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turbines of 131-150 m, and as was agreed with SNH. The location of the Study Area is shown 4. Landscape and Visual Assessment on Figure 4.1. Introduction 4.8 A zone of theoretical visibility (ZTV) map was generated, illustrating areas from where the proposed wind turbines may be visible in the Study Area. The ZTV was based on bare earth 4.1 This chapter considers the potential effects of the Proposal on: topography and therefore does not take account of potential screening by vegetation or buildings. The ZTV is used as tool for understanding where significant visual effects may Landscape as a resource in its own right (caused by changes to the constituent elements • occur. Receptors which are outside the ZTV would not be affected by the turbines of the of the landscape, its specific aesthetic or perceptual qualities and the character of the Proposal and are not considered further in this landscape and visual impact assessment landscape); and (LVIA). The ZTV to tip height (149.9 m) is shown on Figure 4.1, and the ZTV to hub height • Views and visual amenity as experienced by people (caused by changes in the (100 m) is shown on Figure 4.2. appearance of the landscape). Effects Assessed 4.2 Landscape and visual assessments are therefore distinct, but interconnected, processes. This chapter describes landscape and visual effects separately. Within each section, the 4.9 The following effects have been assessed in accordance with the principles contained within cumulative effects of the Proposal in the context of other proposed and consented wind the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 3rd Edition1 (hereafter referred farms in the area are also considered, as potential future cumulative effects. The to as GLVIA3) : cumulative effects with existing wind farms are taken into account within the main • Effects on the physical landscape of the Site; assessments, as they form part of the baseline. • Effects on the perceived landscape character of Landscape Character Types (LCT) within 4.3 The assessment has been undertaken, and this chapter has been prepared, by chartered the Study Area; landscape architects at LUC. • Effects on the reasons for designation as described by key characteristics/special 4.4 This chapter should be read in conjunction with the following chapters: qualities of the designated landscapes within the Study Area, as well as the overall Integrity of designated areas, as required by SPP; • Chapter 2: Proposed Development; • Effects on receptors at representative viewpoints; • Chapter 3: Design Evolution and Alternatives; • Effects on receptors at settlements and routes in the Study Area; and • Chapter 6: Cultural Heritage; and Cumulative effects in the context of other existing, consented and proposed wind farm Chapter 7: Ecology. • • and wind turbine developments. 4.5 Figures 4.1 to 4.34 are referenced in the text where relevant, as presented in Volume 3 4.10 The key objective of the assessment is to identify and assess the likely significant landscape (Figures 4.1- 4.10) and Volume 4 (Figures 4.11 – 4.34) of this ES. and visual effects of the Proposal, as seen by people in the surrounding area. 4.6 This chapter is supported by: Effects Scoped Out • Technical Appendix 4.1 Data Sources and Visualisation Methodology; 4.11 On the basis of the desk based and survey work undertaken, the professional judgement of • Technical Appendix 4.2 Assessment Methodology; the LVIA team, experience from other relevant projects and policy guidance or standards, • Technical Appendix 4.3: Wild Land Assessment; and the following topic areas have been scoped out: • Technical Appendix 3.1: Braids. • Effects on landscape receptors beyond 40 km from the Proposal, where it is judged that Scope of Assessment potential significant effects are unlikely to occur;
Study Area 1 Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 3rd Edition, Routledge. 4.7 The Study Area for the assessment is defined as 40 km from the outermost turbines of the Proposal in all directions. This is as recommended in current good practice guidance for
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• Effects on landscape and visual receptors that have minimal or no theoretical visibility • Policy SG LDP ENV 12 – Development Impact on National Scenic Areas; (as predicted by the ZTV) and/or very distant visibility, and are therefore unlikely to be • Policy SG LDP ENV 13 – Development Impact on Areas of Panoramic Quality; and subject to significant effects; • Policy SG LDP ENV 14 – Landscape. Effects on residential visual amenity, since the nearest inhabitable properties within the • 4.16 These polices have primarily been defined to safeguard areas of high landscape value and ZTV are located at a distance of 2.1 km from the nearest turbine2; and scenic quality. Where there are designated landscapes within the Study Area and which Cumulative effects in relation to turbines under 50 m to tip height, and single turbines • have theoretical visibility of the development, the effects of the Proposal upon the reasons beyond 5 km from the Proposal (except where otherwise stated). for designation (i.e. the overall integrity of the designated area) have been considered in this assessment. Assessment Structure 4.17 Policy LDP 6 – Supporting the Sustainable Growth of Renewables is also of relevance in 4.12 The remainder of the chapter is structured as follows: indicating the key landscape visual criteria against which all wind turbine developments would be assessed. Of relevance to this chapter, these include: • Legislation, Planning Policy & Guidelines; • Assessment Methodology; • Landscape and visual impacts, including effects on wild land; • Wind Farm Layout Design Considerations; • Impacts on communities and individual dwellings, including visual impact and residential amenity; and • Baseline Conditions; Cumulative impacts.3 • Potential Effects; • • Landscape Assessment: Operational Effects (including cumulative); ABC Supplementary Guidance 2 • Visual Assessment: Operational Effects (including cumulative); 4.18 Supplementary Guidance on Renewable Energy is provided within the Supplementary Mitigation; • Guidance 2 document, approved by ABC in June 2016. It expands upon the criteria outlined • Cumulative Analysis; and in Policy LDP 6 and sets out a Spatial Framework, as required by SPP. • Summary. 4.19 The Spatial Framework shows that part of the Site (moorland in the east) is classified as an Legislation, Planning Policy & Guidelines area of significant protection (Group 2). This is an area of Class 1 carbon rich soil, deep peat and priority peatland habitats. To the west of the forest, part of the Site (part of the 4.13 This section outlines the legislation and policy context for landscape and visual impact existing forest track) is classified as an area of significant protection (Group 2), reflecting a assessment. Legislation and policy is outlined in Chapter 1: Introduction and discussed in 2 km community separation buffer around Killean and Tayinloan. The forested area is more detail within the supporting planning statement. defined as an area with potential for wind farm development (Group 3). The turbines and infrastructure are therefore located within areas defined as Group 2 (deep peat) and Group International Legislation and Policy 3 (forested area), while part of the access track is located within the 2 km community 4.14 The European Landscape Convention highlights the importance of all landscapes and separation buffer (also Group 2). Group 2 areas within the boundary are therefore not encourages greater attention to care and planning in all landscapes, to manage change and defined as such due to the presence of nationally designated landscapes or mapped Wild ensure a forward-looking approach to management. The convention also states that all Land Areas. Paragraph 4.7 of the SG notes that Group 3 areas are areas “where SPP2014 landscapes have value, regardless of formal designations. states wind farms are likely to be acceptable, subject to detailed consideration against identified policy criteria,” and notes that this includes local landscape designations (APQ). Local Development Plan 4.20 With regards to the Argyll and Bute Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study (discussed 4.15 The Argyll and Bute Local Development Plan (adopted March 2015) forms the current below) the Supplementary Guidance makes it clear that the study “does not form part of development framework. Key landscape policies from the Local Development Plan include: the spatial framework for wind farms”, but “should be taken into account when formulating and assessing development proposals” (paragraph 4.11). Furthermore it is noted that paragraph 4.14 refers to a Cumulative Impact Study for the Loch Awe and Kintyre 2 A Residential Visual Amenity Study has been undertaken for the proposed property at Braids, currently part of a planning application and not an inhabitable property as it stands. This is included in Technical Appendix 3.1. 3 Argyll and Bute Council (March 2015). Local Development Plan Written Statement, page 39.
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Areas. This document is discussed within the Planning Statement which accompanies this ES • Extensions to operational wind farms may extend or exacerbate visual intrusion on and explains the reasons that no further consideration has been given to the Cumulative sensitive skylines above the ‘Hidden Glens’ (3) or within the narrow settled Barr Glen Impact Study within the LVIA. and Glen Lussa within this character type. Capacity Study • Cumulative effects associated with any additional wind farm development into the Mull of Kintyre Upland Forest Moor Mosaic character type (6c) in terms of views from the 4 4.21 The Argyll and Bute Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study (2012) is a Technical Note west coast of Arran which take in the full length of the peninsula. (hereafter referred to as the ‘LWECS’), and does not form part of the Supplementary • The pattern of wind farm developments seen along the spine of the Kintyre peninsula Guidance. The study sets out a sensitivity assessment for each of the Landscape Character from Arran - whether repeated clusters of separate wind farms along the length of the Types (LCTs) in Argyll and Bute, and focuses on landscape and visual issues associated with spine or a strategy of consolidating the existing foci for development may limit wider strategic planning. The study notes that considerable variation can occur across the cumulative effects.” LCTs, and that combined sensitivity scores represent an average across each LCT5. It examines a range of typologies up to a maximum height of 130 m. The Capacity Study also Consultation notes that “The assessment identifies constraints in analysis and at a strategic scale and developers would need to demonstrate how they have dealt with potential effects on the 4.24 Consultation was carried out regarding the selection of viewpoints, methodology and constraints identified in the sensitivity assessment at a more detailed level.6” cumulative developments for the LVIA, in addition to the scoping consultation. Consultees 4.22 The Proposal would be located within the Upland Forest Moor Mosaic LCT, which extends included SNH and ABC. A meeting to discuss the design of the Proposal was held with ABC, across much of Kintyre and Knapdale (Figure 4.3). The overall sensitivity of the LCT is found SNH and WKCC in March 2016. by the LWECS to be medium, based on high-medium visual sensitivity and low sensitivity in 4.25 Chapter 3: Design Evolution and Alternatives provides further details of consultation, and relation to landscape values (Part 3, pages 39-40 of the Capacity Study). With regards to where in the ES consultation comments have been addressed. overall capacity, the study finds that “There is some scope to accommodate further larger scale typologies [80-130m] in this character type” (Part 3, page 42 of the Capacity Study). Assessment Methodology 7 4.23 Key cumulative landscape and visual issues listed in the guidance for the Upland Forest 4.26 The LVIA methodology was prepared in accordance with the principles contained within Moor Mosaic LCT are set out below: GLVIA3, and is described in detail in Technical Appendix 2.2 Assessment Methodology. • “Larger turbines and/or more extensive wind farm developments sited on the edge hills Technical Appendix 2.2 should be referred to whilst reviewing the findings of this and slopes of the Kintyre uplands where they would be likely to increase landscape and assessment in order to gain a clear understanding of how findings of significance have been visual impacts on the settled coastal edge of Kintyre and on views from Arran and Gigha informed. and would also undermine the established pattern of wind farm developments Overview associated with the interior of these uplands. • Potential effects on views from the A83 Tourist Route where operational and any further 4.27 The key steps in the methodology for assessing both landscape and visual effects were as wind farm developments in both Kintyre and Knapdale could potentially be visible in the follows: more open Kennacraig to Clachan area and sequentially in views between Lochgilphead • A Study Area of 40 km was defined based on good practice guidance; and Inverneill. • The landscape of the Study Area was analysed and landscape receptors identified; The area in which the Proposal may be visible was established through creation of a • 4 Anderson and Grant (2012). Argyll and Bute Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study. SNH and Argyll zone of theoretical visibility (ZTV); and Bute Council • The visual baseline was recorded in terms of the different groups of people who may 5 As above, paragraph 8.13, page 165. experience views of the Proposal (visual receptors), the places where they would be 6 As above, paragraph 8.13, page 165. affected and the nature of views and visual amenity; 7 Anderson and Grant (2012). Argyll and Bute Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study. SNH and Argyll and Bute Council, Part 3, page 41.
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• Viewpoints were selected (including representative viewpoints, specific viewpoints and 4.33 Operational wind farms and those under construction are included as part of the baseline illustrative viewpoints), based on responses in the scoping opinion, and subsequent and considered as part of the primary assessment. These are listed in Table 4.7. consultation with ABC, SNH and Community Councils; Potentially significant effects on landscape and visual receptors were identified; and • Table 4.7: Operational Wind Farms and Wind Farms Under Construction (within Study Area) • The significance of landscape and visual effects was judged with reference to the sensitivity of the resource/receptor (its susceptibility and value) and the magnitude of Wind Farm Status No. of turbines Blade tip height (m) Distance (km)8 change (a combination of the scale of effect, geographical extent and Deucheran Hill Operational 9 93 2.2 duration/reversibility). Under Cour 10 110 5.9 4.28 Technical Appendix 2.2 Assessment Methodology provides full details of the criteria construction considered in judging the various aspects of sensitivity and magnitude of change Beinn An Tuirc Operational 46 62.5 7.4 (susceptibility, value, scale of effects, geographical extent and duration/reversibility), and Gigha Operational 3 43.5 8.6 the grades used to describe each. It explains how these judgements are combined to inform Gigha Extension Operational 1 54 8.7 findings and grades of significant effects. Beinn An Tuirc Extension Operational 19 100 9.2 Tangy Operational 15 75 15.9 4.29 Levels of effect are identified as ‘negligible’, ‘minor’, ‘moderate’ or ‘major’ where Tangy Extension Operational 7 75 16 moderate and above effects are considered significant in the context of The Electricity Freasdail Under 11 16.3 Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (as amended). 100 construction 4.30 The methodology for production of the visualisations is provided in Technical Appendix 4.1: Allt Dearg Operational 12 81 32.3 Data Sources and Visualisation Methodology. Srondoire Operational 3 110 32.7 Identification of Schemes to be included in the CLVIA 4.34 Consented wind farms, wind farms in-planning, or at appeal, considered as part of the assessment of potential future cumulative effects, are set out in Table 4.8a and b below. 4.31 In line with SNH guidance, the assessment of cumulative landscape and visual effects Table 4.8a: Consented Wind Farms and Wind Farms in Planning, or Appeal (within Study Area) initially considers wind farms and wind farm proposals within a 60 km radius search area 9 from the wind farm site, to identify the distribution of wind energy development in the Wind Farm Status No. of turbines Blade tip height (m) Distance (km) Clachaig Glen wider area. It was not considered appropriate to include cumulative schemes beyond the In planning 14 126.5 1.8 40 km Study Area in this instance, because of the very limited relationship the Proposal Creggan would have with schemes over such a distance, due to its position on the peninsula and In planning 18 110 5.1 Blary Hill degree of separation provided by topography and seascape. The assessment of effects Appeal 14 110 7.1 focuses on developments that are likely to give rise to significant cumulative effects, and therefore concentrates on a more localised set of operational, consented and proposed Auchadaduie Consented 3 100 8.1 developments within 40 km. Single turbines in the area were given consideration where it Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 In planning 19 126 12 was judged that cumulative effects had the potential to be significant, due to proximity and Eascairt In planning 13 100 14 inter-visibility. Proposals that have not progressed beyond scoping stage are considered Tangy Repowering Consented 16 (repowering) 125 15.2 briefly to provide an overall context to this assessment, but as the final form and layout of such schemes (if any) cannot be stated with any certainty, the findings included here are on Table 4.8b: Scoping Wind Farms (within Study Area) a for information only basis. The focus of the assessment of scoping stage schemes has been Wind Farm Status No. of turbines Blade tip height (m) Distance (km)10 on Willow Wind Farm and Ronachan Wind Farm, as the two closest developments mostly Willow Scoping 13 130 2.2 likely to interact with the Proposal. As scoping layouts were available for these two Ronachan Scoping 14 150 7.9 developments, they have been included within cumulative wireframes to illustrate potential
effects. 8 Distance between the turbines of the development and the turbines of the other wind farm (closest). 4.32 Cumulative wind farms within an initial 60 km radius search area are shown in Figure 4.7. 9 Distance between the turbines of the development and the turbines of the other wind farm (closest). Those considered within the assessment are shown on Figure 4.8. 10 Distance between the turbines of the development and the turbines of the other wind farm (closest). Volume 2: Environmental Statement Killean Wind Farm 4 - 4 Chapter 4: LVIA
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Carse Scoping 17 150 20.4 of 149.9 m to blade tip for all turbines. It was considered that there would be little Cnoc an Fhionn Scoping 13 110 20.6 difference in the predicted landscape and visual effects between turbines of this size and Cruach Chaorainn Scoping 28 126.5 27 turbines of 130 m to tip, and that there would be noticeable benefit in removing some of the most westerly located turbines by maximising the distance between the Proposal and the west coast of Kintyre. The scale of the Proposal is considered to be appropriate to the Wind Farm Layout Design Considerations scale of the Site, which is a large-scale upland area of forest and moorland. 4.39 The relationship with existing Deucheran Hill Wind Farm located to the east (at a distance 4.35 Chapter 3: Design Evolution, Considerations and Alternatives provides a full description of of 2.2 km between the nearest turbines of each development) was given consideration. It the site selection process, overall design strategies, various identified design constraints, was established that the two wind farms would, in views from the west, often be seen and decisions taken in arriving at a final design and infrastructure of the Proposal. together as part of the same cluster. As it stands, the scale of the turbines from each 4.36 Following the baseline study and initial field surveys in preparation for the LVIA, potential development would be noticeably different (Deucheran Hill with turbines of 93 m to tip). sources of landscape and visual effects were assessed, in an iterative process in which the However it is noted that Deucheran Hill is around 15 years old, and is likely to either be design was considered and reconsidered as it developed, against a more detailed set of decommissioned in a period of around 10 years, or else repowered, most likely with turbines objectives, in order to prevent, reduce and where possible offset potential effects. These of a larger scale (for example following the pattern of Tangy, where 75 m high turbines are objectives included: consented to be replaced by turbines of 125 m to tip in a similar location). Additionally, it is considered that the ability to adapt the existing access road to Deucheran Hill to construct • to design a layout which is clearly associated within the central ridge / interior of the the Proposal, will be of benefit in reducing direct effects on the landscape resource of the Kintyre peninsula and to ensure a coherent relationship with established patterns of Site. wind energy development in this area; • to maximise use of the small hills which form the backdrop to the west coast of Kintyre, Baseline Conditions as an opportunity for topographical screening of the turbines, particularly in local views; • to ensure turbines are located as far east in the site as possible, including by Landscape Baseline consideration of using taller turbines throughout in order to reduce turbine numbers; 4.40 This section presents an overview of the landscape baseline including current landscape to minimise visibility of the Proposal from the A83; • character (including constituent landscape elements), current landscape condition and any • to create a balanced and consistent layout in views from the Isle of Gigha, avoiding the designations attached to the landscape. overlapping of turbines as far as possible; The Site • to avoid visibility of the turbines from the East Kintyre coastline between Skipness Point and Tarbert; 4.41 The Site context is described in Chapter 3: Design Evolution and Alternatives and detailed • to avoid visibility from sensitive locations highlighted by consultees including from information on the Proposal is provided in Chapter 2: Proposed Development and shown in A’Chleit, Killean Estate and the Doll’s Houses, Beachmore, and Bellochantuy Picnic Figure 2.1. The Proposal turbines are set back from the coast by between 3-5 km. The Area. western part of the Site comprises a line of small rounded hills, the tops of which are located at around 240-250 m AOD, and which provide some separation between the 4.37 Landscape and visual considerations, including the appearance of the Proposal from key coastline and the part of the Site in which the turbines are located. viewpoint locations, played a major role in the progression of the layout design. Best practice guidance, including Siting and Designing Wind Farms in the Landscape11 was 4.42 Within 5 km to the north and northwest of the Proposal, the predominant land cover is one considered throughout the design process. of open elevated moorland and rough grazing rolling down to the coast, with some areas of coniferous forest. At a lower elevation, adjacent to the coastal edge, land cover is largely 4.38 Consideration of potential landscape and visual effects was a key consideration in reducing agricultural with woodland and shelter belts. The A83 is located approximately 1.2 km west the number of turbines in the Proposal, and informed the decision to adopt a turbine height of the Site; this is the major road on the Kintyre peninsula and connects Tarbert on the western shore of Loch Fyne with Campbeltown in the southeast. Well-spaced properties are 11 Scottish Natural Heritage (2014) Siting and Designing Wind Farms in the Landscape, Version 2.
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located along this main road, which also provides access to Point Sands Holiday Park, south to the south of the Proposal, and Carradale on the east coast of Kintyre. At over 10 km, of Rhunahaorine Point. settlements include Skipness and Clachan to the north, and to the south Saddell, Peninver, Machrihanish and Drumlemble. To the east there are a number of villages on the eastern 4.43 To the northeast, the Site is bounded by a large plantation of Sitka spruce, extending coast of Arran, including Lochranza, Pirnmill, and Blackwaterfoot. around and past Narachan Hill (285 m AOD) to Loch Garasdale. 4.50 An existing overhead power line runs from Lochgilphead in the north (just outside the Study 4.44 To the east the forest cover continues to the coastal edge past Deucheran Hill (330 m AOD), Area) to the west of Carradale in the south. A number of overhead wood pole power lines where the wind farm of the same name has been operational since 2001 (nine turbines, cross the local landscape and telecommunication masts are located on a number of hill tops 93 m in height to tip). A narrow linear area of agricultural land is found in Glen Carradale in close proximity to towns and villages. There are several existing large scale wind farms to the southeast. The B842 road, located 6 km to the east, runs the length of the east near to the Proposal. The closest wind farms include Deucheran Hill, 2.2 km to the east, Kintyre coast. A 275kV overhead power line runs north to south, generally parallel to this Beinn An Tuirc, 7.4 km to the south, and Tangy, 15.9 km to the south, the latter two road. including respective extensions (distance from between the turbines of each scheme). 4.45 To the south, coniferous forest extends along the westerly flowing Barr Water. At higher Smaller scale developments include the four turbines on the Isle of Gigha, 8.6 km to the ground open areas of moorland punctuate forest plantation around Cruach nan Gabhar west. Other elements of infrastructure such as main roads and minor roads, generally follow (354 m), and the elevated ridge which includes Cruach Mhic an t-Saoir (364 m), between close to the coastal edge east and west. Refer to Table 4.7 for further detail of wind farms Loch na Naich in the northeast and Loch Mor in the southwest. Beyond 5 km, the existing in the area. Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm and extension (65 turbines) are situated in an area of open moorland at a distance of approximately 8.6 km. Landscape Character
4.46 To the west of the Site boundary, landform undulates down to a narrow, almost flat, coastal 4.51 The Proposal lies within the area covered by the Landscape Assessment of Argyll and the 12 plain of agricultural land with settlement and patches of mixed woodland and shelter belts, Firth of Clyde (1996) , which divides the region of into 25 landscape character types (LCTs), bounded to the east by the A83 and to the west by the Kintyre coastline. The closest including sub-types. The Site lies within AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic. The landscapes settlement comprises buildings of Killean Estate, including the A-listed buildings of Killean of Arran and the east of the wider Study Area (which includes parts of the Isle of Bute and 13 House, the "Dolls Houses", and converted holiday accommodation. North of Killean the Cowal Peninsula) are described within the Ayrshire Landscape Assessment (1998) . Figure small village of Tayinloan provides ferry access to Ardminish on the Isle of Gigha. Off the 4.3 illustrates the distribution of LCTs across the Study Area. coast to the west and northwest are the low lying Isle of Gigha and smaller Cara Island, 4.52 Some revisions were made to LCTs and their classification in recent landscape capacity approximately 7.2 km from the Proposal. studies. Updates to the Landscape Assessment of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde are found in The Study Area the Argyll and Bute Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study (LWECS). Updates to the Ayrshire landscape character assessment are found in the North Ayrshire Supplementary 4.47 The Study Area, shown in Figure 4.1, extends to a 40 km radius from the outermost turbines Landscape Wind Capacity Study (SLWCS). These are referred to in the assessment of of the Proposal in all directions. The majority of the Study Area is within the Argyll and effects. Bute Council (ABC) area, the Isle of Arran to the east falls within the North Ayrshire Council 4.53 The LCTs of the Study Area can be broadly separated into coastal and upland areas. The (NAC) area. predominant LCT within the Study Area is AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic, which covers 4.48 Forest and woodland is a prominent feature of the higher ground extending to the north, much of the Kintyre peninsula and Knapdale. This is an upland plateau landscape east and south, largely comprising coniferous plantations with occasional areas of ancient comprising rounded ridgelines and craggy outcrops, interspersed by narrow winding glens, woodland (an area of ancient woodland fringes the site boundary to the northwest). On low river valleys and upland lochs. Built development and settlement is very limited in this slopes and flatter ground towards the coast, there is a predominance of agricultural land, landscape, and land use is predominately rough grazing, moorland and forestry. The mainly pasture, interspersed by some localised areas of moorland and woodland. landform of the Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic is large in scale, often having an irregular 4.49 The Study Area is relatively sparsely populated, the largest settlements being Campbeltown profile. approximately 22 km to the south of the Proposal, and Tarbert approximately 27 km to the north. In addition there are a number of small villages, individual farmsteads and hamlets. 12 Environmental Resources Management, 1196. Landscape Assessment of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde. The closest settlements to the Proposal are Killean Estate and the small village of Tayinloan. Scottish Natural Heritage Review No. 78. 13 Beyond 5 km away are the villages of Ardminish on the Isle of Gigha, Muasdale and Glenbarr Land Use Consultants, 1998. Ayrshire Landscape Assessment. Scottish Natural Heritage Review No. 111.
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4.54 The LCTs within 40 km of the Proposal are listed in Table 4.9 below. Figure 4.4 illustrates LCT Theoretical visibility of the Proposal the position of the LCTs in relation to the ZTV. The theoretical visibility of the Proposal AGC25: Sand Dunes and Machair None, not considered further. (ZTV coverage) is `described in the table, and is used as a means of identifying which LCTs Ayrshire landscape character assessment require further assessment, and which can be scoped out because they are unlikely to be AYS1: Raised Beach Coast Theoretical visibility within 10 km to 15 km, considered in assessment. affected by the Proposal. AYS3: Coastal Fringe with Agriculture Limited theoretical visibility within 20 km to 25 km. Not considered further. 4.55 It is the case that significant effects on landscape character would only occur in areas which AYS4: Coastal Headland Limited theoretical visibility within 20 km to 25 km. Not considered further. have a strong landscape or visual relationship with the landscape of the application site. In AYS6: Coastal Lowland Moor Limited theoretical visibility within 15 km to 20 km. Not considered further. practice, significant effects are unlikely to occur beyond around 15 km. Nevertheless, each AYS22: Rugged Moorland Hills Regular theoretical visibility across a small area over 20 km away, becoming Valleys with Forestry increasingly intermittent beyond 25 km. Not considered further. LCT within the 40 km Study Area has been considered in relation to the Site and Proposal, AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands Some theoretical visibility available on higher land to the north-west within 12 and the extent of theoretical visibility indicated by the ZTV. km to 20 km. Considered in assessment. Table 4.10: Landscape Character Types AYS27: Rocky Volcanic Islands No theoretical visibility. Not considered further. Designated Landscapes LCT Theoretical visibility of the Proposal 4.56 The landscapes within the Study Area which are designated for their scenic or landscape Landscape assessment of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde value are listed below and shown on Figure 4.5 overlaid onto the ZTV. Part of the Site is AGC2: High Tops Some theoretical visibility from the Paps of Jura at distances of over 30 km. Not considered further. located within an Area of Panoramic Quality (APQ), designated by ABC as an area of local AGC3: Hidden Glens Theoretical visibility from the small Skipness area at over 20 km. Although importance in terms of its landscape quality. The proposed turbines and associated relatively distant, included based on concerns raised by consultees (see Chapter infrastructure are not located within any designated landscapes, however a proposed 3 Design Evolution and Alternatives). Considered in assessment. Other areas of overrun and turning area at the site entrance is located on the inland edge of the APQ. the Hidden Glens LCT will not be affected. AGC5: Open Ridgeland Intermittent visibility at over 35 km from the Isle of Bute. Not considered further. 4.57 There are four National Scenic Areas (NSAs) within, or partly within, the Study Area: North AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic The Proposal is within this LCT. Away from the coastal edge this LCT covers Arran; Jura; Knapdale; and Kyles of Bute. The special qualities of NSAs are described in the much of the central mass of Kintyre. Extensive theoretical visibility within 5 km SNH report ‘The Special Qualities of the National Scenic Areas’14. to 10 km becoming increasingly intermittent to the north with very limited to occasional visibility to the south. Considered in assessment. 4.58 Areas designated at a local level for their landscape quality within the Study Area include AGC7: Craggy Upland None, or intermittent visibility at distances of over 35 km to the northeast. Not APQ in Argyll and Bute, and Sensitive Landscape Areas (SLA) in North Ayrshire. considered further. AGC8: Moorland Plateau Visibility mainly indicated from east-facing slopes in Islay and Jura, at distances 4.59 There are a number of Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDL) within the Study Area, some of over 25 km. Not considered further. of which are open to members of the public. These are considered in detail within AGC10: Upland Parallel Ridges None, not considered further. Chapter 6 Cultural Heritage. The only GDL within 25 km, Achamore House, situated on the AGC13: Rolling Farmland with Limited theoretical visibility at a distance of over 35 km. Not considered further. Isle of Gigha, is not considered further within the assessment of effects on visual amenity Estates because of screening from surrounding woodland which would greatly limit views towards AGC14: Bay Farmland Limited theoretical visibility on the eastern fringe of this LCT. Not considered further. the Proposal. AGC15: Lowland Bog and Moor None, not considered further. 4.60 The designated landscapes within the Study Area are listed in Table 4.10. The theoretical AGC16: Marginal Farmland Mosaic Intermittent theoretical visibility at over 35 km. Not considered further. visibility of the Proposal is described in the table, and used as a means of identifying which AGC17: Basalt Lowlands None, not considered further. designated landscapes require further assessment, and which need not because they are AGC19: Coastal Plain Widespread theoretical visibility within 5 km. Considered in assessment. unlikely to be affected by the Proposal. AGC20: Rocky Mosaic Some theoretical visibility local to the site access, and intermittent along the west Kintyre coast. More consistent theoretical visibility at greater distance on Knapdale coast . Considered in assessment. AGC21: Low Coastal Hills None, not considered further. AGC22: Coastal Parallel Ridges Widespread theoretical visibility within 5 km to 10 km with regular visibility from 14 Scottish Natural Heritage (2010) The Special Qualities of the National Scenic Areas. SNH the east of the Isle of Gigha. Also extending to the east coasts of Islay and Jura at distances of over 25 km. Considered in assessment. Commissioned Report No.374 Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 7 Killean Wind Farm
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Wild Land Area Theoretical visibility of the Proposal South Cowal APQ Limited theoretical visibility within 30 km. Not considered further. 4.61 Wild Land Areas (WLA) are not designated but are mapped, as identified on the 2014 SNH Bute & South Cowal APQ Limited theoretical visibility at distances over 30 km. Not considered further. Map, and are very sensitive to any form of intrusive human activity. They are afforded South & East Islay APQ Limited to intermittent theoretical visibility at over 25 km. Not considered significant protection under Scottish Planning Policy. There are two areas of Wild Land as further. shown on Figure 4.6: North Arran; and Jura, Scarba, Lunga and Garvellachs. Theoretical North & West Islay Coast APQ Almost no theoretical visibility. Not considered further. visibility from North Arran WLA is largely restricted to northwestern areas, with some South West Islay APQ Limited theoretical visibility on western fringe at over 35 km. Not considered theoretical visibility also indicated at higher ground, including from Goat Fell. Theoretical further. visibility from Jura, Scarba, Lunga and Garvellachs WLA is at a distance of over 30 km and Jura APQ Limited theoretical visibility at distances over 35 km. Not considered further. not considered likely to result in significant effects. North Arran SLA With the exception of a small area to the south, this local designation replicates the North Arran NSA. Not considered further. 4.62 A Wild Land Assessment has been carried out in accordance with the SNH document Visual Baseline Assessing the impacts on wild land: interim guidance note (2007), and is contained within Technical Appendix 4.3. 4.63 This section identifies the extent of theoretical visibility of the Proposal, and identifies visual receptors that would be assessed. This section also introduces the viewpoints that Table 4.10: Landscape Designations and Wild Land Areas would be used to assess effects on receptors, including reasons for their selection. Area Theoretical visibility of the Proposal Analysis of Visibility of the Development National Scenic Areas 4.64 The ZTVs in Figure 4.1 and Figure 4.2 show the theoretical visibility of the wind farm to Kyles of Bute NSA Over 35 km to the northeast with limited theoretical visibility. Not considered further. blade tip and hub height respectively. Theoretical visibility within 10 km is largely focused Knapdale NSA Over 20 km to the north with some limited theoretical visibility along the on higher ground to the north and south of the Proposal, with some limited areas along the coastal edge and intermittent visibility from inland. Not considered further. west coast of Kintyre. Visibility along the east of the Kintyre peninsula (around 7-10 km to Jura NSA Over 25 km to the northwest with some limited theoretical visibility along the the east) is very limited. coastal edge and intermittent visibility from inland. Not considered further. North Arran NSA Theoretical visibility from some areas, at distances of 12 km up to 25 km, on 4.65 Within 10 to 15 km, theoretical visibility along the Kintyre peninsula is largely limited to the north, west and south border of this National Scenic Area. Considered areas of higher elevation. Theoretical visibility is also predicted from the Sound of Gigha, within the assessment. the eastern coast and some central parts of the Isle of Gigha, the west coast of Arran, and Wild Land Areas waters of Kilbrannan Sound and Sound of Jura. Beyond 15 km, the ZTV indicates theoretical Wild Land Area 03. North Arran Theoretical visibility from some areas, at distances of 14 km up to 25 km, visibility from the more distant west Arran coastline as well as some hill tops / west-facing mainly to the west and south of this area. Considered within the assessment. slopes, areas of open water, and an intermittent pattern of visibility from upland and Wild Land Area 05. Jura, Scarba, Lunga Limited visibility at a distance of over 30 km. Not considered further. and Garvellachs coastal areas of Kintyre and Knapdale. Beyond 25 km, there are theoretical long distance Gardens and Designed Landscapes views from the east coast of Islay and Jura, and the western coast of Bute.
Achamore House GDL Theoretical visibility, and within 10 km, but likely to be largely screened by Key Visual Receptors mature woodland. Not considered further. 4.66 Potential visual receptors include: Stonefield Castle Hotel GDL Very limited visibility at over 25 km. Not considered further. Mount Stuart GDL Very limited visibility at over 35 km. Not considered further. • local residents and visitors within the settlements of Tayinloan and the Killean Estate; Brodick Castle GDL None, not considered further. • people living in or visiting coastal areas and islands adjacent to the Kintyre peninsula, Local Landscape Designations including the islands of Gigha, Arran, Islay, Jura, as well as Knapdale . West Kintyre (Coast) APQ Within 5 km with intermittent theoretical visibility. Considered in the • those travelling on key routes through the Study Area, including roads, ferry routes, assessment. cycle paths and walking routes; and East Kintyre (Coast) APQ None, not considered further. Mull of Kintyre APQ Sporadic to no theoretical visibility within 25 km to 30 km. Not considered • recreational users, including hill walkers and people engaged in water-based activities. further. 4.67 The composition of the layout was considered especially important in relation to sensitive Knapdale/Melfort APQ Regular to intermittent theoretical visibility within 10 km to 15 km. Considered visual receptors, particularly people living in or visiting the area. The layout was designed in the assessment. with particular regard to views experienced from local properties and visitor attractions on Volume 2: Environmental Statement Killean Wind Farm 4 - 8 Chapter 4: LVIA
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the Kintyre peninsula and from adjacent coasts and islands (particularly views from Viewpoint OS Grid Reference Distance Knapdale, Gigha, and Arran. (km)15 10 Beinn Bharrain, Isle of Arran 190210 642760 16.5 Viewpoints 11 B8024, Knapdale 171532 661644 16.1 4.68 This section sets out the viewpoints that would be used to represent and assess the visual effects of the proposal. The viewpoint list is a representative selection of locations 12 Islay Ferry, West Loch Tarbert 161009 658692 17.5 discussed in consultation with the statutory consultees; it is not an exhaustive list of 13 High Lossit, south of Machrihanish 163156 619176 26.2 locations from which the development would be visible. 14 Craighouse, Jura 153074 666996 28.9 4.69 Fifteen viewpoints were selected based on: desk study; site work; consultation with SNH, 15 Maolbhuie Cottages, near Ardbeg Distillery 141144 646208 31 ABC, and WKCC; and the scoping responses of other interested consultees. These viewpoints are all publicly accessible. The viewpoints include: 4.71 In addition to the above viewpoints included within the assessment, wireframes are provided from the following locations listed in Table 4.12. These are for illustration only, • representative locations selected to represent the experience of different types of receptor; and effects on receptors at the following locations are not assessed within the LVIA. It is however noted that while effects on receptors at Viewpoints H and I below have not been • specific viewpoints selected because they are key and sometimes promoted viewpoints assessed specifically, Viewpoint 12 above covers a different location on the Kennacraig to within the area; and Port Askaig route (assessed in Table 4.35), and ferry routes between Kintyre and Islay illustrative viewpoints chosen specifically to demonstrate a particular effect or specific • (between Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Port Ellen) are considered in detail at Table 4.55 as issue (which could include restricted visibility to certain locations). part of an assessment of effects on routes. 4.70 The viewpoints used to assess the visual effects are listed in Table 4.11 below and their Table 4.12: Additional wireframe locations (for information) locations are shown on Figure 4.1 and 4.2. The viewpoints have been numbered according to their distance from the Proposal. Each viewpoint is illustrated with a photograph of the Viewpoint OS Grid Reference Distance 16 existing view, and a wireframe and photomontage showing the Proposal. (km) A Rhunahaorine Point 169011 649354 5.2 Table 4.11: Viewpoints B A83, south of Muasdale 167190 638704 7.3 Viewpoint OS Grid Reference Distance 15 South Pier 164334 646379 7.9 (km) C Loch na Naich 173787 644026 0.3 1 D Glencardoch Point 165996 637952 8.7
2 Killean 171104 644680 1.1 E Newton Point 193123 651549 20.5 Tayinloan Jetty 169383 646486 3 3 F Skipness 190731 657581 21.2 Point Sands 169590 648370 4 4 G Goat Fell, Arran 199125 641538 25.5 Beinn Bhreac (425 m) 175273 638616 5.2 5 H Islay Ferry (to Port Ellen) 151671 647426 20.6
6 Ardminish Bay Jetty (Gigha) 165390 649096 7.8 I Islay Ferry (to Port Askaig) 150927 660379 26.1 7 Glenbarr War Memorial 167014 637654 8.1
8 Creah Bhan 164807 650910 9.3
9 A83 at Clachan 177940 657583 13
15 Distance between viewpoint and the nearest turbine of the proposed development. 16 Distance between viewpoint and the nearest turbine of the proposed development. Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 9 Killean Wind Farm
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Settlements
4.72 Settlement within the Study Area is relatively sparse and generally restricted to the coastal edge of the Kintyre peninsula. Table 4.13 lists the settlements within the Study Area which fall within the ZTV (Figure 4.1 and 4.2), and identifies which require further assessment. The ZTV does not account for screening of views by buildings, which would substantially reduce visibility from most settlements. In order to focus on potentially significant effects, settlements from which there is no or very limited theoretical visibility are not considered. Furthermore, settlements where views of the Site area and surrounding landscape are not important to its setting, and where it is unlikely that significant effects could occur, are not considered further in the assessment.
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Table 4.13: Settlements Routes
Settlement Theoretical visibility of the Proposal 4.73 Visual effects on key roads, ferry crossings, and recreational routes (long distance footpaths Within 5 km and cycle routes) located across the Study Area and that fall within the ZTV (Figures 4.1 and
Killean Theoretical visibility (generally low levels) across the settlement, potential for close-range 4.2) are listed in Table 4.14. In order to focus on potentially significant effects, routes with views of turbines. Considered in the assessment. very limited theoretical visibility of the turbines and/ or beyond 15 km from the Proposal Tayinloan Theoretical visibility from ferry terminal and at lower levels from some western parts of the are not considered further. village. Potential for close-range views of turbines facing east. Considered in the assessment. 5 – 15 km Table 4.14: Routes Ardminish (Isle of Gigha) Theoretical visibility indicated across the settlement. Considered in the assessment. Route Theoretical visibility of the Proposal Muasdale Limited visibility from village but coverage of outlying properties to the east. Considered in assessment. Roads Glenbarr Limited visibility from village but coverage of outlying properties to the north. The properties situated along Barr Glen east of the A83 have little or no theoretical visibility. Considered in A83 Limited visibility between Killean and Rhunahaorine, within 5 km, becoming increasingly assessment. intermittent over 5 km. Considered within assessment. Bellochantuy Intermittent visibility, main views are coastal and westward, significant effects unlikely and B842 Very limited theoretical visibility. Not considered further. not considered further. B8024 Theoretical visibility indicated between Kilberry and Tarbert. Considered within Clachan Not visible, not considered further. assessment. Portachoillan Not visible, not considered further. Minor road on west coast Theoretical visibility along this route on the Isle of Arran between Lochranza and Machrie. Crossaig Not visible, not considered further. of Arran Part of the Arran Coastal Way walking route. Considered within assessment Cour Not visible, not considered further. Minor road on Isle of High levels of theoretical visibility predicted for much of the road. Considered within Grogport Not visible, not considered further. Gigha assessment. Carradale Not visible, not considered further. Ferries Saddell Not visible, not considered further. Caledonian-MacBrayne Extensive ZTV theoretical visibility within 5 km to 10 km. Considered within assessment. Ugadale Point Not visible, not considered further. Gigha Ferry Pirnmill (Arran) Extensive theoretical visibility across the settlement on the Isle of Arran. Considered in the Caledonian-MacBrayne Extensive ZTV theoretical visibility within 15 km to 10 km. Considered within assessment. assessment. Claonaig to Lochranza Imachar (Arran) Extensive theoretical visibility across the settlement on the Isle of Arran. Considered in the Caledonian-MacBrayne Extensive to limited coverage within 15 km to 10 km. Considered within assessment. assessment. Tarbert to Lochranza Whitefarland (Arran) Extensive theoretical visibility across the settlement on the Isle of Arran. Considered in the Caledonian-MacBrayne Extensive visibility within 10 km to over 25 km. Considered within assessment. assessment. Kennacraig to Port Ellen 15 – 30 km Ferry Kilberry Potential visibility from Kilberry Castle. Considered in the assessment. Caledonian-MacBrayne Extensive visibility within 10 km to over 25 km. Similar views to Kennacraig to Port Ellen, so Kennacraig to Port Askaig considered alongside the above route. Tarbert No theoretical visibility, not considered further. Recreational Routes Kilmory Intermittent distant visibility, not considered further. Claonaig Limited theoretical visibility, not considered further. National Cycle Network Follows the B8024 and B824, see above. Considered within assessment. Skipness Low levels of visibility at distances over 20km, not considered further. (NCN) Route 78 Oban to Campbeltown Peninver No theoretical visibility, not considered further. Arran Coastal Way Follows the minor road on the west coast of Arran, see above. Tormore (Arran) High levels of theoretical visibility, considered further. Kintyre Way Extensive theoretical visibility within 5 km, particularly to the west. Considered within Shiskine (Arran) Low-high levels of theoretical visibility, considered further. assessment. Lochranza (Arran) Visibility limited to Newton Point, not considered further. Local footpaths Extensive theoretical visibility across local footpaths within 5 km of the site. Considered Blackwaterfoot (Arran) Low levels of visibility from coastal edge, not considered further. within assessment. Campbeltown Not visible, not considered further. Machrihanish Limited visibility at distances over 25 km, not considered further. Port Ellen (Islay) Limited to intermittent visibility, at distances over 30 km, not considered further.
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Future Conditions states that "It is important to recognise that perceptual and aesthetic characteristics of landscapes may also be affected by climate change"17. 4.74 Future baseline is considered as part of the cumulative LVIA, in terms of the planned and proposed wind farms that may or may not be built within the landscape. These 4.81 Although the introduction of wind farms into the landscape would contribute to on-going developments are listed in Table 4.8. landscape change, it is considered that landscapes have always changed and would continue to change through time. The 'Do Nothing' Scenario
4.75 In the absence of the Proposal, it is likely that the land would continue under the same land Potential Effects use, and the character of the site is therefore unlikely to change significantly. Forest 4.82 The assessment of landscape and visual effects follows the methodology presented in this rotation would likely continue, with cycles of felling and replanting. chapter, and is based upon the project description outlined in Chapter 2: Proposed 4.76 However, the surrounding landscape and visual amenity is likely to be influenced by a Development. The LVIA reports on construction/decommissioning and operational effects number of 'forces for change'. Forces for change are those factors affecting the evolution of separately. the landscape and which may, consequently, affect the perception of the Study Area in the near or distant future. Although prediction of these is necessarily speculative, those of The Development Proposal particular relevance are discussed briefly below. 4.83 Those elements of the Proposal which may potentially affect the landscape and visual 4.77 Wind farm development is a clear force for change and is likely to continue within the Study resource are listed below: Area. There are currently nine wind farms in the Study Area which are operational or under • 17 three-bladed horizontal axis wind turbines of up to 149.9 m tip-height; construction, and consent has been granted for two further wind energy developments. • Turbine foundations; There are also a considerable number of planning applications and scoping proposals for • Hardstanding areas at each turbine location, for use by cranes erecting and maintaining further wind farms, including several in close proximity to the Proposal. In addition, there the turbine; are an increasing number of operational, consented and proposed domestic and feed in Upgrading of existing and creation of new access tracks, including the proposed overrun tariff wind turbines of varying heights and rotor diameters, located within agricultural • area at the Site entrance for abnormal vehicle loading movements; fields, as farmers diversify income and seek opportunities to generate energy for domestic and commercial use, and it is likely that interest in this type of development would • A substation compound containing: control and substation buildings; battery storage; continue. and communications mast; • An on-site electrical and control network of underground (buried) cables; 4.78 Agriculture within the Study Area, including land management practices, pastoral grazing A temporary construction compound; and arable farming, and commercial forestry plantations, are likely to remain important • land uses. • A temporary concrete batching plant and compound; Drainage works; 4.79 Influences on present-day Scottish landscapes have been formed by a wide range of • Associated ancillary works; influences, including climatic processes. Ice ages have had a major influence in sculpting • today's landforms through glacial spread and retreat. Similarly, the warming of the planet • Engineering operations; and and changing in patterns of rainfall have, over time, influenced the land's agricultural • Forestry felling, restocking and management. capacity and the flora of today. 4.84 The construction period would last up to 18 months. The exact locations of borrow pits are 4.80 Climate can be viewed as having been a highly influential factor in the development of not currently known and would be the subject of a separate application, but the potential today's landscapes; and it is widely accepted that due to anthropological activities, climates effects of borrow pits have been discussed within this assessment. Search areas for borrow are changing. Whilst there appears to be no certainty of what the effects of such climatic pits have been defined and are shown on Figure 2.1. changes would be in the future, it is clear that these changes would affect the landscape. These concerns have been recognised in a number of papers in recent years. Topic Paper No 9: Climate Change and Natural Forces explored some of these issues. The document
17 SNH and The Countryside Agency (2002) Topic Paper 9: Climate change and natural forces – the consequences for landscape character (paragraph 31).
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Construction Effects The Proposed Development Site and the presence of the Kintyre Way as an indicator of scenic and recreational Landscape Effects during Construction value. The landscape value of the Site is judged to be medium. 4.85 Potential effects on the landscape character and resources of the Site, and landscape On balance, the sensitivity of the Site is judged to be medium. character of the wider Study Area, are considered below. Predicted landscape effects on Magnitude of The main construction activities with the potential to affect the Site include, the Proposed Development Site are discussed at Table 4.15, and on the Study Area are change but are not limited to: disturbance of land and vegetation through the construction of a turning area and widening access to the site; excavation of discussed at Table 4.16. borrow pit(s); construction of new access tracks; improvement of existing Table 4.15: The Proposed Development Site access tracks; construction of temporary compound with parking; temporary batching plant; construction of watercourse crossings; construction of turbines, The Proposed Development Site control building and substation; development of power performance mast; and a perceived increase in activity on the site with vehicular/personnel Sensitivity The Site is described in detail under ‘Baseline Conditions’ above. The key movements. characteristics are noted below. Construction activities would result in a large scale change experienced at the This is a large scale upland area of forest and moorland incised by the smaller site level. The majority of construction activities would be short term and scale Killean valley and punctuated by small lochs. Land cover comprises large reversible. The creation of borrow pits and removal of certain areas of forest blocks of coniferous forest plantation of varying maturity largely containing would have effects that would be reduced by mitigation (including more open areas of moorland. The forested part of the Site occupies a west- restoration/revegetation). These effects would be medium term as they would facing slope of moderate gradient, while the moorland area has irregular and continue until the mitigation measures are complete and replanted vegetation uneven topography of rocky outcrops, draining to the Allt Chaltuinn burn and a matures. series of small lochs. Access to the Site is via an existing forest track/haul road connecting to the A83 in the east, also used as access for Deucheran Wind Overall, the magnitude of change is judged to be high. Farm. The Site access passes through a smaller scale landscape largely Potential for It is possible that other wind farms in-planning within the more immediate contained by woodland associated with the Killean Burn, and undulating Cumulative landscape context, such as Clachaig Glen (application submitted) may use a farmland and rough grazing to the north. Construction similar access route to bring turbines to the site. Traffic along the haul road Settlement and manmade influences include expansive managed conifer forest, Effects may be slightly heavier during this time, but it is not considered likely to result the A83 road, scattered farmsteads and properties, Killean Estate and the small in significant additional cumulative effects during the construction period of village of Tayinloan. Situated within the upland plateau are a number of the Proposal. historical influences including Braids (a derelict farmstead) and a number of Given the uncertainty of the scoping schemes within the Study Area, it is artifacts including cup and ring marked rocks and a hut circle. considered unlikely that the Proposal would be constructed at the same time as Views into the Site are possible from surrounding hills and some parts of the Willow. As such, no additional cumulative effects are predicted during the coast. The Site forms part of the wider horizon visible from surrounding construction period of the Proposal in conjunction with these schemes. landscapes including the islands of Gigha, Islay and Jura to the west, and the Significance of Overall the effect of construction would be major (significant) at a site level, mountainous region of the Isle of Arran to the east. Locally however, in views Effect however these effects would be temporary, and the majority would cease from the A83, the Site is almost completely screened by the low rounded hills following the 18-month construction period. which are adjacent to the road. Inter-visibility of the Site with the Kintyre coastline is principally from the lowest lying areas, affecting around 7-10 km of the west coast of the peninsula which stretches some 45 km from the southern Table 4.16: The 40 km Study Area end of West Loch Tarbert to the south side of Machrihanish Bay. The entrance to the Site on the western side lies just within the inland boundary of the West Kintyre (coast) APQ. However no turbines would be Sensitivity The wider landscape surrounding the site is highly varied and includes located within this locally designated area. The conifer plantation and undulating upland conifer forest and moorland mosaic, peninsulas, lower lying moorland mosaic within the Site boundary are not unique to Argyll and Bute. settled farmed coasts, more mountainous landscapes and numerous islands. Although the Site has inter-visibility with some adjacent sensitive landscapes, The Study Area is described in greater detail under ‘Baseline Conditions’ it does not form part of a distinctive skyline and there are existing aspects of above. human activity including forest activity and Deucheran Wind Farm. This is judged to result in a medium susceptibility. The sensitivity of the Study Area varies widely, but landscapes of particular sensitivity include nationally designated landscapes, including Knapdale NSA, It is recognised that there is some value attached to the landscape of the Site North Arran NSA, Jura NSA, and areas designated locally as APQs (designated by taking account of the proximity of locally and nationally designated landscapes, Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 13 Killean Wind Farm
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view, the level of effect on residential receptors with open views towards the Site and ABC) or SLAs (designated by NAC). Larger scale upland areas of moorland and access route (i.e. the more immediate landscape context) would be moderate or major and forest tend to be of lower sensitivity. significant (temporary). This would be due to the additional construction activities, rather than the felling of forest which would be an expected activity in the absence of the Magnitude of During the construction phase the main effects with the potential to affect the Proposal. change surrounding landscape are the construction of turbines. There is also likely to be a localised effect of increased traffic on the A83 to the site access. As the 4.89 Road users on the A83 and minor roads to the west of the site would experience similar development of the turbines would form the main source of effect, views of construction activities as local residents. Road users on the A83 travelling north construction effects in the wider landscape would be short term and are not and south would experience close proximity views of the site access construction. Views expected to be any greater than the assessed operational effects. The from the A83 towards the site are largely transient and often oblique and only occur for experience of construction effects to the east of the site would be minimal taking account of screening by elevated landform and conifer plantation. short distances. The higher elevation of the site in relation to the road network would help Overall, the magnitude of change on the 40 km Study Area is judge to be low. screen views of many low level construction activities. However, brief direct views may be experienced from minor roads providing access to the coast including easterly travel from Potential for It is possible that consented and in-planning wind farms within the wider Cumulative landscape, including Clachaig Glen (submitted), Creggan (submitted), Blary Tayinloan ferry terminal to the A83. Road users would be of moderate susceptibility, and Construction Hill (at appeal), and Tangy Repowering (consented), could be under these views in a locally designated landscape are of moderate value. Taking into account Effects construction at the same time, adding to the amount of activity in the the scale, extent and duration of view the level of effect of construction activity on road landscape and potentially using a similar route to bring turbines to the site. As users would be occasionally moderate and significant (temporary). such, there is the potential for significant additional cumulative effects during the construction period of the Proposal. 4.90 Walkers on the Kintyre Way, which passes directly through the site, are considered to be of Given the uncertainty associated with the scoping schemes within the Study high susceptibility, and their views from this nationally promoted route of high value. Close Area, it is considered unlikely that the Proposal would be constructed at the proximity views of construction activity are likely to occur from a section of the footpath same time. As such, no additional cumulative effects are predicted during the construction period of the Proposal in conjunction with these schemes. between the Braids in the west and Loch na Naich in the east. Construction activity is also likely to visible from the Kintyre Way as it passes along the coastline, over a distance of 7- Significance of No greater than the findings of the operational landscape assessment for each Effect LCT. 10 km, although in some places screening by vegetation and/or buildings is likely. The level Potential for significant additional cumulative effects. of effect on receptors would be moderate or major and significant (temporary). 4.91 The potential for significant cumulative effects during construction is difficult to predict, Visual Effects during Construction due to uncertainties in the programmes of other wind farms with potentially concurrent construction dates. Depending on when grid capacity becomes available, it is possible that 4.86 Construction would affect visual amenity at locations from where construction activity and if consented, Clachaig Glen (in planning), Creggan Wind Farm (in planning) and Blary Wind ground conditions would be discernible. These areas are largely localised in extent. Farm (at appeal) could be developed at the same time as the Proposal, with the potential 4.87 Within approximately 2 km of the Site, residential receptors with theoretical visibility for significant cumulative effects. Auchadaduie (consented) is being brought forward under include a number of properties along the A83, including Lenaig, Low Dunashry, Dalmore, the Renewables Obligation Certificates scheme, so is very unlikely be developed at the same Tavantaggart, the settlements of Tayinloan and Killean, and the properties Kilmory and time as the Proposal, while consented Tangy Repowering could come forward in advance of Drumnamucklach. the Proposal, depending upon investment to support the scheme without government subsidy. 4.88 The Site is elevated in relation to the settled but sparsely populated west Kintyre coast. Taking account of existing forestry to the west of the Proposal, residential receptors are 4.92 Decommissioning of the Proposal is expected to take approximately 12 months. Due to the unlikely to see the majority of works. Felling of forestry would be noticeable, though the similar activities involved in both the construction and dismantling of a wind farm site, a Proposal would not result in a substantial change to the agreed baseline forest felling plan, similar level of effect is predicted on the landscape and visual amenity of the site and wider as detailed in Technical Appendix 2.1 Forestry. Development of the site access, general Study Area. construction traffic using the A83 and local road network, and the high level elements, potentially including cranes and erection of some of the turbines would be additional noticeable construction activities. Residents are considered to be of high susceptibility, but their views tend to be of lower value. Taking into account the scale, extent and duration of
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Landscape Assessment: Operational Effects Operational effects on landscape character types 4.94 LCTs within 40 km of the proposed development are illustrated on Figure 4.3 and Figure 4.93 This section describes the residual operational effects resulting from the Proposal on the 4.3a. This section describes the operational and cumulative effects on landscape character landscape fabric of the site and the LCTs and designated landscapes which have been resulting from the proposed development, on LCTs where potentially significant effects are identified as requiring detailed consideration in Baseline Existing Conditions. Further considered likely, as set out in Table 4.9. information on key characteristics of each LCT and special qualities of the designated landscapes is provided. This section also includes an assessment of cumulative landscape Table 4.18: Operational effects on AGC3: Hidden Glens effects. All operational effects are considered to be long term, reversible and adverse Receptor AGC3: Hidden Glens unless stated otherwise. Sensitivity Within the Study Area, inter-visibility of the Hidden Glens LCT with the Operational effects on the landscape of the site Proposal occurs in one area at over 15 km on the northeast coast (areas covering Carradale Water and Saddell Glen will not be affected). This area Table 4.17: Operational effects on the Proposed Development Site includes the settlement and historical features of Skipness, at over 19 km to the northeast, located on the coast. (It is noted that this area is reclassified as The Proposed Development Site character type ‘Rocky Mosaic’ in the LWECS due to its more open coastal Sensitivity The Site is described in detail in paragraphs 4.97-4.103. Key characteristics are character.18) noted above, under construction effects. The site is judged to be of medium Key characteristics described in the Landscape Assessment of Argyll and the susceptibility and medium value, taking account of inter-visibility with Firth of Clyde19 that inform this landscape’s susceptibility to wind farm nationally and locally designated landscape, and the Kintyre Way as an development include: indicator of recreational and scenic value. Overall the sensitivity of the site is . Narrow glens, with a small, domestic scale, steeply enclosed by forested judged to be medium. ridges. Magnitude of Direct operational effects would arise through the introduction of seventeen . Meandering rivers are a focus on the floor of the glen. Diverse woodland change turbines and associated infrastructure (including access roads and turning including ornamental species. areas, hard standings and substation), the loss of moorland vegetation (up to . Large houses with formal gardens, estates and parkland. 20 Ha), and introduction of turbines, which would alter the character of the . area to upland conifer forest moorland mosaic with a wind farm. The felling Sand dunes and sheltered sandy bays at the coast. and replacement of forested areas would also be noticeable, though it is The key characteristics are judged to combine to result in high susceptibility, recognised that the felling plan of the Proposal would not result in a due to the scale and complexity of the LCT. Coastal parts of the LCT lie within substantial change to the agreed baseline forest felling plan (January 2016). the East Kintyre (Coast) APQ, landscape value is therefore judged to be The establishment of compensatory planting/forest restructuring includes the medium. Given the susceptibility and value attached to the LCT, the sensitivity establishment of around 14 Ha of new forest planting within a patchwork of is judged to be high. open areas existing within the forest (to replace woodland loss due to wind Magnitude of The Proposal is located outside this LCT so effects would be indirect. farm infrastructure). This is unlikely to be a noticeable change to the change At over 20 km to the northeast of the Proposal the ZTV indicates high levels of landscape of the site. visibility in the eastern part of the LCT. With regards to Skipness, an indicative The operational development would result in a large size/scale of effect wireframe from the coastline is provided (Figure 4.31) and indicates that the experienced at the site level. elevated intervening landform of the Kintyre peninsula would screen several of The magnitude of change is judged to be high. the turbines completely, and much of the towers of those that would remain visible on the horizon, at distances of over 20 km. Views from this location are Potential for There are unlikely to be significant cumulative effects on the landscape of the largely seaward, along the coastline across a wide angle. The extensive conifer Future Site. forest on the higher ground of the Kintyre peninsula would further limit Cumulative visibility of the Proposal from this location. Furthermore, it is likely that Effects several areas set back from the coast would be screened or partially screened Significance of Overall the effect on the site would be major (significant). by mature woodland and buildings. Effect The operational Deucheran Hill Wind Farm is visible from this location, which
18 Carol Anderson and Alison Grant (2012) Argyll and Bute Landscape Wind Energy Capacity Study 19 Environmental Resource Management (1996) Landscape assessment of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde
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Receptor AGC3: Hidden Glens Receptor AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic (host) would be seen alongside Cour Wind Farm when construction is complete. Kintyre area features a gently undulating plateau-like landform with smooth Potentially the tips of Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm would also be visible, further even slopes. This landscape has a simple land cover of extensive coniferous south and at greater distance. In views from this LCT, Killean would form an forestry and moorland. It is sparsely populated and already accommodates extension to the group of Deucheran and Cour, but at this distance, they would three operational wind farm developments. Many of these characteristics not erode the perception or experience of the LCT. present potential opportunities to accommodate large scale wind farm The operation of the Proposal would result in a small scale change in this part development although the more complex smaller scale hills and occasional of the LCT. The change in character would be experienced where coastal narrow settled glens on the fringes of this broad upland plateau and more views to the southwest, which include the Proposal, are available. pronounced higher hill summits are more sensitive as is the rugged and remote coast between Skipness and Tarbert.’ Overall, the magnitude of change is judged to be low. Given the susceptibility and value attached to the LCT, the sensitivity is judged Potential for In the future, should the applications for Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 and Eascairt to be medium. Future be consented and built, this would result in visibility of three distinct clusters Cumulative of wind farms, with Eascairt being the nearest. Magnitude of Direct operational effects would arise through the introduction of seventeen change turbines and associated infrastructure, and the removal and replacement of Effects Given that outward, coastal views are not a key characteristic of the LCT, this approximately 14 Ha of forest to the north and east. The introduction of is unlikely to result in any significant additional or total cumulative effects. turbines would locally alter the character of the conifer forest and moorland The same applies should the area be considered ‘Rocky Mosaic’, as per the mosaic. LWECS. This is a large scale LCT which extends to cover much of the interior of Kintyre. Significance of Minor (not significant) effects are predicted across this LCT. The ZTVs (refer to Figure 4.1 and 4.2) indicate that theoretical visibility within Effect 5 km is extensive from higher ground, with more intermittent visibility from areas of lower elevation particularly to the east. Between 5 and 10 km, theoretical visibility is predicted from elevated areas such as the slopes and Table 4.19: Operational effects on AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic (host) summit of Beinn Bhreac in the north, and Beinn An Tuirc and Blary Hill in the south. The size/scale of the change is considered to be large locally (within Receptor AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic (host) around 3 km) representing a relatively localised geographical extent. Sensitivity The Site is largely contained within this LCT (with only a small section of the The magnitude of change is judged to be high locally (up to 3 km), medium up access track located within AGC20, and overrun/turning area is within AGC19). to a distance of around 10 km, reducing to small at distances over 10 km. Key characteristics as described within the LCA that inform this landscape’s This Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic LCT is the key area in which wind farm susceptibility to wind farm development include: development is focused in Kintyre. Existing operational wind farms include: Deucheran Hill, Beinn An Tuirc (and Extension), Tangy and (Extension), with . ‘Upland plateau with rounded ridges, craggy outcrops and an irregular slope Cour and Freasdail under construction. Locally the Proposal would extend the profile; influence of existing wind energy development (Deucheran). . Upland lochs; Potential for In addition to the operational schemes and those currently under construction, . Winding narrow glens and wider river valleys; Future there are several wind farms that are either consented, in-planning or at . Extensive, large-scale mosaic of forestry plantations and small areas of open Cumulative appeal, located within the LCT. In external views towards the LCT from the moorland; Effects northeast, it is likely to be perceived that Cour, Deucheran Hill and the . No field boundaries; Proposal form part of the same group, giving the perception of a single large . Very few buildings; occasional isolated dwellings on edges of moor; and cluster at the centre of the Kintyre peninsula(see Figure 4.30 and 4.31). In views from the southwest, the degree to which the cumulative developments . Little access; roads typically follow shorelines.’ (including Clachaig Glen and Creggan) appear as groups is likely to vary, The key characteristics are judged to combine to result in a medium sometimes appearing as distinct wind farms (e.g. Figure 4.17) and sometimes susceptibility, given the large scale, simple land cover, and existing presence as a larger group (e.g. Figure 4.23).. There is the potential that the perception of wind farms, coupled with the irregularity of the topography and potential of the LCT would change to the degree that it might be viewed as landscape influence of the skyline. There are no designated landscapes in this LCT, with a pattern of wind farms which appear to extend across a large part of the although it abuts the West Kintyre and East Kintyre APQs, and landscape value central upland area of the peninsula, without clear or discrete wind farm is considered to be medium. clusters/groups and spaces. This would likely result in significant total The LWECS identifies a medium landscape sensitivity to development of this cumulative effects on the LCT. The additional cumulative effect in the kind, and low sensitivity in relation to landscape values, increasing locally at context that all proposed wind farms become operational, is likely to be transitions with APQs. significant, however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that schemes The LWECS states that ‘The Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic character type in the that are at the planning / appeal stages would become operational in due
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Receptor AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic (host) course. The pattern of developments appearing as distinct wind farms and sometimes as a larger group could extend if the Willow scoping layout is also considered. The addition of the Proposal in the context of this scoping scheme could result in additional cumulative effects. However it is noted that there remains uncertainty that schemes such as Ronachan and Willow will come forward to a planning stage. Significance of Moderate and significant locally (within 3 km) Effect Overall, the effect on the LCT would be not significant beyond 3 km. Potential for significant and total and additional cumulative effects.
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Table 4.20: Operational effects on AGC19: Coastal Plains Receptor AGC19: Coastal Plains Figures 4.9g and 4.26. Receptor AGC19: Coastal Plains The operational development would result in a medium size/scale of change in Sensitivity A small area of this LCT occurs within 5 km of the Proposal at Rhunahaorine relation to the overall LCT given the indirect effects that would arise. There Point, and is predicted to have widespread visibility, with exception of small would be no direct effects on the key characteristics of this LCT (except locally areas in the north and south. Theoretical visibility is generally widespread within the overrun area, as described above) which would continue to provide along the coast largely within 5 km of the Proposal between the fish farm in a contrast between simpler upland landscapes and more developed coastal the north and the rocky coastal outcrop of Cleit Dhubh in the south. edges. The change in character would be experienced at the scale of the Key characteristics described in the LCA of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde that landscape type. inform this landscape’s susceptibility to wind farm development include: Overall, the magnitude of change is judged to be medium. . ‘Completely flat, linear coastal plain, backed by a coastal road; Potential for There are unlikely to be significant cumulative effects on this LCT. . Straight, angular field patterns and lanes; Future However Figure 4.9c and wireframes suggest that scoping proposals Ronachan . Gradual transition from agricultural fields to marsh, mud flats and beach; Cumulative and Willow may be highly visible from this LCT, particularly Willow which could . Open, exposed character; Effects occupy a wide angle of view and appear nearer than the Proposal. If they were to become operational, it would likely result in a significant total cumulative . Post and wire fencing encloses fields; effect on the LCT, which would be affected by the sharp contrast of the . Predominantly pasture, but some arable fields; turbines with the scale and character of the LCT. The additional cumulative . Remnant clumpy gorse hedgerows and stunted, wind-blown trees; effects of the Proposal in this context, is likely to be significant, although it . Isolated farmsteads and some development along coastal road.’ is noted that there are high levels of uncertainty associated with scoping schemes Willow and Ronachan, and the application for Clachaig Glen. The key characteristics are judged to combine to result in a high susceptibility given the small scale, the distinctiveness of the flat plain, and strong inter- Significance of Moderate (significant) effects are predicted across the section of this LCT visibility with adjacent sensitive landscapes and viewpoints. The West Kintyre Effect within 5 km of the Proposal. APQ lies within this LCT, landscape value is therefore considered to be Major and significant direct effects are predicted locally, for the area affected medium. by the overrun area. Given the susceptibility and value attached to the LCT, the sensitivity is judged Potential for significant and total and additional cumulative effects. to be high. Magnitude of The Proposal is located almost entirely outside the LCT, therefore effects change would be mainly indirect. Table 4.21: Operational effects on AGC20: Rocky Mosaic However, an overrun area is proposed as part of the site access from the A83, Receptor AGC20: Rocky Mosaic and this would be located just within the inland edge of the LCT, resulting in localised direct effects. The overrun area would comprise an area of hard- Sensitivity This LCT extends from West Loch Tarbert in the north to Machrihanish in the standing (gravel make-up), a 1 m berm and earthworks with a 1 in 3 gradient south, following the west coast of Kintyre. slope. Part of the overrun area (adjacent to the road) will be made up of Key characteristics described in the LCA of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde that grasscrete or equivalent, and existing roadside hedgerow/vegetation will be inform this landscape’s susceptibility to wind farm development include: retained as far as possible (with a section of around 25 m removed for the . ‘Uneven, hummocky landform with rocky outcrops and narrow glens; access). A wooden post and rail fence will mark the boundary between the retained hedgerow and the surface of the overrun area. . Raised beaches, cliffs and distinctive rounded knolls; In terms of indirect effects, Figures 4.13 and 4.14 illustrate representative . Rocky, indented coastline with offshore islands and small sandy bays; views towards the Proposal from within the LCT, from Point Sands Caravan . Relatively small-scale landscape with a diverse mix of colours and textures; Park, and from Tayinloan ferry terminal. These figures illustrate the role of the . Steep wooded cliffs and hummocky, gorse-covered slopes; line of small rounded hills within Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic LCT and adjacent . Stone walls provide partial enclosure; to Rocky Mosaic LCT, in providing a degree of topographical screening and separation from the coastline. Each represents the highest levels of visibility . Scattered isolated farm buildings and small villages in sheltered sites; from within the Coastal Plains LCT, and the ZTV shows that visibility would . Archaeological sites.’ lessen further east within the LCT. The turbines would be seen extending from The LWECS states that ‘This character type usually forms an irregular narrow the wooded/forested hill side and against the skyline. coastal or loch edge. The rolling landform of the landscape provides strong Figure 4.9a illustrates that Deucheran Hill is not visible from this LCT, and containment and the presence of small woodlands, fields and settlement visibility of current operational wind farms is very limited, with some very reinforces its predominantly small scale. These loch shores and coastal fringes minimal potential visibility of Tangy from Rhunahaorine Point illustrated in make an important contribution to the wider scenic context, forming an
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Receptor AGC20: Rocky Mosaic Receptor AGC20: Rocky Mosaic intricately patterned band between the foreground of sea or loch and backed remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward to a planning stage. by simple and more expansive upland landscapes.’ Significance of Major and significant locally, minor and not significant overall. The key characteristics are judged to combine to result in a high susceptibility, Effect Potential for significant and total and additional cumulative effects. due to the small scale of the LCT, its irregularity, and its strong inter-visibility with adjacent sensitive landscapes and viewpoints. The West Kintyre APQ lies within this LCT, landscape value is therefore considered to be medium. Table 4.22: Operational effects on AGC22: Coastal Parallel Ridges Given the susceptibility and value attached to the LCT, the sensitivity is judged to be high. Receptor AGC22: Coastal Parallel Ridges Sensitivity Key characteristics described in the LCA of Argyll and the Firth of Clyde that Magnitude of The first 1-2 km of access track, as it enters from the A83, is located within inform this landscape’s susceptibility to wind farm development include: change this LCT. While there would be direct effects on landscape character as a result of upgrades to the access track, the turbines themselves would result in . ‘Narrow rocky ridges with a strong southwest to north-east alignment, which break down to form chains of rocky islands at the coast; indirect effects, since they are not located within this LCT. T Upgrades to the existing haul road include road widening, the creation of steep . Horseshoe-shaped, narrow sandy bays and extensive mudflats; cuttings (earthworks) with drainage ditches, creation of new verges, and some . Stunted oak-birch woodlands on the narrow ridges separating narrow marginal highly localised loss of vegetation, including trees, shrubs and areas of pasture. pastures, marsh or lochs. While this would result locally in a large size/scale of effects, they are . Small blocks of conifers; geographically localised changes. These effects are not likely to extend . Stone walls enclosing fields and along lanes; beyond the site boundary or affect the LCT as a whole unit. The geographical extent is therefore at the site level. . Small settlements concentrated at coves; The wider LCT would be affected by intermittent visibility of turbines, in areas . Rich variety of archaeological sites; and such as the southern coast of Knapdale (Figure 4.21), the elevated Dun Skeig . Small estates.’ Fort north of Clachan (similar views as in Figure 4.19), Glenacardoch Point The landscape of the Isle of Gigha lies within 7-12 km of the Proposal. Given (Figure 4.29), and from other scattered locations, affecting agricultural land the small scale and complex nature of the landscape of Gigha, and its and some other archaeological sites. Theoretical visibility from the A83 is importance within views from sensitive landscapes, susceptibility is judged to limited to occasional stretches of the road (Figure 4.27), often likely to be be high. Landscape value is considered to be medium, as while the island is screened by hedgerows or woodland, and/or experienced as a glimpsed view. not part of a designated landscape (though containing Achamore GDL) it is The size/scale of the effect is considered to be small, since high levels of open valued as a scenic island, a rare feature, and is of recreational value. visibility tend to be experienced from more distant parts of the LCT, often with Given the susceptibility and value attached to the LCT, overall sensitivity is the turbines appearing sufficiently set back from the coast that they are clearly judged to be high. associated with a different character and are not seen to affect the characteristics of the Rocky Mosaic LCT. The geographical extent of this change This LCT contains the four turbine development on the Isle of Gigha. is widespread across the LCT, but intermittent and often distant. The overall Magnitude of The Proposal is located outside this LCT so effects would be indirect. magnitude of change is judged to be high locally (affecting part of the existing change Views of the Proposal from this part of the LCT (Gigha) are represented by haul road), but low overall given the extensive nature of this LCT. Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay on the east coast of the land, and Viewpoint 8 Creag Potential for There are two cumulative schemes in planning, with the potential to influence Bhan, the highest point on the island (as shown in Figures 4.16 and 4.18). Future this part of LCT (west Kintyre) due to their proximity to the coast, including Cumulative wireframes are also provided from a viewpoint at South Pier, in Cumulative Clachaig Glen and Creggan, to the south. If they were to become operational, Figure 4.28. Effects it would likely result in a significant total cumulative effect on the LCT, The Proposal would be a noticeable feature in views of Kintyre, appearing to which would be affected by the sharp contrast of the turbines with the scale occupy blanket forest at the centre of the Kintyre peninsula. The turbines and character of the LCT. The additional cumulative effects of the Proposal would largely be seen against the skyline, and patterns of forest felling and in this context, is likely to be significant, although it is noted that there are planting associated with the Proposal are also likely to be visible. The Sound of high levels of uncertainty associated with these schemes. Gigha would provide clear separation between the Proposal and the landscape Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) would be located to the north of the of the LCT. In views of Gigha and the LCT from islands to the west, the Proposal. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping schemes Proposal is likely to maintain separation with Gigha, clearly associated with the could result in additional cumulative effects. However it is noted that there more elevated and distant upland of Kintyre. It is for this reason it is not considered that the Proposal would result in any loss of landscape
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Receptor AGC22: Coastal Parallel Ridges Receptor AYS1: Raised Beach Coast characteristics of the LCT, and the size/scale of the effect on landscape is within the neighbouring LCT. High levels of visibility are predicted across this judged to be small. The geographical extent of the effect would be part of the LCT. widespread across this part of the LCT, affecting east-facing slopes and high The Proposal would be a noticeable feature in views towards Kintyre, points, and much of the eastern coastline. appearing to occupy blanket forest at the centre of the Kintyre peninsula. The The scale of the existing wind energy development on Gigha (a group of 4 small turbines would be seen against the skyline, alongside Deucheran Hill Wind Farm turbines) is distinctly different from that of the Proposal, clearly associated (which would appear noticeably smaller), and Cour Wind Farm (of a more with the smaller scale of the island. The separation of the Proposal and the similar scale). In views from the northwest of the Proposal, the three Gigha turbines in different LCTs is well-defined. developments are likely to appear as a single group, while in views from the Since the size/scale of the effect is such that the LCT would retain its west, Deucheran Hill and the Proposal would be seen as a single group, with characteristics, the overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. noticeable separation of Cour. The Kilbrannan Sound would provide clear separation between the Proposal and the landscape of the LCT. It is not Potential for The above figures suggest a pattern of visibility from Gigha whereby cumulative considered, given this clear separation, that the Proposal would result in any Future schemes are likely to be perceived as clearly individual, rather than in clusters. loss of landscape characteristics of the LCT, and the size/scale of the effect on Cumulative Schemes would be seen against the skyline, occupying the upland of the landscape is judged to be small. The geographical extent of the effect would Effects Kintyre peninsula and visually separate to Gigha, for the same reasons be widespread across this part of the LCT, affecting much of the coastline and explained above. This is not considered likely to result in any significant total west-facing slope. or additional cumulative effects on the landscape of the LCT. The Proposal would affect the same part of the view as is already affected by Significance of Minor and not significant effects are predicted across this LCT. the presence of wind farms, and in some views would consolidate separate Effect groups. The difference in the size, scale and distribution of the proposed turbines when compared to Deucheran would not affect the characteristics of the LCT. Table 4.22: Operational effects on AYS1: Raised Beach Coast Since the size/scale of the effect is such that the LCT would retain its characteristics, the overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. Receptor AYS1: Raised Beach Coast Potential for Predicted visibility of the in-planning scheme Clachaig Glen nearest to the Site Sensitivity One area of the LCT is located within 10-20 km of the Proposal, an area which Future is relatively limited. The addition of the Proposal in the context of potential covers the west coast of Arran, between Lochranza in the north and Machrie Cumulative future cumulative schemes is not considered to result in any significant Bay further south. Effects cumulative effects on the landscape of the LCT. Key characteristics described in the Ayrshire LCA that apply to this area Visibility of Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) would be limited. It is include: considered unlikely that the addition of the Proposal in the context of both . ‘Steep scarp, representing the former cliff line, and narrow platform, planned wind farms, and wind farms at scoping stage, could result in additional representing the former beach; cumulative effects. It is noted that there remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward to a planning stage. . ‘Hanging’ broadleaf woodland on many of the steeper slopes; . Coastal settlements; Significance of Minor and not significant effects are predicted across this LCT. Effect . Defensive sites, castles, historic houses and designed landscapes; . Dominance of horizontal landscape elements; and . Prominent area with extensive views.’ Table 4.23: Operational effects on AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands The characteristics of this LCT indicate a high susceptibility, owing to its distinctive landform, small scale, and strong inter-visibility with sensitive Receptor AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands landscapes. This area is located within North Arran NSA (the same area of Sensitivity Rugged Granite Uplands LCT covers the mountainous northern region of Arran. which is designated locally as SLA), indicating its high value. This results in High levels of visibility are predicted principally from hill summits and west- high sensitivity overall. facing slopes, looking across the Kilbrannan Sound. Some lower parts of the LCT There are no operational wind turbines within this LCT, within the Study Area are forested, but most areas are likely to have open views. and included within the assessment. The Rugged Granite Uplands LCT key characteristics, described in the LCA, that Magnitude of The Proposal is located outside this LCT so effects would be indirect. apply to these areas include: change Views of the Proposal from this part of the LCT are represented by cumulative . The dramatic eastern peaks, including Goat Fell, Caisteal Abhail and Beinn wireframes Figure 4-30 from Newton Point, north of Lochranza, and to a Tarsuinn linked by a heavily serrated and knife edge ridge; degree by Viewpoint 10 Bheinn Bharrain, albeit at a higher level and located . The rounded western summits of Bheinn Bharrain, Mullach Buide, Beinn Bhreac
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Receptor AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands Receptor AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands and Beinn Tarsuinn; consolidate separate groups. The difference in the size, scale and distribution . A highly dissected landform, with the high peaks separated by plunging U- of the proposed turbines when compared to Deucheran would not affect the shaped valleys; characteristics of the LCT. . The drama of the depth of the valleys, and the proximity of the hills to the Since the size/scale of the effect is such that the LCT would retain its coast, unique to islands such as Skye and Mull; characteristics, the overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. . Land cover dominated by sparse moorland vegetation and extensive areas of Potential for From the higher slopes and summits of the LCT it is likely that proposed bare rock, and an absence of woodland with the exception of coniferous Future cumulative schemes (if they became operational), would be far more visible plantation on lower slopes above the coast; and Cumulative than they would be from lower slopes and from the coast (for example from . Scarce signs of human settlement, largely confined to tracks and walkers’ Effects Raised Beach Coast LCT). If Creggan and Clachaig Glen (in planning) were footpaths. operational and seen in conjunction with those already present, it would be a The characteristics of this LCT indicate high susceptibility, as a result of the noticeable change, however not one that would affect the key characteristics rugged and distinctive landform, and absence of modern development and of the LCT. The addition of the Proposal, whether it is in addition to wind remoteness of the landscape, the highly visible skyline and strong inter- farms in planning, or to all schemes including those at scoping, would not visibility with sensitive landscapes. The LCT is entirely located within the North result in significant cumulative effects. This is because it is likely to be clearly Arran NSA (and local SLA), and much of it forms part of the North Arran Wild associated with the existing Deucheran Hill Wind Farm, so does not represent a Land Area, making it of high value. The combined susceptibility and value is large change to what would become the cumulative context. judged to result in high sensitivity. Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) could be seen within the context of the There are no operational wind turbines within this LCT, within the Study Area, Proposal, other operational, under construction and in-planning schemes. and included within the assessment. However this change would not affect the key characteristics of the LCT. Magnitude of The Proposal is located outside this LCT so effects would be indirect. Significance of Minor and not significant effects are predicted across this LCT. change Views of the Proposal from the summits of this LCT are represented by Figure Effect 4.20 (Viewpoint 10 Beinn Bharrain) and Figure 4.32 illustrating wireframes from the summit of Goat Fell. Views from lower slopes are likely to be more similar Designated Landscapes and Mapped Wild Land Areas to views as illustrated in Figure 4.30 from Newton Point, north of Lochranza. 4.95 This section describes the implications of the Proposal for landscape designations in the From the highest slopes and summits the central part of the Kintyre peninsula Study Area. Landscapes designated nationally and locally for their scenic value across the would be more clearly seen than compared to views from the coast. From these elevated positions is likely that the turbines of the Proposal would be back- Study Area are set out in the Landscape Baseline, and are shown on Figure 4.5. clothed by the islands of Islay and Jura, and the Sound of Jura. In views from 4.96 Based on the analysis in Table 4.10 the designated landscapes and mapped Wild Land Areas lower slopes, it is more likely that the turbines would be seen against the skyline, or partly back-clothed. The proximity of Deucheran Hill Wind Farm to listed below have been considered in the assessment and observations are drawn from the the Proposal means that they would typically be seen as part of the same assessment sections for landscape, visual and cumulative effects. group, with the turbines of Deucheran Hill appearing noticeably smaller. From the northern parts of the LCT, Cour is also likely to appear as part of this • West Kintyre (Coast) APQ; group. The Kilbrannan Sound would provide clear separation between the • Knapdale/Melfort APQ; Proposal and the landscape of the LCT. Views from the eastern part of the LCT North Arran NSA (also covering North Arran SLA); and are far more limited (mainly to summits), and for example, in views from Goat • Fell, at a distance of 25 km, the turbines are likely to be partially screened, • North Arran Wild Land Area though in this specific location the separation of the Kilbrannan Sound would not be evident. It is not considered that the Proposal would result in any loss of West Kintyre Coast APQ landscape characteristics to the LCT, because of the clear separation in views 4.97 The West Kintyre Coast APQ is a local landscape designation that covers the west coast of from the west of the LCT, and the distance and level of topographical screening in limited views from the east of the LCT. The size/scale of the Kintyre from near to Clachan in the north, at West Loch Tarbert, to just north of effect on landscape is therefore judged to be small. The geographical extent of Machrihanish Bay in the south, across a distance of around 35-40 km. The APQ reflects the the effect would be moderately widespread within around 13-17 km of the quality of this landscape, and while no detailed citations exist for this type of designation, Proposal, reducing to localised at distances beyond this. The Proposal would affect the same part of the view as is already affected by the presence of wind farms, and in some views (from the northwest) would
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the LWECS20 identifies the key scenic qualities to be its “diverse coastal scenery and views 4.101 It is noted that the key scenic qualities of the West Kintyre APQ in terms of views, is the to Jura and Arran.”21 view looking west towards Islay and Jura. This suggests views east and inland are of lower importance to the APQ. However, it is noted that the landscape to the east forms the 4.98 It adjoins and overlaps a small part of the Site, at the entrance to the access track from the backdrop of the distinctive coastal scenery, both in views along the coast, and in views east A83, including the overrun area west of the main road, and the first 200 m or so of the from the islands. Locally, within 5 km it is judged that the Proposal would detract from the existing track to the east. Figure 4.5 illustrates the extent of theoretical visibility of the key scenic qualities of the APQ, by introducing turbines to its backdrop, creating a contrast turbines, indicating that high levels of visibility from within the APQ are largely limited to to the scale of the coastal scenery. The Proposal is not judged to detract from the key within 5 km of the Proposal. Much of the remaining area would have no visibility of the scenic qualities of the APQ at distances over 5 km from the Proposal. The Proposal is not Proposal, with some pockets of visibility indicated to the south, from Glencardoch Point, judged to reduce the overall integrity of the APQ. In terms of potential cumulative effects, and just south of Bellochantuy. It is noted that the key scenic qualities of the West Kintyre it is not considered that the addition of the Proposal to Clachaig Glen (in planning) would APQ in terms of views, is the view looking west towards Islay and Jura. This suggests views result in significant cumulative effects on the APQ. However, in the unlikely future scenario east and inland are of lower importance to the APQ. that Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) were to become operational, both the 4.99 The landscape of the APQ overlaps with the Coastal Plains (AGC 19) and Rocky Mosaic (AGC additional effect of the Proposal and the total effect of cumulative schemes taken 20) LCTs, the highest levels of near visibility (within 5 km) principally affecting the Coastal together, would likely detract from the key scenic qualities of the APQ. This is because the Plains LCT. Viewpoints from within the APQ include Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan (Figure 4.13) and presence of the turbines at close proximity (within 5 km) is likely to be considered to Viewpoint 4 Point Sands (Figure 4.14) and are described below in the section ‘Visual detract from the coastal scenery. Assessment: Operational Effects’. The assessment of effects on the Coastal Plains LCT identified an overall moderate and significant landscape effect owing to the contrast of the Knapdale/Melfort APQ scale of the turbines at this proximity to the small scale of the LCT (as reported Table 4.20). 4.102 The Knapdale/Melfort APQ covers a large area of south Knapdale between Loch Caolisport in A localised major and significant landscape effect would occur within the Site boundary, the north and West Loch Tarbert in the south, extending across the west and southern where the overrun area would be located, to the west of the A83. The pattern of visibility coastline, and an extensive area inland comprised of forest and woodland, with some within this part of the APQ is at its highest around Rhunahaorine Point (Figure 4.28) at the moorland areas. It directly adjacent to the Knapdale NSA, located to the north (on which furthest distance from the Proposal, reducing as receptors are nearer to the small rounded significant effects are not expected at distances of over 23 km). The APQ reflects the hills adjacent to the A83, which provide varying degrees of topographical screening to the quality of this landscape, and while no detailed citations exist for this type of designation, turbines. However, panoramic views from Rhunahaorine Point are very extensive and the LWECS identifies the key scenic qualities to be its “diverse coastal scenery and views to commanding north towards Knapdale, west to Islay, Jura and Gigha and south to the Jura”.22 At its nearest, the Knapdale/Melford APQ is located just over 12 km to the north of headlands above Machrihanish Bay. Within this APQ, a moderate and significant effect on the Proposal. visual receptors is reported for Viewpoint 4 Point Sands, but no significant effect was found 4.103 Viewpoint 11 B8024 Knapdale (Figure 4.21) illustrates views from road (and NCN Route 78), for receptors at Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan. This reflects the varying degree of screening where it passes close to the coastline, in the southwest, around 2 km south of the small offered by local topography. village of Kilberry. Viewpoint 11 is described below in the section ‘Visual Assessment: 4.100 The assessment of effects on the Rocky Mosaic LCT found no significant effects on the LCT Operational Effects’. Figure 4.5 illustrates the extent of theoretical visibility of the as a whole, with localised major and significant effects within the Site boundary due to the turbines, indicating high levels from south-facing locations on the coast and inland. It is upgrades required to the access track (as reported Table 4.21). Figures 4.27 and 4.29 noted that visibility is not likely to occur within areas mapped as coniferous forest. illustrate cumulative wireframes from the A83 south of Muasdale and Glencardoch Point Similarly, this is likely to be the case where intermittent inland visibility is predicted in or respectively. Effects on these viewpoints are not assessed within this report, however these near to well established mature woodland groups. figures show a pattern of reduced visibility associated with the A83 due to topographical 4.104 The landscape of the APQ overlaps with the Rocky Mosaic LCT (AGC20) and the Upland screening, with higher levels of visibility from Glencardoch Point as the coastline extends Forest-Moor Mosaic LCT (AGC6, subdivided as type 6(b) within the LWECS). The assessment west. of effects on landscape character examines effects on Rocky Mosaic LCT in Knapdale, and find effects on this area of landscape would be not significant. Effects on Upland Forest Moor-Mosaic within Knapdale are not assessed, since it is judged unlikely that significant
20
21 LWECS, Final Appendix Report Part 2, page 61. 22 LWECS, Final Appendix Report Part 2, page 79.
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landscape effects would occur on the LCT at distances of over 15 km. Effects on visual the section ‘Visual Assessment: Operational Effects’), while cumulative wireframes from a amenity found that within the APQ, there would be a moderate and significant effect on viewpoint at Newton Point (Figure 4.30) illustrate coastal views, and Figure 4.32 provides Viewpoint 11. cumulative wireframes for views from Goat Fell (the highest point on the island and a Corbett at 874 m AOD). 4.105 It is not considered likely that the key scenic qualities of the Knapdale/Melfort APQ would be altered, since the Proposal is at a sufficient distance not to detract from the diverse 4.110 The landscape of the NSA overlaps with the Raised Beach Coast LCT (AYS1) and the Rugged coastal scenery within the APQ. The key views to Jura would remain unaffected by the Granite Upland LCT (AYS25). The assessment of effects on landscape character finds no Proposal, as the island is seen in views to the west and northwest. While a significant effect significant effects on these LCTs, or potential for significant future cumulative effects, due on visual amenity is reported for Viewpoint 11, the key scenic qualities of the APQ would to the clear separation of the landscape by the Kilbrannan Sound in views from the west of not be affected. The Proposal is not judged to reduce the overall integrity of the APQ. the LCT, and the distance and level of topographical screening in limited views from the east of the LCT. A moderate and significant effect was found to affect receptors at North Arran NSA Viewpoint 10, with the potential for a significant total cumulative effect. The potential for 4.106 The nationally designated North Arran NSA overlaps substantially with the locally-designated future additional cumulative effects of the Proposal however, was judged to be not North Arran SLA. As such, this section covers both areas, the qualities of which are significant due to its association with existing Deucheran Hill Wind Farm. considered to be the same. 4.111 It is not considered the stated special qualities of the North Arran NSA would be altered by 4.107 The special qualities of North Arran NSA are described within the SNH report The Special the Proposal, as they do not relate directly to views to Kintyre, and the Kilbrannan Sound 23 Qualities of the National Scenic Areas (2010), as: largely gives a distinct separation between the landscape of Arran and the landscape of • ‘A mountain presence that dominates the Firth of Clyde; Kintyre. The Proposal is not judged to reduce the overall integrity of the NSA. However, it is recognised that the potential for significant total cumulative effects on some views could • The contrast between the wild highland interior and the populated coastal strip; detract from scenic quality of wider views of Kintyre and the islands of Islay and Jura • The historical landscape in miniature; overall, from the NSA, for example in views from Beinn Bharrain (Viewpoint 10). • A dramatic, compact mountain area; Wild Land Areas • A distinctive coastline with a rich variety of forms; • One of the most important geological areas in Britain; 4.112 The draft description of the North Arran Core Area of Wild Land identified in the SNH 24 • An exceptional area for outdoor recreation; and Descriptions of Core Areas of Wild Land (2015) the following key attributes and qualities: • The experience of highland and island wildlife at close hand. • A readily accessible area, but with strong wild land attributes, especially within the remote interior; 4.108 Within the detail of the SNH report, further describing the ‘distinctive coastline’ characteristic, it is noted that “Roads often follow the raised beach above the modern • The contrast in experience between the rugged east and smoother and more remote shore, enabling both the detail of the coastline and distant views over the sea to be west mountain ranges; enjoyed.” It is also made clear that the NSA is considered to be of importance in wider • A landscape which is well-defined, whose rugged qualities are widely experienced from views across the area, the SNH report quoting the 1978 description of the area: “If the the surrounding areas; and island contributes to all its neighbouring districts by its dramatic presence, it must also be • A strong sense of naturalness, with unmodified catchment systems and little intensive said that views from it to Bute, Cowal and Kintyre also add to the quality of the scene in land use within the wild land area. Arran.” 4.113 With regard to wind farms it is noted that “Buildings, wind turbines and forest plantations 4.109 Figure 4.5 illustrates the extent of theoretical visibility of the turbines, indicating high on Kintyre and the mainland impose less on the wild land qualities due to their distance and levels from the west coast, west-facing slopes and from hill summits. Viewpoint 10 Beinn small extent”. Bharrain (Figure 4.20) illustrates views from elevated areas in the west (described below in
23 Scottish Natural Heritage (2010). The Special Qualities of the National Scenic Areas. SNH 24 Caroline Stanton Landscape Architect and Buchan Landscape Architecture (2015). 04 North Arran Core Commissioned Report 374 Area of Wild Land
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4.114 The ZTV highlights high levels of theoretical visibility from parts of the western edge of the WLA, with further areas of intermittent visibility indicated from a number of elevated Visual Assessment: Operational Effects positions and hill tops. Viewpoint 10 Beinn Bharrain (Figure 4.20) illustrates views from 4.120 This section presents the assessment of effects of the Proposal on views and visual amenity elevated areas in the west, showing the separation of the Kilbrannan Sound and association across the Study Area. with existing wind energy development in Kintyre. Figure 4.32 shows that from Goat Fell, the Proposal is likely to be seen as a relatively distant feature. It is considered unlikely that Viewpoint assessment the Proposal would alter the key characteristics of this Wild Land Area. The Proposal is not 4.121 The assessments of the 15 viewpoints selected to represent views of the Proposal are set out judged to reduce the overall integrity of the Wild Land Area. below. This assessment assumes that all effects are long term, during the lifespan of the 4.115 A Wild Land Assessment has been prepared to assess effects on North Arran WLA and is Proposal, and reversible, unless stated otherwise. contained within Technical Appendix 4.2. Table 4.24: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 1 Loch an Naich Proposed Mitigation Viewpoint 1 Loch an Naich Grid Reference 174002, 643981 4.116 The construction of the turbines and associated infrastructure would follow agreed LCT AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic Landscape None Construction Method Statements, which would include arrangements for implementation of designation various aspects of the works such as vegetation and soil removal, storage and replacement; Direction of view Northwest Distance to nearest 0.3 km vegetation restoration; and watercourse crossings, which would help to mitigate potential turbine adverse impacts during the works. These would be developed in agreement with SNH and Theoretical Hubs: 14 Figure Number 4.11 visibility ABC, and form part of the Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP). The CEMP is Blades: 16 described further in Chapter 2: Proposed Development, and vegetation and soil removal, Viewpoint location The viewpoint is located on a forest track / haul road, part of the Kintyre Way, within and existing view storage and placement in Technical Appendix 8.4: Peat Management Plan. . The CEMP would the site boundary of the Proposal. The Kintyre Way / haul road crosses through upland forest and moorland from Killean or follows a similar pattern for users travelling from be prepared and agreed post-consent. the east side of the peninsula. The viewpoint is situated on a high point of the road at approximately 300 m AOD and is representative of the local site character and Residual Impacts sequential views experienced on the Kintyre Way / haul road. 4.117 Residual effects during the construction phase, with implementation of the CEMP would From this elevated location there are close proximity views to the north across the track, which runs from east to west in the foreground of view. Beyond this, undulating reduce the magnitude of change slightly, but overall the effects would remain at the moorland forms the horizon with some exposed rocks. predicted levels set out above. Views to the east include the upper moving elements of Deucheran Hill Wind Farm, partly visible against the skyline, above the North Arran Hills in the background. Open 4.118 On completion of the construction phase (with implementation of post-construction moorland extends to the south, with elevated plantation and the more distant landform restoration measures) the infrastructure of the operational wind farm would be in place, of the Kintyre peninsula forming the horizon. To the west the track is visible in the disturbed areas would be restored, and activity would be reduced to maintenance visits. foreground, moorland extends to coniferous plantation which largely contains views, and an anemometer mast adds a large scale modern vertical element to the landscape. Replacement planting within the site would be complete, however this would provide little The existing view is generally contained by vegetation and topography with some screening or habitat benefit until it reaches maturity. glimpses of the wider landscape including the North Arran NSA to the east beyond Deucheran Hill Wind Farm. 4.119 In terms of decommissioning effects these are anticipated to be similar in nature to the Sensitivity effects experienced during construction. Recreational receptors are of high susceptibility as they are focused on their surroundings. The viewpoint is part of the Kintyre Way, one of Scotland’s Great Trails. However, this section of the route is also a forestry access track and haul road for infrastructure developments on the east side of the peninsula. The value of the view is nevertheless judged to be high since it is located on a national trail. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. Magnitude of From this location, the turbines would occupy an angle of view of almost 180˚. The change tracks, turbines and other infrastructure would be seen at close proximity, set across the moorland, and with some turbines extending from forest, some of which would be the subject of felling and restocking. The area of forest seen immediately behind the turbines in views west would be felled during Phases 3 and 4 of the Felling Plan, and subsequently restocked. While Deucheran Hill is visible from this location (in the opposite direction), the Proposal would result in a large visual change, in clear contrast
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with the existing view, and would introduce a series of new focal points across a wide the background. angle of view. This results in the size and scale of the change being high. Sensitivity Recreational receptors are of high susceptibility as they are focused on their A similar view would be experienced as receptors pass along the Kintyre Way in this surroundings. The viewpoint is located on the Kintyre Way, one of Scotland’s Great open moorland between plantation forests, across a distance of around 2 km. This Trails.This section of the route is also a forestry access track and haul road for represents a relatively localised geographical extent. infrastructure developments on the east side of the peninsula. Views from this The overall magnitude of change is judged to be high. location are largely contained by the localised landscape with only glimpses of the wider landscape and seascape to the west.The value of the view is considered to be Potential for It is likely that some of the upper parts of the turbines of Clachaig Glen Wind Farm (in high. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. Future Cumulative planning) would be seen in views south, across the moorland, appearing relatively small Effects Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint is likely to be the turbines. The turbines and distant, and clearly a separate group in this view. The addition of the Proposal in change this context of this scheme would result in a major and significant additional would be seen as large scale modern vertical features with moving elements against cumulative effect since the influence of wind farms in this area would be greatly the skyline above the underlying plateau of conifer forest and moorland. The turbines extended, with turbines visible at close proximity, as described above. would read as a single group with some overlapping of pairs of turbines at the centre of the array. The turbines of scoping scheme Willow could similarly appear relatively small and distant, and as a separate group seen in views north (if these come forward in the form The felling and restocking of the forest will also be a noticeable feature in these views, envisaged within the published Scoping layout). The addition of the Proposal in the with the nearest areas to the east of the viewpoint due to be felled in Phases 1 and 2 context of both Clachaig Glen (in planning) and Willow (at scoping) could result in a of the baseliner and wind farm Felling Plans (Figure 2.1.3 and Figure 2.1.5, major and significant additional cumulative effect, since the influence of wind farms respectively), and subsequently restocked. During these phases it is likely that slightly could extend across a wider area. more of the turbine towers (from the base) will be visible than is shown within Figures 4.12e-f. In the context of the scale and proximity of the turbines, the extent to which Significance of Major and significant. they are seen against the skyline, and given that forest rotation would be an expected Effect Potential for significant additional cumulative effect. activity within the existing view, this effect is considered to be secondary and less noticeable than the turbines themselves. The Proposal would be seen in views to the east. At this close distance the Proposal Table 4.25: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 2 Killean would create a new focal point which contrasts with the view, resulting in a large size/scale of effect. Viewpoint 2 Killean Grid Reference 171104, 644680 The geographical extent of this effect is considered to be localised, occurring across approximately 1.5 km of the Kintyre Way (the full route of which is 161 km). LCT AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic Landscape None designation No other operational wind farms are visible from this location. The overall magnitude of change is judged to be high. Direction of view East Distance to nearest 1.1 km turbine Potential for Clachaig Glen (at planning stage) is theoretically visible in successive views to the Future Cumulative Theoretical Figure Number south, largely screened by topography, but with the hub of one turbine and blades of Hubs: 17 4.12 Effects visibility three further turbines likely to be visible, and partially screened by forest. Given the Blades: 17 limited degree of visibility, the additional effect of the Proposal is considered to be no Viewpoint location The viewpoint is located on a forest track / haul road, part of the Kintyre Way, within greater than as stated for the baseline scenario. and existing view the western part of the Site, north of Killean Burn. The route crosses through upland Significance of Major and significant. forest and moorland from Killean, adjacent to the A83 in the west, across the centre of Effect the peninsula, to Brackley, adjacent to the B842 in the east. The viewpoint is representative of the local site character and sequential views experienced on the Kintyre Way / haul road. Table 4.26: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty From this elevated location (approximately 160 m AOD) there are close proximity views to the east towards the Proposal. The forest track occupies the centre of view, and Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty Grid Reference 169383, 644680 foreground moorland slopes down from the north, to the steeper wooded Killean valley LCT AC19 Coastal Plain Landscape West Kintyre APQ in the south. An area of relatively young forest occupies the middle distance and forms designation part of the horizon to the northeast, and well-spaced groups of mixed woodland are visible at lower elevation. At the centre of view, the horizon is formed from more Direction of view East to southeast Distance to nearest 3 km mature elevated conifer blocks, and the moorland summit of Cruach a’ Bhodaidh (336 turbine m AOD) is just visible above the coniferous woodland. Theoretical Hubs: 1 Figure Number 4.13 Views to the south contain foreground post and wire fence and the southern wooded visibility bank of Killean Burn. Recently planted forest and open moorland at a higher elevation Blades: 13 form the skyline. Looking west, the wooded southern bank of Killean Burn occupies the Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located on the eastern edge of Tayinloan ferry terminal, adjacent to foreground, with forest visible beyond, and the Sounds of Gigha and Jura are visible in and existing view the car park. The viewpoint is representative of views experienced by walkers on the
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Kintyre Way, users of the Gigha ferry and visitors to the West Kintyre APQ. this group of wind farms these effects are considered unlikely to be significant.. Views to the east towards the Site are largely screened by elevated landform with a Willow, at scoping stage, could potentially also be seen clearly above the skyline in high point of 251 m AOD. Foreground agricultural land with post and wire fencing is views to the northeast. In this uncertain scenario it is considered likely that there relatively flat, with a wood pole line running north to south. The middle distance is would be significant additional cumulative effects arising from the Proposal being occupied by mature mixed woodland, which partially screens a number of well-spaced positioned in a gap between the two groups (Willow to the northeast, and Clachaig detached properties. In the background at a higher elevation, coniferous forest, with Glen and Creggan to the southeast). occasional broadleaf species and areas of recent felling, can be seen, with the . horizon formed by blanket forest and moorland. Significance of Minor and not significant. To the south the view consists of foreground pastoral fields, minor roads, detached Effect properties, and mixed woodland. The moorland summit and slopes of Cnoc Odhar Potential for significant cumulative effects (only in addition to wind farms currently Auchaluskin (243 m AOD) forms the background. To the west the view is across the at scoping stage). ferry terminal car park, with views of the Isle of Gigha beyond. Views to the north are (Effects on receptors travelling on the Gigha Ferry as assessed in Table 4.49.) largely contained by built form, but to the north-east extend along the line of hills which form the backdrop to the coast.Views from the nearby coastal edge and from the jetty itself, offer panoramic seaward and coastal views to the north, west and Table 4.27: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 4 Point Sands south, which tends to be the location and view which visitors to the terminal are most drawn to. Viewpoint 4 Point Sands Grid Reference 169590, 648370 Sensitivity Receptors at this location are of high susceptibility, as their attention is likely to be LCT Landscape focussed on the surrounding view. The viewpoint is located within the West Kintyre AC19 Coastal Plain West Kintyre APQ designation APQ, and on the Kintyre Way, one of Scotland’s Great Trails. The value of the view is judged to be high. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. Direction of view Southeast Distance to nearest 4 km turbine Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint is likely to be the turbines, since the change access track will be screened by topography. Some of the upper moving elements of Theoretical Hubs: 13 Figure Number 4.14 the Proposal would be visible in views to the east. Viewed at relatively close visibility proximity the materials, structure and moving elements would contrast with the Blades: 17 elevated conifer forest and moorland mosaic land cover. The towers of the turbines Viewpoint location The viewpoint is sited on the Kintyre Way adjacent to Point Sands Holiday Park. It is would be almost completely screened by the foreground landform. The turbines and existing view located where the beach meets the holiday park, next to the Mean High Water Springs. would appear in scale with the landscape. The number of turbines visible (up to 13) This viewpoint is representative of views available to walkers on the Kintyre Way and would vary depending on the rotation of the forest, west of Loch Dirigadale, across visitors to Point Sands Holiday Park. the hill top, due to be felled during Phases 1-3 of the Felling Plan (Figure 2.1.5), and The view southeast, in the direction of the Site, overlooks the foreground coastal subsequently restocked. Forest rotation would be an expected activity within the landscape of sandy beach, marram grass and managed holiday park grounds. The existing view. middle distance is occupied by scrub woodland and areas of agricultural land bound by Given the limited degree to which the turbines would be seen, and given the focus of post and wire fencing, degraded hedgerows and woodland shelterbelt. Beyond the views upon the coast and sea, rather than looking inland, the size/scale of the effect shelterbelt landform rises more steeply. At higher elevations coniferous plantation can is considered to be small. However, it is noted that on approach to the terminal on be seen, with areas of recent felling and more distant open moorland. In views further the ferry from Gigha, the scale of the effect is likely to be greater. This is recognised south, the horizon is formed by conifer forest and the open moorland of Cnoc Odhar in the assessment at Table 4.49 Route Assessment: Effects on Caledonian MacBrayne Auchaluskin (243 m AOD). Gigha Ferry. Regular theoretical visibility of the Proposal is shown along the coastal Views directly south extend along the west coast of the Kintyre peninsula with the edge for approximately 7 km from the fish farms in the north to the south of Killean. headland of Earadale Point visible in the distance. To the north and west there are The geographical extent of this effect is considered to be localised in the context of extensive largely open dramatic views across the Sound of Gigha to the Isle of Gigha the full length of the Kintyre Way (being 161 km), and in the context of the West and the background islands of Islay and Jura. The holiday park is arranged so as to Kintyre APQ which extends from near to Clachan in the north, at West Loch Tarbert, maximise coastal views. to just north of Machrihanish Bay in the south, across a distance of around 35-40 km . Views of the Proposal would be largely screened by intervening topography and Sensitivity Recreational receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility. The viewpoint is vegetation. Viewpoint 4 Point Sands provides a further representative view from this located on the Kintyre Way and within the West Kintyre APQ, therefore the value of the stretch of coast. view is judged to be high. Overall the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. From this location, the Proposal is likely to be seen as part of successive and Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint is likely to be the turbines. The upper sequential views of the four turbines on Gigha, which would be been in views west. change moving elements, as well as the towers of some turbines, would be visible in views to the southeast, above the forest. The rotation of the forest, west of Loch Dirigadale, The overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. across the hill top, is due to be felled during Phases 1-3 of the Felling Plan (Technical Potential for Future Views southeast and south experienced from this location could include Clachaig Glen Appendix 2.1: Forestry) , and subsequently restocked. The extent to which this screens Cumulative Effects Wind Farm and Creggan Wind Farm, both in planning. The moving parts of the two — the Proposal will therefore vary. Forest rotation would be an expected activity within wind farms would be seen above the skyline. However visibility would be largely the existing view. limited by forest screening. There is the potential for additional cumulative effects While the focus of the view is along the coast and out to sea, the introduction of the at this location due to the angle of view over which the turbines would collectively be turbines would constitute a noticeable new feature, seen in broadly the same direction seen with the addition the Proposal, however due to the limited predicted visibility of of view as the beach. The turbines appear in scale with the landscape in views from the Volume 2: Environmental Statement Killean Wind Farm 4 - 26 Chapter 4: LVIA
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settled and farmed coast. The size and scale of effect from this location is considered From this location to the northwest, there are open wide angle views towards the Site. to be medium. The landform is undulating; in the foreground, the afforested Teanchoisin Glen lies at a From this location the Proposal is likely to be seen as part of successive views with the lower elevation below a higher ridge of open moorland. The middle distance is four turbines on Gigha., which would be been in views west. occupied by a mosaic of coniferous forest and moorland. The skyline is formed by a As noted in the assessment of effects on receptors at Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty backdrop of mountains rising above the Sound of Jura including the Paps of Jura and (Table 4.26), similar views would be experienced along the coastal edge for more distant summits on the Isle of Scarba and the Isle of Mull. approximately 7 km. The geographical extent of this effect is considered to be Views directly north include the operational Deucheran Hill Wind Farm, Cour Wind localised in the context of the full length of the Kintyre Way (being 161 km), and in the Farm (presently under construction), and the more distant wind farms at Freasdail and context of the West Kintyre APQ which extends from near to Clachan in the north, at Allt Deag, back-clothed by forest and a mosaic of moorland mosaic. To the east there West Loch Tarbert, to just north of Machrihanish Bay in the south, across a distance of are wide angle views towards the Isle of Arran. To the south Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm around 35-40 km. is clearly visible in the foreground, largely back-clothed by moorland and more distant The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium. hills. Views to the west take in extensive views of the west coast of Kintyre, Gigha, Cara, Islay and Jura. Potential for . Visibility of Clachaig Glen and Creggan (in planning) to the southwest would be Sensitivity Future Cumulative limited by distance and by screening by conifer forest. There is the potential for This is not a regularly visited location, though recreational receptors who do visit are Effects additional cumulative effects at this location due to the angle of view over which the focused on the view and are considered to be of medium susceptibility. The value of turbines would collectively be seen with the addition the Proposal, however due to the the view is judged to be low since this is not a recognised viewpoint or well-visited limited predicted visibility of this group of wind farms these effects are considered location. Overall sensitivity is judged to be medium. unlikely to be significant. Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint is likely to be the turbines. The turbines change Combined and successive views of the scoping stage schemes (Ronachan and Willow) would be seen in an even pattern partially back-clothed by the Sound of Jura and the could be possible from this location in an uncertain future scenario. Several of the island itself, and partially seen against the skyline. The scale of the turbines would be turbines of Ronachan to the northeast would be screened by nearby mature woodland. appropriate to the large scale of upland forest and moorland mosaic plateau. At this Willow, to the east, could be clearly visible above the moorland skyline. The distance the Proposal would create a new focal point, resulting in a large size/scale of additional effect of the Proposal, in the context of the uncertain future in-planning and effect. scoping cumulative schemes, could extend influence of wind farms on the sensitive Similar views would be experienced from other summits within 5 to 10 km including coastline, and is likely to be significant, however it is noted that in comparison to Deucheran Hill in the east and Beinn An Tuirc in the south. Willow, the Proposal could appear more distant, more clearly associated within the Combined and successive views of the operational scheme at Deucheran Hill with the interior of the peninsula, and in scale with the landscape. In considering both in- Proposal would be experienced from this location, seen clearly as separate groups. The planning and scoping schemes, the presence of multiple wind farms set back from the more distant schemes of Freasdail and Allt Dearg would be visible in clear condition in coastline has the potential to result in significant total cumulative effects. However it the distant background, further north. A number of other operational schemes are is noted that there remains uncertainty that these scoping schemes will come forward visible, including Beinn An Tuirc to the south and Tangy to the southwest. to a planning stage. While there are existing wind farms in the view, the proximity and predicted open Significance of Moderate and significant. Effect visibility of the Proposal (just over 5 km) is such that the overall magnitude of change Potential for significant additional and total cumulative effects (only in addition to is judged to be high. wind farms currently at scoping stage). Potential for Schemes which are in planning would add further turbines within combined and Future Cumulative successive views to the northwest. Clachaig Glen would be seen directly to the south Effects of the Proposal. Eascairt would be visible below the skyline in long distance views to Table 4.28: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 5 Beinn Bhreac the north. Successive views of a number of in-planning schemes would also be experienced from this location. In views to the south Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 would be Viewpoint 5 Beinn Bhreac Grid Reference 175273, 638616 seen. To the southeast predicted views would include consented Auchadaduie, as well as Creggan (in planning) and Blary Hill (at appeal). LCT Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic Landscape None designation The addition of Killean to the potential future baseline of all these wind farms would lead to significant additional cumulative effects, in extending the array of Clachaig Direction of view Northwest Distance to nearest 5.2 km Glen in relatively close distance views. turbine Significant total cumulative effects are considered likely given the number of wind Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.15 farms visible in all directions and complex relationships between them. visibility Blades: 17 Willow and Ronachan (scoping stage) could be seen beyond and partly behind the Proposal. Part of Willow, located behind the Proposal, would appear as part of the Viewpoint location This panoramic viewpoint is located at the summit of Beinn Bhreac, at 425m AOD. It is same turbine group. These schemes could further contribute to additional and total and existing view very difficult to access on foot, as there is no path and it is a long walk in from the cumulative effects, however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that these eastern peninsula. This viewpoint is representative of views available from the local schemes will come forward to a planning stage. hill summit between operational wind farms at Deucheran Hill and Beinn An Tuirc, likely to be experienced by very low numbers of receptors. Significance of Major and significant. Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 27 Killean Wind Farm
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Effect Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects. Potential for Successive views of the consented schemes at Auchadaduie and Tangy Repowering Future Cumulative would also be visible from this location, to the southeast (with Tangy Repowering Effects replacing Tangy and Tangy Extension with turbines of 125 m to tip). Table 4.29: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay Clachaig Glen and Creggan (in planning) would be visible in successive views to the east and southeast, seen against the skyline. Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay Grid Reference 165383, 649099 The Proposal would be read as a distinct scheme separate from other consented and in- LCT AGC22 Coastal Parallel Ridges Landscape None planning schemes in views from this location. In this context, the Proposal would give designation rise to significant cumulative effects in addition to these wind farms by noticeably extending the angle of view occupied by wind farms . The total cumulative effect of all Direction of view East Distance to nearest 7.8 km turbine of these wind farms would also be significant. Ronachan and Willow (scoping stage) could be clearly visible in successive views to the Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.16 visibility northeast and east, seen against the skyline. The sequence of Willow, the Proposal and Blades: 17 in-planning scheme Clachaig Glen could appear inconsistent. These schemes could Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located at Ardminish Bay on Gigha, approximately 100 m to the north contribute further to additional cumulative effects, however it is noted that there and existing view of the ferry jetty. This viewpoint represents residents on and visitors to the Isle of remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward to planning stage. Gigha, and users of the Gigha to Kintyre Ferry. Significance of Moderate and significant. Effect Direct views towards the Site in the east are framed by the low-lying rocky coastline of Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects. Gigha. The view comprises rocky foreshore in the foreground, the Sound of Gigha, and beyond the Sound, a backdrop of the forest and moorland plateau forming the central part of the Kintyre peninsula. Visible land cover consists of the settled farmed coast at Table 4.30: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr Memorial lower elevation and extensive areas of coniferous forest plantation and moorland on higher ground. The horizon is formed by blanket forest and the open moorland of Cnoc Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr Memorial Grid Reference 167005, 637058 Odhar Auchaluskin. An anemometer mast is visible against the skyline. LCT AGC 20 Rocky Mosaic Landscape None To the south there are views across Ardminish Bay. Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm is visible designation in the distance on the skyline to the southeast, and Tangy Wind Farm is visible further south. Views to the north and west are contained by topography and vegetation with Direction of view Northeast Distance to nearest 8.1 km views across the Sound of Gigha to Kintyre to the northeast. turbine Sensitivity Receptors at this location are considered to be of high susceptibility since the views Theoretical Hubs: 0 Figure Number 4.17 visibility contribute to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents in this community. The Blades: 11 viewpoint offers views from the Isle of Gigha to the West Kintyre coastline, and is a popular place to visit, the value of the view judged to be medium. Overall, the Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located adjacent to the Glenbarr War Memorial. This viewpoint sensitivity of the view is judged to be medium. and existing view represents views from the A83 and core path C304. Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint is likely to be the turbines, with some Looking northeast, in the direction of the Proposal, the foreground is occupied by change visibility of meteorological masts and patterns of felling and restocking across the Site. pastoral fields with pockets of scrubland vegetation. Towards the middle distance are The turbines would be seen against the skyline, in an even pattern and read as one two well-spaced properties both orientated towards the coast in the west. Beyond the coherent group. The scale of the turbines would be appropriate to the large scale of properties a wood pole line running east to west is visible between coniferous the centre of the Kintyre peninsula. At this distance it is not considered that felling shelterbelt. The horizon is formed by blanket coniferous forest and more distant patterns would present an obvious change in the degree to which the turbines towers moorland. are visible. Views directly east include Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm, visible on the skyline. To the The Proposal would be seen in views to the east, on the large-scale upland conifer and south, a single small wind turbine is visible in the foreground, and the upper moving moorland plateau of the Kintyre peninsula. The Proposal would create a new focal elements of Tangy Wind Farm are visible on the skyline. To the north and west there point visible from Ardminish Bay, on set within the central upland area of Kintyre, in are views across arable and pastoral farmland out to sea and to the Isle of Gigha. which existing wind farms Beinn An Tuirc and Tangy, are seen in views further south. Sensitivity Road users on the A83 are transient receptors, however occasional recreational users The Proposal would appear comparatively nearer, and of a larger scale. While there are on the core path and visitors to the Glenbarr Memorial are considered to be of high existing wind farms in the view of Kintyre, it is likely that the Proposal would become a susceptibility as they would be focused on the surrounding landscape. The memorial is new focal point. The size/scale of effect is judged to be medium. not a Scheduled Monument or within a designated landscape, but is considered to be of Views from Ardminish Bay are largely focused on the Kintyre peninsula and Gigha medium value. Receptors at this location are considered to be of medium sensitivity. coastline. Regular theoretical visibility of the Proposal is indicated along the eastern Magnitude of In views northeast, the Proposal would be largely screened by the forested slopes of coast of Gigha, suggesting a widespread geographical extent of the effect, in the change Cruach Muasdale (199 m AOD), however should the forest be felled and not restocked, context of the overall size of the island, though it is noted that there will be some it is likely that a number of blade tips would be visible. degree of screening from built form and by scrub vegetation. Viewpoint 8 Creag Bhàn represents additional elevated views from the Isle of Gigha. If the turbine tips were visible, the size/scale of the effect would be small, owing to their distance from the viewpoint, and their degree of topographical screening. With The overall magnitude of change is judged to be moderate. the forest remaining in place, as is illustrated in Figure 4.17e, the size/scale of the
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effect would be imperceptible. Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines. Felling would be No other operational or consented wind turbines are visible in the direction of view change perceptible, but at this distance would not noticeably affect the degree to which containing the Proposal. Successive and sequential views (experienced travelling on the turbines towers are visible. The turbines would be seen partially against the forest, and A83) of operational turbines would be experienced from this location, including Beinn against the skyline, in a relatively even pattern, read as one coherent group with some An Tuirc to the east and Tangy and Tangy Extension to the south. overlaps. The turbines would appear at a scale in keeping with the large scale of the The overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. forested plateau. Potential for In views northeast, other wind farms which would be visible from this location in the The Proposal would be seen in views to the southeast, on the large-scale upland Future Cumulative future, include Clachaig Glen and Creggan (both in=planning). Of these Creggan would conifer and moorland plateau of the Kintyre peninsula. The Proposal would create a Effects be the nearest and most visible, appearing in a dense group against the skyline. The new focal point, seen in the context of this scenic 360° view in which wind farms are consented scheme Auchadaduie and Blary Hill (at appeal) would be visible from this already visible, resulting in a medium size/scale of effect. location in views to the east, in front of Beinn An Tuirc. The operational Deucheran Hill Wind Farm would be visible alongside the Proposal, but It is not considered, due to the very low visibility of the Proposal (and potentially fully less noticeable due to its limited visibility. The small operational scheme on Gigha is screened by forest), that any significant additional cumulative effects would occur. clearly visible in successive views to the south. Willow (scoping stage) could be visible from this location in views to the north. It is The further operational schemes at Beinn An Tuirc and Tangy are visible at a distance noted that there remains uncertainty that this scheme will come forward to a planning in successive views from this location to the southeast. The blades of Cour (under stage. The addition of the Proposal in the context of this scoping scheme is unlikely to construction) are visible to the east back-clothed by the Isle of Arran. In long distance result in additional cumulative effects. views to the northeast the upper moving elements of Allt Dearg Wind Farm are just visible. Significance of Minor and not significant. Effect: The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium. Potential for Long distance successive views of the consented schemes at Auchadaduie and Tangy Future Cumulative Repowering (replacing Tangy and Extension) would also be available from this location Table 4.31: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 8 Creag Bhàn Effects to the southeast. Blary Hill (appeal), Clachaig Glen, Creggan and Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 (in planning) Viewpoint 8 Creag Bhan Grid Reference 164807, 650910 would all be visible in successive views to the east and southeast against the skyline. LCT AGC 22 Coastal Parallel Ridges Landscape None The Proposal would be read as a distinct scheme separate from other consented, in- designation planning and scoping schemes within successive views from this location. The additional effect of the Proposal to this uncertain scenario would be significant by Direction of view Southeast Distance to nearest 9.3 km turbine noticeably extending the area the central upland of Kintyre occupied by wind farms. The total cumulative effect of all of these wind farms would also be significant. Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.18 Ronachan and Willow (scoping stage) could be clearly visible in successive views to the visibility northeast and east across a wide angle of view. The addition of the Proposal in the Blades: 17 context of these scoping stage schemes could contribute to additional cumulative Viewpoint location The viewpoint is located at the highest point on the Isle of Gigha, the summit of Creag effects, however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that these schemes will and existing view Bhàn, 100 m AOD, and offers open elevated panoramic views of the surrounding area. come forward as planning applications. This viewpoint is representative of those experienced by recreational walkers. Significance of Moderate and significant. The view offers wide angle open views towards the Site to the southeast. The Effect Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects. foreground is occupied by the windswept landscape and coastline of Gigha. Towards the middle distance low lying Ardminish point is visible (part of the island). Beyond the Sound of Gigha the elevated undulating forest and moorland mosaic of the Kintyre Table 4.32: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 9 A83 at Clachan peninsula forms the backdrop. An anemometer mast is visible above the skyline in the centre of view. The blade tips of Deucheran Hill Wind Farm are just visible and Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm is more clearly visible further south. Viewpoint 9 A83 at Clachan Grid Reference 177940, 657583 Long distance views east to southeast include the wind farms Beinn An Tuirc (and LCT AGC20 Rocky Mosaic Landscape None Extension) and Tangy (and Extension), and Cour Wind Farm (under construction) will be designation seen to the east. North to west there are dramatic views across the Sound of Jura to Direction of view Southwest Distance to nearest 13 km the rugged islands of Islay and Jura, as well as the Knapdale coast. turbine Sensitivity Receptors at this location would be people engaged in outdoor recreation, where Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.19 surrounding views are an important contributor, and as such are considered to be of visibility high susceptibility. This high point on the island offers wide open long distance Blades: 17 panoramic views of the surrounding landscape including the Jura and Knapdale NSAs. Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located on the A83 north of Clachan, at approximately 110 m AOD, The value of the view is judged to be high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. and existing view and represents views experienced by road users travelling south into the Kintyre Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 29 Killean Wind Farm
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peninsula. Theoretical Hubs: 16 Figure Number 4.20 visibility From this location there are open views towards the Site in the south, across undulating Blades: 17 arable and pastoral farmland bound by a combination of hedgerows, shelterbelts and post and wire fencing. A wood pole line is seen running from north to south across the Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located at the summit of Beinn Bharrain (Mullach Buide), the highest farmland. At higher elevation land cover comprises open moorland and forest and existing view part of the Pirnmill Hills on the Isle of Arran. This viewpoint is representative of views plantation of varying maturity. Deucheran Hill Wind Farm is visible above the forested from western parts of the North Arran NSA and Wild Land Area 03. North Arran. skyline. Currently the turbine tips of Cour Wind Farm are screened by forest in views This elevated viewpoint (721 m AOD) is west facing towards the Site, which would be south, and similarly Freasdail is screened by localised vegetation in views east. visible below the skyline, the backdrop formed by the Sound of Jura and landform of Views to the north, east and west are largely contained by roadside vegetation and Islay, and would seen beyond operational wind farm Deucheran Hill. Wide open coniferous plantation. panoramic views of the surrounding landscape including open seas, coastal landscapes, Sensitivity islands, peninsulas and more distant mountainous terrain are available from this Road users are of medium susceptibility as they are transient receptors. The view is not location. In views to the west, the immediate landscape comprises the Pirnmill Hills a recognised stopping point but does offer views of Kintyre on passing afforested rugged elevated moorland with exposed rocks. At lower elevations, conifer forest and Sheirdrim Hill to the northeast of the viewpoint. The value of the view is judged to be settled farmland extends to the coast. Beyond Kilbrannan Sound, the undulating upland medium. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be medium. forest and moorland mosaic of the Kinytre peninsula lies in the middle distance, with Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines. They would be the Sound of Jura, and Islay forming the horizon beyond. change seen above blanket forest and against the skyline in long distance views, in a relatively Figure 4.20 shows that a number of operational and under-construction wind farms are even pattern with some overlapping, and the Proposal would read as one coherent visible in views of varying distance to the northwest, west and southwest. Deucheran group, clearly separate to Deucheran Hill. The Proposal would be a noticeable feature Hill would be visible directly west, under construction Cour and Freasdail would be of the view, though the large scale of the upland conifer forest and moorland plateau visible in views to the northwest. Beinn An Tuirc would be visible to the southwest. Allt accommodates the scale of the turbines. Given that receptors are road users it is likely Dearg would also be visible in long distance views to the north. to be experienced for a short period of time. Sensitivity Recreational receptors are of high susceptibility as walkers tend to be focused on the The Proposal would be seen in views to the southwest, with some minimal screening landscape. The viewpoint represents views from a hill summit within the North Arran provided by intervening conifer forest. At this distance the Proposal would be NSA and North Arran Wild Land Area, therefore the value of the view is considered to perceived as a new focal point in a view in which turbines are already seen, resulting in be high. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. a medium size/scale of effect. The geographical extent of the effect is localised. The effect in this location is representative of a similar effect which would be experienced Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines. The hubs of 16 at the hill fort of Dun Skeig to the west. change turbines and the blades of a further 17 turbines would be visible below the skyline at some distance, with some overlapping. The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium. Potential for The Proposal would be seen in views to the west, on the large-scale upland conifer and Clachaig Glen (in-planning) is unlikely to be noticeable, but in theory the tips of some moorland covered plateau of the Kintyre peninsula. The Proposal would be a Future Cumulative of the turbines could be seen beyond the Proposal. Given the limited degree of Effects noticeable feature of the view, amongst other operational wind farms on the long visibility, the additional effect of the Proposal in the context of the wind farms in central plateau of Kintyre. At this distance the size/scale of effect is judged to be planning is considered to be no greater than as stated for the baseline Ronachan and medium. Willow, at scoping stage, could be visible in the foreground of view, with Ronachan in particular having the potential to be seen at closer range across the centre of this view Successive views of a number of operational and under-construction schemes would be and in front of the Proposal. The Proposal would be seen as a distinct scheme behind experienced from this location. The Proposal would be visible above operational the scoping schemes. The addition of the Proposal in the context of scoping schemes Deucheran Hill in views to the west and would read as a distinct scheme due to its could give rise to significant cumulative effects, in that while it could be comparative scale. Cour Wind Farm, currently under construction, would be visible to accommodated within the same angle of view as Ronachan, it would not appear the northwest, with the more distant schemes of Freasdail and Allt Dearg in the consistent. There could also be a significant total effect on the view, due to the background, further north. Beinn An Tuirc is visible to the southwest. irregularity of the array which would include Deucheran, Ronachan, Clachaig Glen and The geographic extent of the effect is judged to be relatively widespread across the Willow, and would appear as an inconsistent, unevenly spaced cluster of overlapping west-facing slopes below the Pirnmill Hills, across several kilometres. turbines. However it is noted that there remains uncertainty that the Willow and Ronachan will come forward as planning applications, as they are presently at scoping The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium. stage. Potential for Long distance views of the consented wind farms and wind farms in planning would be Future Cumulative Significance of Moderate and significant. experienced from this location to the west, northwest and southwest, across Kintyre. Effect Effects Eascairt (in planning) would be visible to the north and a distinctly separate group to Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects. the Proposal. Varying levels of visibility of the following schemes would be experienced Table 4.33: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 10 Beinn Bharrain in views to the west to southwest including Creggan (in planning), Clachaig (in planning), Auchadaduie (consented), Blary Hill (at appeal), Tangy Repowering (consented) and Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 (in-planning). Viewpoint 10 Beinn Bharrain Grid Reference The Proposal would be read as a distinct scheme separate from other consented and in- LCT AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands Landscape North Arran NSA planning schemes within successive views from this location. It is likely that the designation Proposal, Deucheran Hill and Clachaig Glen could be perceived as a distinct cluster of Direction of view West Distance to nearest 16.5 km wind farms, but as separate schemes due to differences between the three arrays. turbine Significant total cumulative effects are considered likely given the number of wind Volume 2: Environmental Statement Killean Wind Farm 4 - 30 Chapter 4: LVIA
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farms visible below the skyline in views to the northwest, west and southwest, and Potential for Long distance successive views of the consented schemes at Auchadaduie and Tangy their inconsistent distribution across the peninsula. Future Cumulative Repowering would be visible to the southeast, though in reality are likely to be difficult Willow and Ronachan (scoping stage) could be visible in successive views to the Effects to perceive. Long distance successive views of Blary Hill, Clachaig Glen and Creggan northwest. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping stage schemes (in planning) are theoretically visible to the south, including turbines that would be could further contribute to total cumulative effects, however it is noted that there behind the Proposal in this view. remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward as planning applications. If the Proposal is added to this uncertain future scenario, additional cumulative effects Significance of Moderate and significant. would occur by noticeably extending the area the central upland of Kintyre occupied Effect Potential for significant total cumulative effects. by wind farms. Significant total cumulative effects are considered likely given the number of wind farms visible above the skyline in views towards the Kintyre peninsula from this Table 4.34: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 11 B8204 Knapdale location. Ronachan and Willow, at scoping stage, could be visible in successive views to the east Viewpoint 11 B8204 Knapdale Grid Reference 171532, 661644 and north east, with the latter potentially partly seen in front of the Proposal. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these wind farms at scoping could contribute LCT AGC20: Rocky Mosaic Landscape Knapdale/Melfort APQ designation to additional cumulative effects, however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward as planning applications. Direction of view Distance to nearest South 16.1 km Significance of turbine Moderate and significant. Effect Potential for significant total cumulative effects. Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.21 visibility Blades: 17 Table 4.35: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 12 Islay Ferry Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located on the B8024 at approximately 50 m AOD, within the and existing view Knapdale/Melfort APQ and is representative of a popular tourist route, part of NCN Route 78, and core path C295(c) - Inverneil to Tarbert via Kilberry. Viewpoint 12 Islay Ferry Grid Reference 161009, 658892 Views are framed by immediate foreground topography to the southeast with open long LCT n/a Landscape None distance views across the sound of Gigha towards the Site in the south. The foreground designation landscape of rough grassland, gorse and bracken, slopes steeply down to the coast. In Direction of view Southeast Distance to nearest 17.5 km the middle and far distance open water is bound to the southeast by the Kintyre turbine peninsula. The peninsula comprises a farmed coastline, visible in the distance, with a mosaic of large coniferous forest and moorland at higher ground. Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.22 visibility To the south, wide angle views of the Isle of Gigha are framed by the Kintyre peninsula Blades: 17 in the east and the islands of Islay and Jura in the west. To the north and directly to Viewpoint location This viewpoint is located on the Sound of Jura between Islay and Gigha, on the route of the east, views are contained by topography and coniferous forest. and existing view the Port Askaig to Kennacraig ferry, and is representative of views experienced from Sensitivity Road users are transient receptors, although recreational receptors using the the deck of this popular ferry route, as well as the views generally from the seascape cycleway/footpath are considered to be of high susceptibility. The viewpoint is within off the west coast of Kintyre. the Knapdale/Melfort APQ, and is seen by people using promoted routes.The value of From this location there are wide angles, open views towards the Site and across the the view is judged to be high. Overall the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. surrounding sea. The Isle of Gigha occupies the middle-ground to the southeast, Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines, which would be appearing as a long, low-lying island. The gently undulating elevated forest-moor change visible against the large scale, simple plateau skyline of Kintyre. Overlapping clusters mosaic of the Kintyre peninsula forms the skyline in the background, with the would occur, though at this distance the turbines would be read as one single coherent mountainous landscape of Arran visible behind the peninsula in views facing east. group. Deucheran Hill Wind Farm is visible in views southeast across Gigha, and Beinn An Tuirc The Proposal would be seen in views to the south, and would not contrast with the Wind Farm is clearly be visible to the south. scale of the underlying upland forest moorland mosaic. The Proposal would be a Sensitivity Ferry users are transient receptors but are considered to be highly susceptible as they noticeable feature, becoming a new focal point, in a view in which turbines are already would often include tourists and passengers tend to be engaged in views. The value of seen. The size/scale of the effect is considered to be medium. the view is considered to be high, overlooking a number of scenic designated The operational wind farm at Deucheran Hill is visible within the same direction of landscapes. Overall the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. view, as a clearly separate scheme. The blade tips of Cour Wind Farm (under Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines. The turbines construction) are visible in successive views to the east, but largely screened by change would be seen largely against the skyline, in a relatively even pattern. Some turbines intervening features and not a noticeable feature of the view. The turbines on the Isle would be seen overlapping but the turbines would read as one coherent group. The of Gigha are barely visible in successive views to the south. turbines sit above the long, simple skyline of Kintyre, their scale in keeping with the The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium. large scale of the plateau. Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 31 Killean Wind Farm
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The Proposal would be seen in views to the southeast, on the large-scale upland inland from the coast. At lower elevations, land cover comprises of managed conifer and moorland plateau of the Kintyre peninsula. The Proposal would create a agricultural land, with a mosaic of coniferous forestry plantation and moorland at new focal point above the Isle of Gigha, and seen in the context of existing wind farms higher elevation forming the horizon. Tangy Wind Farm and Beinn An Tuirc Wind Farm Deucheran Hill and Beinn An Tuirc, resulting in a medium size/scale of effect at this are clearly visible. distance. The turbines of the Proposal would appear noticeably larger than the existing Views to the east and south are largely contained by landform and vegetation. turbine models in operation. Sensitivity Recreational receptors are of high susceptibility as walkers tend to be focused on the A similar view would be available for a long stretch of the ferry crossing, meaning that landscape. The viewpoint represents views from the Kintyre Way, a recognised long this would not be a transient view but one which is seen over a wider geographical distance walking route, therefore the value of the view is considered to be high. extent, including the Kennacraig to Port Ellen ferry. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium. Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would to be the turbines. The wireframe change Potential for Long distance successive views of the consented schemes at Auchadaduie and Tangy indicates that the hubs of 8 turbines and all turbine blades would be visible above the Future Cumulative Repowering would be visible from this location to the southeast. skyline, at some distance. The turbines would be largely screened by undulating Effects topography and conifer forest. Blary Hill (at appeal), Clachaig, Creggan and Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 (in planning) would be theoretically visible in successive views to the east and southeast against the The Proposal would be visible in long distance views to the north but would not become skyline. Eascairt (in planning) would be barely visible in views to the northeast. The a focal point in the view due to the distance and small proportion of the Proposal Proposal would be read as a distinct scheme separate from other consented and in- visible. The size/scale of the effect is considered to be small. planning schemes within successive views from this location, potentially as part of the The operational Tangy Wind Farm occupies the centre of view above Machrihanish Bay. same wider turbine cluster as Clachaig Glen. It is considered likely that additional Beinn An Tuirc is also visible in views to the north to northeast largely above the cumulative effects would be significant by noticeably extending the area the central skyline. The small operational turbines on Gigha area also visible in successive views to upland of Kintyre occupied by wind farms. the northwest. Significant total cumulative effects are considered likely given the number of wind The overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. farms visible above the skyline in views to the east. Potential for A number of in-planning schemes would theoretically be visible in views to the north Ronachan and Willow, at scoping stage, could be clearly visible in successive views to Future Cumulative containing the proposed development. Effects the northeast and east, in views towards Arran, with Willow occupying a very large The consented Tangy Repowering would be visible in the foreground to the southeast. angle of view. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping schemes Several in planning schemes would be visible along the west Kintyre slopes, appearing could contribute to additional cumulative effects. However, it is noted that there is as an overlapping series of turbines with Creggan being closest. The Proposal would be great uncertainty that scoping schemes such as Ronachan and Willow would both come seen as part of this broad cluster, and additional cumulative effects are unlikely to be forwards as planning applications and both become operational. significant. Significance of Moderate and significant. Effect Significant total cumulative effects are considered likely given the number of wind Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects. farms visible in direct views to the north from this location. Significance of Minor and not significant Effect Table 4.36: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 13 High Lossit Potential for significant total cumulative effects.
Viewpoint 13 High Lossit Grid Reference 163156, 619176 Table 4.37: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 14 Craighouse LCT AGC20 Rocky Mosaic Landscape None designation Viewpoint 14 Craighouse Grid Reference 153074, 66996 Direction of view North Distance to nearest 26.2 km LCT AGC22: Coastal Parallel Ridges Landscape Jura NSA turbine designation Theoretical Hubs: 8 Figure Number 4.23 Direction of view Southeast Distance to nearest 28.9 km visibility turbine Blades: 17 Viewpoint location Theoretical Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.24 This viewpoint is located approximately 1.3 km south of Machrihanish and is visibility and existing view representative of views from the Kintyre Way, core path C086 – Machrihanish to West Blades: 17 Port, and views towards the West Kintyre coastline. Viewpoint This coastal viewpoint is located at Jura Pier, Craighouse and is representative of views This elevated viewpoint (approximately 120 m AOD) is north facing towards the Site, location and from the settlement, and views experienced by tourists within the Jura NSA. existing view which would be largely screened by landform rising west to east from the coastline. From this location long distance views southeast towards the Site are largely contained The immediate landscape comprises pastoral farm land bound by stone walls, wire and by headlands and small islands. The foreground comprises of the rocky outcrop Liath post fencing and river valley woodland. The centre of the foreground is occupied by a Sgeirean and the headland of Rubha Laimhrige. Na Cuiltean lighthouse punctuates the minor road leading to Machrihanish, running between the cluster of buildings at High open water in the middle distance. The elevated undulating linear landform of the Lossit. The waters of the Sound of Jura are contained to the west by the Kintyre Kintyre peninsula forms the background in clear weather conditions. peninsula, and to the east by Jura and Islay. In the background landform rises steeply
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Views directly south are contained by the headland. To the west and north views are Blades: 17 inland towards the small settlement of Craighouse, backed by the Paps of Jura. The Viewpoint location and This viewpoint is located on the A846 approximately 0.3 km west of Ardbeg Bay of Small Isles lies in the foreground of views northeast to Knapdale. existing view Distillery on Islay, at an elevation of around 30 m AOD. The view from this Sensitivity Recreational receptors visiting Jura are of high susceptibility as the focus of the view location is representative of views from a popular tourist area, the A846 and from this location is on the surrounding landscape and out to sea. Taking account of the the South & East Islay APQ. dramatic view and being within the Jura NSA the value of the view is considered to be From this location there are long distance views to the southeast towards the high. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. Site on the Kintyre peninsula. The view looks across the A846, stone boundary Magnitude of The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines. The turbines walls and pastoral farmland with regular pockets of mixed woodland. The change would be seen in long distance views as a compact group on the distant skyline. The popular Arbdeg distillery is seen in the foreground in the centre of view. turbines do not appear to contrast with the vertical scale of upland forest and Seaward views comprise skerries and the waters of the Sound of Jura. Beyond moorland mosaic plateau. the middle distance elevated and wooded headland at Aird Iomarsaigh the The Proposal would be seen in distant views to the southeast, under clear weather Kintyre peninsula forms the distant background. conditions. At this distance the Proposal would create a distant feature within a Coastal views to the south contain pastoral farmland, skerries, the Sound of sweeping view across the Sound of Jura, resulting in a small size/scale of effect. Jura and the Kintyre peninsula in the background. Views to the north and west Similar views would be experienced from other parts of the eastern coast of Jura. are largely contained by farmland backed by undulating often rocky landform. Sensitivity Direct and successive views towards the Kintyre peninsula would also take in the Recreational receptors are of high susceptibility as the focus of the view from operational schemes of Deucheran Hill, Beinn An Tuirc and Tangy, and the under this location is of the surrounding landscape and out to sea. Taking account of construction Cour Wind Farm. However, given the distance, and taking account of the dramatic view and popularity of Islay, and being near to the South & East screening by landform and vegetation, these schemes are barely perceptible from this Islay APQ the value of the view is considered to be high. Overall, the location. sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. Magnitude of change Potential for The consented schemes of Auchadaduie and Tangy Repowering would be visible in long The main source of effect from this viewpoint would be the turbines. The Future distance successive views to the southeast. turbines would be seen in long distance views as a single group on the skyline. Cumulative The turbines would not appear to contrast with the scale of the peninsula Effects Clachaig Glen, Creggan, Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 (each in planning) and Blary Hill (at from this location. appeal) would be visible in long distance successive views along the Kintyre skyline south of the Proposal. Eascairt (in planning) would be visible in distant successive views The Proposal would be seen in views to the northwest and would appear in to the east. front of the Arran uplands, which are visible in very clear weather. At this distance the Proposal would create a distant feature within a sweeping The addition of the Proposal to this potential future scenario would give rise to coastal view, resulting in a small size/scale of effect. cumulative effects under clear conditions, when the Killean turbines would be seen north of Clachaig Glen, though these are unlikely to be significant at this distance. Similar views would be experienced from other parts of the eastern coast of Islay, though views from this area are often screened or partially screened by Significant total cumulative effects are considered unlikely at this distance. woodland scrub. Ronachan and Willow, at scoping stage, could be clearly visible on the Kintyre skyline Direct and successive views towards the Kintyre peninsula would also take in in successive views to the north of the Proposal. The addition of the Proposal in the the operational schemes of Deucheran Hill, Beinn An Tuirc and Tangy, and the context of these scoping schemes could contribute to additional cumulative effects, under construction scheme Cour. With the exception of Beinn An Tuirc, at this however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that these schemes will come distance and taking account intervening screen by landform and vegetation, forward to as planning applications, and these effects are unlikely to be significant at these schemes are barely perceptible from this location. this distance. Potential for Future The consented schemes at Auchadaduie and Tangy would be visible in long Significance of Minor and not significant. Cumulative Effects distance successive views to the southeast. Effect Clachaig Glen, Creggan, Beinn An Tuirc Phase 3 and Blary Hill (in planning) would be visible in long distance successive views along Kintyre, to the south of the Proposal. Table 4.38: Viewpoint Assessment: Viewpoint 15 Maolbhuie Cottages The scoping schemes of Ronachan and Willow could be visible on the Kintyre skyline in successive views to the north of the Proposal. Viewpoint 15 Maolbhuie Cottages Grid Reference 141144, 646208 The addition of the Proposal to this uncertain baseline would give rise to LCT AGC22: Coastal Parallel Landscape Near to South & East cumulative effects due to its position north of Clachaig Glen, though these are Ridges designation Islay APQ unlikely to be significant at this distance. Direction of view Southeast Distance to nearest 31 km Significant total cumulative effects are considered unlikely at this distance. turbine Ronachan and Willow, at scoping stage, could be visible on the Kintyre skyline Theoretical visibility Hubs: 17 Figure Number 4.25 in successive views to the north of the Proposal. The addition of the Proposal
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in the context of these scoping schemes could contribute to additional an area of hard-standing (gravel make-up) and earthworks with a 1 in 3 gradient slope. cumulative effects, however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that Part of the overrun area (adjacent to the road) will be made up of grasscrete or these schemes will come forward as planning applications, and these effects equivalent, and existing roadside hedgerow/vegetation will be retained as far as possible are unlikely to be significant at this distance. (with a section of around 25 m removed for the access). A wooden post and rail fence Significance of Effect Minor and not significant. will mark the boundary between the retained hedgerow and the surface of the overrun area. The overrun area and site traffic turning in this area is likely to be visible in oblique Effects on Settlements views to the north from heritage assists south of the overrun and east of the A83. Other wind farms potentially visible from this settlement include the four operational 4.122 The settlements in the surrounding area with potential views of the proposed wind farm are turbines on the island of Gigha to the west. assessed below. The size and scale of the change would be small. However taking account of seasonal variations (leaf fall from deciduous tree species) blade tips may become more Table 4.39: Settlement Assessment: Killean perceptible in the winter months. The size and scale of the change during this time would be small taking account of limited views towards the Site. Killean Grid Reference 169582, 644536 Given the likely limited visibility the overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. Representative Distance to nearest n/a 2.3 km Potential for It is unlikely that any consented wind farms or wind farms in planning would be visible viewpoint turbine Future from this location. As such, no significant additional or total cumulative visual effects Location and Killean Estate encompasses over 1.5 km of coastline and rises gradually to approximately Cumulative are predicted. Effects existing view 360 m AOD. Main buildings include Killean House, and the linear development of Although the CZTV (refer to Figure 4-9c) indicates potential intermittent theoretical buildings mainly situated east of the A83, including the listed buildings of Killean Home visibility of Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) largely visible from the west of the Farmhouse, Dolls House Cottages and remains of St John’s Church (west of the A83). settlement, existing mature mixed estate woodland to the northeast and east would These heritage assets largely face the coast with most principal views orientated to the largely screen or filter visibility of these schemes. Visibility of these wind farms may west. Killean Estate is currently used largely for self-catering holidays. become more apparent during the winter months. However it is noted that there Views to the east are contained by rising landform and mature mixed estate woodland. remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward as planning applications. It is To the north, south and west there are opportunities for long distance views across the considered unlikely that this will result in significant additional or total cumulative visual west coast of Kintyre seaward to the islands of Gigha, Islay, Jura and surrounding effects. landscape. Significance of Minor and not significant. Sensitivity In this location, views towards the coast rather than inland are an important contributor Effect: to the setting of the settlement, with views inland (in the direction of the Proposal) largely contained as described above. For this reason, the susceptibility of receptors in this location is considered to be medium. Part of the Killean Estate, including buildings Table 4.40: Settlement Assessment: Tayinloan adjacent to the A83 lie within the West Kintyre (Coast) APQ, which focuses on coastal views. Many of the buildings which make up this settlement are important heritage Tayinloan Grid Reference 169766 645880 assets, and the value of the view is therefore judged to be high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. Representative 3: Tayinloan Jetty Distance to nearest 4.3 km viewpoint turbine Magnitude of The main source of effect from this settlement is likely to be the proposed overrun area change at the entrance of the access track, and the turbines. The ZTV (refer to Figures 4.1 and Location and Tayinloan is a small village located on the west coast of the Kintyre peninsula. The 4.1A) indicates relatively widespread theoretical visibility of wind turbine blades across existing view centre of the settlement lies to the west of the A83 road, a minor road runs through the the eastern part of the estate and intermittent to limited or no visibility to the west. No village to a ferry service operated between the village and Ardminish on the Isle of visibility is indicated from the linear development of heritage assets east of the A83. Gigha. The Kintyre Way also passes through the village. Figure 4.2 indicates more limited theoretical visibility of turbine hubs. Views towards the Views from the centre of the village are largely screened by immediate roadside tree Proposal from buildings within the ZTV coverage, which includes Killean House, is likely line (east of the A83) comprising mature broadleaf and coniferous species. Beyond the to be limited to blade tips and would be largely filtered or fully screened by the existing treeline the view is further contained by rising undulating landform. Views to the north mature mixed estate woodland to the east. and south are mostly localised with some longer distance views glimpsed between The felling and restocking of the forest within the Site may be noticeable from areas existing vegetation and built form. Views to the west offer longer distance views indicating predicted visibility, during Phases 1 to 4 shown in the Felling Plan (TA 2.1: seaward to the Isle of Gigha, Islay and Jura. Forestry ), though it is recognised that the felling plan of the Proposal would not result in a substantial change to the agreed baseline forest felling plan (January 2016). The Tayinloan Ferry Terminal and Jetty offers wider angle views to the north, east and south. establishment of compensatory planting/forest restructuring includes the establishment To the west there are large scale open views to the neighbouring islands. The village of of around 14 Ha of new forest planting within a patchwork of open areas existing within Tayinloan and the Ferry Terminal lie within the West Kintyre (Coast) APQ. the forest (to replace woodland loss due to wind farm infrastructure). As the mature The four operational wind turbines on the Isle of Gigha are visible to the west. estate woodland will not be affected, the screening offered by this feature would Magnitude of The main source of effect from this settlement is likely to be the turbines. The ZTV remain. change (refer to Figures 4.1, 4.1a and 4.2) indicates relatively widespread theoretical visibility The proposed overrun area situated to the north of the Killean Estate would comprise of across the western part of the settlement with no visibility indicated in the eastern part
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of the settlement. Views towards the Proposal are largely restricted to those from provides often broad views across the Sound of Gigha to the Kintyre peninsula in the properties connected via the minor road running between Tayinloan Jetty and the centre east, in places filtered or screened by scrub woodland. Views to the north and south are of the settlement. largely of the local landscape, with views to the west mostly contained by higher A low magnitude of change has been identified in Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty, which ground. represents similar views experienced from this location. Sensitivity Receptors at this location are considered to be of high susceptibility since the views From the majority of locations within this settlement with potential for visibility, built contribute to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents in this community. The form and vegetation would largely filter or screen views of the Proposal. Although viewpoint offers views from the Isle of Gigha to the West Kintyre coastline, and is a visibility of the turbines would vary slightly depending on the rotation of forest. It is popular place to visit, the value of the view judged to be medium. Overall, the considered likely that the turbines would become slightly more perceptible during Phases sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. 1 to 3 of Felling Plan (TA 2.1: Forestry)(which will subsequently be restocked. Forest Magnitude of The main source of effect from this location is likely to be the turbines. The ZTV (refer rotation would be an expected activity in some views from the settlement. It is change to Figure 4.1, 4.1a and 4.2) indicates relatively widespread theoretical visibility across recognised that the felling plan of the Proposal would not result in a substantial change the settlement. Properties are situated at varying orientation - where principal and to the agreed baseline forest felling plan (January 2016). secondary views are orientated to the east, direct views of the wind turbines is likely to The operational turbines on the island of Gigha are visible in successive views to the be visible above the forested skyline of the Kintyre peninsula. Forest rotation shown as west. It is unlikely that any other operational or consented schemes would be visible Phases 1 to 4 of the Felling Plan (TA 2.1: Forestry) would be an expected activity in from this location some views from the settlement. During forest rotation the towers of the turbines is likely to become slightly more visible. The overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. Operational schemes visible from this location include the four Gigha turbines and the Potential for Sequential and successive views experienced from this settlement will vary in extent distant upper moving elements of the wind farms Beinn An Tuirc, Deucheran Hill, Tangy Future dependant on the orientation, outlook and localised screening. Views would include and the under construction Cour. Cumulative Clachaig Glen and Creggan wind farms (in planning). Effects A medium magnitude of change has been identified in Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay which To the east and southeast theoretical visibility shows views of the moving parts of the represents similar views. two wind farms in planning above the skyline. However visibility would be largely limited Potential for by the forest screening. Long distance predicted views of the consented wind farms Auchadaduie and Tangy Future Repowering would visible from this location to the southeast. There is the potential for additional cumulative effects at this location due to the angle Cumulative of view over which the turbines would collectively be seen with the addition of the Effects Clachaig Glen and Creggan (in planning) would be theoretically visible in successive Proposal, however due to the limited predicted visibility of this group of wind farms views to the east and southeast above the skyline. However, visibility would mostly be these effects are considered unlikely to be significant. Where visible, the Proposal limited to turbine blades with some screening provided by coniferous plantation. would read as part of a wider cluster with Clachaig Glen. Eascairt (in planning) would be barely visible in views to the northeast. Willow, at scoping stage, could potentially also be seen clearly above the skyline in views The Proposal would be read as a distinct scheme separate from other consented, in- to the northeast. In this uncertain scenario it is considered likely that there would be planning in successive views from this location. The Proposal would give rise to significant additional cumulative effects arising from the Proposal being positioned in a significant cumulative effects in addition to these wind farms by noticeably extending gap between the two groups (Willow to the northeast, and Clachaig Glen and Creggan to the area the central upland of Kintyre occupied by wind farms. the southeast). Taking account of the distance between schemes and the potential prominence of the Taking account of the distance between the schemes and the potential prominence of Proposal significant total cumulative visual effects are considered likely. the Willow scheme on the horizon, significant total cumulative visual effects are The scoping schemes Ronachan and Willow could become visible in successive views to considered likely. However it is noted that there remains uncertainty that these schemes the northeast and east. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping will come forward as planning applications. schemes could contribute to additional cumulative effects, however it is noted that there remains uncertainty that these schemes will come forward as planning Significance of Minor and not significant. Effect applications. Potential for significant total cumulative effects (only in addition to wind farms Significance of Moderate and significant. currently at scoping stage). Effect Potential for significant additional and total cumulative effects.
Table 4.41: Settlement Assessment: Ardminish Table 4.42: Settlement Assessment: Muasdale Ardminish Grid Reference 164881, 648907 Muasdale Grid Reference 167992, 640173 Representative Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay Distance to nearest 8.1 km viewpoint turbine Representative n/a Distance to nearest 5.6 km Viewpoint 8 Creag Bhan viewpoint turbine Location and Ardminish is the only village on the Isle of Gigha and is connected to the mainland by a Location and existing view regular ferry service to Tayinloan. The low elevation, low-density layout of the village Muasdale is a small hamlet situated on the western coast of the Kintyre peninsula north existing view of Glencardoch Point. This linear settlement comprises detached and semi-detached Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 35 Killean Wind Farm
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properties mainly located on the eastern side of the A83. Along the main street Magnitude of There is no theoretical visibility indicated from the centre of Glenbarr. Although Figures properties generally face the coast with principal views orientated to the west. change 4.1, 4.1a and 4.2 show that outlying properties to the north, south and east lie within Secondary views are largely contained by steep rising landform to the east. the ZTV coverage, visibility would be largely limited to blade tips. In reality the Proposal Sensitivity Residential receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility. This small settlement would be barely visible being mostly screened by intervening conifer forest to the lies within the West Kintyre (Coast) APQ, the value of views north, west and south are northeast. There is little or no theoretical visibility indicated for properties located therefore judged to be high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. along Barr Glen, east of the A83 road. The size and scale of change is therefore judged Magnitude of There is no theoretical visibility experienced from the centre of the settlement as steep to be low. change rising landform east and northeast largely blocks views towards the Proposal. However The operational scheme Beinn An Tuirc would be visible from some parts of the the ZTV (refer to Figures 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) indicates some limited to regular theoretical settlement in views to the north. visibility experienced from outlying farmsteads and detached properties to the east. The The magnitude of change would be low. blade tips of turbines are likely to be visible above intervening conifer forest northeast of the outlying farmsteads. Potential for The Proposal would be barely visible in this view therefore no cumulative effects would Future occur. Long distance views to the northwest would be expected to contain the four turbines on Cumulative the Isle of Gigha. No other operational schemes are visible from this location. Effects Where turbine blades are visible from outlying farmsteads to the east of the settlement Significance of Minor and not significant. the size and scale of the change would be small. Effect The magnitude of change is judged to be low. Potential for Clachaig Glen (in planning) would be theoretically visible in views to the northeast above Future the skyline. However views would largely be limited to turbines blades with intervening Table 4.44: Settlement Assessment: Pirnmill (Arran) Cumulative conifer forest screening the lower parts of the scheme. Effects Taking account of similarity in scale and array the Proposal would be read as a part of Pirnmill (Arran) Grid Reference 187217, 644153 Clachaig Glen. As such, no significant additional or total cumulative visual effects are Representative Distance to nearest predicted. n/a 13.1 km viewpoint turbine The blade tips of Willow Wind Farm (at scoping) could be theoretically visible above the skyline in views to the northeast. It is considered unlikely that the addition of the Viewpoint Pirnmill is a small village on the northwest coast of Arran. This linear settlement Proposal in the context of this scoping scheme would contribute to additional cumulative location and comprises detached and semi-detached properties mainly located on the east side of the effects. It is noted that there remains uncertainty that this scheme will come forward to existing view minor road. From Pirnmill there are largely open views to the west across Kilbrannan a planning stage. Sound to the Kintyre Peninsula. Significance of Minor and not significant. Properties have a mostly coastal orientation with principle views to the west. Views Effect towards the Proposal are over 10 km. Sensitivity Residential receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility. This small settlement lies within the North Arran NSA and SLA, the value of the view is therefore judged to be Table 4.43: Settlement Assessment: Glenbarr high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. Magnitude of The ZTV shows extensive coverage with theoretical visibility across the settlement. The Glenbarr Grid Reference 167042, 636609 change upper moving elements of most turbines of the Proposal are likely to be visible in long Representative Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr Memorial Distance to nearest 9.1 km distance views to the west above the skyline in conjunction with the operational scheme viewpoint turbine Deucheran Hill. The lower parts of turbines are likely to be screened by landform and conifer forest east of Deucheran Hill. Viewpoint Glenbarr is a small village accessed by the A83 road, southeast of Glenacardoch Point. location and The village comprises a main street of detached and semi-detached houses, and large The Proposal would read as part of a group with Deucheran Hill. Cour (under existing view farmstead with associated agricultural buildings. A separated group of semi-detached construction) would be clearly visible above the skyline of the Kintyre peninsula in views buildings lie immediate north, to the south of Glenbarr Memorial. A number of well- to the northwest. The operational wind farms Allt Dearg and Beinn An Tuirc would be spaced farmsteads are situated to the north of the village, as is the primary school. barely visible in long distance views to the northwest and southwest respectively. From the majority of locations throughout this settlement views tend to be This would result in a small size/scale effect limiting the geographical extent of effect. foreshortened by localised landform and vegetation. Main street views outward to the The magnitude of change is judged to be low. west are largely contained by Victoria Hill (71 m AOD). Views to the north are largely Potential for No significant additional or total cumulative effects are predicted as the Proposal would contained by Cruach Muasdale (199 m AOD). Views south are similarly contained by Future read as part of Deucheran Hill. landform and vegetation with some views of the background hills forming the horizon. Cumulative There is potential for more open views to the east. Effects Sensitivity Residential receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility. This small settlement Significance of Minor and not significant. does not lie within any designated landscape. Views are largely foreshortened by Effect intervening features the value of the view is therefore judged to be medium. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high.
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Table 4.46: Settlement Assessment: Whitefarland (Arran) change elements of most turbines of the Proposal would be visible in long distance views to the west above the skyline in conjunction with the operational scheme Deucheran Hill. The Whitefarland (Arran) Grid Reference 186644, 642572 lower parts of the turbines are likely to be screened by landform and conifer forest east of Deucheran Hill. Representative n/a Distance to nearest 12.9 km viewpoint turbine The Proposal would read as a group with Deucheran Hill. Cour (under construction) would be clearly visible above the skyline of the Kintyre peninsula in views to the Viewpoint Whitefarland is a small settlement situated on the west coast of Arran, east of northwest. The operational wind farm Allt Dearg would be barely visible in long distance location and Whitefarpoint. Residential development includes a small row of detached and semi- views to the northwest and southwest respectively. existing view detached properties east of the minor road and a number of more scattered properties This would result in a small size/scale effect limiting the geographical extent of effect. to the south. The magnitude of change is judged to be low. Properties are largely orientated towards the coast with principal views to the west and north west. Views towards the Proposal are over 10 km away. Potential for No significant additional or total cumulative effects are predicted as the Proposal would Future Sensitivity read as part of Deucheran Hill. Residential receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility. This small settlement Cumulative lies within the North Arran NSA and SLA, the value of the view is therefore judged to be Effects high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. Significance of Magnitude of Minor and not significant. The ZTV shows extensive theoretical visibility across the settlement. The upper moving Effect change elements of most turbines would be visible in long distance views to the west above the skyline in conjunction with the operational scheme Deucheran Hill. The lower parts of 4.123 the turbines are likely to be screened by landform and conifer forest east of Deucheran Hill. Effects on Routes The Proposal would read as an extension of Deucheran Hill. Cour (under construction) would be clearly visible above the skyline of the Kintyre peninsula in views to the 4.124 Visibility from a road is not uniform along its entire length. This is because views of the northwest. The operational wind farms Allt Dearg and Beinn An Tuirc would be barely surrounding landscape from sections of the route can be obscured by topography, built visible in long distance views to the northwest and southwest respectively. form, structures, tree cover and vegetation found along the route. The sequential effects This would result in a small size/scale effect limiting the geographical extent of effect. on key routes are set out below. Theoretical visibility of the proposed wind farm from roads The magnitude of change is judged to be low. and other routes across the Study Area (listed in Table 4.14) is illustrated by Figures 4.1, Potential for No significant additional or total cumulative effects are predicted as the Proposal would 4.1A and 4.2. Future read as part of Deucheran Hill. Cumulative Effects Roads Significance of Minor and not significant. Table 4.48: Route Assessment: A83 (includes part of the Kintyre Way) Effect A83 (includes part of the Kintyre Way) Representative Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr Memorial Distance to nearest Within 5 km Table 4.47: Settlement Assessment: Imachar (Arran) viewpoint turbine Viewpoint 9 A83 at Clachan Imachar (Arran) Grid Reference 187217, 644153 Description of The A83 is the major road on the Kintyre peninsula connecting Tarbert beside Loch Route and Representative Distance to nearest Lomond in the northeast and Campbeltown in the southwest. Within the Study Area the n/a 13.1 km existing view viewpoint turbine road runs from north of Brenfield Point on the eastern shores of Loch Gilp to Campbeltown. From Brienfield Point the road runs south to Tarbert, with regular views Viewpoint The hamlet of Imachar is located on the west coast of Arran, east of Imachar Point. This of Loch Fyne and the Cowal peninsula. The road continues along the western shores of location and small settlement comprises of a cluster of properties east of the minor road. From West Loch Tarbert. Passing the wooded Sheirdrim Hill there are brief elevated gateway existing view Imachar there are largely open views across Kilbrannan Sound towards the Kintyre views to the south across the undulating uplands of the Kintyre peninsula. Peninsula. The road continues south running mostly parallel to the coastline connecting a number of Properties are generally orientated towards the coast with principal views to the west scattered farmsteads and detached properties. Where the road passes through Tayinloan and northwest. Views towards the Proposal are over 10 km. north of Killean, a minor road diverts to the west providing access to the Gigha Ferry. Views between Clachan in the north and Westport in the south are largely contained by Sensitivity Residential receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility. This small settlement higher ground to the east focusing views on the Kintyre coast and seaward to lies within the North Arran NSA and SLA, the value of the view is therefore judged to be neighbouring islands. high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be high. Magnitude of The ZTV shows extensive theoretical visibility across the settlement. The upper moving Between Westport and Campbeltown the road travels inland on the northern fringe of low lying gently rolling farmland enclosed by the Kintyre uplands in the north and south. Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 37 Killean Wind Farm
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Views along this section of the road are largely focused along farmland to the rising The overall magnitude of change is judged to be medium from this location. landform in the south, and often screened by hedgerows. Potential for Sensitivity No additional or total cumulative effects were identified in viewpoint assessment Road users on fast moving A roads are considered to be of medium susceptibility. Whilst Future Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr. it is recognised that sections of this route (at Killean and between Clachan and Cumulative Achnafad) forms part of the Kintyre Way, and some road users are likely to place value Effects No additional or total cumulative effects were identified in viewpoint assessment on views of the surrounding landscape, on balance and due to the transient nature of Viewpoint 9 A83 at Clachan. views, roads users on the A83 are considered to be of medium sensitivity. However given the geographical spread of the uncertain baseline of in planning and Magnitude of The following viewpoints and indicative wireframes are located on this road and are scoping schemes it would be likely that some sequential views of proposed schemes change representative of views likely to be experienced: would be experienced within 10 km of the Proposal. . Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr representative of oblique views from the road and for Significance of Significant localised sequential effects are predicted where open direct views are which a low magnitude of change was identified; Effect available. Beyond this no significant sequential effects are predicted. . Viewpoint 9 A83 at Clachan representative of direct views from the road and for which a medium magnitude of change was identified; and Table 4.49: Route Assessment: B8024 including National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 78 . Wireframe B A83 south of Muasdale representative of direct views from the road. The ZTV (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) identifies: B8024including National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 78 . Intermittent theoretical visibility is shown across the A83 within the Study Area. Representative Viewpoint 11 B8024 Knapdale Distance to nearest Within 15 km to 30 Within 5 km predicted largely oblique views mostly limited to turbine blades viewpoint turbine km between High Dunashry and Tavantaggart (approximate length 1.6 km), and areas of visibility near Killean (approximate length 0.4 km). However views Description of The B8024 is a long single track road on the west coast of Knapdale which connects to would be largely screened and filtered by immediate roadside vegetation and Route and the A83 north of Inverneill and in the south, north of Tarbert. Within the Study Area the conifer forest situated in the middle distance; existing view road diverts from the A83 running south west (often parallel to West Loch Tarbert) to Dunmore. Views are largely contained by broadleaf woodland and scrub either side of . Between 5 km and 10 km there is no predicted visibility north of the Proposal. the road, with occasional glimpsed views of West Loch Tarbert and the surrounding South regular to intermittent theoretical visibility would be expected between landscape. the south of Muasdale and south of Glenbarr (approximate length 3.2 km when travelling north). Visibility would be mostly limited to turbine blades, screened Passing Dunmore the road runs inland, north of Ardpatrick Point before returning to hug and filtered by immediate roadside vegetation and conifer forest situated in the the coast and progress to the north. Views continue to be largely contained by roadside middle distance; vegetation including mixed woodland to the north and an extensive beech hedge, which largely screens coastal views to the south. Seaward views become visible passing . At over 10 km theoretical visibility is predicted on a section of road north of elevated broadleaf woodland north of Loch Stornoway with the Kintyre peninsula, Gigha, Clachan. Direct long distance views of the wind turbines would be experienced Islay and Jura visible to the south. southwest of Sheirdrim Hill (approximate length 1.5 km when travelling south); and Sensitivity The B8024 is a popular tourist route and is part of NCN Route 78, and core path C295(c) - Inverneil to Tarbert via Kilberry. Although road user receptors are transient, recreational . Beyond 15 km the ZTV indicates a limited area of predicted visibility south of receptors on this route are considered to be highly susceptible. The viewpoint is within West Tarbert (approximate length 1.5 km when travelling), views from this the Knapdale/Melfort APQ and the value of the view is judged to be high. location are likely to be fully screened by conifer forest, where visible the Proposal(hubs and blades) would be viewed as a distant feature. Magnitude of The following viewpoint is located on this road and is representative of views likely to be change experienced: Open, partially filtered and screened views are likely to be experienced from these sections of the road, which equate to just over 8 km in length in both directions of . Viewpoint 11 B8204 Knapdale representative of oblique views from the road and travel. for which a medium magnitude of change was identified. Predicted sequential and successive views of the operational schemes Beinn An Tuirc, . The ZTV (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) identifies: Cour, Deucheran Hill, Tangy and the Isle of Gigha turbines are predicted from limited . Between 15 km and 20 km the pattern of theoretical visibility is largely focused sections of the A83. When travelling north successive and sequential views of operational between Tiretigan in the northwest and the Burial Ground in the east turbines including Beinn An Tuirc and Tangy have been identified in viewpoint (approximate length of 4 km). Beyond this section of road where there is assessment Viewpoint 7 Glenbarr. The overall magnitude of change is judged to be low potential for views as shown on the ZTV ,mixed conifer and broadleaf woodland from this location. would largely screen and filter views; and When travelling south brief sequential views of Deucheran Hill have been identified in . Beyond 20 km small areas of intermittent visibility are shown. Views would viewpoint assessment Viewpoint 9 A83 at Clachan. mostly be screened and filtered by immediate mixed woodland and where visible The felling and restocking of the forest within the site boundary is likely to be noticeable the Proposal would read as a distant feature. from areas indicating predicted visibility during Phases 1 to 4 shown in the Felling Plan Long distance open, largely oblique to direct views, with the Proposal seen on the (TA 2.1: Forestry). During these phases it is would be expected that turbines including horizon above the Kintyre peninsula, are likely to be experienced along a section of road towers, hubs and blades would become slightly more visible. travelling east/west for approximately 3 km between the Burial Ground south of Cnoc a Visibility of the proposed overrun area (detailed in Table 4.39) would be experienced Bhior and east of the small bay Port Mor. Similar largely direct views would be briefly in oblique views north of the Killean Estate. experienced travelling approximately 1 km south between Tiretigan and Port Mor.
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The operational wind farms at Deucheran Hill and Tangy are visible within the same The Proposal would be largely seen in conjunction with the operational Deucheran Hill, angle of view. Long distance views of the upper moving elements of Deucheran Hill are and would read as an extension of this development. seen from this location, although views of Tangy are very distant and largely screened. The overall magnitude of change is judged to be low. Cour (under construction) is visible in successive views to the east but is largely screened Potential for The addition of the Proposal to the uncertain baseline of in-planning schemes is unlikely by intervening features. Future to give rise to significant cumulative effects. No additional or total cumulative effects Potential for Significant additional and total cumulative effects are considered likely in viewpoint Cumulative are predicted along this route. Future assessment Viewpoint 11 B8024 Knapdale. Effects Cumulative Significance of Effects Minor and not significant. Effect Significance of Significant localised sequential effects are predicted where open coastal views are Effect available for an approximate distance of 4 km. Beyond this no significant sequential effects are predicted. Table 4.51: Route Assessment: Minor road on Isle of Gigha Potential for significant additional and total cumulative effects. Minor road on Isle of Gigha Representative Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay Distance to nearest Within 5 km to 10 km Table 4.50: Route Assessment: Minor road connecting with the A841 (Arran), and the Arran viewpoint turbine Coastal Way Description of This is the main transport route on the Isle of Gigha and runs from Por Mor in the north Route and to the pier in the south island. The road passes through the small village of Ardminish Minor road connecting with the A841 (Arran), and the existing view Bay and connects a number of scattered outlying properties and lies close to the eastern Arran Coastal Way coast of Gigha. Representative n/a Distance to nearest Within 10 km to 15 km Sensitivity Receptors at this location are considered to be of high susceptibility. The road offers viewpoint turbine views from the Isle of Gigha to the West Kintyre APQ, and is a key tourist route used by Description of This unclassified road (formerly part of the A841) runs along the western coast of Arran walkers, cyclists and other road users, therefore the value of the view is judged to be Route and connecting with the A841 north and south. Northwest of Lochranza the road hugs the high. Overall, the sensitivity of the view is judged to be high. existing view coast passing through the small village of Catacol, views south and east are largely Magnitude of The following viewpoint and indicative wireframe are located on this road and are contained by vegetation and landform directing views along the coast and west across change representative of views likely to be experienced: Kilbrannan Sound to Kintyre. The road then passes through a number of small villages, . Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay is representative of direct views from the road and hamlets and clustered settlement including Pirnmill, Whitefarland and Imachar, views for which a high magnitude of change was identified; and Wireframe C South Pier remain focused on the coast with regular open seaward views to the west. is representative of direct views from the road. The ZTV co (refer to Figure 4.1, Beyond Imachar the road curves round Machrie Bay then runs inland to Blackwaterfoot 4.1A and 4.2) indicates extensive visibility; only two small sections of the before returning to hug the coast to Corriecravie proceeding east to Whiting Bay where northern part of the road would not experience theoretical visibility of the the road becomes the A841. Proposal. Sensitivity Transient road users are considered to be of medium susceptibility. The section of this Views would be direct to oblique with the Proposal seen on the horizon above the Kintyre route north of Machrie Bay lies within the North Arran NSA, SLA and is a part of the Arran peninsula for an approximate distance of 9 km. Coastal Way; as such road users are likely to place value on views of the surrounding The operational Deucheran Hill would be visible in the direction of view to the east of landscape. Overall this route is considered to be of high sensitivity. the Proposal and clearly separate from the Proposal. Magnitude of The ZTV (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) identifies: change Freasdail (under construction) is theoretically visible to the east but would be screened . Within 5 to 15 km some direct but largely oblique views are predicted from the by roadside vegetation. Cour (under construction) is largely screened by conifer forest. north of Thundergay to south of Crochandoon for an approximate distance of 23 Potential for Significant additional and total cumulative effects are considered likely in viewpoint km; Future assessment Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay. . Were the road proceeds in land south of Crochandoon to Blackwaterfoot no Cumulative theoretical visibility is indicated; and Effects . Beyond 20 km past South Feorline visibility is indicated to extend to the south of Significance of Significant sequential effects are predicted from this route. the low hill Cnocan Donn. Effect Long distance open occasionally direct, oblique to perpendicular views with upper moving elements of the Proposal seen on the horizon above the Kintyre peninsula are likely to be experienced north of Thuderay to south of Crochandoon for an approximate distance of 18 km. The size/scale of effect is considered to be low.
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Ferries Table 4.53: Route Assessment: Caledonian MacBrayne Claonaig to Lochranza
Table 4.52: Route Assessment: Caledonian MacBrayne Gigha Ferry Caledonian MacBrayne Claonaig to Lochranza Representative Distance to nearest Caledonian MacBrayne Gigha Ferry Viewpoint E Newton Point Within 15 km to 20 km viewpoint turbine Representative Distance to nearest Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty Within 3 km to 8 km Description of viewpoint turbine This route passes over the Kilbrannan Sound, from Claonaig on the mainland (Kintyre Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay Route and peninsula) to Lochranza on the Isle of Arran. Calmac currently operate this passenger and existing view Description of This route passes over the Sound of Gigha from Tayinloan on the mainland (Kintyre vehicle service and the crossing takes approximately 49 minutes, to cover a distance of Route and peninsula) to Ardminish on the Isle of Gigha. Calmac currently operate this passenger and 8.5 km. existing view vehicle service and the crossing takes approximately 20 minutes, to cover a distance of Large scale panoramic views can be experienced from the upper decks of the ferry. Views 4.5 km. contain the Cowal peninsula and Isle of Bute to the north and east, Kintyre peninsula to Large scale panoramic views can be experienced from the upper decks of the Gigha ferry. the west, the Isle of Arran to the southeast. Views contain the Kintyre peninsula to the east, the Isle of Gigha, the islands of Islay and Sensitivity Ferry users are considered to be of medium susceptibility. Many people would be using Jura to the west and wider landscape and seascape to the north and south. the ferry for commuting purposes, however it is recognised that people would also use The four operational turbines on Gigha are visible to the west and the upper moving the ferry for recreation/tourism. The south eastern part of the route lies within the North elements of Tangy Wind Farm are visible at distance to the southeast. Arran NSA, and views of the Bute and South Cowal, and East Kintyre APQs would be experienced along this route, as such the value of the view is considered to be high. Sensitivity Ferry users are considered to be of medium susceptibility. Many people would be using Overall sensitivity is judged to be of high. the ferry for commuting purposes, however it is recognised that people also use the ferry Magnitude of for recreation/tourism. Views of the Jura and Knapdale NSAs, and South & East Islay, The following indicative wireframe is representative of views experienced from this change Knapdale/Melfort and West Kintyre (Coast) APQs would be experienced along this route, route: as such the value of the view is considered to be high. Overall sensitivity is judged to be . Wireframe E Newton Point is representative of oblique views from this ferry of high. route. Magnitude of The following viewpoints are located on this route and are representative of views likely . The ZTV (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) shows turbine blades would be visible change to be experienced: for the full extent of the route and hubs and blades would be visible for . Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty is representative of direct views from the route and approximately half of the southern part of the route. for which a low magnitude of change was identified; and . Long distance views (over 15 km) west would be direct to oblique with the . Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay is representative of direct views from the route and Proposal seen on the horizon above the Kintyre peninsula, elevated foreground for which a high magnitude of change was identified. landform and conifer forest would increasingly screen the turbines reducing visibility to turbine blades nearing Claonaig. Elements of the Proposal would be The ZTV coverage (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) extends across the length of the visible for the full length of the approximate 49 minute journey. route. Views west would be direct with the Proposal seen on the horizon above the Kintyre peninsula, elevated foreground landform and conifer forest would increasingly Varying levels of sequential and successive inter-visibility with schemes Beinn An Tuirc, screen the turbines reducing visibility to turbine blades nearing Tayinloan. Elements of Cour (under construction) Deucheran Hill, Freasdail (under construction) and Tangy would the Proposal would be visible for the full length of the approximate 20 minute journey. be experienced along this route in views to the west. Travelling west views along the route are largely focused on the Kintyre peninsula; the The Proposal would largely be read as a distinctive scheme. However in some views the operational schemes at Beinn An Tuirc and Tangy are visible in successive views from this proposal would read as an extension of Cour, reducing the visual gap between this location to the southeast. Under construction Cour would be theoretically visible in views scheme and Deucheran Hill. to the northeast. The four turbines on Gigha would be visible in eastern views. . Given the high sensitivity of ferry users, open nature of sea-based views and Given the high sensitivity of ferry users, open nature of sea-based views and widespread widespread visibility significant sequential effects are predicted. visibility significant sequential effects are predicted. Potential for CZTVs (refer to Figures 4.9b, 4.9c, and 4.9d) indicate extensive potential visibility along Potential for No additional or total cumulative effects were identified in viewpoint assessment 3 Future the entirety of the route of Blary, Clachaig Glen and Creggan (in-planning). While Future Tayinloan Jetty. Cumulative intervening topography and vegetation would filter and limit views significant additional Cumulative Effects and total cumulative effects are predicted. Effects Significant additional and total cumulative effects are considered likely in viewpoint assessment Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay. Visibility of scoping schemes (Willow and Ronachan) is indicated in the CZTV (Figure 9.c). The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping schemes could contribute to Experience of other wind farms in planning or at scoping stage in sequential and additional cumulative effects However it is noted that there remains uncertainty that successive views would become less perceptible as the Ferry nears the Kintyre Coast. these schemes will come forward to a planning stage. However overall significant additional and total cumulative effects are predicted along Significance of Significant sequential effects are predicted from this route. this route when travelling east. Effect Significance of Significant sequential effects are predicted from this route. Effect
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Table 4.54: Route Assessment: Caledonian MacBrayne Tarbert to Lochranza Table 4.55: Route Assessment: Caledonian MacBrayne Kennacraig to Port Ellen Ferry and Kennacraig to Port Askaig Ferries Caledonian MacBrayne Tarbert to Lochranza Representative Viewpoint E Newton Point Distance to nearest Within 20 km to 25 km Caledonian MacBrayne Kennacraig to Port Ellen and viewpoint turbine Kennacraig to Port Askaig Ferries Description of This route passes over the Kilbrannan Sound, from Tarbert on the mainland (Kintyre Representative Viewpoint 12 Islay Ferry Distance to nearest Within 10 km to 35 km Route and peninsula) to Lochranza on the Isle of Arran. Calmac currently operate this passenger and viewpoint turbine existing view vehicle service and the crossing takes approximately 1 hour an 25 minutes, to cover a Viewpoint Both routes pass over West Loch Tarbert, the Sound of Gigha and the Sound of Jura. distance of approximately 20 km. location and Calmac currently operate a passenger vehicle service between Kennacraig, on the main Large scale panoramic views can be experienced from the upper decks of the ferry. Views existing view land and Port Ellen on Islay, the crossing takes close to 3 hours. contain the Cowal peninsula and Isle of Bute to the north and east, Kintyre peninsula to Calmac also operates a passenger vehicle service between Kennacraig and Port Askaig on the west, the Isle of Arran to the southeast. Islay (passing over the Sound of Islay) which take approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. Direct long distance views towards the proposed site of development are possible south of Large scale panoramic views can be experienced from the upper decks of these Ferries. Skipness Point. Direct long distance views towards the proposed site of development are possible south of Sensitivity Ferry users are considered to be of medium susceptibility. Many people would be using West Loch Tarbet and north of the Isle of Gigha. the ferry for commuting purposes, however it is recognised that people would also use Sensitivity Ferry users are considered to be of medium susceptibility. Many people would be using the ferry for recreation/tourism. The south eastern part of the route lies within the North the ferry for commuting purposes, however it is recognised that people would also use Arran NSA, and views of the Bute and South Cowal, and East Kintyre APQs would be the ferry for recreation/tourism. Views of the Jura and Knapdale NSAs, and South & East experienced along this route, as such the value of the view is considered to be high. Islay, Knapdale/Melfort and West Kintyre (Coast) APQs would be experienced along this Overall sensitivity is judged to be of high. route, as such the value of the view is considered to be high. Overall sensitivity is judged Magnitude of The following indicative wireframe is representative of views experienced from this to be of high. change route: Magnitude of The following viewpoint and indicative wireframes are located on this route and are . Wireframe E Newton Point is representative of long distance views from this Ferry change representative of views likely to be experienced: route. . Viewpoint 12 Islay Ferry is representative of direct views from the route and for The ZTV (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) shows turbine blades would be visible for the which a medium magnitude of change was identified; full extent of the route and hubs and blades would be visible for approximately half of . Wireframe H (refer to Figure 4.33) is representative of longer distance views from the southern part of the route. the Kennacraig to Port Ellen Ferry route; and Nearing Skipness Point (over 15 km) views west would be direct to oblique with the . Wireframe I (refer to Figure 4.34) is representative of longer distance views from Proposal seen on the horizon above the Kintyre peninsula. Hubs and blades is likely to be the Kennacraig to Port Askaig route. visible between Skipness Point in the north and Newton Point in the south. The ZTV coverage (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) extends across the majority of both South of Skipness Point varying levels of sequential and successive inter-visibility with routes and indicates widespread theoretical visibility likely to be experienced from the schemes Beinn An Tuirc, Cour (under construction) Deucheran Hill, Freasdail (under upper decks of both routes. From Kennacraig to Port Ellen regular theoretical visibility is construction) and Tangy would be experienced along this route in views to the west for predicted between the mouth of West Loch Tarbert and Port Ellen. From Kennacraig to approximately half of the route. Port Askaig regular theoretical visibility is predicted between the mouth of West Loch The Proposal would largely be read as a distinctive scheme. However in some views the Tarbert and approximately 4 km south of Port Askaig. proposal would read as an extension of Cour, reducing the visual gap between this Views would be direct to oblique, with the Proposal seen on the horizon above the scheme and Deucheran Hill. Kintyre peninsula. At distances of over 20 km the Proposal would be seen as a distant Given the high sensitivity of ferry users, open nature of sea-based views and widespread feature. visibility significant sequential effects are predicted. Varying levels of sequential and successive inter-visibility with all other operational Potential for Paired ZTVs (refer to Figures 4.9b, 4.9c, and 4.9d) indicate extensive ZTV coverage along schemes would be experienced along both routes. Future the entirety of the route of Blary, Clachaig Glen, and Creggan (in planning). While Given the high sensitivity of ferry users, open nature of sea-based views and widespread Cumulative intervening topography and vegetation would filter and limit views significant additional visibility significant sequential effects are predicted. Effects and total cumulative effects are predicted. Potential for Significant additional and total cumulative effects are considered likely in viewpoint Visibility of Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) is indicated in the CZTV (Figure 9.c). Future assessment Viewpoint 12 Islay Ferry. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping schemes could contribute to Cumulative additional cumulative effects However it is noted that there remains uncertainty that Effects Overall significant additional and total cumulative effects are predicted along both routes these schemes will come forward to a planning stage. when travelling east. Significance of Significant localised sequential effects are predicted travelling north before and south Significance of Significant sequential effects are predicted from both of these routes within 5 to 10 km of Effect past Skipness Point. Beyond this no significant sequential effects are predicted. Effect the Proposal. Beyond this no significant sequential effects are predicted. Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 41 Killean Wind Farm
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Recreational Routes Estate is likely to be visible in direct views where the route emerges onto the A83 views. However this effect is considered to be secondary and less noticeable than the turbines Table 4.56: Route Assessment: Kintyre Way themselves, taking account of screening provided by the retained hedgerow and the likely low volume of traffic using the area after the construction phase. Kintyre Way Varying levels of sequential and successive inter-visibility with all other operational schemes would be experienced along this route. Representative Viewpoint 1 Loch na Naich Distance to nearest Within proposed site viewpoint turbine Given the high sensitivity of walker and attention being drawn to the landscape, Viewpoint 2 Killean boundary at closest point. significant localised sequential effects are predicted. Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty Potential for CZTVs (refer to Figures 4.9b, 4.9c, and 4.9d) indicate extensive potential visibility along Viewpoint 4 Point Sands Future much of the route of in-planning schemes Blary, Clachaig, Creggan. While intervening Cumulative Description of The 161 km long Kintyre Way was launched in 2006 and criss-crosses the peninsula from topography and vegetation would filter and limit views given the geographical spread of Effects Route and Tarbert Harbour in the north, to Southend in the south. The route covers coastal and schemes significant additional and total cumulative effects are predicted. existing view inland parts of the peninsula. Views from the route vary from wide open panoramic views Visibility of Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage) is indicated in the CZTV (Figure 9.c). at elevated locations to views contained by landform and vegetation. The addition of the Proposal in the context of these scoping schemes could contribute to The entirety of the Kintyre Way lies within the Study Area. Between Killean in the west additional cumulative effects However it is noted that there remains uncertainty that and Carradale in the east where the route crosses over the peninsula the Kintyre Way these schemes will come forward to a planning stage. passes through the centre of the site of proposed development. Significance of Significant localised sequential effects are predicted where open direct views are Effect Sensitivity Walkers on long distance footpaths are considered to be of high susceptibility. It is available of the Proposal. Beyond this no significant sequential effects are predicted. recognised that many walkers would place value on views of the surrounding landscape. As such, walkers on this long distance trail are judged to be of high susceptibility. Magnitude of The following viewpoints and indicative wireframe are located on this route and are change representative of views likely to be experienced: Cumulative Analysis . Viewpoint 1 Loch na Naich is representative of direct views as the route passes through the Site, and for which a high magnitude of change was identified; General Observations . Viewpoint 2 Killean is representative of direct views from the route and for which 4.125 Table 4.7 lists operational and under construction wind farms which, in addition to the a high magnitude of change was identified; Proposal, are included in the detailed assessment of Nature of Effect (current baseline). . Viewpoint 3 Tayinloan Jetty is representative of direct views from the route and for which a low magnitude of change was identified; Table 4.8a lists consented wind farms, wind farms in planning or at appeal which, addition . Viewpoint 4 Point Sands is representative of direct views from the route and for to the Proposal, are included in the detailed assessment of magnitude of change (potential which a medium magnitude of change was identified; and for future cumulative effects). Table 4.8b lists wind farms at scoping stage. Proposals that . Wireframe A Rhunahorine Point is representative of direct views from the route. have not progressed beyond scoping stage have been considered briefly to provide an overall The ZTV (refer to Figure 4.1, 4.1A and 4.2) identifies: context to this assessment, but as the final form and layout of such schemes (if any) cannot . Within 5 km extensive theoretical visibility is predicted from within the site be stated with any certainty, the findings included here are on a for information only basis. boundary and along the west coast of Kintyre. Turbine blades and hubs would be The focus of the assessment of scoping stage schemes has been on Willow Wind Farm and largely visible above the skyline with some screening provided by intervening vegetation. Ronachan Wind Farm, as the two closest developments mostly likely to interact with the Proposal. As scoping layouts were available for these two developments, they have been . Between 5 km and 10 km the pattern of theoretical visibility is limited to intermittent with small patches of inter-visibility predicted south of the small hill included within cumulative wireframes to illustrate potential effects. Mullach Dubh, southeast of Clachan and north of Cnoc nan Gabhar, northeast of Carradale. In reality views from these sections of the route would be largely 4.126 The closest operational wind farm, Deucheran Hill, a 9 turbine scheme is located 2.2 km to screened and filtered by conifer forest. the east. Under construction wind farm, Cour, a 10 turbine scheme is located 5.9 km to the Views would be direct to oblique with the Proposal seen on the horizon above the Kintyre northeast, operational Beinn an Tuirc and Extension (totalling 65 turbines) are located 7.4 peninsula. At distances of over 20 km the Proposal would be seen as a distant feature. to 9.2 km to the south. The four operational Isle of Gigha turbines are located 8.6 km to the The felling and restocking of the forest within the site boundary is likely to be noticeable west. Operational wind farm Tangy and Extension (totalling 22 turbines), is located 15.9 km from areas within 5 km indicating predicated visibility during Phases 1 to 4 shown in the Felling Plan (TA 2.1: Forestry). During these phases it is would be expected that turbines to the south. including towers, hubs and blades would become more visible. The effects of the forestry rotation and subsequent restocking are considered to be secondary and less noticeable 4.127 The locations of these cumulative schemes are shown in Figure 4.9 (Wind Farms Included than the turbines themselves. However it would be expected that the route maybe within the Assessment). subject to diversions during felling times. The proposed overrun area (detailed in Table 4.39) situated to the north of the Killean
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4.128 CZTV Figures 4.9a to 4.9g indicate across a series of different figures, areas with theoretical • Figure 4.9b CZTV Clachaig Glen and Killean; visibility of the Proposal, and visibility of the Proposal with other operational wind farms, • Figure 4.9d CZTV Creggan, Blary Hill and Killean; and wind farms under construction, or proposed wind farms (in planning, at appeal or at scoping • Figure 4.9g CZTV Tangy Repowering and Killean. stage). 4.135 The figures listed above indicate more extensive theoretical visibility; similar to the General Observations Current Baseline pattern of visibility indicated by the current baseline, but with higher levels overall. This 4.129 CZTVs of current baseline schemes and the Proposal are shown in the below figures: potential future scenario is largely comprised of wind farms concentrated along the western part of the Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic LCA. • Figure 4.9a CZTV Deucheran Hill and Killean; • Figure 4.9e CZTV Beinn An Tuirc, Beinn An Tuirc Extension and Killean; and 4.136 The Proposal and Clachaig Glen share a very similar pattern of visibility, with slightly increased levels of the Proposal on the west coast of Kintyre, and from some areas of the • Figure 4.9f CZTV Cour and Killean. west coast of Arran. The Proposal, Creggan and Blary show a relatively similar pattern of 4.130 The CZTVs indicate that Deucheran Hill and Beinn an Tuirc (and Beinn An Tuirc Extension) visibility, both with different patterns more locally, and with the Proposal showing higher display similar patterns of visibility with the Proposal. Visibility is mainly focused along the levels of visibility from Arran and the Kilbrannan Sound, as well as some parts of Knapdale. west coast of Arran, the east coast of the Gigha, Kilbrannan Sound in the east, and the Tangy Repowering (consented) is located to the southwest of the Proposal with combined Sound of Jura in the west. Outside these areas the pattern of visibility is more intermittent visibility of both it and the Proposal largely focused on areas of open water to the west, the from upland areas along the Kintyre peninsula, and from some limited areas in the southern east coast of Gigha and Islay. A more limited intermittent pattern of visibility is indicated part of Knapdale. from upland areas south of the Proposal. 4.131 The under construction scheme Cour is located to the northeast of the Proposal. Visibility is 4.137 The predicted visibility of these wind farms is shown to be mainly focused along parts of the mainly focused along the west coast of Arran and Kilbrannan Sound, with regular visibility west coast of Kintyre, the east coasts of Gigha, Jura and Islay and the waters of the Sounds also indicated from the Sound of Jura. Areas of regular to intermittent visibility are of Gigha, and the south eastern coast of Knapdale. Regular to more intermittent visibility is indicated largely to the northwest of the Proposal and from southern areas of Knapdale also shown along the west coast of Arran (in conjunction with Clachaig Glen), Kilbrannan further north. Sound and from elevated areas along the Kintyre peninsula. The potential development of 4.132 The overall pattern of combined theoretical visibility which includes the Proposal and these wind farms will likely increase successive and sequential visibility experienced from current baseline schemes largely indicates potential theoretical visibility from open seas to the Kintyre peninsula and from longer distance views looking towards toward the peninsula. the east and west, including the Sounds of Gigha, Jura and Islay in the west and Kilbrannan General Observations on Wind Farms at Scoping Stage Sound in the east. Coastal areas within the Study Area also show regular to intermittent predicted combined visibility including parts of the east and west coast of the Kintyre 4.138 A CZTV of Ronachan and Willow (wind farms at scoping stage) and the Proposal are shown in peninsula, the west coasts of Gigha, Islay and Jura, and the east coast of Arran. More the below figure: intermittent areas of intervisibility are indicated from elevated areas along the central part • Figure 4.9c CZTV Willow, Ronachan and Killean of the Kintyre peninsula and from southeastern parts of the Knapdale coast. This sequence 4.139 Figure 4.9c indicates that scoping schemes are mostly visible with the Proposal from inland of CZTVs indicates increased visibility overall of the Proposal from parts of the West Kintyre areas of the Kintyre peninsula to the northwest, from southern areas of the Knapdale coastline, compared with these existing wind farms. peninsula, from the eastern shores of the Islands of Gigha, Jura and Islay, and from open 4.133 Frequency of successive and sequential visibility is largely limited to longer distance views seas to the west, as well as the Kilbrannan Sound. The CZTV suggests Willow and Ronachan looking towards the Kintyre peninsula. Predicted successive and sequential visibility would introduce more widespread visibility from the northwest coast of Kintyre, including experienced from the Kintyre peninsula would likely vary in extent, limited by landform and from relatively long sections of the A83. vegetation. Potential for total cumulative effects
4.140 During construction, there is the potential for cumulative effects in conjunction with other General Observations Possible Future Baseline wind farms which could be constructed concurrently with the Proposal. These include 4.134 CZTVs of possible future baseline schemes and the Proposal are shown in the below figures: Clachaig Glen and Creggan (in planning), Blary Hill (at appeal), and potentially also the Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 43 Killean Wind Farm
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consented Tangy Repowering Wind Farm. Should these wind farms be constructed however, if all of the currently proposed cumulative wind farms become operational, but simultaneously there would likely be some significant cumulative effects in terms of traffic this is considered extremely unlikely. to and from site, the presence of cranes and general activity/change in the landscape. 4.142 It is judged that there is some potential for the Proposal to be associated as part of a wider 4.141 In terms of landscape character, there is the potential that the LCT in which the Proposal planned wind energy group, with Deucheran Hill (and potentially other future schemes, for would be located (Upland Forest Moor-Mosaic) would change to the degree that it might be example Clachaig Glen), despite the schemes tending to have different characteristics. viewed as landscape with a pattern of wind farms which appears to extend across a large They would appear as a cluster of different wind farms, rather than one large scheme with part of the central upland area of the peninsula, perhaps without clear or discrete wind extensions. farm clusters/groups and spaces. The likelihood of this effect is very much dependent on which wind farms become operational and their final design and layout. While there is the Summary potential that the Proposal could be generally perceived as part of a wider group of wind farms, for example with Deucheran Hill and Clachaig Glen, should wind farms such as Willow 4.143 This Chapter sets out the landscape and visual assessment (including cumulative effects) of and Ronachan (at scoping stage) come forward, there is also the potential that the Proposal the Proposal, which includes 17 turbines at up to 149.9 m to tip, and associated ancillary would contribute to total effects by noticeably extending the area of the central upland of elements. Landscape and visual effects have been reduced by the embedded mitigation Kintyre that is occupied by wind farms. A second potential cumulative effect on landscape measures outlined in the summary of mitigation by design for the Proposal as well as character which could occur in conjunction with these two scoping wind farms, both through the design process described in this chapter and in Chapter 3: Design Evolution and representing a very uncertain future scenario, is that collectively the effects of these three Alternatives. As far as possible, the design process has sought to avoid on-site constraints, wind farms on coastal LCTs (Coastal Plains and Rocky Mosaic), may be at a level which whilst designing a coherent cluster of wind turbines as seen when viewed from the would constitute a sharp contrast with their smaller scale and more complex character. surrounding landscape, particularly in sensitive coast views, including from the west coast of Kintyre and the Isle of Gigha. This effect also has the potential to detract from the key scenic qualities of the West Kintyre APQ, because of the extent of the three wind farms together, may detract from the 4.144 The LVIA considers the potential effects of the Proposal on the landscape (as a resource in coastal scenery. However, it is noted that views towards Jura from the APQ would not be its own right), and on views and visual amenity. It includes a separate consideration of affected. The special qualities and integrity of North Arran NSA are not considered likely to cumulative effects, with existing schemes considered as part of the baseline, and the be detracted from by cumulative wind farms, and there are no significant cumulative potential for cumulative effects in relation to future schemes assessed separately. Both effects predicted on the North Arran WLA, but it recognised that there would be total total and additional cumulative effects have been considered. cumulative effects on some views from within these areas (visual effects rather than 4.145 The sensitivity of landscape and visual receptors is described in terms of susceptibility and landscape effects). There is the potential for total cumulative effects on a number of visual value. The magnitude of change affecting each receptor is described in terms of its size and receptors, including people at viewpoints, in settlements and travelling on routes. Locally, scale, geographical extent, duration and reversibility. Judgements are given for each of from Viewpoints 3, 4 and 6, the potential for cumulative effects is limited to those which these factors, as well as the combined overall sensitivity and magnitude of change. Levels could occur in conjunction with wind farms at scoping stage only, Willow and Ronachan. of effect are identified as negligible, minor, moderate or major, where moderate and major While the future of these wind farms is very uncertain, their extent, proximity to the coast, effects are considered significant in the context of the EIA Regulations. There is a gradual, and the way in which they would extend wind energy development across the central upland blurred transition between levels of effect: they are points on a continuum, and are of Kintyre, in conjunction with the Proposal, often across a large angle of view, could lead informed through professional judgement. to significant cumulative effects. Elsewhere, the extent that existing and proposed wind farms are predicted to be visible, tends to be greater. While significant cumulative effects 4.146 In terms of construction effects, the assessment identified significant landscape effects on are not predicted where there are no significant effects identified within the baseline, the Site and immediate surrounding landscape. These effects are temporary and localised, receptors at locations including some parts of north and south Kintyre, Knapdale, Gigha, and mainly relate to the construction of tall vertical elements within the Site. Arran and on some roads and ferry routes, are likely to experience significant total 4.147 The Proposal is located principally within the AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic LCT, with cumulative effects due to the potential pattern and extent of wind farms across the central part of the access track within AGC20: Rocky Mosaic LCT, and a proposed overrun area is upland of Kintyre. As previously identified, the likelihood of these effects very much located within AGC19: Coastal Plains LCT. The Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic LCT is large in depends on which wind farms (or combinations of wind farms) become operational, with scale, with a simple land cover, and a number of existing wind farms are sited within it, scope for clear wind farm clusters/groups and spaces to develop. This could not occur including Deucheran Hill, located 2.2 km to the east, and comprising 9 turbines of 93 m in height to tip. Major (significant) effects would affect the Site of the Proposal and moderate
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(significant) effects would extend locally within the LCT to a distance of around 3 km from Isle of Gigha would experience significant effects, including from Viewpoint 6 Ardminish Bay the Proposal. Moderate (significant) effects are predicted to affect the Coastal Plains LCT and Viewpoint 8 Creag Bhàn. There is a significant effect predicted for receptors at indirectly, up to a distance of around 5 km from the Proposal, as well as major (significant) Viewpoint 4 Beinn Bhreac, though this is considered to be relatively inaccessible and rarely direct effects, in the location of the proposed overrun area at the site entrance. Overall, visited. Between 10 and 15 km from the Proposal significant effects include a short section effects on the Rocky Mosaic LCT would be minor and not significant, however a short section of the A83 north of Clachan (Viewpoint 9), views from elevated western slopes and hill (1-2 km) of the access track would be directly affected, resulting in a locally major summits in Arran (Viewpoint 10), and from the B8024 (NCN Route 78) at Knapdale (significant) effect. Parts of the West Kintyre (Coast) APQ coincides with the Coastal Plains (Viewpoint 11). Receptors travelling on ferries to Islay and Arran are also likely to LCT to the west of the A83, where significant effects are predicted, however the Proposal experience significant effects, as part of their panoramic views across the water. would not alter the special qualities or overall integrity of the designated landscape. 4.151 The potential for additional and total cumulative effects on visual amenity was identified, 4.148 The potential for additional and total cumulative effects on landscape was identified. Given particularly in locations where the Proposal would be seen to contribute to the impression the extent and proximity of proposed wind farms, including Clachaig Glen, Willow and of the central part of Kintyre as a landscape with a pattern of wind farms which appears to Ronachan, if all these schemes were present in the future, as well as more distant schemes, extend across a large part of the central upland area of the peninsula, potentially without the addition of the Proposal would contribute to the impression of the central part of clear or discrete wind farm clusters/groups and spaces. It was established that in views Kintyre as a landscape with a pattern of wind farms which appears to extend across a large from the east and north east (from places such as Viewpoint E Newton Point, Viewpoint F part of the central upland area of the peninsula, potentially without clear or discrete wind Skipness, and Viewpoint 10 Beinn Bharrain) that the Proposal would appear clearly as part of farm clusters/groups and spaces. There is some potential for the Proposal to be associated existing turbine groups, including Deucheran Hill and Cour. Elsewhere, to the east, where as part of a wider planned wind energy group, with Deucheran Hill (and potentially other these existing schemes are less visible, the Proposal is likely to appear clearly as a single, future wind farms), despite the wind farms tending to have different characteristics. They evenly spaced group, which would be seen in association with proposed Clachaig Glen, would appear as a cluster of different wind farms, rather than one large scheme with should it become operational. The Proposal would not likely be read as part of a wider extensions. However, if all of the wind farms currently proposed became operation, the group with scoping schemes Willow or Ronachan (which have the lowest level of uncertainty total cumulative effect on the Upland Forest Moor-Mosaic LCT would be significant. In of the potential future schemes). relation specifically to Willow and Ronachan (at scoping stage), there is also the potential 4.152 The table below summarises the predicted effects of the Proposal on landscape and visual for significant cumulative effects on the Coastal Plains and Rocky Mosaic LCTs, albeit this receptors within the Study Area, including identifying the potential for significant future future scenario is considered very uncertain. cumulative effects. 4.149 Significant visual effects have been identified from 10 of the 15 assessed viewpoints. These Table 4.57: Summary of Effects extend up to a distance of around 16 km from the Proposal, but do not include all viewpoints within this distance. There are predicted to be significant effects on Summary of Effects recreational receptors using the Kintyre Way locally, including from Viewpoint 1 Loch na Receptor Nature of Effect Potential for Future Cumulative Naich, Viewpoint 2 Killean, and Viewpoint 4 Point Sands. Significant effects would be Effects experienced locally, across a section of the Kintyre Way route up to 10 km in length (not Construction Effects continuous) of the overall 161 km route. Locally there would be some limited significant The Proposed Development Site Major (significant) Not significant effects on road users travelling on the A83 (including visibility of the proposed overrun Study Area No greater than the findings of the Potential for significant additional area), although predicted visibility of turbines is limited, and from many locations there operational landscape assessment cumulative effects for each LCT within the Study would be screening by built form and vegetation. Area. 4.150 The Proposal is not likely to be perceptible overall from the settlement of Killean (and Operational Landscape Effects – Landscape Character Killean Estate) due to very limited theoretical visibility and the dense screening offered by The Proposed Development Site Major (significant) Not significant mature woodland. From the settlement of Tayinloan, visibility is also relatively limited and AGC3: Hidden Glens Minor (not significant) Not significant the focus of views would be the coastline and sea. Similarly, effects from Tayinloan Jetty AGC6: Upland Forest-Moor Mosaic Moderate (significant) locally Potential for significant total and (Viewpoint 3) would not be significant, but receptors travelling on the ferry and visiting the within 3 km additional cumulative effects Minor (not significant) up to 10 km Volume 2: Environmental Statement Chapter 4: LVIA 4 - 45 Killean Wind Farm
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Summary of Effects Summary of Effects from the Proposal currently at scoping stage) Negligible (not significant) beyond Viewpoint 5 - Beinn Bhreac Major (significant) Potential for significant total and 10 km additional cumulative effects AGC19: Coastal Plain Major (significant) for the Potential for significant total and Viewpoint 6 - Ardminish Bay Jetty Moderate (significant) Moderate (significant) proposed overrun area additional cumulative effects (Gigha) Potential for significant total and Moderate (significant) locally additional cumulative effects within 5 km Viewpoint 7 - Glenbarr War Minor (not significant) Not significant Negligible (not significant) beyond Memorial 5 km Viewpoint 8 - Creag Bhàn Moderate (significant) Potential for significant total and AGC20: Rocky Mosaic Major (significant) locally Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects affecting part of the access track additional cumulative effects Viewpoint 9 - A83 at Clachan Moderate (significant) Potential for significant total and / haul road additional cumulative effects Minor (not significant) overall Viewpoint 10 - Beinn Bharrain, Isle Moderate (significant) Potential for significant total AGC22: Coastal Parallel Ridges Minor (not significant) Not significant of Arran cumulative effects AYS1: Raised Beach Coast Minor (not significant) Not significant Viewpoint 11- B8024, Knapdale Moderate (significant) Potential for significant total and AYS25: Rugged Granite Uplands Minor (not significant) Not significant additional cumulative effects West Kintyre (Coast) APQ Major (significant) locally for the Potential for significant total and Viewpoint 12 - Islay Ferry, West Moderate (significant) Potential for significant total and proposed overrun area (as for additional cumulative effects Loch Tarbert additional cumulative effects AGC19: Coastal Plain) Viewpoint 13 - High Lossit, south Minor (not significant) Potential for significant total Moderate (significant) locally of Machrihanish cumulative effects within 5 km as for AGC19: Coastal Viewpoint 14 - Craighouse, Jura Minor (not significant) Not significant Plain) Viewpoint 15 - Maolbhuie Minor (not significant) Not significant The Proposal would not alter the Cottages, near Ardbeg Distillery special qualities or overall integrity of the designated Operational Visual Effects - Settlements landscape. Killean Minor (not significant) Not significant Knapdale/Melfort APQ The Proposal would not alter the Not significant Tayinloan Minor (not significant) Potential for significant total and special qualities or overall additional cumulative effects integrity of the designated (only in addition to wind farms landscape. currently at scoping stage) North Arran Wild Land Area The Proposal would not alter the Not significant Ardminish (Gigha) Moderate (significant) Potential for significant total and special qualities or overall additional cumulative effects integrity of the designated landscape. Muasdale Minor (not significant) Not significant North Arran NSA The Proposal would not alter the Not significant Glenbarr Minor (not significant) Not significant special qualities or overall Whitefarland (Arran) Minor (not significant) Not significant integrity of the designated Imachar (Arran) Minor (not significant) Not significant landscape. Operational Visual Effects – Routes Viewpoint 1 - Loch na Naich Major (significant) Potential for significant additional cumulative effects A83 Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects Viewpoint 2 - Killean Major (significant) Not significant B8042 Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and Viewpoint 3 - Tayinloan Jetty Minor (not significant) Potential for significant additional additional cumulative effects cumulative effects (only in addition to wind farms currently Minor road on west coast of Arran Not significant Not significant at scoping stage) Minor road on Isle of Gigha Significant Potential for significant total and Viewpoint 4 - Point Sands Moderate (significant) Potential for significant additional cumulative effects additional cumulative effects Caledonian-MacBrayne Gigha Ferry Significant Potential for significant total and (only in addition to wind farms additional cumulative effects
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Summary of Effects Caledonian-MacBrayne Claonaig to Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and Lochranza additional cumulative effects Caledonian-MacBrayne Tarbert to Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and Lochranza additional cumulative effects Caledonian-MacBrayne Kennacraig Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and to Port Ellen Ferry additional cumulative effects Caledonian-MacBrayne Kennacraig Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and to Port Askaig additional cumulative effects National Cycle Network (NCN) Not significant Not significant Route 78 Oban to Campbeltown Arran Coastal Way Not significant Not significant Kintyre Way Significant (locally) Potential for significant total and additional cumulative effects
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