and medium term. The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride. 9. Transport Both approaches support the provision of a park and ride facility that has potential to help reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact in terms of limiting congestion and related adverse + + ? ? ? ? effects. The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride. 10. Human Health It is considered that adverse disturbance impacts such as noise and light pollution could have a detrimental effect on health, due to loss of sleep. The - - - - ? ? appraisal above relating to Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution is also considered to apply here. 11. Culture, Leisure, Neither the promoter‟s approach described in the previous table nor the SPD Tourism and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A approach are considered likely to have an impact on these SA topics. Recreation 12. Social N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Infrastructure 13. Population and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Social Cohesion

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 14. Crime and Safety N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 15. Economy Both approaches support the provision of a park and ride facility that has potential to help reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact in terms of limiting congestion and related adverse + + ? ? ? ? effects on the economy. The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) A Park and Ride and freight facility is proposed at Dunball to serve the HPC main site during its construction phase. If a temporary Park & Ride and freight facility is pursued, the development would be expected to contribute towards the achievement of Bridgwater Vision objectives for the J23 „Gateway‟ location and incorporate a public Park & Share facility to help alleviate problems associated with parking around the M5 junction. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and the main site. However, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

B11.5 Approach to Park & Ride and Freight Logistics / Storage at Huntworth (M5 Junction 24)

Summary of the Options A. HPC Project Promoter Stage 2 Consultation Proposal The Stage 2 Sustainability Evaluation sets out objectives for the HPC project that include:  To make a positive contribution to local place-shaping, e.g. by taking forward development in line with regional and local priorities for regeneration.  Where possible, to create infrastructure that has a long-term sustainable legacy benefit for the local community.  Maximise safe and efficient movement of people and materials to and from the new power station site  Minimise disruption both for the local community and visitors to the area using the road network for business and leisure trips.  Protect the natural and built environment and ensure the image of the area is not adversely affected. At Stage 2, the HPC project promoter set out proposals for a Park & Ride and freight logistics facility on a greenfield site to south west of the A38 Dunball

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roundabout. This provided capacity for 684 car parking spaces, 14 spaces for minibuses, 16 bus parking spaces and cycle parking. The Park & Ride proposals also included a single storey welfare building and an office for security personnel. The freight logistics facility proposals comprised of a holding area for 45 HGVs and office and welfare accommodation. The legacy proposal for the site was to leave the vacant premises for occupation by another business/operation or to return the site to greenfield land. Subsequently the HPC project promoter consulted upon the provision of a Park & Ride and freight management facility at an alternative location, the „Somerfield‟ site located to the northeast of the Huntworth roundabout, which comprises and existing storage and distribution site. B. SPD Approach This approach seeks to ensure that, before proposals for Park & Ride and freight logistics facility at M5 Junction 24 are brought forward, the need for the facilities is demonstrated as part of a well evidenced and robust HPC project transport strategy and investment package. Following consultation, the SPD has been revised to express that, on balance, the Somerfield site is the preferred location for the Park & Ride and freight management facility as landscape and visual impacts would be reduced. Should the Park & Ride and/or freight management facility be brought forward, the criteria that should be applied include:  Development should contribute to achieving the Bridgwater Vision North Bridgwater Design and align with the emerging Bridgwater Gateway design principles.  A detailed flood risk management strategy would be expected that is PPS25 compliant.  An environmental enhancement corridor should be developed for M5 Junction 24 and the A38 corridor. In terms of legacy, should the greenfield site proposal be progressed, the approach advises that speculative retention of hardstandings and buildings would not be considered an acceptable proposal, but does present a potential option for Somerset County Council to trial a public Park & Ride at the site. Proposals for legacy uses related to the delivery of the low carbon cluster for permanent inward investment would be considered with regard to the local policy framework in place at that time and any other material considerations.

SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 1. Biodiversity and Impacts on biodiversity and ecology are all issues that are associated with large Ecology construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at the Somerfield site is predicted to limit effects for this topic area. 2. Landscape & Built Assuming the „Somerfield‟ site proposal is progressed, landscape and built Environment environment effects would be limited. The SPD approach seeks to ensure that 0 + 0 + 0 + transport measures associated with bringing this site forward would include improvements to the Junction 24 gateway to Bridgwater and A38 transport corridor, which could result in a beneficial effect.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B 3. Cultural Heritage Impacts on cultural heritage are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at the Somerfield site is predicted to limit effects for this topic area. 4. Water Water impacts are issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and subsequent construction management processes. Any development will also need comply with relevant 0 0 0 0 0 0 planning policy. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at the Somerfield site is predicted to limit effects for this topic area. 5. Soils and Geology Impacts on soils and geology are all issues that are associated with large construction projects. These impacts should be managed through the EIA and 0 0 0 0 0 0 subsequent construction management processes. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for construction. The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at the Somerfield site is predicted to limit effects for this topic area. 6. Waste and The preference for the Park & Ride site to be provided at the Somerfield site is Resource 0 0 0 0 0 0 predicted to limit effects for this topic area, as the extent of construction works is Management expected to be minimal. A neutral impact is therefore anticipated. 7. Climate and Both approaches support the provision of a park and ride facility that has Energy potential to help reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions. + + ? ? ? ? The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride.

8. Air Quality, Noise, Both approaches seek to limit disturbance impacts on residents and ecological Vibration and receptors through physical measures, such as the provision of screening, and Light Pollution management measures. Nevertheless, it is predicted that minor adverse - - - - ? ? disturbance effects could occur in the short and medium term. The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride.

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B

9. Transport Both approaches support the provision of a park and ride facility that has potential to help reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact in terms of limiting congestion and related adverse + + ? ? ? ? effects. The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride. 10. Human Health It is considered that adverse disturbance impacts such as noise and light pollution could have a detrimental effect on health, due to loss of sleep. The - - - - ? ? appraisal above relating to Air Quality, Noise, Vibration and Light Pollution is also considered to apply here. 11. Culture, Leisure, The approaches proposed by both options discourages development that will Tourism and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A environmental negatively affect access to cultural, leisure, tourism and Recreation recreational facilities, social infrastructure, population, social cohesion, crime and safety. As a result a neutral effect is predicted for both options 12. Social N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Infrastructure 13. Population and N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Social Cohesion 14. Crime and Safety N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 15. Economy Both approaches support the provision of a park and ride facility that has potential to help reduce the number of trips made by private car and as result will also have a positive impact in terms of limiting congestion and related adverse effects on the economy. + + ? ? ? ? The effects in the long term are less certain as both approaches potentially enable a legacy use of the site, including use as a public Park & Ride. Should the Somerfield site be progressed as part of the Development Consent Order application, it could be the preference of Sedgemoor DC that the site is returned to the historic employment use after the HPC construction phase. Summary of Assessment of the SPD Approach (preferred option) A Park and Ride and freight facility is proposed at M5 J24 to serve the HPC main site during its construction phase. If a temporary Park & Ride and freight facility is pursued, the development would be expected to contribute towards the achievement of Bridgwater Vision objectives for the J24 location and A38

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SA Topics Short term Medium term Long term Description and Summary of Impacts A B A B A B corridor. A preference is expressed in the SPD for the „Somerfield‟ site proposals to be advanced rather than the greenfield „Bridgwater Gateway‟ site. Should the latter come forward, Sedgemoor District Council would expect the proposals to align with the Bridgwater Gateway Design Principles, that include provision for green infrastructure and employment uses linked to the HPC supply chain. Mitigation for the SPD Approach if necessary This approach will help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increased traffic by ensuring the provision of public transport and the main site. However, it is thought that overall greenhouse gas emissions from transport at a regional/sub regional level will increase, especially during the construction phase, despite this approach.

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Appendix B Appraisal Criteria and Proposed indicators

Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… 1. To maintain and 1.1 protect sites of international and Change in area of biodiversity importance. Biodiversity enhance, biodiversity national importance? % of SSSI in “favourable condition” and ecology and ecology 1.2 help to conserve and enhance species Area of international, national or local designated site lost to diversity and in particular avoid harm development. to protected species? Achievement of Somerset and Sedgemoor 1.3 help to maintain and enhance sites Biodiversity Action Plan targets (Nat 6) designated for their nature conservation NI 197 Condition of Local and County Wildlife Sites interest (including sites of international importance)? 1.4 help to maintain and enhance the wildlife value of rural and urban environments (hedgerows and other wildlife corridors)? 1.5 contribute towards maintaining and enhancing green infrastructure, integrate biodiversity into new development and improve accessibility? 2.Landscape Maintain and 2.1 protect and /or enhance landscape Change to the following landscape character areas: and Built enhance the quality character, designated features of • Somerset Levels and Moors; Environment of landscape and the landscape quality, townscape, public • Mid Somerset Hills; built environment. realm and the built environment? • Mendip Hills; 2.2 help to make a positive contribution to • Quantock Hills; and townscape character and local distinctiveness/sense of place? • Vale of Taunton and Quantock Fringes. Development permitted outside the development boundaries 2.3 help to create places, spaces and defined on the proposals map. buildings that work well, wear well and look well? Area of land/building stock that is derelict.

48 Indicators based on the „Contextual Indicators Draft Monitoring Programme developed for the Sedgemoor Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Report http://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=6966&p=0

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… 2.4 encourage development which incorporates green infrastructure and helps to link isolated areas of openspace? 2.5 encourage development which integrates with and/or improves the key character urban edge settlements? 3.Cultural To maintain cultural 3.1 protect or help to enhance the fabric Total number of Listed Buildings Heritage heritage and and setting of designated Number of listed buildings demolished archaeological archaeological sites, monuments, Total number of archaeological sites on the Historic Environment resources for the structures and buildings, recorded Record (HER) benefit of current and Historic Parks and gardens, maritime future generations. and coastal heritage, listed buildings Total number of scheduled monuments Number of planning and conservation areas? Applications with conditions relating to the Historic Environment Proportion of planning applications where archaeological advice 3.2 protect or help to enhance the fabric accepted and followed. and setting of undesignated Number and area of historic parks and gardens archaeological sites, monuments, structures and buildings? Loss or damage to historic parks and gardens and their settings (Nat 3) Loss or damage to Battlefield sites Number and area of conservation area Number and area of conservation area redevelopment schemes. Number of Listed Buildings, Monuments, Parks and Gardens and Battlefields on the Heritage at Risk Register 4.Water To avoid increasing 4.1 avoid increasing the risk of river and Numbers of properties affected by fluvial flood events in the last the risk of flooding coastal flooding to people, property year to existing and new and infrastructure? Numbers of properties affected by coastal flood events in the last developments, year protect water quality 4.2 avoid increasing the risk of surface Number of properties benefiting from flood defences and water resources. water flooding to people, property and infrastructure? Condition of flood defences 4.3 avoid adverse impacts on surface water Number of properties in the flood plain quality (including coastal and marine

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… water quality) and assist achievement Extent of coastline subject to managed realignment where required. of Water Framework Directive Bathing water quality objectives? River water quality (chemical, physical and ecological status of 4.4 avoid adverse impacts on the supply of water bodies) water resources? Ground water quality

5.Soils and To protect and 5.1 minimise or avoid the loss of best and Total additional employment floorspace on Previously Developed geology enhance the quality most versatile agricultural land? Land by type of land and soil. 5.2 avoid causing soil erosion and help to new and converted dwellings on protect soils? Previously Developed Land 5.3 reduce areas of contaminated land or Planning conditions requiring remedial action for contaminated avoid contaminating land? soils. Loss of best and most versatile agricultural 5.4 encourage development that utilises previously developed land instead of land to development greenfield sites?

6.Waste and To reduce waste 6.1 encourage development to re-use or Tonnage of household waste collected and proportion that is Resource generation, manage refurbish existing buildings and sites? recycled / composted. Management waste sustainably 6.2 lead to developments that proactively Tonnage of hazardous waste produced and proportion that is and use natural recycled / reused. resources more reduces the volume of waste generated Tonnage of construction and demolition waste produced and efficiently. during construction? proportion that is recycled / reused (EA / SDC). 6.3 lead to developments that proactively reduce the volume of waste generated during operation?

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… 6.4 increase the use of materials that contain recycled content and the use of alternatives to primary resources (e.g. using demolition material instead of virgin aggregates)? 6.5 make it easier for people using new or existing developments to recycle and segregate their waste? 6.6 lead to the safe management of radioactive waste? 7.Climate Reduce greenhouse 7.1 contribute towards reducing emissions Permitted installed renewable energy generation capacity MW and Energy gas emissions and of greenhouse gases within the two Completed installed renewable energy generation MW improve adaptation authorites' areas by reducing energy CO2 emissions per capita (tCO2) for unavoidable consumption, and reducing the amount climate change. of private car use? Total final energy consumption/ Capita (kWh) 7.2 contribute towards reducing the emissions associated with the Total domestic energy consumption/ household (kWh) consumption of goods and services in Total Industrial and commercial gas consumption /meter the two authorities' areas? point(kWh) 7.3 promote measures that reduce energy Number of properties achieving “very good” and “excellent” demand in the first instance before BREEAM levels alternative power sources (e.g. Number of dwellings achieving Code for Sustainable Homes Level renewables) are considered? 3 and above 7.4 require new development to be better adapted to the effects of climate change? 7.5 promote the adaptation of existing communities? 8.Air Quality To minimise 8.1 avoid air quality, noise, vibration and Monitoring results from noise, light and/or vibration management Noise, vibration, noise and light pollution impacts on sensitive plans for HPC and associated developments. Vibration and light pollution. areas, groups of people or individuals Annual Mean concentrations of all regulated air pollutants (i.e. Light (e.g. Air Quality Management Areas,

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… Pollution. schools, residential properties and benzene, 1.3 butadiene, carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, health care facilities)? particles (pm10), sulphur dioxide) 8.2 help to reduce the severity of any existing air quality, noise, vibration or light pollution issues?

9.Transport Help people and 9.1 help to reduce the need/desire to travel Percentage of new residential development within 30 minutes business move away by car? public transport travelling time of: from private car and 9.2 facilitate the use of alternatives to road • GP,Hospital, Primary school, • Secondary school, • Areas of road haulage to more employment,• Major retail centre sustainable modes of for the haulage of goods and materials? Census information for modes of transport to work, school, other transport. 9.3 increase the volume of traffic on the activities Percentage of children travelling to a) primary school and existing road network? b) secondary school by different modes of transport 10.Human To improve the 10.1 help people to adopt healthier lifestyles Percentage of new residential development Health health and well being (e.g. integrate exercise in their daily within 30 minutes public transport travelling of the population and lives)? time of: GP, Hospital improve access to health services for 10.2 increase the accessibility of health care all. services for all? 10.3 avoid creating new health impacts 11. Culture, Increase access to 11.1 create new and widely accessible Number of cultural, sporting, leisure, tourism facilities leisure, and participation in cultural, leisure and recreational Location of cultural, sporting, leisure, tourism facilities tourism and cultural, leisure and facilities? Number of new cultural, sporting, leisure, tourism facilities with a recreation recreational sustainable travel plan activities. 11.2 improve the accessibility for all to existing cultural, leisure and recreational facilities? 11.3 improve the perception of the area to potential visitors? 11.4 promote sustainable tourism in the area?

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… 11.5 improve the condition and accessibility of the PRoW network 12.Social Ensure equitable 12.1 improve access to services and Percentage of new residential development within 30 minutes infrastructure access to viable facilities (including educational public transport travelling time of: • GP, Hospital, • Primary school, facilities and services facilities, local authority and national • Secondary school, Areas of employment, Major retail centre. for all sectors of the Government services)? community including those in rural areas. 13.Population To develop and 13.1 develop and maintain a balanced and Indices of multiple deprivation (all domains – LSOA) and social maintain a balanced sustainable population structure? Working age people on out of work benefits inclusion. and sustainable 13.2 contribute towards the need for in a) West Somerset and b) Sedgemoor population structure with good access to affordable housing, particularly in the NI 166 – Average earnings of employees services, facilities areas where the need is greatest? and homes for all 13.3 improve access to services and sectors of the facilities (see 12.1,10.2). society. 14.Crime and Reduce anti social 14.1 help to reduce the risk or perceived risk Percentage of people who agree that the police and other local Safety behaviour and fear of of crime in existing communities? public services are successfully dealing with anti-social behaviour crime and crime in their local area 14.2 help to reduce the risk or perceived risk of crime in new developments? Indices of multiple deprivation crime domain score Level of crime Percentage of residents surveyed who feel “fairly safe” or “very safe” during the day whilst outside in their local authority area. 15.Economy Improve sustainable 15.1 help to create opportunities for new H6 – Housing Quality – Building for Life Assessments economic activity employment sites? BFL score 16+ very good and support job BFL score 14 or 15 good creation - 15.2 help to diversify the range of particularly in areas businesses and employers? BFL score 10 to 13 average of focus for 15.3 create new employment sites that can BFL score under 10 poor regeneration. easily be accessed by all? 15.4 increase or maintain the diversity of Percentage of new residential development uses in town, local and rural centres?

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final version October 2011

SA Topic SA Objective Sustainability Appraisal Questions. Proposed indicators48 Will the option or approach… 15.5 help to create a sustainable housing within 30 minutes public transport travelling market that meets the expectations of time of: all in terms of housing type, tenure, • GP size and location? • Hospital • Primary school • Secondary school • Areas of employment • Major retail centre

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Sedgemoor District Council & West Somerset Council Hinkley Point C Project Hinkley Point C Project SPD - Sustainability Appraisal Report Final Version October 2011